Thread: Siezed Archer hand piece

I have a cheaper model 1/4 hp carver that came with a similar chuck style headpiece. Its been fine, and prefer them to the foredom collet head style. I think the weight of the chuck at the end can be an issue - I can see how it may disrupt bearings at constant high rpm, especially given the uneven connection on these quick release key joins. You're not supposed to oil these things, but a thin lubricant, like lanox may help release a buildup of grime in the bearings (by the look of the key there is grime), then use compressed air - unless compressed air can do it by itself - perhaps through the front while its going; open it up without anything in it. Blow as much out of the lubricant you put in as you can, as it will only serve to collect grime again. I doubt anyone could service it without it being very expensive - you'd just be recommended to get a new one.

I just had a quick look at mine and it does undo quite easily to get at the bearings. On mine (non-archer) it unscrews just about below where the archer logo is on your pic. Inside is a nut that holds the bearings in. I haven't tried. but I'd assume you'd gently tap the chuck down to get the everything out of the casing. I'll give it a go soon as its looking grimy (like metal from where the key has worn along with oil from the cable). I needed to put it in a vice with as little pressure as possible to un twist it with some multigrips. The bearing themselves are probably good - just need a clean.

Hi Movay,

Thanks for that. I did notice the seam where you discribed it and tried to open it in much the same way as you did, but I couldn't budge it. I was hesitant to try any harder for fear of doing it more damage.

In the end I did get a replacement because I just couldn't afford to be without it. Commissions were piling up. However if I can repair this one I'll have it as a spare should the same thing happen to the new one. Not quite so worried about damaging it now, under the circumstances. Now that I know it CAN be opened, I'll have another go.

Thanks again

Improvise a ring type clamp, like used for removing oil filters, or wrap thick leather or somethjing around it. I haven't got back to mine too busy with a new job and with the 7 blackbean slabs I picked up at auction for 10 bucks!

I was in Aldi today and dang if they didn't have a two set pack of ring clamps for under seven $