Darex identification and questions...

[T.Hoffman]

Our shop was just given this Darex unit. They said it had been in storage for 10 or 11 years, and never used. From doing a bit of searching, it looks similar to some M-Series Darex units.

Anyone have one of these?
Looks like something is broken off and missing from the left side mount.

[Rosco-P]

What model #? Darex still has some parts and information available for older models. http://www.darex.com/index.php?optio...=104&Itemid=44

[bob308]

looks like an m5. it is all there has both chucks so it should do drills up to 3/4". it needs some cleaning up. but they do a great job.

[GadgetBuilder]

The left side looks like an M3, i.e. the sharpener section. Compare to the M3 I recently sold: http://www.gadgetbuilder.com/DarexM3.jpg

You'll need to replace the straps, they hold the collet chuck in place while sharpening.

The right side looks like a shop made point splitter, probably functions like the Darex original but looks different.

John

[T.Hoffman]

I downloaded the M-5 manual, and that includes the M-3 as well.

Assuming I get this thing all cleaned up and correctly operational, is this only for drill bits or can end mills be touched up too?

[PeteM]

It's for drill bits only, not end mills.

You can replace the broken straps with the nylon from larger size zip ties.

[lakeside53]

Yep M5. The right side is the a spilt point attachment; left for "non-spit"; the middlle (top) is to set the angles. Both standard chucks are theee - one is just in the top postion.

Keep your eyes pealed for the large drill chuck.

Take the chucks apart and place the parts in evaporust. I did this on another Darex machine - the results were perfect.

[loose nut]

You can replace the broken straps with the nylon from larger size zip ties.

A piece of 1/8" thick Teflon works better. These plastic straps break down after a number of years, replacing them is no biggy.

[Stepside]

An M5 will sharpen endmills if you have the attachments to do so. I have yet to try it out because I get free sharpening for my endmills.

It sure makes nice 135 degree splitpoint drills. I think they are better than brand new. Once you figure out the tricks you will like the machine.

[loose nut]

Does anyone know why Darex quite making the M3/M5 sharpeners, they are about the best small drill sharpener ever made.