Drill Press Manual: Strands S68

These are gear-head machines. Ensure the oil is clean and at the correct level (usually indicated by a sight glass on the side of the head). Use a high-quality gear oil specified for industrial machinery (ISO 68 or similar). Inspect the Quill:

Grinding noises or difficulty moving the gear levers between speeds. Diagnosis: Dried-out or insufficient grease in the gearbox. Solution: With the machine off, try rocking the spindle by hand while gently moving the gear lever. If the issue persists, it points to the need for a full gearbox service, as prescribed in the manual after ~3000 hours. This involves disassembly, thorough cleaning, and re-greasing of all cogs and bearings.

| Specification | Details | | :--- | :--- | | | Strands (Machinery Scandinavia, Sweden) | | Model | S68 | | Motor Power | 1.1 kW - 1.2 kW (two-speed motor) | | Motor Speeds | 1400 / 2800 RPM | | Spindle Speeds | 100-3020 RPM (8 steps) or up to 3600 RPM | | Spindle Taper | MT3 (Morse Taper 3) | | Drilling Capacity (Steel) | 20 mm to 28 mm | | Spindle Stroke | 130 mm - 145 mm | | Throat (Spindle to Column) | 250 mm - 255 mm | | Table Size | 500 x 350 mm (or 500 x 400 mm) | | Machine Weight | Approx. 180 kg - 300 kg | | Dimensions (H x W x D) | ~1750 x 700 x 500 mm | Strands S68 Drill Press Manual

Never attempt to shift the mechanical gear levers while the spindle is rotating. Doing so will chip or strip the precision-ground gears.

Users sometimes host digitized copies here. Conclusion These are gear-head machines

Understanding the core capabilities of the Strands S68 ensures safe and efficient operation within its engineering limits.

The Strands S68, produced by Machinery Scandinavia AB, is a durable Swedish gear-head drill press featuring 8 spindle speeds (100–2900 RPM) and a 1.1 kW motor suited for industrial metalworking. The unit includes a 360-degree rotating head, 140mm quill travel, and requires specific maintenance for its helical gears and tapered chuck. View the official spare parts list and manual from Machinery Scandinavia AB . Strands S68 Geared Head Drill - Newmac Equipment Inspect the Quill: Grinding noises or difficulty moving

If the levers feel jammed, manually rotate the spindle chuck slightly by hand. This aligns the gear teeth and allows the levers to slide smoothly into place.

For a machine in regular use, drain and replace the gearbox oil once every 12 months. The drain plug is located at the lower base of the headstock casting. Manual Grease Points

The Strands S68 is a legendary, Swedish-engineered gear-driven drill press renowned for its exceptional durability, precision, and torque. Built to withstand decades of heavy industrial use, these machines are highly sought after by professional machinists and serious hobbyists alike.