QC Problem

[jtsvstar1100]

Hi all, I can't get my 1/8" bit out of the QC.
I can't even pinch the collar together with
my fingers. As suggested by other posts, I
have tried tapping, sprayed some lube up in
there, tapped some more. Any other suggestions
would be greatly appreciated.

Thx Jeff

[unitedcases]

Have you checked to see if your set screws came loose. I only ask because that happened to me once and I had a bear of a time getting it out.

[mtylerfl]

Hello Jeff,

Gentle, but persistent "working" with the bit removal tool all around the bit collar will free the collar so it will lift.

Pry lightly a little, turn the chuck slightly, pry gently, turn, pry, turn, pry... Be conservative with the lifting so you don't force it. Light prying will sometimes feel like you are not "doing anything" but you are - don't get too agressive.

Eventually, it will allow the collar to lift. If indeed your set screw(s) have backed out to the point the bit is "jammed", you may need to lightly tap downwards with a flat-blade screwdriver on the top of the flat part of the bit adaptor - tap, turn, tap, turn...

Place a bunched-up towel under the chuck in case the bit falls out unexpectedly so you won't damage the bit or the traction belts.

After you get it out, clean the chuck really, really well with a toothbrush/mirror/flashlight/wooden toothpick to make sure all traces of any packed sawdust are no longer present. Inspect the adaptor and setscrews carefully to see if the assembly requires any attention. If necessary, remove the setscrews (you may need to apply heat to be able to unscrew them - 2 minutes of heat from a heat gun should do it), clean off any Loctite residue (wire brush and Denatured Alcohol), re-apply new Loctite then retighten the setscrews firmly, making sure the bit is seated properly with the flats lined up with the setscrews. (I use Blue Loctite, but others use the permanent Red - your choice.)

Please let us know how you make out.

[Rick P]

I had the same problem with the 1/8" cutting bit...when you get it out inspect the adapter closely for the 3 dimples caused by the spring loaded BBs. If the dimples are there the adapter is no good anymore.
I was given good advice when using the 1/8" cutting bit...set the Max Depth at .25" so there will be less side pressure on such a long bit. This is a new option in the latest version of Designer.

[mtylerfl]

I had the same problem with the 1/8" cutting bit...when you get it out inspect the adapter closely for the 3 dimples caused by the spring loaded BBs. If the dimples are there the adapter is no good anymore.
I was given good advice when using the 1/8" cutting bit...set the Max Depth at .25" so there will be less side pressure on such a long bit. This is a new option in the latest version of Designer.

Actually, the max depth settings have been available in the last 3 versions of Designer 1.131, 1.132, 1.133

For details on how to use this feature, see the Tips & Tricks - ISSUE 12 September 2008 "Designer 1.131 New Feature Highlights "

NOTE: It is usually not necessary to make multi-pass cutouts - especially on softwoods like pine or poplar. However, if you feel uncomfortable, or if you are having "bad luck" with single-pass cut outs, then by all means go ahead and use the multi-pass.

[jtsvstar1100]

Thanks for the help guys, but its still not coming out.
I'm guessing new Qc and bit.

[Rick P]

Michael T - thank you for the clarification on the versions of Designer.

I should add that I was warned (after the fact) by a long time CW user that performing a one-pass cutout in 3/4" thick red oak is very strenuous on the CW, the QC and the 1/8" cutting bit. I have learned my lesson the hard way. Also, if there is a QC balancing issue, which mine had, performing the one-pass cutout is even more strenuous on the adapter and bit. I had no problems with the V-bits.
Rick P

Actually, the max depth settings have been available in the last 3 versions of Designer 1.131, 1.132, 1.133

For details on how to use this feature, see the Tips & Tricks - ISSUE 12 September 2008 "Designer 1.131 New Feature Highlights "

NOTE: It is usually not necessary to make multi-pass cutouts - especially on softwoods like pine or poplar. However, if you feel uncomfortable, or if you are having "bad luck" with single-pass cut outs, then by all means go ahead and use the multi-pass.