6 3
SHOULDERLESS KEYS
A unique feature of the Express is the built-in tip stops for
shoulderless keys. When cutting a key such as Ford, the long
side of the tip stop, affixed to the right side of the vise with
thumb screws, should be used as a gauge. Slide the key into
the vise until it touches the tip stop and tighten the vise. Use
normal cutting procedure as outlined above.
USING THE ROTATING VISE AND SHIMS
The Express features a rotating vise to accommodate a wide
variety of keys. The wide side of the vise (the side without the
dots) can be used to cut a key with cuts as deep as .200". If
cutting a key with depths less than .200", rotate the entire vise
(both top & bottom) around until it snaps into place. You can
cut keys with root depths as small as .120".
Most keys will be held without tipping by one side of the vise
or the other. In the rare case that a key tips in both sides of
the vise, use the brass shims provided with your machine. If
the key is tipping upwards, place the shim flat on the top of
the key & clamp it in the vise. If the key tips down, place the
shim underneath the key. Shims are made of brass and it is
expected that you will cut into them. This will not affect the
ability of the shims to hold the keys properly.
DEEP CUTS
The Express is adjusted so that the cutter and guide will not
touch the vises when in the cutting position. If an extremely
deep cut is found on a key, push the yoke forward while cut-
ting to reach the proper depth of cut.
ADJUSTMENTS
Every key machine will eventually need adjustment. Follow
the procedures below for spacing or depth adjustments.
SPACING
1. Unplug the machine.
2. Remove the cutter guard with the 1/8" Hex Key provided.
3. Loosen two 1/4- 28 cap screws located in the counter
bores to the rear of the casting.
CAUTION: Cutter damage may result if shoulder stop is not
lowered!
Turn on the machine with the switch, located on the top of the
guard. With the keys properly aligned, put a small amount of
down pressure on the yoke handle, and pull out on the pull
knob below. The yoke is spring-loaded and care should be
taken not to allow the carriage to spring forward. Gently allow
the carriage to rise until the guide is touching the original key
to the left of the first cut on the key (see figure 4).
The first pass of a key should always be from left to right, or
bow to tip. Grasp the lever handle and move the carriage
through all cuts on the key, stopping at the tip of the key.
Make a second pass from right to left, stopping after the first
cut is completed. Due to the thickness of some blanks, an
additional pass may be required, or a slower first pass.
This procedure should be followed to cut all keys. Please
read on for cutting information for shoulderless keys and
those with very deep cuts.
FIGURE 4
