Rikon Power Tools 70-220VSR Operator's Manual
70-220VSR
12-1/2” x 20” MIDI VSR Lathe
Operator’s Manual
Record the serial number and date of purchase in your manual for future reference.
Serial Number: _________________________ Date of purchase: _________________________
For technical support or parts questions, email techsupport@rikontools.com or call toll free at (877)884-5167
70-220VSRM6
4001824
www.rikontools.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Specications.....................................................................................................................2
Safety Instructions ........................................................................................................3 - 6
Contents of Package .....................................................................................................7
Getting To Know Your Machine ..............................................................................................8
Installation ......................................................................................................................8
Assembly ................................................................................................................................... 8
Operation .................................................................................................................. 9 - 10
Adjustments............................................................................................................... 11 - 13
Maintenance .................................................................................................................... 14
Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................14 - 15
Parts Diagram & Parts List ..................................................................................... 16 - 20
Electricals & Wiring Diagram .....................................................................................5 & 21
Accessories ........................................................................................................................ 21
Notes ......................................................................................................................... 22
Warranty .......................................................................................................................... 23
SPECIFICATIONS
Motor ............................................................................................................. 1 HP
Motor Speed (no load).......................................................................... 2,900 RPM
Volts, Phase ........................................................................................ 120 V, 1 Ph
Amps, Hertz .......................................................................................... 6 A, 60 Hz
Swing Over Bed ......................................................................... 12-1/2” (318 mm)
Swing Over Tool Rest Base.......................................................... 9-5/8” (244 mm)
Distance Between Centers............................................................... 20” (508 mm)
Electronic Variable Speeds ........................................................ 250 - 3,850 RPM
Speed Ranges (3) .................................. 250-750 / 550-1,650 / 1,300-3,850 RPM
Spindle Rotation (2) ..................... Forward (C-Clockwise) & Reverse (Clockwise)
Spindle Nose Threading.......................................................................... 1” x 8 TPI
Headstock Taper ............................................................................................ MT-2
Tailstock Taper ............................................................................................... MT-2
Hole Through Drive Spindle .............................................................. 3/8” (10 mm)
Hole Through Tailstock ...................................................................... 3/8” (10 mm)
Tailstock Ram Travel ...................................................................... 3-1/2" (90 mm)
Number of Indexing Positions............................................................................. 24
Tool Rest Post Diameter ....................................................................1” (25.4 mm)
Headstock Rotation ........................................................................................ 180°
Overall Size (LxWxH)...................40-3/4” x 12" x 17-5/8" (1,035 x 305 x 449 mm)
Cast Base Size (LxW) ...................................... 36-3/4” x 7-5/8” (195 x 933.5 mm)
Net Weight .................................................................................. 115 lbs (52.2 kg)
NOTE: The specications, photographs, drawings and information in this manual represent the current model
when the manual was prepared. Changes and improvements may be made at any time, with no obligation on
the part of Rikon Power Tools, Inc. to modify previously delivered units. Reasonable care has been taken to
ensure that the information in this manual is correct, to provide you with the guidelines for the proper safety,
assembly and operation of this machine.
2
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT! Safety is the single most important consideration in the operation of this equipment. The following
instructions must be followed at all times. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock,
re, and/or serious personal injury.
There are certain applications for which this tool was designed. We strongly recommend that this tool not be modied
and/or used for any other application other than that for which it was designed. If you have any questions about its
application, do not use the tool until you have contacted us and we have advised you.
SAFETY SYMBOLS
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL: Indicates DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. This symbol may be used
in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury.
NOTICE: Shown without Safety Alert Symbol indicates a situation that may result in property damage.
GENERAL SAFETY
KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read the owner’s manual
carefully. Learn the tool’s applications, work capabilities,
and its specic potential hazards.
4. AVOID A DANGEROUS WORKING ENVIRONMENT.
DO NOT use electrical tools in a damp environment or
expose them to rain.
BEFORE USING YOUR MACHINE
To avoid serious injury and damage to the tool, read and
follow all of the Safety and Operating Instructions before
operating the machine.
1. Some dust created by using power tools contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Some examples of these chemicals are:
• Lead from lead-based paints.
• Crystalline silica from bricks, cement, and other
• masonry products.
• Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how
often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to
these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area and work
with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks
that are specially designed to lter out microscopic
particles.
2. READ the entire Owner’s Manual. LEARN how to use
the tool for its intended applications.
3. GROUND ALL TOOLS. If the tool is supplied with a 3
prong plug, it must be plugged into a 3-contact electrical
receptacle. The 3rd prong is used to ground the tool and
provide protection against accidental electric shock. DO
NOT remove the 3rd prong. See Grounding Instructions
on the following pages.
5. DO NOT use electrical tools in the presence of
ammable liquids or gasses.
6. ALWAYS keep the work area clean, well lit, and
organized. DO NOT work in an environment with oor
surfaces that are slippery from debris, grease, and wax.
7. KEEP VISITORS AND CHILDREN AWAY. DO NOT
permit people to be in the immediate work area,
especially when the electrical tool is operating.
8. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL to perform an operation
for which it was not designed. It will do a safer and
higher quality job by only performing operations for
which the tool was intended.
9. WEAR PROPER CLOTHING. DO NOT wear loose
clothing, gloves, neckties, or jewelry. These items can
get caught in the machine during operations and pull the
operator into the moving parts. The user must wear a
protective cover on their hair, if the hair is long, to
prevent it from contacting any moving parts.
10. CHILDPROOF THE WORKSHOP AREA by
removing switch keys, unplugging tools from the
electrical receptacles, and using padlocks.
11. ALWAYS UNPLUG THE TOOL FROM THE
ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE when making adjustments, changing parts or performing any maintenance.
3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
12. KEEP PROTECTIVE GUARDS IN PLACE AND IN
WORKING ORDER.
13. AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Make sure that
the power switch is in the “OFF” position before plugging
in the power cord to the electrical receptacle.
14. REMOVE ALL MAINTENANCE TOOLS from the
immediate area prior to turning “ON” the machine.
15. USE ONLY RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES. Use
of incorrect or improper accessories could cause serious
injury to the operator and cause damage to the tool. If in
doubt, check the instruction manual that comes with that
particular accessory.
16. NEVER LEAVE A RUNNING TOOL UNATTENDED.
Turn the power switch to the “OFF” position. DO NOT
leave the tool until it has come to a complete stop.
17. DO NOT STAND ON A TOOL. Serious injury could
result if the tool tips over, or you accidentally contact the
tool.
18. DO NOT store anything above or near the tool where
anyone might try to stand on the tool to reach it.
19. MAINTAIN YOUR BALANCE. DO NOT extend
yourself over the tool. Wear oil resistant rubber soled
shoes. Keep oor clear of debris, grease, and wax.
25. ALWAYS WEAR A DUST MASK TO PREVENT
INHALING DANGEROUS DUST OR AIRBORNE
PARTICLES, including wood dust, crystalline silica dust
and asbestos dust. Direct particles away from face and
body. Always operate tool in well ventilated area and
provide for proper dust removal. Use dust collection
system wherever possible. Exposure to the dust may
cause serious and permanent respiratory or other injury,
including silicosis (a serious lung disease), cancer, and
death. Avoid breathing the dust, and avoid prolonged
contact with dust. Allowing dust to get into your mouth
or eyes, or lay on your skin may promote absorption of
harmful material. Always use properly tting NIOSH/OSHA
approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust
exposure, and wash exposed areas with soap and water.
26. USE A PROPER EXTENSION CORD IN GOOD
CONDITION. When using an extension cord, be sure to
use one heavy enough to carry the current your product
will draw. The table on the following page shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate
amperage rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge.
The smaller the gauge number, the larger diameter of the
extension cord. If in doubt of the proper size of an extension cord, use a shorter and thicker cord. An undersized
cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in a loss of
power and overheating.
USE ONLY A 3-WIRE EXTENSION CORD THAT HAS
A 3-PRONG GROUNDING PLUG AND A 3-POLE
RECEPTACLE THAT ACCEPTS THE TOOL’S PLUG.
20. MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Always keep tools
clean and in good working order. Keep all blades and tool
bits sharp, dress grinding wheels and change other
abrasive accessories when worn.
21. EACH AND EVERY TIME, CHECK FOR DAMAGED
PARTS PRIOR TO USING THE TOOL. Carefully check
all guards to see that they operate properly, are not damaged, and perform their intended functions. Check for
alignment, binding or breaking of moving parts. A guard
or other part that is damaged should be immediately
repaired or replaced.
22. DO NOT OPERATE TOOL WHILE TIRED, OR
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS, MEDICATION
OR ALCOHOL.
23. SECURE ALL WORK. Use clamps or jigs to secure
the workpiece. This is safer than attempting to hold the
workpiece with your hands.
24. STAY ALERT, WATCH WHAT YOU ARE DOING,
AND USE COMMON SENSE WHEN OPERATING A
POWER TOOL.
A moment of inattention while operating power tools may
result in serious personal injury.
27. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION regarding the safe and
proper operation of this product is available from:
• Power Tool Institute
1300 Summer Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115-2851
www.powertoolinstitute.org
• National Safety Council
1121 Spring Lake Drive
Itasca, IL 60143-3201
www.nsc.org
• American National Standards Institute
25 West 43rd Street, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10036
www.ansi.org
• ANSI 01.1 Safety Requirements for
Woodworking Machines and the
U.S. Department of Labor regulations
www.osha.gov
28. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Refer to them
frequently and use them to instruct others.
4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
THIS TOOL MUST BE GROUNDED
WHILE IN USE TO PROTECT THE OPERATOR FROM
ELECTRIC SHOCK.
IN THE EVENT OF A MALFUNCTION OR BREAKDOWN,
grounding provides the path of least resistance for electric
current and reduces the risk of electric shock. This tool
is equipped with an electric cord that has an equipment
grounding conductor and requires a grounding plug (not
included). The plug MUST be plugged into a matching electrical receptacle that is properly installed and grounded in
accordance with ALL local codes and ordinances.
DO NOT MODIFY ANY PLUG. If it will not t the electrical
receptacle, have the proper electrical receptacle installed
by a qualied electrician.
IMPROPER ELECTRICAL CONNECTION of the
equipment grounding conductor can result in risk of
electric shock. The conductor with the green insulation
(with or without yellow stripes) is the equipment grounding conductor. DO NOT connect the equipment grounding
conductor to a live terminal if repair or replacement
of the electric cord or plug is necessary.
EXTENSION CORDS
THE USE OF AN EXTENSION CORD
WITH THIS MACHINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED. For
best power and safety, plug the machine directly into a
dedicated, grounded electrical outlet that is within the
supplied cord length of the machine.
If an extension cord needs to be used, it should only be
for a limited operation of the machine. The extension
cord should be as short as possible in length, and have
a minimum gauge size of 14AWG.
Check extension cords before each
use. If damaged replace immediately. Never use a tool
with a damaged cord, since touching the damaged
area could cause electrical shock, resulting in serious
injury.
Use a proper extension cord. Only use cords listed by
Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Other extension cords can
cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in a loss of power
and overheating of tool. When operating a power tool outdoors, use an outdoor extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”.
These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk
of electric shock.
CHECK with a qualied electrician or service personnel if
you do not completely understand the grounding
instructions, or if you are not sure the tool is properly
grounded when installing or replacing a plug.
USE ONLY A 3-WIRE EXTENSION CORD THAT HAS
THE PROPER TYPE OF A 3-PRONG GROUNDING PLUG
THAT MATCHES THE MACHINE’S 3-PRONG PLUG AND
ALSO THE 3-POLE RECEPTACLE THAT ACCEPTS THE
TOOL’S PLUG. *
REPLACE A DAMAGED OR WORN CORD
IMMEDIATELY.
This tool is intended for use on a circuit that has an
electrical receptacle as shown in FIGURE A. It shows a
3-wire electrical plug and electrical receptacle that has
a grounding conductor. If a properly grounded electrical
receptacle is not available, an adapter as shown in
FIGURE B can be used to temporarily
connect this plug to a 2-contact ungrounded
receptacle. The adapter has a rigid lug
extending from it that MUST be connected
to a permanent earth ground, such as a
properly grounded receptacle box.
THIS ADAPTER IS PROHIBITED IN
CANADA.
FIG. A
Keep the extension cord clear of
the working area. Position the cord so that it will not
get caught on lumber, tools or other obstructions while
you are working with your power tool.
* Canadian electrical codes require extension cords
to be certied SJT type or better.
** The use of an adapter in Canada is not acceptable.
FIG. B
5
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SPECIFIC SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR WOOD LATHES
This machine is intended for the shaping, smoothing and finishing of natural, solid woods. The permissible workpiece
dimensions must be observed (see Technical Specification). Any other use not as specified, including modification of the
machine or use of parts not tested and approved by the equipment manufacturer can cause unforeseen damage.
ATTENTION:
be aware that wood working machines are dangerous if not used with care and all safety precautions are adhered to.
1. Do not operate this machine until you have read all of the following instructions.
2. Do not attempt to operate this machine until it is completely assembled.
3. Do not turn ON this machine if any pieces are damaged or missing.
4. This machine must be properly grounded.
5. If you are not familiar with the operation of the machine, obtain assistance from a qualied person.
6. Always wear approved, safety protective eyewear and hearing protection when operating this machine.
7. Always wear a dust mask and use adequate dust collection and proper ventilation.
8. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry when operating this machine. Keep long hair tied back.
9. Always make sure the power switch is in the OFF position prior to plugging in the machine.
10. Always make sure the power switch is in the OFF position and the machine is unplugged when doing any cleaning,
assembly, setup operation, or when not in use.
11. Use only sharp lathe tools. Dull tools can damage your work and are unsafe to use.
12. When turning between centers, make sure the headstock and tailstock are snug against the workpiece.
13. When face plate turning, rough-cut the workpiece close to the finished shape before screwing it to the face plate.
14. Never jam tools into the workpiece or take too big of a cut.
15. Make sure there are no loose knots, nails, staples, dirt or foreign objects in the workpiece to be turned.
16. Wood should not be warped, cracked or have improperly made or cured glue joints.
17. Test spin the workpiece to ensure that it does not hit the lathe bed or tool rest before turning on the lathe.
18. Start the lathe at slow speeds to check the settings, then increase the speed to your desired level for working.
19. Low speeds are best for roughing stock, and for long or large diameter workpieces.
20. If excessive vibration occurs, stop the lathe to check the workpiece settings between centers or on face plates.
21. For sanding or applying finishes, remove the tool rest from the machine. Use low speeds to avoid heat build-up.
22. Do not engage the spindle lock when the lathe is turning, and be sure to disengage the spindle lock when done
working to avoid damage to the machine next time the lathe is turned on.
23. Never stop the machine by grabbing the workpiece, faceplate or hand wheel. Let the machine stop on its own.
24. The use of any accessories or attachments not recommended may cause injury to you and damage your machine.
25. Remove material or debris from the work area. Keep the oor and work area neat and clean.
26. Keep these instructions for future reference.
Use of this lathe still presents risks that cannot be eliminated by the manufacturer. Therefore, the user must
This owner’s manual is not a teaching aid and is intended to show
assembly, adjustments, and general use.
CALFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and
other construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm.Your risk from exposure to these chemicals varies, depending on how often you do this type
of work. To reduce your exposure, work in a well-ventilated area and with approved safety equipment, such as dust
masks that are specially designed to lter out microscopic particles.
For more detailed information about California Proposition 65, log onto rikontools.com.
6
CONTENTS OF PACKAGE
A. Lathe Bed Assembly - including;
B. Motor Assembly
C. Headstock Assembly
D. Tailstock Assembly
E. Electronic Controls
CONTENTS OF PACKAGE
C
*
D
**
NOTE: Lathe shown with Outboard Hand Wheel * on the
Headstock and Tailstock Hand Wheel ** installed.
Lathe is shown on the #70-920 Stand (sold separately)
B
LIST OF LOOSE PARTS
I
F
G
F. Tool Rest Base
G. Spur Center
H. Live Center
I. 8” Tool Rest
J. 3” Faceplate
K. Long Knockout Bar
L. Short Knockout Bar
H
M. Hex Wrenches (3, 4, 5 mm)
N. Spanner Wrenches (32, 46 mm)
O. Tool Holder, Screws & Washers (2)
P. Outboard Hand Wheel
Q. Tailstock Hand Wheel
R. Manual & Warranty Card
(not shown)
J
ADDITIONAL TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY & ADJUSTMENTS
K
L
M
O
A
E
N
P
Q
#2 Phillips Screwdriver Adjustable Wrench
Model 70-220VSR Wood Lathe is shipped complete in one box.
Unpacking and Clean-up
1. Carefully remove all contents from the shipping carton. Compare the contents with the list of contents to make sure
that all of the items are accounted for, before discarding any packing material. Place parts on a protected surface
for easy identication and assembly. If any parts are missing or broken, please call RIKON Customer Service (877-
884-5167) as soon as possible for replacements. DO NOT turn your machine ON if any of these items are missing.
You may cause injury to yourself or damage to the machine.
2. Report any shipping damage to your local distributor.
3. Clean all rust protected surfaces with ordinary household type grease or spot remover. Do not use ammables; gas-
oline, paint thinner, mineral spirits, etc. These may damage painted surfaces. Clean thoroughly under the headstock,
tailstock and tool rest body. Then coat with a light film of dry lubricant spray, or wax, to enhance passage of the tool
rest and tailstock on/over the bed. Refrain from using any water-based solvents as they will promote metal rusting.
4. Apply a coat of paste wax to any machined surfaces to prevent rust. Wipe all parts thoroughly with a clean dry cloth.
5. Set packing material and shipping carton aside. Do not discard the packing material until the machine has been set up
and is running properly, in case a return is necessary.
7
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR MACHINE
A. Motor, Mounting Plate & Locking Handle
B. Outboard Bed Cover Plate Door
C. Headstock
D. Spindle Lock Knob / Index Pin
E. Outboard Hand Wheel
F. Headstock Cover
G. Spindle with Spur Center
H. Tool Rest & Base Assembly
I. Tool Rest Locking Handle
J. Tool Rest Base Locking Lever
K. Live Center
L. Tailstock Assembly
M. Face Plate
N. Electronic Controls
- ON/OFF Switch
- Forward / Reverse Switch
- Speed Control Knob
- Digital Speed Readout
O. Lathe Bed
P. Power Cord
Q. Tailstock Locking Lever
R. Tailstock Hand Wheel
S. Tailstock Locking Handle
T. Tool Holder & Tools
** Midi Lathe shown on #70-920 Stand
D
E
B
C
M
F
G
H
K
L
R
I
J
M
N
A
R
K
G
E
Q
S
T
O
P
INSTALLATION
MOVING & INSTALLING THE LATHE
1. When moving the lathe, DO NOT use the headstock
assembly, motor, tool rest or tailstock as this may
damage the machine. Hold under the lathe’s bed to lift
and move the machine. Straps or battens placed under
the lathe bed can also be used to move the machine.
2. Position the machine on a solid stand, or bench, that
is located in an area that has ample space in front and in
back of the lathe for working and moving around the lathe.
3. For best power and safety, the lathe should be plugged
directly into a dedicated grounded electrical outlet that is
ASSEMBLY
The 70-220VSR Lathe requires only minor assembly to
become operational. See the photos above for reference.
1. Install the Outboard Hand Wheel on the Headstock.
Tighten it in place on the spindle with the two set screws.
2. Install the Tailstock Hand Wheel onto the tailstock
spindle. Secure with the set screw on the at spindle area.
within the supplied cord length of the machine. The use of
an extension cord is not recommended.
4. Align the machine so that during use, any turning debris
or kickback will not face aisles, doorways, or other work
areas that bystanders may be in. Do not locate or use the
machine in damp or wet conditions.
5. Once in place in your shop, make sure that the
machine is level. If possible, secure the machine, or stand
to the floor, or bench, with lag screws (not supplied). This
will reduce any possible vibration during use.
5. Install the 8” Tool Rest into the Tool Rest Base.
6. The Faceplate is shipped pre-installed on the headstock
spindle. If plate or bowl turning is to be done, then the use
of the faceplate is needed. To remove the faceplate, loosen
the two set screws in the rear hub of the faceplate, then
unscrew the faceplate from the spindle (counter-clockwise
rotation). Two wrenches are supplied for this.
3. Install the Tool Holder onto the back of the headstock
with the two Phillips head screws and washers provided.
4. Install the Tool Rest Base onto the lathe bed. The Tailstock will have to be removed to do this.
7. For spindle turning, remove the faceplate. Install the
Spur Center into the headstock spindle and Live Center into
the tailstock spindle. Both have #2 Morse Taper shanks.
8. Secure the lathe to a solid work surface or stand.
8
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