BILT HARD 13-inch Floor Drill Press Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your BILT HARD 13-inch Floor Drill Press. Please read and understand all instructions before operating the machine to ensure personal safety and optimal performance.

The BILT HARD 13-inch Floor Drill Press is designed for drilling through various materials such as metal, wood, and plastics. It features a 16-speed adjustment, a 1 HP motor, and a 5/8-inch keyed chuck.

2. Safety Instructions

General Safety

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves.
• Ensure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions.
• Keep children and unauthorized personnel away from the machine during operation.
• Securely clamp all workpieces to the drill press table before drilling.
• Never wear loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair that could become entangled in moving parts.
• Disconnect power before making adjustments, changing accessories, or performing maintenance.

Electrical Safety

• Ensure the power supply matches the specifications of the drill press (120 Volts).
• Do not operate the drill press in damp or wet conditions.
• Avoid using extension cords unless absolutely necessary, and ensure they are rated for the tool's power requirements.
• Regularly inspect the power cord for damage. Do not use if damaged.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in the package:

• BILT HARD 13-inch Floor Drill Press unit
• 5/8-inch Keyed Chuck and Chuck Key
• Hex Wrenches
• Assembly Tools
• Drill Vise (if included with specific model variant)

Image 1: BILT HARD 13-inch Floor Drill Press with included drill vise. The main unit is blue and black, featuring a motor housing, column, worktable, and base. A separate blue drill vise is shown next to it.

4. Setup and Assembly

Follow these steps to assemble your drill press. It is recommended to have assistance due to the weight of the unit (approximately 76 lbs).

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage.
2. Base and Column Assembly: Secure the column to the base using the provided hardware. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. The base has pre-drilled holes for mounting to a workbench or stand.
3. Head Assembly: Mount the head assembly (motor and spindle housing) onto the top of the column. Tighten the securing bolts.
4. Worktable Assembly: Attach the worktable support arm to the column and then secure the worktable to the support arm. Adjust the height and position as needed.
5. Chuck Installation: Clean the tapered spindle and the inside of the chuck. Place the chuck onto the spindle and firmly tap it into place with a rubber mallet or block of wood to ensure a secure fit.
6. Handle Installation: Attach the feed handles to the spindle quill.

Image 2: Diagram showing the dimensions of the BILT HARD 13-inch Floor Drill Press. Key measurements include a total height of 39 inches, a base of approximately 9.45 x 16.14 inches, and a worktable diameter of 11.41 inches. The approximate weight is 76 lbs.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Speed Adjustment (16 Speeds)

The drill press offers 16 operating speeds ranging from 220 to 3600 RPM. To adjust the speed:

1. Disconnect the drill press from the power source.
2. Open the top cover of the head assembly.
3. Refer to the belt speed settings chart located inside the cover.
4. Loosen the motor lock nuts and adjust the belt tension lever to release tension.
5. Move the drive belt to the desired pulley combination for the required speed.
6. Re-tension the belt and tighten the motor lock nuts.
7. Close the top cover.

Image 3: View of the open top cover of the drill press head, showing the belt and pulley system for 16-speed adjustment. A diagram inside the cover illustrates different belt configurations for various RPMs.

5.2. Worktable Adjustment

The worktable can be adjusted for height and angle:

• Height Adjustment: Loosen the worktable locking handle. Use the crank handle to raise or lower the table to the desired height. Tighten the locking handle securely.
• Bevel Adjustment: The worktable can bevel up to 45 degrees left and right for angled drilling. Loosen the bevel locking bolts beneath the table. Adjust the table to the desired angle using the angle scale, then tighten the bolts.

Image 4: Close-up of the drill press worktable support, showing the mechanism for bevel adjustment. An angle scale indicates the degree of tilt, up to 45 degrees left or right.

5.3. Chuck and Drill Bit Installation

To install a drill bit:

1. Ensure the drill press is unplugged.
2. Insert the drill bit into the chuck jaws. Ensure the bit is centered and fully seated.
3. Use the chuck key to tighten the chuck jaws around the drill bit. Tighten all three holes for maximum grip.
4. Remove the chuck key immediately after tightening to prevent it from becoming a projectile during operation.

Image 5: Close-up view of the 5/8-inch keyed chuck on the BILT HARD drill press, showing the jaws ready to accept a drill bit. The chuck is located at the bottom of the spindle.

5.4. Setting Drilling Depth

The adjustable depth stop allows for precise and repeatable drilling depths:

1. Lower the drill bit until it touches the workpiece.
2. Adjust the depth stop collar to the desired depth.
3. Tighten the depth stop lock nut. The drill will stop feeding once this depth is reached.

Image 6: Close-up of the drill press head, highlighting the depth stop mechanism and the feed handles. The image also indicates the 3-1/8 inch spindle travel.

5.5. General Drilling Procedure

1. Select the appropriate drill bit and speed for your material.
2. Securely clamp the workpiece to the drill press table or use the included drill vise.
3. Adjust the worktable height and angle as needed.
4. Set the drilling depth stop.
5. Turn on the drill press.
6. Slowly lower the drill bit into the workpiece using the feed handles, applying steady, even pressure.
7. Once the desired depth is reached, retract the drill bit from the workpiece.
8. Turn off the drill press.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your drill press.

• Cleaning: Keep the machine clean and free of dust and debris. Use compressed air to clear chips from the motor and spindle area.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a light machine oil to the column, quill, and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
• Belt Inspection: Regularly check the drive belt for wear, cracks, or stretching. Replace if necessary.
• Chuck Maintenance: Keep the chuck jaws clean and free of rust. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the chuck key mechanism.
• Electrical Inspection: Inspect the power cord and switch for any signs of damage.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

BILT HARD offers a warranty of 90 days from the date of purchase for replacement or refund. For warranty claims, technical assistance, or to order replacement parts, please contact BILT HARD customer support.

Refer to your purchase documentation or the official BILT HARD website for the most current contact information and detailed warranty terms.