While the S68 is complete from the factory, these are recommended:
| Part | Function | |-----------------------|------------------------------------------| | Feed handles (3) | Lower and raise spindle | | Depth stop nut | Sets drilling depth | | Speed chart (inside) | Shows belt positions for target RPM | | Motor tension lever | Releases belt tension for speed changes | | On/Off switch (red) | Often with NVR (no-volt release) | | Chuck key holder | Mounted on the head or cable |
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Runout (wobble) | Dirty Jacobs taper or bent spindle | Remove chuck, clean taper with acetone, reseat firmly. | | Won't start | Thermal overload tripped | Wait 10 minutes. Press red reset button on motor housing. | | Gears grinding | Attempted shift while moving | Stop machine. Rock spindle by hand while shifting. | | Table won't crank | Dried grease on column | Loosen table lock. Spray penetrating oil under table bracket. | | Quill sticks | Broken return spring | Remove quill stop. Manually retract. Replace spring (Part #S68-14). | Strands S68 Drill Press Manual
The S68 is typically a gear-head drill press, meaning it uses internal gears rather than just belts to transfer power.
Safety. The S68 lacks modern safety interlocks. The manual outlines proper lock-out/tag-out procedures for belt changes. While the S68 is complete from the factory,
Precision. To achieve the advertised 0.001" runout, you need to follow the manual’s spindle preload adjustment steps.
Restoration. If you’re restoring an S68, the manual provides original paint codes (often a matte grey-green), decal placements, and torque specs for fasteners. | Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
| Parameter | Value | |-------------------|---------------------------| | Motor power | 750 W (1 HP) | | Speeds | 12 – 16 speeds, 200–3000 RPM | | Speed control | Belt drive with pulley system | | Drilling capacity | Steel: 20 mm / Wood: 32 mm | | Column diameter | 80–92 mm (cast iron) | | Table size | 320 x 320 mm (approx.) | | Spindle taper | MT2 or MT3 (check your unit) | | Max spindle travel| 80–100 mm |
Note: Strands produced multiple S68 variants over the years. Verify your serial plate.