How to Install a Drill Chuck Taper

A drill press is designed for drilling large-diameter, precision holes in wood, metal or other materials. The drill press has a large, three-jaw chuck that securely holds the drill bit as it is driven by the motor. In most cases, the drill press chuck has a tapered shaft that is pressed upward to install the drill chuck taper into the drill press spindle adapter. The tapered spindle holds securely for most drilling tasks, but it is designed to break loose when under excessive stress in an effort to protect the motor.

Mineral spirits, paint thinner or denatured alcohol
Clean cloth
Hammer
1-foot length of scrap 2-by-4 lumber

Instructions

- 1
  Apply a small amount of mineral spirits, paint thinner or denatured alcohol to a clean cloth in a well-ventilated area.
- 2
  Wipe the drill chuck taper, the chuck and the spindle adapter to thoroughly clean the parts of any dirt, grime or rust-preventative grease that is typically applied to protect the parts during shipping.
- 3
  Align the tang on the end of the chuck taper with the mating slot inside the spindle adapter. Slide the chuck taper into the spindle adapter and push it as far as it will go by hand. It should stay in the spindle without falling out.
- 4
  Hold a 2-by-4-inch board flat against the bottom of the chuck taper. Smack the underside of the board to seat the chuck taper securely in the spindle adapter.
- 5
  Rotate the chuck to retract the jaws inside the chuck completely. Place the large hole in the top of the chuck over the chuck taper, with the 2-by-4 directly underneath. Next, tap the 2-by-4 as you did in Step 4 to seat the chuck on the chuck taper.

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