Allen Keys

[ColWA]

Many of you already do this, but some may not know .
When changing jaws on chucks using Allen Keys takes heaps of time.
Cut off a 5cm section & insert it into a cordless drill, set it to a slow speed & see how much quicker it is.
I have several sizes which I keep in with chuck jaws.
This can also be applied to many other similar jobs.

HTH
Col

[julcle]

Hi Col  --  Don't forget to set the clutch when doing them up.  Julian

[edbanger]

There is no real need to cut up allen keys you can buy hex key bits that will slide in to the standard magnetic holder that you use in your drill for screwdriver bits.
 

[Bellringer75]

or just use an allen key

[TWiG]

or..... I have not changed my chuck jaws for years now ! 

[woodndesign]

Ditto ... I'd got extra Accessory Mounting Jaws for the range of Jaws I use .. even a spare set at the moment .. reminds me need the fixing screws.

[edbanger]

do you not change jaws when turning larger items? what size jaws do you use??? I'm always changing jaw sets

Ed

[seventhdevil]

i got tired of changing my jaws so scoured ebay for m33.5 threads on the occasional axminster clubman that came up.

i now own 5 clubmans all with different jaws...    so much easier to just switch chucks.

[Graham]

i got tired of changing my jaws so scoured ebay for m33.5 threads on the occasional axminster clubman that came up.

i now own 5 clubmans all with different jaws...    so much easier to just switch chucks.

Good idea. Can I ask what sort of price they went for ?

[Derwent Woodturning club]

Many of you already do this, but some may not know .
When changing jaws on chucks using Allen Keys takes heaps of time.
Cut off a 5cm section & insert it into a cordless drill, set it to a slow speed & see how much quicker it is.
I have several sizes which I keep in with chuck jaws.
This can also be applied to many other similar jobs.

HTH
Col

I agree this will speed things up but there is also a risk of a powered 'key' damaging the socket on the screw, much like many people using powered screwdrivers damage the screws . And if you've got a damaged, countersunk, allen headed bolt in your chuck it can be a nightmare trying to get it out as there is no way of cutting it off, or cutting a slot. You are left with drilling it out and potentially damaging your jaw carriers. I would always change jaws 'by hand' and even then make sure I clean any dust out of the 'head' to ensure the key goes fully into the recess.
One other tip, put some copper grease on the bolt threads to prevent them locking in. It's often referred to as 'anti-seize' grease, for just that reason.

[seventhdevil]

i got tired of changing my jaws so scoured ebay for m33.5 threads on the occasional axminster clubman that came up.

i now own 5 clubmans all with different jaws...    so much easier to just switch chucks.

Good idea. Can I ask what sort of price they went for ?

i can only find one on my records but that was £33 not including delivery.

[Graham]

i got tired of changing my jaws so scoured ebay for m33.5 threads on the occasional axminster clubman that came up.

i now own 5 clubmans all with different jaws...    so much easier to just switch chucks.

Good idea. Can I ask what sort of price they went for ?

i can only find one on my records but that was £33 not including delivery.

Cant argue with a price like that can you. I will keep an eye out.

[TWiG]

do you not change jaws when turning larger items? what size jaws do you use??? I'm always changing jaw sets

Ed

They grip a 60-70 mm spigot or fit a 100-120mm recess and I find that suits virtually everything I do bowl wise and small hollow forms , anything bigger then it is a faceplate !

[ColWA]

Appreciate all the comments guys.
Due to the loss of a couple of fingers I find allen keys & many other small tools very awkward & frustrating.

If the clutch is set correctly on your cordless drill, ripping out the head is not a problem.
As for buying the sets for different heads, very often when they are inserted into a holder the added width prevents correct line-up with the head.
This is not just for chucks, I use this on all my jigs such as cole jaws, doughnut chucks & several others.
I prefer to use the cabinet makers  screws with a flat head because there is less chance of getting smacked on the fingers.

Cheers
Col

[burywoodturners]

I went into a bike shop and got a tee handled allen key, just loosen the screw with it and spin it out, replace the screw in the chuck and tighten. safer and as quick as a drill. Don't get the ones with two business ends if you see what I mean, these are fine for most jobs but are out of balance.
Ron