Shopsmith Forums

I have a Mark V. When I drill on hardwood i notice that the bit wanders when it contacts the wood. I'm using speeds recommended for the drill bit size in the manual. I've checked the chuck and knurled collar set screws are tight. And the set screw in the Headstock for the quill is set just loose enough for the quill to move freely.

Do I have worn out parts? Is there some other adjustments I need to make?

How old? The older versions had a single bearing quill with more runout. How old an what type of chuck? Sometimes that's the problem.

Quill deflecting or bit deflecting? What size bit?

It's a early 1980s with original parts and chuck. It feels like the chuck has play in it. More pronounced when I'm using 3/8 and larger bits.

What kind of bit? Twist drills can wander on growth ring hardness differences where bradpoint won’t.

Are you drilling a pilot hole before drilling with larger bits?

As already mentioned,
A twist drill will wander and as the Diameter increases it gets worse.

Yes, the Quill may have some wear.

I suggest some HSS center drills.

Link: https://www.amazon.com/Metalworking-Com ... B0DLGVWZBL

Give these a try and see if that improves your drilling.

The biggest size of this set may bottom out in your chuck before setting secure on all three jaws.
Just something to be aware of.
There are also single end center drills .

I hadn't thought about a pilot hole, guess I have lots to learn. I'll see if that helps. Or, try some center bits. Thanks.