Drill press question

[NCJim]

I just got a new bench top drill press. This new drill press has a variable speed lever unlike my old model that you had to move the belts in order to change speeds.
So the question is: Should I change speeds while the machine is running or should the speed changed when the machine is stopped? The operation manual does not which is correct or maybe it don't matter?

 

[bob vaughan]

If the speeds are varied by mechanical means (Reeves Drive, etc.) then only change speeds while the machine is running.
If the speeds are varied by electronic means (VFD, DC motor control) then it won't make much of a difference unless belt change speed ranges are are used.
What make/model drill press?

 

[NCJim]

Its by mechanical lever.

WEN 5-Amp Variable-Speed 12" ​

Model #4214T

Thank you for the help.

 

[bob vaughan]

Since it is a mechanical variable speed, don't touch the handle unless the machine is running.

 

[NCJim]

Thank you

 

[LeftyTom]

Since it is a mechanical variable speed, don't touch the handle unless the machine is running.

View attachment 223106

Possible mayhem averted. Another BIG plus to NCWW.

 

[bob vaughan]

One of my son's friends decided to adjust the speed of my son's 15" drill press without the machine running. He forced it and snapped the casting that held the cam follower. He remembers that to this day and that was close to 20 years ago. For me it was no big deal because I had a couple of those parts in stock.


Same model 15" drill press but not the one in question.

 

[chris_goris]

Did the machine come with a manual?

 

[Mike Davis]

If you have a new car this may be a good representation of your transmission. I had the idea to use a computer controlled Reeves drive for cars in 1987.