Maintenance Checklist, Troubleshooting | Powermatic DDS-225 guide

Maintenance Checklist

Note: See also the Maintenance section on page 16.

Work area around machine marked off clearly.

Non-skid floor strips in area where operator normally stands.

Inspect entire machine for loose bolts, nuts, screws. Tighten and replace as necessary.

Clean conveyor and drum areas, removing sawdust and chips with compressed air or a soft bristle brush. Remove gum and pitch from metal areas with oven cleaner.

Lubricate chain and check tension.

Check belt condition - replace as needed. Dress with paraffin. Check belt tension.

Check motor for loose wiring and sawdust congestion.

Pulleys tight and in line.

Check bearings. Replace any bad or suspect bearings immediately.

Troubleshooting

Performance Problems

Problem

Abrasive belt glazes

Work burns

Abrasive belt burns, clogs quickly

Excessive abrasive belt replacement

Sanding marks on workpiece

Poor sanding quality

A slight taper across the sanded face of the workpiece

Conveyor table hard to move, or tends to bind on the leadscrews

Possible Cause	Solution


Wood is wet or gummy	No cure. Use different stock

Wrong grit	Use coarser grit for stock removal

Biting too deep	Adjust for slight sanding action and
	make repeated passes

Biting too deep	Reduce cut and make multiple passes

Abrasive belt too coarse for finish	Use proper grit for finish sanding
required
Sanding across the grain	When surface sanding, use very fine
	abrasive belt then finish by hand,
	working in direction of grain.

Abrasive belts worn	Replace abrasive belts
Abrasive belts not tight on drum	Re-wrap and properly tighten
	abrasive belts.

Height of rear drum has not been	Make drum setting equal both ends
adjusted evenly on both ends
Conveyor table not parallel to drums	Correct table parallelism

Leadscrews not greased	Lubricate leadscrews
Table not parallel	Correct table parallelism

DDS-225, DDS-237 specifications

The Powermatic DDS-237 and DDS-225 are two advanced drill presses that have been engineered for woodworkers who demand precision and versatility in their projects. These machines are part of Powermatic’s commitment to providing high-quality tools that cater to both professional and hobbyist woodworkers.

One of the main features of the DDS-237 is its robust construction. With a heavy-duty cast iron base and column, this drill press offers exceptional stability, reducing vibrations during operation which leads to accurate drilling. The DDS-225 follows suit, providing a durable design that ensures reliability even in the most challenging work environments.

The DDS-237 comes equipped with a powerful 1 HP motor, offering variable speed control ranging from 250 to 3000 RPM, allowing users to select the perfect speed for various materials. This feature is particularly advantageous for woodworkers who work with different species of wood or even metal and plastic. The DDS-225, on the other hand, features a slightly less powerful motor but maintains the same level of versatility with multiple speed settings.

Another significant aspect of these drill presses is their user-friendly interface and adjustments. Both models boast an easy-to-read digital depth gauge, enabling precise depth adjustments. This feature is crucial for applications requiring repetitive drilling depths, such as doweling or creating mortises.

Both models also incorporate innovative technologies aimed at enhancing user safety and convenience. The patented Quick-Release chuck system allows for rapid and easy tool changes without the need for additional tools, saving valuable time during setup and operation. Furthermore, the built-in work light illuminates the workspace, improving visibility during intricate drilling tasks.

Dust collection is also a fundamental aspect of both models, with integrated ports designed to minimize debris in the workspace, creating a healthier and cleaner working environment.

The Powermatic DDS-237 and DDS-225 are not just machines but essential tools that combine power, precision, and safety. Whether for professional use or serious woodworking enthusiasts, these drill presses are designed to meet the demands of any project with reliability and efficiency.