Strands S68 Drill Press Manual !!top!! -
Lubrication should be done via the three oil nipples located on top of the motor unit and two on the table crank mechanisms.
Due to its weight (200 kg), the machine should be securely mounted to a solid bench or pedestal to eliminate vibration.
Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the gear head housing. Drain the oil while the machine is warm. Replace the plug and refill through the top fill port until the oil reaches the center of the sight glass. Daily Maintenance Strands S68 Drill Press Manual
Understanding the core capabilities of the Strands S68 ensures safe and efficient operation within its engineering limits.
Clean the quill outer surface daily. Apply a light film of way lubricant to the rack teeth and spindle sleeve. Lubrication should be done via the three oil
| Original part | Modern replacement | |---------------|--------------------| | (13×965 mm) | AX26 (or 26″ outside length) V-belt | | Spindle bearings | 2× 6204-2RS (deep groove) or original super-precision 7204 angular contact (for metalworking). | | Return spring | Strands standard – measure inner diameter (22 mm) and use McMaster-Carr part 9414K24. | | Depth stop rod | M8×1.25 threaded rod, cut to length (120 mm). | | Feed handles (wooden ball) | 35 mm diameter beech or phenolic ball, tapped 5/16-18 (or M8). |
| Specification | Detail | |------------------------|-------------------------------| | | Bench-mounted drill press | | Drilling capacity (steel) | 16 mm (5/8”) | | Drilling capacity (cast iron) | 20 mm (13/16”) | | Spindle taper | MT2 (Morse Taper #2) | | Spindle travel (quill stroke) | 80 mm (3.15”) | | Number of speeds | 8 or 12 (depending on year) | | Speed range | 200 – 3000 RPM | | Table size | 250 x 250 mm (square) | | Table tilt | ±45° left/right | | Column diameter | 70 mm | | Overall height | 630 – 680 mm (excluding base) | | Motor power | 0.55 kW (3/4 HP) / 1 HP optional | | Weight | 55 kg (120 lbs) | Drain the oil while the machine is warm
To help you identify your machine or find compatible parts, here are the key specifications for the Strands S68, compiled from various sales listings and user discussions:
Regular lubrication is the single most important factor in keeping a Strands S68 running smoothly for generations. Gearbox Oil Change The gears run in an oil bath inside the headstock.
Strands Mekaniska Verkstad, based in Stockholm, produced industrial-grade drilling machines from the early to mid-20th century. The S68 model is a floor-standing, belt-driven drill press known for its heavy-duty cast iron construction, precision-ground quill, and variable speed system using a stepped pulley.
Change the gearbox oil every 1,200 operating hours or once a year.