Can you replace the chuck on a drill press?
Yes. On the Craftsman 113213722 8-inch bench model drill press, you can replace the chuck as long as the new chuck matches the arbor and taper style used by your spindle. The job is usually removing the old chuck from its taper, cleaning the mating surfaces, then seating the replacement chuck firmly.
Before you start (safety and setup)
- Unplug the drill press; never work around the spindle with power connected.
- Lower the quill and lock it (if your model has a quill lock) to keep the spindle from moving.
- Remove the bit and open the chuck jaws fully.
- Wear eye protection; a chuck can drop suddenly when it releases.
- Support the chuck with a block of wood or a folded towel to protect the table.
How chuck removal typically works
Most drill presses use a tapered arbor (often a Jacobs taper at the chuck and a Morse taper at the spindle). Removal is usually one of these methods:
- Drift key method: Insert a drift key (wedge) into the spindle slot and tap to pop the arbor loose.
- Wedge between chuck and arbor: Use chuck removal wedges sized for your chuck to separate it from the arbor.
- Arbor ejection by quill travel: Some designs eject the arbor when the quill is lowered fully (varies by model).
Installing the new chuck (best practices)
- Clean the spindle taper and arbor taper with solvent and a lint-free rag.
- Do not oil the tapers; oil can let the chuck slip.
- Seat the arbor into the spindle first, then press the chuck onto the arbor.
- Finish seating by pressing down firmly with the quill onto a wood block on the table (controlled pressure).
Quick fit check
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Chuck wobbles | Dirt or burrs on taper | Clean tapers; inspect for nicks |
| Chuck falls off under load | Wrong taper match or not seated | Verify taper type; reseat firmly |
| Runout increases | Bent arbor or worn chuck | Replace arbor and/or chuck |
Why it matters
A properly fitted chuck and arbor reduce runout, improve hole accuracy, and help prevent the chuck from loosening during drilling, especially in metal or when using larger bits.
For help finding the correct replacement chuck or arbor for model 113213722, use the model-based search on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the parts of the drill press?
On the Craftsman 113213722 8" bench model drill press, the main parts are the base, column, table assembly, head (motor and pulleys), and the quill and spindle that move the drill bit. These assemblies work together to support the workpiece, position the bit, and control drilling depth.
Main drill press parts (what each one does)
- Base: Supports the drill press and provides a stable mounting surface.
- Column: Vertical post that supports the head and guides the table up and down.
- Table and table clamp: Holds the workpiece; the clamp locks table height and rotation.
- Head: Houses the motor and drive system (typically pulleys and a belt) and supports the spindle.
- Quill and spindle: The quill moves up and down; the spindle holds the chuck/arbor and rotates the bit.
- Feed handle and return spring: Lowers the quill for drilling and returns it to the up position.
- On/off switch and power cord: Controls power to the motor.
Quick reference: part vs. purpose
| Part | Primary purpose | Common symptom when worn/loose |
|---|---|---|
| Table clamp | Locks table position | Table slips or rotates during drilling |
| Quill/spindle | Provides controlled vertical travel and rotation | Bit wobbles, runout, rough holes |
| Belt/pulleys (in head) | Transfers motor power to spindle | Squealing, slipping, low torque |
| Base/column | Keeps alignment and stability | Vibration, holes not square |
How to identify what you need before ordering
- Confirm the model number is 113213722 on the ID plate.
- Note whether the issue is alignment, holding, or drive/rotation.
- Check for loose fasteners at the table clamp, head-to-column, and base mounting points.
- Spin the spindle by hand (unplugged) to feel for roughness or side-to-side play.
- If you’re troubleshooting wiring or a switch, test safely with a meter.
For help with safe electrical testing steps, use how to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video.
Why it matters
Knowing the major assemblies helps you diagnose the real cause of problems like wobble, vibration, slipping speeds, or a table that will not stay square; that prevents replacing the wrong parts and improves drilling accuracy.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Craftsman drill press?
On the Craftsman drill press model 113213722, the model and serial number are found on the rear of the head (the upper housing near the motor and belt cover). Record the full model number before you look up diagrams or order replacement parts.
Where to look first (model 113213722)
Start at the back of the drill press head, then check nearby surfaces if it is dirty or partially covered.
- Rear of the head housing (primary location)
- Side of the head near the motor mount or belt cover
- Near the power switch box on the head
- Along the column close to where the head clamps
- On the base casting (less common on this model)
What to write down from the plate
Capture the key identifiers exactly as shown.
| Item to record | What it looks like | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 113213722 | Matches the correct parts list and diagrams |
| Serial number | Letters and numbers | Helps identify production run details |
| Brand | Craftsman | Confirms the product line |
If the plate is missing or unreadable
Use these steps to locate the information or confirm you are searching correctly.
- Wipe the rear of the head with a rag; use a flashlight at an angle to read faint printing
- Look for two small holes or a rectangular “shadow” where a tag or decal used to be
- Check for a stamped number on the head casting near the tag location
- Use the model number 113213722 when searching on Sears PartsDirect
Why it matters
Craftsman drill presses can look similar, but parts such as switches, belts, pulleys, and quill components vary by model. Using 113213722 keeps you aligned with the correct diagrams and compatible parts.
Last updated: February 2026





