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Drilling Down

A project log for Shop Reorganization

Putting my house in order

david-tuckerDavid Tucker 05/08/2023 at 00:490 Comments

The handles came and I'm finally done!  For now it is just resting on the baes of the drill, I will probably attach it more permanently just to make things more safe, but otherwise I have nothing left to do. 

Someone suggested removing all but one of the handles on the feed wheel.  This sounded like a good idea to me, so I gave it a try.  I was always annoyed with these handles, they tended to run into whatever I was drilling, and they rattle loose all the time.  Having one on the far side seems to solve at least one of the problems, and since it is out of the way I can add in a touch of Loctite if I need too as well.

Here is a better quality picture of the DRO and its mounts.  I'm using a 15mm thick 3D printed flange to hold it onto the spindle.  It seems really strong, however if I did it over again I would put the clamp on the far side of the part.  Right now as you change the clamp pressure the arm moves forward and back, making fine adjustment a challenge.

And here is a better shot of the LED light.  This uses a fixed magnet covered in a thin bit of rubber to hold itself onto the drill. This holds much stronger than I would have thought.

I obviously need to vacuum out the chips still, but these drawers have a nice depth to them and I picked the sizes to be as versatile as possible. I have plans on 3D printing some specialized inserts here to help hold various drill bits and other sharp instruments. 

I'm super happy with this table, I'm looking forward to doing a lot of drilling on it.  The whole thing is secured with just 4 wingnuts to the steel table underneath and could be removed quickly if needed.  I still need to make sure everything is still square.

I still need to work out what to do with this space in the back.  I had plans on putting my grinder back here, but I don't think it would fit very cleanly.  I also thought about putting my clamps back here, but that is not terribly convenient.  Maybe I will make a holster for my power drill and impact driver.  One thing I do plan on doing is mounting some power to the base of the cart that I can plug my drill and light into along with having a socket or two for other uses (maybe drill chargers).

Overall I'm really happy with this build. There are plenty of little flaws here and there, but no real regrets.  It came together well and I was able to cut and fit the parts with enough accuracy to fit the design.  I also learned a lot and feel ready to tackle the next cart (once I get some rest).

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