A drill chuck is a type of clamp used to hold a drill on the rotating spindle with the aid of adjustable jaws. The chuck holds the drill bit securely in place as you drill.
They are mainly found on cordless and power drills. Regular wear and tear can cause irreparable damage and you may need to replace it.
Here are some ways to remove the damaged chuck and install a new one.
Do your checks:
First, open the jaws and extend it to the broadest point as it separates. Spot a flashlight into the base of the chuck and take a good look inside.
If there’s a screw at the base of the chunk, make a note of the type of screw head present. This will determine which wrench or screwdriver is needed to take out the set screw.
If your chuck has a tapered spindle, there will be no screw at the base of the chuck, and no need to remove anything.
How to Remove the Screw:
Insert the tip of the wrench or screwdriver and grip the head of the screw lodged inside the chuck. The more common screw may be the reverse-threaded type.
You can loosen this type of screw by rotating the wrench or screwdriver with the other hand to remove the screw set.
As it comes loose, pull the screw out and set it aside for later use.
How to Remove the Chuck:
You will need a ¾ inch Allen wrench to remove the chuck.
- First, tighten the shortest side of the wrench into the drill chuck.
- Flip the switch on to the lowest speed setting if your drill has a two-sided setting.
- If your drill has a chuck clutch, set the chuck to the maximum setting. Next, set the drill indicator in the usual position for drilling as you would with an ordinary drill bit.
- Secure the drill firmly onto a work table and hold it down with your left hand.
- Adjust the Allen wrench to at least 45 degrees. Make sure it points toward your body and give the wrench a strong blow with the hammer.
- Once the chuck pulls away from the spindle, use your hand to rotate it counter-clockwise, and take it off.
How to deal with a damaged chuck:
If the chuck is damaged and you find it difficult to hold it down, here’s what to do:
- For a keyed chuck, place the key inside the chuck and give it a firm whack with a rubber mallet. Only employ this method if the chuck is already damaged.
- Lock a pair of pliers or vise-grip on the chuck. Strike it firmly a rubber mallet. As the chuck becomes loose, spin it until it comes completely off.
How to install the new chuck:
After the damaged chuck comes off the spindle, measure the spindle and purchase a similar chuck.
- Position the chuck threads on the spindle.
- Rotate the chuck clockwise and tighten it on the spindle by hand.
- Next, open the jaws of the new chuck. Re-install the screw back to the base of the chuck and secure it firmly in place.
As you begin to use the drill, you may need to check periodically to ensure the screw is still intact. The new chuck may become a bit loose after a few uses.