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Ritter Adjustments/Repairs

10/30/15       
Mitch Suber  Member

Website: subercustomshutters.com

I have a 13 spindle borer, which is a Ritter R-19F. We had it made so the spindles are on 2" centers, not the usual 32mm, for drilling wood shutter stiles. Lately it has not been dropping the head and bits to complete the drilling of all holes, to their desired depth. The drop speed is correct, and it will quickly drill the 1/4" holes down the first 3/8" of an inch, but then it just seems to hang there, and takes forever to finish the last 3/8" of the hole depth. It is a pneumatic machine, with a foot pedal, however pushing down on the head will help some. We have adequate air pressure, in volume to the machine, brand new bits with the proper rotation on all spindles. The adjustments allow for the proper drop down rate, and the correct return rate. When no material is being drilled, it cycles correctly, every time. All slides and glides are clean and well lubricated. It has the same problem with most species of wood, but is some better on softer woods. The only other thing is that sometimes after finally drilling the wood, the head hangs in the down position and will not return to the up position. Shutting off the air to the machine, and back on, causes it to return back up.

10/30/15       #2: Ritter Adjustments/Repairs ...
Bruce H

I'd clean the air valves. Most likely will have to take it apart. I am guessing one or more of them has gunk in it and won't let the air pass as it should.

10/30/15       #3: Ritter Adjustments/Repairs ...
Mitch Suber  Member

Website: subercustomshutters.com

Bruce, I considered that once when this happened one time before. I disconnected the air lines, but really did not know how to take them apart. I blew them out, oiled them well, but that was about it. It didn't change anything, so they may still be full of gunk. After 25 years, I imagine they are. I found where I can buy them, not too expensive, so I will go that route. I was concerned about making the drill inoperable if I took them apart, at least right now we can still get our work done, even if it is slow. Have you taken them apart before?

10/30/15       #4: Ritter Adjustments/Repairs ...
Bruce H

I haven't taken the exact ones you have apart but have mine, whatever they are. Getting parts is tough, usually replacing the valves is necessary. I have found some of them on-line. Took my Ayen valves apart last week, cleaned and oiled them, they seem to be working. Whatever Ritter used shouldn't be all that hard to find. I am guessing your machine can be made to go another twenty five years.

11/3/15       #5: Ritter Adjustments/Repairs ...
Mark B Member

May also try disconnecting the line to one side of the cylinder and seeing if you can hear air bypassing the internal seal on the piston. Or doing a bit of a pressure test. If the cylinder builds, and holds, pressure then Id agree the valves are suspect.

Checking the cylinder would be a simple test to rule out you dont need a new set of seals in the drop cylinder.

11/28/16       #6: Ritter Adjustments/Repairs ...
Sam Nichols

Website: http://rittermachinerycompany.com

Just a heads up in case you guys are looking for more Ritter parts. We acquired Ritter's IP and we are now building machines and providing replacement parts out of our Holland, MI location. Hit me up if you need anything.

http://rittermachinerycompany.com


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