DELTA 17-965 3/4 Horsepower 16-1/2-Inch Floor Drill Press
by Delta
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List Price: Category: Tools See more product details |
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Tools and Hardware Reviews of DELTA 17-965 3/4 Horsepower 16-1/2-Inch Floor Drill Press
Customer Review: Delta drops the ball on this one
Summary: 1 Stars
I purchased this drill press a few months ago and have used it a number of times for wood and metal working. I am extremely disappointed in its performance and quality. When operating at anything faster than the slowest speeds, it rattles loudly and shakes as if it's out of balance. The top cover makes so much noise that I've resorted to putting duct tape on it to keep it from bouncing around and have to wear hearing protection when operating it. Tearing off and reapplying the tape is a bothersome waste of time when I need to change speeds. At least the tape matches the Delta color. Maybe this is why they chose grey.
When drilling anything heavier than 3/4" stock (wood), the torque diminishes to the point of having to take multiple runs to pierce a hole. I have a new set of bits that seem wasted on this drill press.
In order to remedy the noise, vibration and wobbling, I moved the press to a flat surface and weighed down the base with a box of tools. In addition, I put my foot on the box to keep the wobbling under control. As a last resort I'll bolt it to the floor. All this effort does nothing to alleviate the noise from the belt cover. In frustration, I usually revert to using a $50 hand held drill gun rather than use this catastrophe.
Today, the press sits in the corner of the shop taking up valuable space and reminding me of the mistake I made buying it. This is an example of a company that sells by brand, not by value. I will never ever consider buying another DELTA tool again, regardless of the price.
Customer Review: Great bang for the buck!
Summary: 4 Stars
Well, after reading all the reviews you convinced me to finally purchase this floor press. It came in one piece with no damage. Assembly was very simple but the instuctions need revising in order to plumb the press head and the vertical table guide. It is indeed a little flexible (per another readers comments) Whether that is intentional or not is a mystery. Run out measured at .002. The depth stop feature is fantasic and sure makes quick work of multiple drills at static depths.
To make sure the drill head is directly over the center of the base is to use a good old fashioned plumb bob. Simply tighten up the chuck and let the bob hang down. Once you've got it centered, tighten up the 2 hex set nuts on the column. Repeat the same steps for the vertical table guide. Tighten up the "one" collar hex nut once the guide is plumb. The only thing that needs modifying is the belt housing unit. It vibrates to no end. A quick fix is to use a velcro strap wrapped tightly around the housing to eliminate the excess noise. Finally, use the HTC mobile base using 4x4's and 3/4" plywood. It REALLY makes this unit stable.
Customer Review: Good Drill Press
Summary: 5 Stars
I bought this drill press a few months ago and have not had any problems with it. The assembly was easy. The operation is smooth and there is very little vibration. Changing speeds is very easy.
The price on Amazon was great and they shipped it for free.
Customer Review: Delta 17-965 16-1/2" floor drill press.
Summary: 5 Stars
If you want a drill press. The lowest level you need to get is the 17-965. Otherwise get nothing.Customer Review: Oustanding home shop drill press.
Summary: 5 Stars
I ordered this particular drill press for the home shop after reading the other reviews. It is perfect. A lot of drill press for the money. Affordable power for the home shop. Packed very well, had it together in an hour. I put it together by myself, but a second person makes it very easy. I like the table, easy to clamp jigs and projects.