Issue with a PM Drill Press

[Bill Miltner]

The drill press in question is the Powermatic 1170. The problem is that the quill does not return to the fully retracted position. After full extention it slowly retracts about half way and then stops. If i lift up on the handle it will retract fully. It seems as though the spring does not have enough tension. Can I merely unbolt it and wind it up more or is that asking for problems? I've attached a pic of the spring assembly.

[Will Overton]

There is a bolt next to the spring with a lock nut on it. It's there to take up any slop in the quill. If not properly adjusted it can keep the quill from returning. I would try adjusting this before touching the spring.

[Kent A Bathurst]

See the very top of page six:

http://owwm.com/pubs/655/889.pdf