How to Change a DeWALT Drill Bit?
If you’re going to use a DeWALT drill, one of the first things you’ll need to know is how to change out the drill bits – click here for review. Bits are the interchangeable part of the tool that enable you to drill into the material you’re working with and make pilot holes. These parts are varied by size. It’s important to change them out quickly and effectively if you want to keep up a good work schedule.
Many people think that this process is much more difficult to learn than it actually is; changing a bit out is very simple and straightforward. There are two different methods you can use depending on what type of drill you’re working with. The first requires you to use a chuck key to take your bits out. The second is a way to change out the bits without using a chuck key.
How to Use a Chuck Key
If your drill came with a chuck key, you’ll need to use that key to take the bit out of the drill and put a new one in. You need to find the chuck key that came with the device. If you have a newer modeled drill, you’ll most likely find the chuck key on the drill itself. This will make it quite simple to find the key. If you’re having difficulties locating the chuck key, you’ll need to check the packaging to see if you can find it there, or read through the instructions manual.
Once you’ve found the chuck key, you’ll need to hold it up to the chuck so you can get started. You’ll know if you’ve found the right tool because the end of the chuck key will look like a cog with teeth. Then you’ll be able to line up the teeth on the chuck key with the teeth on the chuck. Insert the tip of the key into one of the holes on the side of the chuck. Once you’ve done this, you can start opening the chuck’s jaws.
Turn the chuck key counterclockwise (to the left) to loosen the jaws on the chuck. Once this has been done long enough, you’ll be able to slide the bit out of the jaws easily. Pull the bit out carefully using your index finger and thumb so you don’t damage it in the process. Once you’ve removed the bit, take a closer look to make sure everything is in order. If it isn’t sharp enough or has signs of cracking, throw it out so you won’t accidentally use it again.
If it’s still in good working condition, put it back in your tool kit. This will help to ensure that you keep your work as productive as possible.
Once you’ve determined the usefulness of the bits, you’ll be ready to put in the new bit. Grab it with your index finger and thumb, the same way you did when you took the other bit out. You’ll want to make sure you’re gripping the shank of the bit (the smooth part).
Insert the bit into the chuck’s jaws and keep a steady grip on the bit. Once you’ve inserted the bit and have a good hold on the tool, you’ll need to tighten the chuck again. To do this, take your chuck key and line it up again with the teeth. Then insert it into one of the holes on the side of the chuck. Once this has been done, you’ll be able to tighten the chuck again. Make sure to turn the chuck key clockwise (to the right).
As you tighten the jaws of the chuck again, keep a steady grip on the bit. You don’t want it to fall out or put it in incorrectly. Once the jaws are tightened, you can remove the chuck key. Then, turn the drill on and test it to make sure it’s working correctly. Once you’ve done this, you should be able to proceed with your work.
How to Change a Drill Bit Without a Chuck Key
Now that drill designs are progressing, many people have been able to change out their drill bits without using a chuck key. Though this is convenient, it does require a different process. You’ll typically use a chuck key if you have a corded power drill. However, if you have a cordless model, the chances are that you won’t need to use a chuck key and can change your bits by using the following method.
First, you’ll need to loosen the chuck
Hold the chuck with one hand and the handle of your drill with the other. Next, turn the chuck counterclockwise (to the left) to loosen it. This process will enable the jaws in the chuck to open up and let you remove the bit. Before you put it away, examine it to make sure it’s not too dull or cracked. If you’ve made sure that the bit is still in good working condition, you can put it back in your drill kit. Now you can work on putting the new bit in.
Find the right size and hold the bit with your thumb and index finger with the shank facing towards the chuck. The shank is the smooth part of the bit at the end. Once you’ve done this, put the bit into the chuck jaws and then pull it back towards yourself about one centimeter. Make sure that you keep a good grip on the bit after you’ve done this. The chuck jaws will still be loose, and the bit could potentially fall out. Next, you’ll want to tighten the jaws back up.
To do this, you’ll want to loosen your grip on the bit and lightly pull the trigger several times. This will help to ensure that the bit is installed correctly. Make sure you squeeze the trigger gently so it doesn’t turn too fast. Once you’ve completed these steps, you should be able to start your work again.
Take your hand off the bit and pull the trigger at full speed to make sure the bit turns properly. You’ll also want to check and see if your drill has a ratcheting mechanism. If it does, you’ll be able to turn it into place by twisting it in a clockwise motion (to the right). This should put you back on track and ready to get back to work.
Drill Chuck Key Sizes
If you lose your chuck key, you won’t be able to change your bits until you’ve found a new one. This can be very frustrating, but a trip to your hardware store should fix this issue quickly! There are over 12 variations of chucks on the market, and all of them require their own key, so you’ll need the exact size and measurements to get the right match. To do this, you’ll need to take a close look at the drill’s chuck.
There should be engraved numbers on the side displayed in a ratio (½, ¼, ⅛, etc.). Write down this number on a piece of paper and find a ruler. Use it to measure the hole on the side of the chuck that you would normally put your key in. Once you’ve got the measurement, write that number down too. Take these measurements into your local hardware store – they’ll be able to help you find a chuck key that will fit your drill properly.