MisterDrow Posted September 5, 2017 Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 So I got a second-hand mortising machine given to me and I'm trying to figure out if repairing it is more trouble than it's worth. It's a Central Machinery (HF) benchtop model and it had been accidentally knocked off of the bench in it's previous life. In the process, the chuck doesn't stay in and, as such, it doesn't drill properly. I have searched the interwebs for "mortising machine chuck replacement" and found lots on drill press chucks but nothing on mortising machines. I assume there really shouldn't be any difference... a chuck is a chuck and they both seem to look the same. My question is, should I be looking at trying a new chuck or is the problem most likely in the receiving part of the upper housing? If the latter, I'll probably just scrap the project. I haven't been able to see anything wrong with that part but it's all enclosed so it's hard to say for certain. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wdwerker Posted September 5, 2017 Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 If it's attached with a Morse taper it might not be getting seated firmly enough. It's a friction dry fit so any oil residue or dirt could be a problem. I would clean w a strong solvent & a Scotchbrite pad and try using the handle & a block of wood to press it back into place. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MisterDrow Posted September 5, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 I had wiped it down a bit but not with a solvent so I'll give that a try. I assume I should clean up in the receiving hole a bit, too. Would mineral spirits be sufficient enough? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wdwerker Posted September 5, 2017 Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 I would use lacquer thinner or acetone. Mineral spirits is slightly oily. Fingernail polish remover is acetone but it has an oily additive so don't use that either. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MisterDrow Posted September 5, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 I've got lacquer thinner in the cabinet at home so I'll use that. I'll come back and update this thread with the results. Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
QHC Posted September 5, 2017 Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 I've got lacquer thinner in the cabinet at home so I'll use that. I'll come back and update this thread with the results. Thanks! If you are in Nebraska, I have a retired HF benchtop mortiser that you can have. Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MisterDrow Posted September 5, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 Just now, QHC said: If you are in Nebraska, I have a retired HF benchtop mortiser that you can have. Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk That's awfully kind of you. I'm in SW Idaho, though... just barely too far of a jaunt to take you up on that How is that mortiser, btw? It seems from what I have seen/heard that as long as you have sharp chisels, it does fairly well for a low-end machine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
QHC Posted September 5, 2017 Report Share Posted September 5, 2017 It's ok making the mortise, the problem is the fence. Hard to make adjusments. But, for example, If you set it for 13/16 material, and always machine your material accurately to 13/16, always use a 3/8 chisel, and tenon in the center, then adjusments aren't needed once you get it set. I retired it for a Baileigh Industrial mortiser. Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris208 Posted September 6, 2017 Report Share Posted September 6, 2017 I am the genius who knocked it off my bench! Stupid gravity. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MisterDrow Posted September 6, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 6, 2017 4 hours ago, Chris208 said: I am the genius who knocked it off my bench! Stupid gravity. LOL I got it home and went to test it out and the chuck just fell out... not going to lie... I laughed hard Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SScott Posted February 20, 2023 Report Share Posted February 20, 2023 I received a used Delta Mortiser but it was missing the chuck. Delta’s chucks have been discontinued and ereplacement no longer carry them either. Anyone have a make/model that will serve as a replacement? Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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