Craftex CX603 1-1/2 HP Knee Milling Machine

Introduction

This user manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation of the Craftex CX603 1-1/2 HP Knee Milling Machine. It covers safety instructions, machine features, setup, operation, maintenance, and warranty details. Following these guidelines will help ensure years of reliable service and satisfaction.

Safety Instructions

General Safety Instructions for Machines

Extreme caution should be used when operating all power tools. Know your power tool, be familiar with its operation, read through the owner's manual, and practice safe usage procedures at all times.

• ALWAYS read and understand the user manual before operating the machine.
• CONNECT your machine ONLY to the matched and specific power source.
• ALWAYS wear safety glasses, respirators, hearing protection, and safety shoes when operating your machine.
• DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry when operating your machine. Wear protective hair covering.
• A SAFE ENVIRONMENT is important. Keep the area free of dust, dirt, and other debris in the immediate vicinity of your machine.
• BE ALERT! DO NOT use prescription or other drugs that may affect your ability or judgment to safely use your machine.
• DISCONNECT the power source when changing drill bits, hollow chisels, router bits, shaper heads, blades, knives, or making other adjustments or repairs.
• NEVER leave a tool unattended while it is in operation.
• NEVER allow unsupervised or untrained persons to operate the machine.
• NEVER reach over the table when the tool is in operation.
• ALWAYS keep blades, knives, and bits sharpened and properly aligned.
• ALL OPERATIONS MUST BE performed with the guards in place to ensure safety.
• ALWAYS use push sticks and feather boards to safely feed your work through the machine.
• ALWAYS make sure that any tools used for adjustments are removed before operating the machine.
• ALWAYS keep bystanders safely away while the machine is in operation.
• NEVER attempt to remove jammed cutoff pieces until the blade has come to a full stop.

Specific Safety Instructions

• READ AND UNDERSTAND the user manual before operating the milling/drilling machine.
• ALWAYS WEAR safety glasses for the protection of your eyes while operating this machine.
• WEAR PROPER APPAREL. Loose clothing, gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets, or other jewelry may get caught in moving parts of the machine. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair. Do not wear gloves and keep your fingers and hair away from rotating parts.
• KEEP GUARDS in place. Guards must be kept in place and in working order to ensure safe operation.
• MAKE SURE the work-piece is properly clamped to the table before operating the machine. Never hold the work-piece by hand when using the mill.
• MAKE SURE the cutting tool is sharp, not damaged, and properly secured in the chuck before you start the machine.
• DO NOT turn the power ON with the cutting tool contacting the work-piece.
• SELECT THE PROPER SPINDLE SPEED for the type of work and material you are cutting. Let the spindle reach its full speed before beginning a cut.
• DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL. Always use the machine at the rate for which it is designed. Do not force the machine to do a job for which it is not designed.
• NEVER LEAVE the machine unattended while it is running.
• ALWAYS turn off the power before removing scrap pieces and cleaning the machine.
• SHOULD ANY PART of your tool be missing, damaged, or fail in any way, shut off the machine immediately and remove the plug from the power source. Replace any damaged or missing parts before resuming operation.
• MAKE SURE before installing and removing any parts, servicing, cleaning, or making any adjustments, the switch is in the "OFF" position and the cord is unplugged from the power source.
• BEFORE OPERATING your CX603 milling machine, make sure you have read and understood all the safety instructions in the manual and you are familiar with your machine.

WARNING! The safety instructions given above cannot be complete because the environment in every shop is different. Always consider safety first as it applies to your individual working conditions.

Features

The Craftex CX603 is a 1-1/2 HP Knee Milling Machine designed for professional metalworking. Key specifications include:

• Motor: 1-1/2 HP, 220 V, Single Phase
• Vertical Spindle Taper: R8 or MT3 or NT30
• Vertical Spindle Speeds: 9 speeds (230 - 2520 RPM)
• Spindle Travel: 3-1/8" (80mm)
• Spindle to Column Distance: 7-1/2"
• Spindle to Table Surface Distance: 0" - 12-3/8" (0 - 345mm)
• Head Tilt: 45° to the Right & 45° to the Left
• Table Surface: 8" x 30"
• Max. Table Cross Travel: 6" (150mm)
• Max. Table Longitudinal Travel: 14-1/2" (370mm)
• Lead Screw: 1" x 8 TPI or 3mm Pitch
• Net Weight: 450 Kg
• Gross Weight: 540 Kg
• Warranty: 3 Years

Physical Features

The Craftex CX603 features a robust design with various control elements and components. Key physical features include:

• Base: The stable foundation of the machine.
• Knee: Supports the table and moves vertically.
• Column: The main vertical support structure.
• Table Surface: The working area where the workpiece is mounted.
• Longitudinal Hand Wheel: Moves the table left and right.
• Cross Feed Hand Wheel: Moves the table towards or away from the column.
• Table Height Crank Handle: Raises or lowers the table.
• Fine Down Feed Hand Wheel: Provides precise vertical feed for the quill.
• Coarse Down Feed Handle: Provides a faster vertical feed for the quill.
• Quill Lock: Secures the quill in position.
• Longitudinal Limit Stops: Adjustable stops to limit table travel.
• Cross Limit Stop: Adjustable stop to limit cross travel.
• V-Belt Cover: Protects the V-belt drive system.
• V-Belt Tensioning Adjustment Bolt: Used to adjust V-belt tension.
• 1-1/2 HP Motor: The power source for the machine.
• Forward / Reverse Switch: Controls the direction of spindle rotation.
• Switch Box (ON & OFF): Main power control for the machine.
• Splash Pan: Collects coolant and chips.
• Powder Coated Paint: Durable finish.

Proper Grounding

Grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. To prevent electrical hazards, ensure the machine is properly wired by a qualified electrician.

This machine is designed for a normal 220-volt circuit. Ensure the outlet configuration matches the machine's plug. If an adapter is used, it must be attached to the metal screw of the receptacle.

It is strongly recommended not to use extension cords. If an extension cord is necessary, it should not exceed 50 feet in length and must be 14-gauge to prevent motor damage. Periodically check for heat buildup.

The CX603 should be wired with a 3-prong plug fitting a 3-prong grounded receptacle. Do not remove the grounding prong. Consult a qualified electrician if in doubt.

WARNING! Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is properly grounded.

Setup and Operation

Unpacking

The machine is shipped in crates. Carefully inspect crates for damage during transit. Open crates and check that the machine and parts are in good condition.

NOTICE: If any part is missing during inventory, check if it has already been installed on the machine, as some parts come pre-assembled for shipping.

Setup

Before setting up, read and understand the instructions in this manual. The machine is mounted to a pallet and must be unbolted before moving. Use a wrench to unbolt it. Position lifting straps around the machine and attach to fork truck forks for safe moving.

WARNING! The CX603 is a very heavy machine. Do not over-exert yourself. Use a fork truck for safe moving. Failure to do so could result in serious personal injury and damage to the machine.

Choose an ideal spot for the machine, considering your complete work environment.

Cleaning

Unpainted surfaces are coated with a rust preventive waxy oil. Remove this before assembly using a solvent cleaner that will not damage painted surfaces.

Assembly

To assemble the CX603:

1. Thread the handles into the longitudinal hand wheels located on both sides of the table.
2. Thread the handle into the table cross feed hand wheel located on the front side of the machine.
3. The crank handle may be shipped assembled on the opposite side. Remove the C-ring securing it, then re-install it on the correct side and secure with the C-ring.

Spindle Lubrication

The milling machine requires proper lubrication for longevity and performance.

To lubricate spindle bearings:

1. Lower the down feed handle to extend the quill. Rub the quill with a piece of cloth or rug having oil on it.
2. Release the down feed handle to return the quill to its initial position.
3. Locate the spindle lubrication cup on the mill and add a few drops of oil.

WARNING! Lubricating the milling machine properly is important for maintaining high performance. Failure to follow reasonable lubrication practices could result in premature failure of your machine.

ON/OFF Switch

The switch box on the CX603 is located on the right-hand side, featuring a green ON button and a red OFF button.

Forward / Reverse Switch

This switch allows changing the rotating direction of the spindle.

Test Run

After assembly, perform a test run to ensure the machine operates correctly.

WARNING! Before starting, ensure you have read and understood the manual and are familiar with the machine's functions and safety features. Failure to do so may cause serious personal injury.

TO TEST RUN THE CX603:

1. Ensure you have read and understood all safety instructions.
2. Remove all tools and objects from the machine used during setup and assembly.
3. Verify the spindle is lubricated (refer to Spindle Lubrication section).
4. Ensure the forward/reverse switch is in the OFF position. Connect the power cord to the matched outlet and push the green ON button.
5. Turn the forward/reverse switch to the Forward position and verify correct operation.
6. Turn the switch to OFF, then to Reverse position. Check if the spindle rotates in the opposite direction.
7. If any unusual noise or excessive vibration occurs, stop the machine immediately and disconnect power. Investigate the problem.
8. Push the red OFF button to turn the machine off.

WARNING! Do not make adjustments while the machine is running. Turn the machine OFF and unplug the cord before making any adjustments. Failure to do so may cause serious personal injury.

Table Controls

The table on the CX603 features three movement paths controlled by crank handles and hand wheels. These paths are Cross Feed, Longitudinal, and Vertical (up & down).

Machine Controls and Adjustments

Longitudinal Hand Wheels

Two hand wheels, located on the left and right sides of the table, are used to move the table left and right.

Cross Feed Hand Wheel

Located on the front side of the machine, this hand wheel moves the table towards or away from the column.

Crank Handle

Positioned on the front side of the machine, under the table, this handle is used to raise or lower the table.

Table Locks

Lock levers are provided for each axis (longitudinal, cross, knee) to secure the table in position, preventing unwanted movement during operation.

Table Limit Stops

These adjustable stops limit the travel distance of the table and saddle, allowing for repeatable operations.

Down Feed Controls

These controls manage the vertical movement of the quill:

• A. Down Feed Handle: Used to raise or lower the quill.
• B. Quill Lock: Secures the quill in position.
• C. Down Feed Scale: Shows quill movement in inches.
• D. Quill Dog: A pointer indicating the depth of the down feed on the scale.
• E. Down Feed Stop: Stops the down feed assembly at a set point.
• F. Down Feed Selector Knob: Enables either the fine down feed hand wheel or the coarse down feed handle.
• G. Fine Down Feed Hand Wheel: Raises and lowers the quill in small increments when enabled.
• H. Graduated Scale: Shows quill travel in 0.001" increments when using the fine down feed hand wheel.

Head Tilting

The mill head can tilt 90° left or right. To tilt the head:

1. Ensure the machine is powered OFF and unplugged.
2. Loosen the four hex nuts securing the mill head to the head adaptor on both sides.
3. Tilt the head to the desired angle using the tilt scale for reference.
4. Re-tighten the four hex nuts securely.

Head Adaptor Rotation

The head adaptor rotates 360° around the column. To rotate:

1. Ensure the machine is powered OFF and unplugged.
2. Loosen the three hex nuts securing the head adaptor to the column.
3. Rotate the head adaptor to the desired position using the rotation scale for reference.
4. Re-tighten the three hex nuts securely.

Speed Change

The CX603 is a 9-speed machine (230 - 2520 RPM). Spindle speed can be changed based on the material being cut.

To change spindle speed:

1. Ensure the machine is powered OFF and unplugged.
2. Loosen the lock nut and bolt to release tension on the V-belt.
3. Arrange the belts according to the Spindle RPM table (Figure-20) to achieve the correct RPM.
4. Re-tension the V-belt and tighten the bolt and lock nut.

Spindle RPM Table (Figure-20):

Maintenance and Lubrication

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for peak performance:

1. Treat the machine with care; keep it clean, greased, and lubricated regularly.
2. Lubricate all slide ways lightly before every use. Change gears and the lead screw should also be lightly lubricated with lithium-based grease.
3. During operation, clean chips from sliding surfaces promptly. Inspect frequently to prevent chips from falling between the work table and slide ways.
4. Every day after operation, eliminate all chips and clean machine parts. Apply machine tool oil to prevent rust.
5. Ensure your work area is well-ventilated.
6. Practice good housekeeping daily, keeping the machine clean and well-lubricated.
7. Before each operation, check the cord, wires, nuts, and bolts for wear or damage, and ensure all safety devices are working properly.

WARNING! Do not remove chips with bare hands due to the risk of cuts. Never use flammable solvents or agents that generate noxious fumes. Protect electrical components from humidity.

Lubrication

The milling machine requires proper lubrication for long life and performance.

WARNING! Improper lubrication can lead to premature machine failure.

Spindle Bearings

To lubricate spindle bearings:

1. Lower the down feed handle to extend the quill. Rub the quill with an oiled cloth or rug.
2. Release the down feed handle to return the quill.
3. Locate the spindle lubrication cup and add 5-6 drops of oil. Perform this after every 8 hours of use.

One-Shot Oiler

Open the fill cap on the one-shot oiler and pour ISO 68 lubricant (or equivalent). The sight glass shows the oil level. Pull and release the handle to dispense lubricant.

Lubricate the machine using the one-shot oiler after every 8-9 hours of use (one pump).

Lead Screws & Gears

Raise the table using the crank handle to access gears and lead screws. Clean them with a shop rag and lubricate with #2 grease.

After applying lubricant, move the table through its full range to distribute it. Lubricate lead screws and gears this way after every 40 hours of use.

V-Belt Tensioning

V-belts stretch with use and require proper tensioning.

1. Ensure the machine is powered OFF and unplugged.
2. Open the belt cover lock and lift the cover to access the V-belt.
3. Loosen the lock nut and rotate the bolt until the V-belt has approximately 1/8" of deflection under moderate pressure.
4. Once tensioned, tighten the lock nut.

Gibs Adjustment

Gibs control table movement along the ways. Tight gibs increase accuracy but make movement harder; loose gibs make movement sloppy but easier.

Gibs should be adjusted so the table moves smoothly without excessive play.

To adjust gibs:

1. Disconnect the machine from the power source.
2. Adjust gibs using a screwdriver. Do not overtighten, as this can cause premature wear of sliding parts.

Parts List

The following tables list the parts for the Craftex CX603 Knee Milling Machine. Detailed exploded view diagrams are provided in the original manual for visual reference of part placement.

Main Spindle Assembly Parts

Motor and Belt Drive Assembly Parts

Table and Saddle Assembly Parts

Column and Base Assembly Parts

Warranty and Service

Craftex 3 Years Limited Warranty

Craftex warrants every product to be free from defects in materials and agrees to correct such defects where applicable. This warranty covers three years for parts and 90 days for labor (unless specified otherwise), to the original purchaser from the date of purchase. It does not apply to malfunctions arising directly or indirectly from misuse, abuse, improper installation or assembly, negligence, accidents, repairs or alterations, or lack of maintenance.

Proof of purchase is necessary. All warranty claims are subject to inspection of such products or parts thereof, and Craftex reserves the right to inspect any returned item before a refund or replacement may be issued. This warranty shall not apply to consumable products such as blades, bits, belts, cutters, chisels, punches, etceteras.

Craftex shall in no event be liable for injuries, accidental or otherwise, death to persons, or damage to property, or for incidental, contingent, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of its products.

Returns, Repairs and Replacements

To return, repair, or replace a Craftex product, visit an appropriate Busy Bee Tools showroom or call 1-800-461-BUSY. Craftex is a brand of equipment exclusive to Busy Bee Tools.

For replacement parts directly from Busy Bee Tools, call 1-800-461-BUSY (2879) and have your credit card and part number handy.

• All returned merchandise will be subject to a minimum charge of 15% for re-stocking and handling, with the following qualifications:
• Returns must be pre-authorized in writing.
• Collect shipments are not accepted.
• Items returned for warranty purposes must be insured and shipped pre-paid to the nearest warehouse.
• Returns must be accompanied by a copy of your original invoice as proof of purchase.
• Returns must be in an unused condition and shipped in their original packaging with a letter explaining the reason for return.
• Incurred shipping and handling charges are not refundable.
• Busy Bee will repair or replace the item at their discretion and subject to inspection.
• Repaired or replaced items will be returned pre-paid by Busy Bee's choice of carriers.
• Busy Bee reserves the right to refuse reimbursement or repairs/replacement if a third party has performed repairs without prior authorization.
• Repairs made by Busy Bee are warranted for 30 days on parts and labor.
• Any unforeseen repair charges will be reported for acceptance prior to making repairs.
• Busy Bee Parts & Service Departments are equipped to repair products purchased from them, with exceptions for products requiring return to authorized depots. A Busy Bee representative will provide necessary information.
• For faster service, contact the nearest Busy Bee location for parts availability before bringing your product in for repairs.