Instructions: how to remove the chuck from an electric screwdriver
Some people wonder how to remove the chuck from an electric screwdriver. It is required for preventive and repair work. Doing the necessary work with your hands, you can save money. There are several types of chucks, each of which has its own characteristics.
This is a hollow metal cylinder that houses a special ring with an adjusting sleeve. This element is mounted directly on the shaft. With the help of a tapered surface or threads, the drill bits are secured.
To dismantle the cartridge a screwdriver, hammer and a few spanners are needed. If a vise is available, the task will be easier.
Types of fasteners
It is required to study the markings to determine the type of attachment. If 1. 6 B10 is specified, the Morse taper applies. The numbers indicate the diameter of the shank and can be different.
Marking 1.0. 11 M12x1.25 indicates use of threaded fastening method. There is no fundamental difference in the use of the method of attachment, it all depends on the convenience of the user.
Main types of clamps
There are two main types of drill clamps:
Jaw chucks, which are installed on modern drills, allow to make a reliable fixation of the device with a shank diameter of 1-25 mm. This type of devices has practically no disadvantages, the most important of which is a relatively high price.
The most popular clamping device installed on modern drills is the BZP, that is, a quick-action chuck. It takes only seconds to clamp the tool in the keyhole, and no special key is needed. The tool shank is locked in place by manually rotating a thermowell, whose outer surface is fluted to engage the tool shank more easily. To adjust the mechanical action on the tool shank, this type of clamp provides a locking device.
The serious disadvantages of BZP are:
- Rapid wear of its elements.
- Insufficiently reliable fixation of drill shanks with large diameter, which causes the tool to rotate during operation.
But notched products ensure a firm grip. The only significant disadvantage of these devices is that they require a wrench that is easy to lose. However, you can save yourself from this problem by securing this part to the drill wire with insulating tape or rope.
A very popular mini drill clamp, which is mounted on compact drilling devices. The mini drill is preferred by master jewelers. The mini screwdriver is in the quick-clamping category. Primarily made of brass and used for clamping tools with a shank diameter of between 0.1 and 4.5 mm.
Toothed ring
Classic, refers to cam or collet type clamping devices. They clamp tools with a round shank and cylindrical workpieces for further processing. The main elements of cam clamps are as follows:
- Cylindrical body.
- An adjusting ring or sleeve that rotates on the outside of the housing.
- Collet or cam mechanism on the inside of the body.
Material of collet mechanism elements is hardened steel, and the mechanism consists of three similar cams, which approach to each other when turning the sleeve or adjusting ring, thus providing reliability of shank clamping. In the early models the alignment of the jaws was achieved by turning an adjusting wheel, but today this role is performed by an adjusting sleeve.
The clamps are placed on the shaft of the drill with one side and the tool is inserted on the other side, with which the work is carried out. Clamping cam chucks are mainly used for clamping in them:
How to disassemble the chuck
The chuck with the threaded connection is removed, taking into account the left-hand thread.
The threaded element is located on the inside of the device, so that first the clamping jaws are maximally extended, thus providing access to the fixing screw, which can be unscrewed with an ordinary Phillips screwdriver. In drills without this screw, the chuck is twisted off the shaft without the preparatory work described above.
The left-hand threaded screw that secures the chuck can wear out in the future. To restore the reliability of the connection, it is recommended to do the following:
This will not damage the drill’s fixture and allows the clamping unit to be clamped more accurately and securely on the drill.
Changing the threaded chuck can be done with a 14 mm wrench. In order to avoid committing mistakes, it is recommended to read the theoretical material and watch the corresponding video.
To replace a worn chuck, the old chuck is removed from the drill and a new chuck is installed. Both standard and mini-drill chucks with threaded and tapered connections are available.
When replacing on drills with threaded chucks, it is important to consider the markings that have this appearance:
The 1.5-13 interval indicates the minimum and maximum diameters of the cutting tool. The new chuck must have the same marking as the old one.
options for fastening to the shaft of an electric screwdriver
The chuck is attached to the shaft of the tool by:
- of the threads. For this, the threads on the cylinder and the shaft must be identical. The metal cylinder is screwed onto the shaft.
- retaining screws. The mount also requires screwing, and the screw itself only increases the contact between the chuck shell and the shaft. It has notches for a Phillips screwdriver and left-hand thread.
- Morse taper. One of the oldest fastening methods. The shaft of an electric screwdriver has a tapered shape and the same groove is made inside the sleeve. When the outer and inner taper fit together, the head sits securely on the shaft.
Sizes and marking
Before disassembling an electric screwdriver, you must determine the type of cylinder fixture. The marking can tell you that. The inscription of the type 1-6B14 indicates the Morse taper fixation type, where the digits before the letter stand for the bit shank diameter in millimeters and after the letter. for the size of the tapered hole. There are 9 references ranging from B7 to B45.
For chucks with threaded fastening, there is a marking like 1.5-13 M12x1.25. Here the numbers before the letter also show the permissible diameter of the bit shank, and after the letter the thread dimensions in millimeters.
Important! Foreign screwdrivers use a marking in inches. it looks like this: 2-13 1/2. 20. 1/2 means an inch, and 20 is the number of threads per inch.
First mandatory step! Unscrewing the locking screw
The first, indispensable, step in the process of removing a chuck from most household screwdrivers is to unscrew the fixing screw located at the end of the spindle between the cams. This fastener is designed to prevent the quick-clamping unit from unintentionally “unscrewing” itself during operation with the load in reverse (counterclockwise) mode.
For example, when unscrewing old fasteners when more torque is needed. In all this, the chuck can remain stationary, fixed by the bit in the work surface, and the spindle will rotate “left” (counterclockwise) and will unscrew from the screwdriver fastening unit without assistance from others.
- Spread the cams so that the tip of the screwdriver can pass freely.
- Unscrew the screw by turning it to the right because it has “left-hand” threads.
READ How Many Volts an Electric Screwdriver Charger Should Produce
Warning! The grooves on the screw heads come in different sizes and shapes (straight or cross-shaped). It is therefore necessary to have screwdrivers with different tips.
Unscrewing the quick-action chuck from the screwdriver spindle If the retaining screw with “left-hand thread” has been unscrewed from the end of the spindle, there is the option of removing the quick-action chuck from the screwdriver.
Because the clearance between the socket and the housing is several mm, it is not realistic to fix the spindle with a vice or pipe wrench. Therefore, there are several other ways to remove the chuck.
Ways to fasten
There are several different methods by which the element can be securely fastened to the workpiece. The following variants are the most common:
- Cone of Morse type. This method is considered the most popular and well-known, and has been used since the 19th century. Grind the shaft so that it fits the data of the cone located in the inner part. This creates a secure and high quality attachment.
- Threaded fastening. The variant implies that the shaft and the chuck have a special thread turned, so you only need to screw the two elements on top of each other to fix them.
- Fixing screw. The part is used for a more secure fit. The screw head is made in the shape of a cross and the thread is cut to the left. It is necessary to disassemble the jaws of the chuck, so you can see the screw.
Rules of a screwdriver usage
To ensure the long functioning of the tool is possible if you adhere to simple rules of operation:
- Protect the machine from moisture;
- Always adjust the tool before using it;
- disconnect the battery while you are changing accessories;
- if you are not using the screwdriver for a long time, periodically start it up to discharge the battery;
- have a few spare batteries.
Changing a screwdriver chuck in a domestic workshop can be done by any man. Using the methods described above, you are guaranteed to do the job quickly and with a minimum of effort.
How to remove the chuck
To remove the chuck, you only need to perform a few manipulations. This is a fairly easy process. First you need to find a 10 mm hex key.
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The wrench must be gripped very well in the chuck with the shorter end.
- The screwdriver can now be switched on for just long enough for the wrench to hit the table while turning.
- The chuck will turn on the internal thread with which it is secured to the shaft.
This is one of the most common options. But there is another effective method that can be tried. Unclamp the jaws fully and look inside. In the case where there will be a screw inside, this will be considered an additional attachment that will lead to the shaft. The screw must be unscrewed completely. This should be done clockwise only.
The hexagon should be clamped hard and you should try to turn it very sharply counterclockwise. The chuck should unmoving as a result. If this does not happen, it is necessary to take a hammer and strike the key. Do it as carefully as possible so as not to damage the construction.
Additional measures
Sometimes there is a situation where none of the methods helped to cope with the problem. Then the entire tool must be unscrewed and disassembled, and then the spindle with the chuck and the gearbox must be removed from the construction. All that remains should be well clamped in a vise, and then you can remove the chuck, using a wrench. It is worth noting that it is necessary to clamp very carefully: there is a risk of breaking the unit because of too much effort.
It is worth noting that some models of screwdrivers are fitted with grooves, with which you can simplify the task of removing. But this is quite rare in modern tools.
The chuck can jam in the event that the tool is severely overheated. That’s why you should periodically give the machine a rest. It is also worth taking care that the cartridge does not start to “kick”. This can also be a cause of malfunction.
Choosing a new tool
If the old cartridge can not be carefully dismantled and repaired, then it must be replaced. You have to choose a new one. It should be noted that different types of chucks can be installed in the design of screwdrivers. They come in key-operated or keyless chucks, as well as quick-action chucks. The key product is different in that the clamping on it can be performed better. Quick-clamp chucks are not inferior in this parameter, but they have to be replaced quite often, because the clamping mechanism very quickly comes into disrepair.
If frequent tool changes are necessary when removing a chuck, the quick-clamp version is the better choice, because if you replace the old part with it, you save time on this procedure. If you are using a large-diameter power tool, it is best to use a keyhole chuck.
There are chucks that are fastened inside the device with a cone. They are also made with a wrench or are quick-clamped. The choice is always left to the customer.
Chuck removal: Makita electric screwdriver
Makita brand power tools are generally equipped with a threaded mount with an auxiliary locking feature via a left-hand threaded screw.
- Unscrew the fixing screw (clockwise).
- Activate the spindle stop button.
- Wrap a thick cloth around the body and squeeze in a vice.
- Clench the hexagon in the cams.
- By hitting the free plane of the wrench with a hammer, the chuck is rotated, and then removed from the shaft.
What screwdriver and drill chucks are available
Although rotary screwdriver chuck designs are quite similar, they are commonly subdivided into several types:
The first two types have a similar structure and design. The second version is considered automatic and begins to function as soon as it is put on the device. As for differences in the number of clutches, the use of single-joint designs is rational only on models that have a locking. Such elements are clamped with one hand.
The double-clamping chuck for drills and screwdrivers with high power output is suitable if the tool does not have a locking mechanism. You have to use both hands to secure the bit. Quick-clamping and self-clamping chucks are used on modern units. For example, on those that have a pneumatic operating mechanism.
The key types of nozzles are suitable for somewhat older models of electrical equipment, while they are considered times more reliable, as they are resistant to serious shock loads. These chucks are also suitable for appliances that are used regularly and for prolonged periods of time.
The first mandatory step! Unscrewing the locking screw
The first mandatory step in removing a chuck from most household screwdrivers is to unscrew the fixing screw located at the end of the spindle between the cams. This fastener is designed to prevent the quick-clamping unit from unscrewing itself when working with the load in reverse (counterclockwise) mode.
For example, when unscrewing old fasteners when it is necessary to increase the torque. The chuck can remain stationary and be fitted with the bit in the workpiece, while the spindle rotates counterclockwise and unscrews itself from the screwdriver’s fixture.
To avoid such situations, manufacturers use a test screw with a “left-hand” thread. It is this that needs to be removed first by doing the following steps:
- Spread the screwdriver jaws apart so that the tip of the screwdriver can pass freely between them.
- Unscrew the screw, making turns to the right side, as it has a “left” thread.
Attention! Grooves in the screw heads may be of different sizes and shapes (straight or crosswise). Therefore, it is necessary to have screwdrivers with different tips.
Unscrewing the quick-action chuck from the screwdriver spindle After the “left-hand thread” fixing screw has been unscrewed from the end of the spindle, the quick-action chuck can be removed from the screwdriver.
Since the clearance between the coupling and the housing is several millimetres, it is not possible to secure the spindle with a vice or pipe wrench. There are therefore several other ways to remove the chuck.
Holding the chuck by hand
The easiest way is to hold the chuck by hand. To do this, carry out the following steps:
- Wear a glove on the hand that will hold the chuck.
- Set the torque control to the maximum setting or set the screwdriver to drilling mode.
- Make sure to unscrew the retaining screw from the end of the spindle.
- Bring the chuck jaws to a minimum clearance.
- Hold the chuck with one hand, protected by a glove, and start the screwdriver turning in the reverse direction (counterclockwise). While the jaws are diverging, the motor will pick up speed and the moment they are fully opened, there will be a kind of impact that must move the screw joint. It is now no problem to unscrew the chuck.
Warning! This method is not safe! It is forbidden to use it if at least one point is confirmed:
- No work gloves.
- The power rating of the cordless screwdriver exceeds 500 Watt.
- Lack of confidence in your own abilities.
- Lack of good physical preparation (teenagers, women, old people).
If this method is not suitable or fails for the prohibited reasons listed above, then proceed as follows.
Using an L-shaped tool
This method is quite simple and safe, so it is a priority. Proceed as follows
- Check that the retaining screw has been unscrewed from the end of the spindle.
- Clamp the L-shaped tool in the jaws. An allen key is best.
- Set the torque knob to its maximum or switch to drilling mode.
- Reverse the direction of rotation of the spindle (counterclockwise).
- Start the engine and allow it to reach maximum rpm.
- Bring the L-shaped tool, which is rotating and is fastened between the jaws, to the rigid stop. For example, a bench vice, a gymnastic weight.
- At the moment of impact of a fixed L-shaped tool, the chuck is unscrewed from the spindle quickly.
Warning! The chuck unscrews very quickly, in less than one second. It is therefore necessary to ensure that it falls from a minimum height, i.e., the stop on which the L-shaped tool will impact should be as close to the floor as possible.
The second method is also possible:
- After unscrewing a screw and fastening a faceted wrench (three-, four-, five-, hexagonal) between the cams, we hold the screwdriver in one hand, and with the other, hit the shoulder of the protruding tool with a hammer (mallet), so that the rotation is counterclockwise.
- Having “ripped off” the chuck in this way, you can continue to unscrew with your hand.
This type of unscrewing is especially effective when there is no voltage in the network (mains screwdriver), the battery is discharged or the power tool is out of service.
Removing the chuck from the disassembled screwdriver
All of the above methods involve removing the chuck from the whole screwdriver. But a situation can arise when the power tool will be disassembled. The chuck will be removed from the screwdriver along with the gearbox.
Then the cam assembly can be removed in two ways:
- Clamp the gearbox between the jaws of the vice by using soft spacers (e.g. wooden spacers) so as not to damage the housing. Clamp the L-shaped tool into the jaws and try to “break off” the chuck with a hammer.
- Select a socket wrench so that it fits snugly over the three studs of the gearbox (you can start with size 9).
Hold the chuck with one hand and turn it counterclockwise with the other.
The designs of most manufacturers of modern household screwdrivers with quick-action three-jaw chucks are very similar, so disassembly methods are applicable to most models.
The easiest and safest way is to use an L-shaped cut tool clamped between the chuck jaws.