Make sure the compressor’s output matches the pounds-per-square-inch requirements of the tool to be used. Check and change the oil regularly. After a day of use, empty the air tanks and drain any water build-up inside the tank through the drain tap at the bottom of the tank.
Having a trigger-type oil-can close to your drill press is handy when drilling metal. To make oiling more convenient, find a container that will hold an oil-can that you have available. Then cut two small slits in the upper part to accept a worm-gear hose clamp. Slip the clamp strip into one of the holes and out the other. Then wrap the hose clamp around the post of your drill press, about 5 in. down from the upper assembly. Drop the oil-can into the holder. From then on oil will always be just an arm’s reach away.
Be sure to frequently check the air filters on your tools. Clogged filters can choke an engine and many filters can be cleaned and reused.
If vibration causes nuts to constantly work loose, first add a lock washer, if it doesn’t have one. Or, if there is room on the bolt, use two nuts, tightened toward each other so they lock solidly. You can also try wrapping monofilament fishing line under the nut before tightening it on the bolt. Another possibility is to try wrapping the threads first with the teflon tape that is used in plumbing.
Several methods are available for dealing with screws that tend to vibrate loose on covers of equipment such as chainsaws. One good fix is to remove the offending screws and wrap 1/2-in.-wide Teflon tape around the threads and then screw them back in. The tape will hold the screws tight, yet will allow you to remove them when necessary.
When using a screwdriver, the most common mistake people make is to use the wrong size driver. You should always try to match the size of the screwdriver blade to the size of the screw as closely as possible. Mismatches will frequently result in the screw stripping, excessive wear on the screwdriver blade and a more difficult and time consuming job for you. Fortunately, finding the correct match is easy because screwdrivers are available in a complete variety of sizes and types.
To keep your retracting tape measure working smoothly wipe the metal blade with a small dab of car wax, then wipe with a clean cloth. This will help protect the blade’s finish and keep it retracting smoothly.
If you plan to refurbish a major shop tool or other equipment, take some photos before you start. They possibly can save you some head-scratching during the reassembly process. Take pictures from a number of angles, and take close-ups of areas where you think you might have some questions later. The more complex the machine, the more photos you should take.
Saw blades should be stored separately. Keep each blade secured between two pieces of plywood, fastened together by a nut and screw that goes right through the center of the blade. Blades that are chipped, bent or in any way damaged are discarded at once.
