I had recently purchased a second hand drill press, the chuck key was lost. No problem I thought, chuck keys are a dime a dozen. All that is needed is to type in chuck key on google and plenty of results will turn up. Where is a key to fit this Jacobs chuck. I tried one store and had no luck so I just went on Bunnings online a few minutes ago.
According to the specs, it’s a 6.5 mm chuck and the Craftright key details mention using a 6mm chuck – but to my eye the pins are all the same thickness? I reckon I need a pin of 3 to 3.5mm diameter. There is nothing more annoying as the loss of the chuck key to your drill. If you need more interested info like that visit quick guider.
Such a tiny piece may make your project be on hold when you are not able to change your bit. In case the chuck is destroyed, buy something new. Ensuring that you have the right sized chuck saves a time-wasting second visit to the hardware store.
How to Buy a chuck key for a Hand or Drill press
I recently purchased a second hand drill press but the chuck key was lost. No problem I said chuck keys are easily found. Simply key in chuck key in the search bar of your choice and it will list thousands of several results. To obtain the proper chuck key to fit a drill or drill press, it would be best to first determine the type of chuck it uses by reading markings or the model number of the chuck.
What Size or Measurements do I use, to Buy the Correct Drill Chuck Key?
Various sizes of the generic chuck keys exist, to fit various drill chuck sizes, including 6.5mm, 10mm, and 13mm. In order to purchase the right drill chuck key, take the diameter of the hole on the drill chuck where the key pin enters. If you need info related How to make the drug lean.
The correct key can also be determined by drill chuck size, by reference number provided by manufacturer and by inspection markings on the chuck. Universal or multi size chuck keys can also be usable on multiple chucks as suggested on wood working and DIY forums.
Measure the Drill Chuck, Chuck Key Pilot Hole Size
This seems to be the surest way to size a chuck key (other than knowing the chuck key reference number ×). I used a caliper to measure hole size. Instead, remember to allow the smooth faces of the calliper measuring jaws and they may make you read inaccurately (under the correct value). Typical pilot hole sizes are 1/4 inch, 11/32 inch and 3/8 inch.
The physical chuck key size (measurements)
Other suppliers offer general measurements such as Length x Width x Height, number of teeth, and gear diameter so that you may be able to compare with your old stock chuck key or chuck. It is not the ideal method every time, but it can be of help where there are no other data.
Most of the size that affects the physical dimensions of a chuck key is the pilot, with common sizes that vary between 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch. To get perfect key, measure your existing key or chuck, find manufacturer specifications and cross-reference manufacturer listings.
How To Size Chuck Keys
Misplacing a chuck key may derail your project but getting the correct substitute will save the need to make unnecessary trips to the tool shop. To fit a chuck key correctly, the diameter of the pilot hole where the key pin must fit must be measured and found a matching key. Don’t overlook a chuck’s jaw size, brand and model, and look at any recommendations made by manufacturers or research on the Internet. Your local hardware stores will also be a real help with locating a match.
Conclusion
To sum up, the search of a suitable chuck key needs more than a simple online search or search in one of your never-visited stores, it also requires a correct measure and detail comprehension. The size of the pilot hole and identification of chuck model numbers or manufacturer specs are important steps as well as physical measurements.
It is not guaranteed that a universal key will fit, but measurements using tools such as calipers or reference to product listings or staff at the store can help to fit the key. Spending time measuring and doing research will save hassles and keep you out of the hardware store.
FAQS
How can I determine the size of a chuck key?
To determine the size of a chuck key, measure the diameter of the pilot hole where the key’s pin fits into the chuck. You can use a caliper or measuring tool to get the exact measurement.
How do I identify the type of chuck key I have?
To identify the type of chuck key you have, check for any markings or part numbers on the key itself or the chuck. If the key fits your chuck correctly, it will match the pilot hole size and other specifications.
What is the best way to check the size of a chuck?
To check the size of a chuck, measure the pilot hole where the chuck key fits and the chuck’s jaw size. You can use a caliper to measure the hole and check the chuck’s model or manufacturer specifications for more details.
What are the standard sizes for a chuck?
Standard chuck sizes typically include measurements such as 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch. The size refers to the chuck diameter and the corresponding pilot hole size.