RIDGID R86006 - Manual (Page 14)

4
OPERATION
DRILLING
See Figure 11.

Check the direction of rotation selector for the correct
setting (forward or reverse).
 Secure the material to be drilled in a vise or with clamps
to keep it from turning as the drill bit rotates.
 Hold the drill firmly and place the bit at the point to be
drilled.
 Depress the switch trigger to start the drill.
 Move the drill bit into the workpiece, applying only enough
pressure to keep the bit cutting. Do not force the drill or
apply side pressure to elongate a hole. Let the tool do
the work.
WARNING:
Be prepared for binding at bit breakthrough. When
these situations occur, drill has a tendency to grab
and kick opposite to the direction of rotation and
could cause loss of control when breaking through
material. If not prepared, this loss of control can
result in possible serious injury.
 When drilling hard, smooth surfaces, use a center punch
to mark the desired hole location. This will prevent the
drill bit from slipping off-center as the hole is started.
 When drilling metals, use a light oil on the drill bit to keep
it from overheating. The oil will prolong the life of the bit
and increase the drilling action.
 If the bit jams in the workpiece or if the drill stalls, stop
the tool immediately. Remove the bit from the workpiece
and determine the reason for jamming.
NOTE: This drill has an electric brake. When the switch
trigger is released, the chuck stops turning. When the brake
is functioning properly, sparks will be visible through the
vent slots on the housing. This is normal and is the action
of the brake.
WOOD DRILLING
For maximum performance, use high speed steel bits for
wood drilling.

Select drilling mode.
 Begin drilling at a very low speed to prevent the bit from
slipping off the starting point. Increase the speed as the
drill bit bites into the material.
 When drilling through holes, place a block of wood behind
the workpiece to prevent ragged or splintered edges on
the back side of the hole.
Fig.
METAL DRILLING
For maximum performance, use high speed steel bits for
metal or steel drilling.

Select normal drilling mode.
 Begin drilling at a very low speed to prevent the bit from
slipping off the starting point.
 Maintain a speed and pressure which allows cutting
without overheating the bit. Applying too much pressure
will:
• Overheat the drill;
• Wear the bearings;
• Bend or burn bits; and
• Produce off-center or irregular-shaped holes.

When drilling large holes in metal, start with a small bit,
then finish with a larger bit. Also, lubricate the bit with oil
to improve drilling action and increase bit life.