The thrust collar in the assembled miller is located under the flange of the driving spindle (part No. 2) It’s only purpose is to locate the spindle so the driving pins (part 2-A) properly engage the teeth of the cutter (part 3) when the cutter size is changed, it is usually necessary to change the collar. Example – a large diameter cutter will require a thicker collar and a small diameter cutter will require a thinner collar.

To properly fit the collar, we suggest the following steps.
Install the new cutter in the miller body. Check and see if the old collar is riding high or low on the teeth of the new size cutter.

Remove the old collar and place the unfitted collar under the flange of the spindle. Slide this unit into the spindle hole. The pins will probably be riding high over the cutter teeth. In order to get the pins down to achieve a good fit between the pins and teeth it will be necessary to reduce thickness of the collar. Reduce thickness to the point where driving pins have a fairly deep pin bearing with back of cutter teeth for efficient drive. You may have to reduce thickness in varying stages until you arrive at the correct thickness.

Correct thickness is when there is a slight backlash, and yet have a good smooth drive without binding.

The collar is made of Ketos steel – to harden flame heat until cherry red and quench in oil.
When ordering a new body or spindle for a specific miller, it is sometimes necessary to fit a new collar even though you are not changing cutter size. The above installation instructions should also apply.

Place the drive spindle securely in a vise with a drive pin slot straight up. Place the angled end of the pin drift in the pin slot directly behind and against the pin. (As above) holding the pin drift firmly against the pin and using a soft hammer, strike the rounded end of the pin drift, which will drive the pin out of the spindle.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
It will be necessary to find the strike point that moves the pins most easily. When the correct strike point is found you will notice that you won’t have to strike as hard to move the pins. Use only a pin drift that fits the slot you are working on.

Safety Notice – ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SAFETY GLASSES

1. Always run a fluid coolant over entire tool while in operation.
2. Keep all moving parts well lubricated.
3. Never run tool in reverse.
4. Never attempt to run tool in a tight bore. It must have a sliding fit.
5. Always use proper safety precautions. Example – Safety Glasses
6. Never hold stop rod by hand.
7. Use appropriate feeds and speeds.
8. Remember to loosen set screw prior to loosening brass nuts.
9. Keep spindle lubricated at all times.
10. Create a bearing surface between the pilot of tool and your bore prior to rotating
      the spindle in operation.
11. It is imperative that your workholder is secure and the stop rod is stabilized before
      feeding the tool into your part. Make sure your set up is firm.
12. Do not over feed tool.

Maintenance Tips

1. Change driving pins as they become worn.
2. Replace worn and or damaged parts.
3. Use thrust collars fitted for the cutter being used.
4. After changing the pins, snug down the brass nut, then back it off until driving
    spindle turns freely. Tighten set screw.
5. Keep tool cool and free of chips.