Ironwood BR23 User manual

Ironwood BR23
User Manual
general information. features.
operation and adjustments.
controls. operation. applications.
maintenance. cleaning.
troubleshooting. safety. connect to power.
delivery and installation. inspection.
pre-operation cleaning. assembly.
ream extension fence and stops. drill bits.
technical specifications. safety considerations.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual2
1.0 General Information…............................................................... 3
1.1 Thank you
1.2 Before Contacting Stiles
1.3 Features
1.4 Intended Use
1.5 Technical Specications
1.6 Safety Considerations
2.0 Facility Requirements… ............................................................. 6
2.1 Floor
2.2 Work Space
2.3 Power
2.4 Compressed Air
3.0 Delivery and Installation … ........................................................... 7
3.1 Receiving Your Machine
3.2 Unpack the Machine
3.3 Inspection
3.4 Move Machine to Final Position
3.5 Remove Machine from Pallet
3.6 Level
3.7 Pre-Operation Cleaning
4.0 Assembly… ..................................................................... 10
4.1 Ream Extension Fence and Stops
4.2 Left- and Right-Side Fences
4.3 45º Fence
4.4 The Mirror-Image Device
4.5 Drill Bits
5.0 Connect to Power…............................................................... 12
5.1 Power Connection
5.2 Air Supply Connection
6.0 Safety.......................................................................... 13
7.0 Operation and Adjustments… ....................................................... 14
7.1 Controls
7.2 Operation
7.3 Applications
8.0 Maintenance… ................................................................... 19
8.1 Lubrication
8.2 Cleaning
8.3 Inspection
9.0 Troubleshooting .................................................................. 20
9.1 Air Circuit Diagram
9.2 Electrical Diagram
Table of Contents
PLEASE REVIEW AND OBSERVE ALL SAFETY
INFORMATION / DIRECTIVES BEFORE INSTALLING,
OPERATING, OR PERFORMING MAINTENANCE ON
THIS MACHINERY.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 3
1.0 General Information
1.1 Thank You!
Thank you for your purchase of the Ironwood BR23 construction
boring machine. At Stiles Machinery, our goal is to ensure that you
are fully satised with your purchase. This manual is provided so
that you may properly assemble, operate, and maintain your BR23.
Should you need help, our team of dedicated service personnel are
available to answer your questions and provide any resource reco
mmendations you may need.
Warranty and Support
All Ironwood machines are designed to meet the exacting standards
demanded by craftsmen like you. Ironwood machines include a
one (1) year parts warranty and two (2) years of free 24/7 technical
support beginning at date of shipment. Standard technical support
remains in effect for free for the lifetime of the machine thereafter.
Warranty service work is not covered by manufacturer’s warranty.
Stiles’ service team is available for an additional charge.
1.2 Before Contacting Stiles
Please have your machine model and serial number available when
contacting Stiles Machinery with questions. The machine’s model
and serial number are listed on the metallic plate located on the
machine’s frame.
Information regarding the electrical system and pneumatic supply
are also listed on the metallic plate.
Machine information plate
Stiles Technical Support
616.698.6615
Stiles Parts
800.PARTS.80 (800.727.8780)
Website
www.stilesmachinery.com/ironwood/br-23
Machine Model ____________________________________________
Machine Serial Number _____________________________________
1.3 Features
• Three Quick Release pneumatic clamps rmly secure workpieces
while boring and prevent operator injury
• Clamp heads have a rubber coating to prevent workpiece
damage
• Machine controls are conveniently positioned
• Digital readouts enable precise and consistent boring-unit
positioning
• Pneumatic tilting controls and tilt-lock allow quick and accurate
boring-unit settings from 0-90º
• 23-spindle single-head boring unit
• Easily removable side-prole fences allow quick changeover from
doweling for casegoods to System 32 line boring
• 3-meter extension fence enables boring of large workpieces.
• Boring feed speed adjustment allows clean boring operations
and superior boring quality
1.4 Intended Use
The Ironwood BR23 is designed for closet, casegood, and cabinet
making. The machine is ergonomically designed for applications
that require boring a long, straight row of up to 23 holes in a single
stroke. Drill bits rise from beneath the workpiece for fast, clean, safe,
boring.
The BR23 allows System 32 line boring, with hole spacing of 32mm
to facilitate the easy installation of dowels, brackets, hinges, cam
ttings, shelf support, connecting screws, etc. The boring head
carriage can be adjusted to a 90°, 45°, or 0-degree position. Holes
can be bored in the faces or edges of the workpiece.
This robust boring machine allows quick set-up times, digital
read-outs for improved accuracy, and a conveniently large working
surface for applications.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual4
d
Quick Release Clamps
23-spindle boring head
Side prole fences
Conveniently located
machine controls
45° miter fence
Pneumatic tilting controls
1.5 Technical Specifications
Description Ironwood BR23
Spindles on boring head 23
Center distance between spindles 32mm
Number of pneumatic clamps 3
Working space requirement w/o extension fence 41" x 59½" x 53" (1040mm x 1510mm x 1350mm)
Dimensions of working table 215 / 8" x 37½" (550mm x 950mm)
Working width 27¾" (704mm)
Max. boring depth 4" (100mm)
Adjustable boring stroke 2"-4" (50mm-100mm)
Quick chuck 23 pcs
Motor power 3 hp
Spindle speed 3450 rpm
Air Requirement 90-100 PSI
Air Consumption 1 cfm / cycle
Gross weight 836 lbs (380 kg)
Electrical 230v, single phase
Amps 22 amps
r

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 5
1.6 Safety Considerations
For your safety, read these instructions thoroughly before you install
and operate this machine. Always have these instructions available
at the machine for reference.
Observe all codes and regulations that apply to the installation and
operation of this machine.
Keep visitors at a safe distance from the work space.
Keep children away from this and all machines. Childproof your work
area!
Familiarize yourself with the safety notices used in this manual.
CAUTION
If cautions are ignored, personal injury and/or machine damage
may result.
WARNING
If warnings are ignored, serious injury or death may result.
Warning Labels
This machine has warning labels attached to ensure safe operation.
These warning labels are very important and should be kept clean
and never be removed. If warning labels become damaged or lost,
contact Stiles Machinery immediately for replacements.
Label 1 Safety rules
Label 2 Air pressure warning
Label 3 Risk of electrical shock
LABEL NO. 1
LABEL NO. 2 LABEL NO. 3
WARNING
Never use the BR23 for purposes other than its intended use. Do
not modify or remove any guards or other safety features. Improper
use or modications may affect your warranty or result in serious
injury or death.
Training
This machine is intended for use by authorized, well-trained
operators only.
Do not operate this machine until you have a complete working
knowledge of the machine and have been properly trained for its
safe operation, correct adjustment, and use. All operators should
thoroughly read and understand this manual and the workings of
this machine prior to operation.
It is essential that all operators be aware of the following:
• The dangers associated with the operation of this machine
• The use of personal protective equipment for ear and eye
protection
• The proper positioning the operator and operator’s hands relative
to the drill bits and pneumatic clamps
• The principles of machine operation, and proper use and
adjustment of the fence and safety features
• The correct selection of tooling for each operation
• The safe handling of the workpiece when boring
• The safe stacking of the workpiece before and after boring

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual6
2.0 Facility Preparation
Prior to uncrating your machine conrm that your location can
accommodate the Ironwood BR23. Follow these guidelines:
2.1 Floor
• The oor must be at and level.
• Although no special foundations are required, a concrete oor is
recommended.
• All oors must have a load-bearing strength suitable for the
machine weight of approximately 830 lbs (380 kg).
• The machine need not be anchored to the oor. However, if you
decide to do so, purchase high quality anchor bolts appropriate
to the oor construction and material.
2.2 Work Space
• Provide adequate workspace surrounding the machine.
• Provide proper non-glare, overhead lighting.
• Avoid exposing to any environment where vibration is present.
• Avoid exposing to direct sunlight or heat.
3'-0"
(900 mm)
3'-0"
(900 mm)
3'*
3'*
Machine clearance requirements*
*Actual clearance requirements on the sides depend upon the length
of the workpiece to the machine.
2.3 Power
WARNING
A licensed electrician must connect the BR23 to the building power
source.
• Do not use extension cords.
• Be sure that the electrical current of the power source is of the
same characteristics as the 230-volt electrical system supplied
with your machine. If other machine voltage capabilities are
required, contact Stiles Machinery.
• Provide access to a suitable power source.
BR23
Motor 3 hp
Motor Power 230v (single phase)
Amperage 22 amps
• Ensure the machine is protected with an external over-current
protective device per your local electrical codes.
• Electrical equipment operating conditions:
Air temperatures between +41ºF (+5ºC) and +113ºF (+45ºC).
Relative humidity not to exceed 50% at a maximum temperature
of +113ºF (+45ºC).
• Electrical equipment is designed and protected to withstand the
effects of transportation and storage temperatures within a range
of -13ºF (-25ºC) to +131ºF (+55ºC), and for short periods of time
not exceeding 24 hours at up to +158ºF (+70ºC).
• Ensure connection to factory ground system is wired correctly
(IAW local electrical codes and NEC) and not connected to any
electromagnetic interference source such as welders.
2.4 Compressed Air
This machine requires compressed air between 90-100 psi to
operate.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 7
3.0 Delivery and Installation
3.1 Receiving Your Machine
You will be contacted to arrange delivery. Your machine will be
delivered by truck to your location. If there is no loading dock,
be sure that you have informed the carrier in advance so that
they deliver using a truck with a lift gate to lower the machine to
ground level.
Before accepting the machine and signing the bill of lading from the
carrier, please inspect crating and machine condition, note potential
damage on the bill of lading, take pictures of potential damage, and
contact Stiles Machinery immediately at 616.698.7500 and ask to
speak with the trafc department.
The machine will arrive fully crated and secured to a pallet. Use a
hand truck or fork lift to move the machine on its pallet as close to
its nal position as possible.
If you do not intend to install the machine immediately after delivery,
store it in a protected, cool, and dry location.
The machine arrives fully crated.
Remove and save the paperwor
k
attached to the outside.
3.2 Unpack the Machine
TOOLS REQUIRED:
• Hammer
• Crowbar
Unpack as follows:
Do not remove the machine from the pallet.
1. Remove and save all paperwork attached to the outside of
the crate.
2. Remove the crating, starting with the top, then remove the four
sides. Use caution to avoid personal injury and prevent damage
to the machine’s nish.
3. Remove the protective plastic from the machine, starting at
the bottom.
Do not remove the machine from
the pallet while uncrating.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual8
4. Remove the front access cover by removing the four Allen
head screws
5. Remove hardware, accessories, or tool kit that may be shipped
inside the machine. If additional accessories are ordered, they
may be delivered separately.
6. Close and bolt the front access cover.
Remove any parts
that may be stored
inside the machine.
3.3 Inspection
Save all containers and packing materials until you are satised
that your machine has arrived in good condition. If you discover the
machine is damaged after you’ve signed for delivery, immediately
call Stiles Customer Service at 616.698.7500.
When you are completely satised with the condition of your
equipment, you should inventory its parts.
Open and check the contents of all containers to ensure all tools,
hardware, and accessories are included. The tool kit should contain
the following items:
1. Allen wrench set
2. Open-end wrench set (6-pieces: 8x10/10x12/12x14/14x17/
17x19/22x24)
3. Grease gun
4. 3m ruler with hex screw
5. Cranking handle
6. Paint (3-color set)
7. User manual
3.4 Move Machine to Final Position
Be sure the site is properly prepared. Refer to section 2.0 for details.
Be sure the front access cover is closed and bolted before
transporting.
TOOLS REQUIRED:
• Hand truck or fork lift
Use a hand truck or fork lift to move the machine on its pallet to its
nal location. If using a fork lift, insert the forks as close as possible
to the supports. Make sure fork travel is clear of any obstacles or
wiring.
Use a fork lift or hand truck
to move the machine.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 9
3.5 Remove Machine from Pallet
CAUTION
The BR23 weighs approximately 830 pounds. For this procedure,
we recommend using four people or a forklift.
TOOLS REQUIRED:
• Adjustable wrench
When the machine has been placed at its nal location, carefully
remove the machine from the pallet.
The machine is
bolted to the pallet
for transport.
1. From inside the cabinet, remove the bolts that secure the
machine to the pallet at the interior corners.
2. Lift the machine from the pallet by one of 2 methods:
a. Team lift
b. Slide machine onto forks of fork lift
3. Carefully slide the machine into nal position.
3.6 Level
TOOLS REQUIRED:
• Bubble Level
• Adjustable wrench
Use a bubble level along the length and width of the tabletop surface
to check for level. Use an adjustable wrench to adjust leveling bolts
to level the machine.
Be sure to level
the machine.
3.7 Pre-Operation Cleaning
WARNING
Use proper cleaning agents and methods described below. Do not
use gasoline or other petroleum-based solvents. There is a risk of
explosion and burning if these products are used. Serious personal
injury may occur.
Machine Surfaces
After the machine is unpacked, remove the rust preventative oil that
coats the machine. Use a soft cloth and nonammable degreasing
agent, such as Simple Green or other orange/citrus-based cleaner.
Do not use abrasive pads.
Boring Block Quick Chucks
Special care should be taken when cleaning boring block quick
chucks. Completely remove all the grease and dust using a
degreasing agent as mentioned above.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual10
4.0 Assembly
To be assembled:
• Rear extension fence and stops
• Left and Right side fences
• 45º fence
• Drill bits
4.1 Rear Extension Fence and Stops
PARTS REQUIRED:
• 3 fence sections
• 2 connection rods
• 4 connection bars
• 4 ip stops
• 1 measurement tape
Rear extension fence and stops
45° Fence assembly
Left and
right side
fences
The rear aluminum fence is assembled using three sections: one
49 ¼" (1250mm) section between two 34 ½" (875mm) fence
extensions attached to the left and right of the center section. The
aluminum fence has one beveled corner. The beveled corner is the
mounting slot for the ruler and should be positioned forward for easy
viewing.
To assemble:
1. Insert a connection rod halfway into the center hole at each end
of the center back fence.
2. Insert a connection bar into the T-slot at each end of the
center back fence; leave approximately half the connection bar
exposed.
3. Tighten two set screws through the center back fence onto
each connection bar.
4. Attach the two side fences to the connection rod at each end of
the center back fence.
5. Tighten the connection bar set screws.
6. Loosen the locking handle on the ip stops.
7. Insert ip stops into the t-slot on the aluminum prole of the
back fence.
8. Slide the ip stops to the desired positions on the fence.
9. Tighten the locking handles.
NOTE: A 3-meter measurement tape is included in the tool kit. The
measurement tape can be mounted on the assembled back fence
to provide accurate ip stop measurements over the entire length of
the back fence.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 11
4.2 Left- and Right-Side Fences
PARTS REQUIRED:
• 2 side fence sections
• 2 side fence housings (1 left, 1 right)
Right- and left-side fences are easily added or removed to
accommodate various applications.
To assemble:
1. Slide the side fence housing onto steel guide rail mounted on
the front of the machine table.
2. Slide the side fence onto alignment blocks on the side fence
housing.
3. Lock the side fence to secure it to the fence housing.
4. Move the side fence to desired position.
5. Lock in place.
Repeat steps for the opposite side fence.
45° Fence assembly
Left and
right side
fences
Side fence housing
4.3 45º fence
PARTS REQUIRED:
• 1 45º fence assembly
The 45º fence assembly is easily added or removed to
accommodate 45º parts.
To assemble:
1. Remove the side fences.
2. Slide the 45º fence into position.
3. Lock the 45º fence in place.
4.4 The Mirror-Image Device
1. Calibrate the zero point of rule (A) to the middle of the mirror-
image device (B).
2. Turn the device (B) left/right side to adjust the length user
needs. (Either left or right side rst is ok.)
3. Move the Fene LH (C) to touch the top of device (B) to get the
correct distance.
4. Lock the lever (D) to x the correct distance.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 to adjust the length of another side.
Zero-point adjustment - The zero-point has been set by factory
before shipment. Please do not adjust the zero-point (screw A), if not
necessary.
Loosen the screw (A) with 1-2 turns. Loosen the screw (B) with 1-2
turns and adjust mirror-imaging advice to zero-point. Tighten screws
(A) and (B) when the desired zero-point is obtained.
4.5 Drill Bits
PARTS REQUIRED: TOOLS REQUIRED:
• Drill bit quick chucks (supplied) • Hex Allen wrench
• Drill bits (not supplied)
1. Determine which drill bit locations will be used to accommodate
the application.
NOTE: Each spindle is colored red or black based on rotation
direction (left or right). Please observe the rotation direction when
selecting tooling for each spindle.
2. Carefully insert a drill bit quick chuck into the spindle in the
desired positions. Make sure the pin inside the quick chuck is
engaged with the notch on the spindle.
3. Install drill bits into the other quick chucks in the same manner.
4. Tighten the two set screws with an Allen wrench.
5. Make sure the bits are aligned and all at the same height.
Remove and reinstall any out-of-alignment drill bits so that all
are aligned.
Remove Drill Bits
To remove a drill bit quick chuck (with drill bit) from the spindle,
slightly turn the quick chuck to the left and pull up.
Hex Allen wrench
Drill bit
Drill bit quick chuck

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual12
5.0 Connect to Power and Air
5.1 Power Connection
• Voltage – Steady state voltage +/- 10% of nominal voltage.
• Machine needs steady voltage at all times.
WARNING
Before connecting power to the machine, make sure all screws and
fasteners are tightened and all mechanical functions work freely.
WARNING
A licensed electrician must complete all connections to electrical
power.
Before connecting to a power source, conrm that the electrical
current of the power source is the same as the electrical system
supplied with your machine. Ensure the machine is protected with
an external over current protective device per your local regulating
authorities.
Machine must be properly grounded to prevent electric shock.
Never connect the yellow/green wire to a live terminal.
Once connected to power source, terminals are electried even
while the power switch is off.
L2
23
L1 PE
PE
L1
1
L2
Proper wiring inside
the terminal strip box
To connect source power to the machine:
1. Remove two screws and remove terminal box cover.
2. Remove clear plastic insulator that covers the terminals.
3. Insert source power cables through opening of terminal box.
4. Connect the two power cables to terminals L1 and L2, and the
yellow/green ground wire to ground terminal.
5. Replace the clear plastic insulator and the power box cover.
WARNING
Always shut off power at source before removing terminal box cover.
Failure to comply with this action may result in electric shock.
CAUTION
We have covered some basic
electrical requirements for the safe
installation of your machine. These
requirements may not cover all
installation requirements. You must
conrm that your particular electrical
conguration complies with all
local codes. Ensure compliance by
checking with your local municipality
and a licensed electrician.
5.2 Air Supply Connection
Boring carriage adjustment and
Quick-Release clamp operation are
pneumatically controlled using the
foot pedal.
A ¼" N.P.T. inlet is supplied with the machine’s air tter/regulator to
connect the machine to the air supply.
The air pressure regulator should be set to 90-100 psi.
Pr
essure
guage
Regulating knob
To adjust the pressure:
1. Pull up on the outer ring of the regulating knob.
2. Turn the regulating knob counterclockwise to let air exhaust to a
pressure level below the desired setting.
3. Turn the knob clockwise to slowly increase the pressure to the
desired setting.
Remove
terminal
box cover

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 13
6.0 Safety
WARNING
Like all power equipment, there is danger associated with the
Ironwood BR23. Use caution and follow all safety instructions.
Take every precaution to protect yourself, others around you, and
the machine itself from improper use. Safety is a combination of
common sense, training, and being alert at all times while operating
your machine. If instructions, warnings, and cautions are not
followed, serious personal injury or death may occur.
EYE PROTECTION: Always wear approved safety glasses or a face
shield when operating this machine. Only use eye protection that
meets or exceeds the standards of the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI).
EAR PROTECTION: Always wear ear protection during machine
operation.
DRESS CODE: Do not wear loose clothing, neckties, jewelry, or
gloves that can get caught in moving parts. Conne long hair and
keep sleeves above the elbow.
ELECTRICAL GROUNDING: Your machine must be electrically
grounded. If a cord and plug are used, make certain the machine is
properly grounded. Follow the grounding procedure indicated by the
National Electric Code and local regulating authorities.
GUARDS: Make certain that machine guards are in place and in
good working order. The machine should never be operated without
the safety guards in place.
TOOLING AND ACCESSORIES: Use only recommended tooling
and accessories. Improper tooling and accessories may cause
personal injury or damage to your machine. Regularly maintain
your tools and accessories. Follow instructions for lubricating and
changing tooling and accessories.
POWER: Make sure the starter is in the OFF position before
connecting power to the machine.
Make certain the machine is either unplugged or electrically
disconnected and locked out when performing all maintenance,
cleaning, or machine adjustments. Never leave the machine running
unattended. Always turn the power off and stay by the machine until
the drill spindles completely stop rotating.
HOUSEKEEPING: Before turning the machine on, remove all extra
items on or around the machine. Keep the work area clean and free
of scrap material, sawdust, and other debris to minimize the danger
of slipping. Use compressed air or a brush to remove chips or
debris. NEVER use your hands.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual14
7.0 Operation and Adjustments
7.1 Controls
A
B
D
E
C
The controls on the front of the machine provide the following
functions:
A. Start: Push to start drill rotation.
B. Stop: Push to stop drill rotation.
C. Mode Selector Switch
• Position 1 (hand symbol): Manual mode. The boring head
carriage will move pneumatically into the desired position
without spindle rotation. This position can be used to raise
and lower boring head to easily change tooling.
• Position 2 (circular arrows): Automatic mode. The foot pedal
activates the pneumatic movement of both the boring head
carriage and the work hold-down clamp; the drill spindles
will run automatically when the boring head carriage moves
up/forward and stop when it is in a lowered/back position.
D. Handle Lever Valve: Adjusts the angle of the boring head
carriage between 90 and 0 degrees.
E. Feed Rate Control Knob: Sets speed at which boring head drills
into workpiece
Right side of the machine:
A. Emergency Stop
B. Air Supply Connection:
Compressed air
connection point.
C. Main On/Off Switch:
Turns main power
on and off.
D. Foot Pedal
Control: Starts
the drilling
cycle when
depressed.
Left side of the machine:
A. Lock mechanism:
Locks the tilt carriage
in place so it cannot be
moved when operating.
B. 45º stop: Enables quick
tilt setup at 45º.
Foot Pedal
The foot pedal activates the
pneumatic movement of
both the workpiece hold-
down clamps and the boring
head carriage.
7.2 Operation
WARNING
Always keep the boring head carriage in the LOCK position, except
when making an adjustment.
Step 1: Activate air supply to machine
WARNING
When air pressure is rst applied to the machine, the boring head
carriage may move. Do not stand behind the machine.
NOTE: The air supply must be on to make certain adjustments and
enable movement of the workpiece hold-down clamps and boring
carriage.
Step 2: Turn on power to machine
Step 3: Ensure air pressure is correct
Step 4: Set boring depth using the revolving turret with stops
A
C
B
D
A
B

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 15
Boring depth can be adjusted using the revolving drum (B). It has
six turret stops for quick adjustment to your most commonly used
boring depths.
1. Before adjusting the revolving turret, make sure that the boring
head is completely lowered.
2. Rotate the turret to the necessary stop for the desired depth.
A
B
C
D
Step 5: Set boring position
Use the digital readout to position the drilling head to the desired
drilling distance from the edge of the workpiece. Turn the crank
handle to adjust position. The position is displayed in millimeters (mm)
on the digital readout in the handle assembly.
To adjust:
1. Loosen the lock knob (A).
2. Turn the crank lever (C) to change position of the boring head,
observing the position on digital readout (D).
3. Once positioned as desired, tighten the lock lever (A).
Step 6: Set angle of boring head
B
C
A
D
The scale (D) on the left side of the machine indicates the working
angle (0-90°) of the drilling head.
To change tilt position:
1. Loosen the lock lever (A) located on the left side of the machine.
2. Turn lever (B) on the front of machine to tilt the drilling head.
a. To position the carriage for horizontal boring, turn the lever
to the left.
b. To position the carriage for vertical boring, turn the lever to
the right.
3. Tighten the lock lever (A).
45° position
1. Adjust the boring head carriage to the horizontal position
(0 degrees).
2. Push in the knob (C) located to the right of the lock lever.
3. Turn the lever to the right. The boring head carriage will lower to
the 45° position.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual16
Step 7: Position the workpiece hold-down clamps
Hold-down
clamp
Hold-down
assembl
y
Assembly
lock lever
Hold-down
lock lever
Position the hold-down clamps according to the dimensions of your
workpiece to securely hold it in place while boring.
To accommodate workpiece thickness:
1. Place the workpiece on the table under the hold-down clamps.
2. Lower the hold-down clamps to within an inch of the surface of
the workpiece.
3. Lock the hold-down clamps in place.
To accommodate workpiece width:
1. Loosen the lock lever for each hold-down to be adjusted.
2. Move the hold-down(s) right or left to the optimal position to
secure your workpiece.
3. Tighten the lock levers.
NOTE: A minimum of two workpiece hold-down clamps should
always be used when possible.
To reposition the hold-down assembly:
1. Loosen the lock levers at each end of the assembly.
2. Move the assembly forward or back as needed.
3. Tighten the lock levers.
Adj Valve for Hold-Down: Normal pressure 3.5-4 kgs/cm2 is to
reduce exhaust through the pressure plate and avoid O-ring cracked
and licking the pressure. But if user takes hard drilling*, then the
work piece would be removed easily. In this situation, please
adjust the pressure to 5-6 kgs/cm2 to make machine have enough
pressure to clamp the work piece.
*Hard drilling: Hard material work piece, thick work piece, drilling
many holes at a time, etc.
Step 8: Position ip stops
Position the four ip stops on the fence according to the dimensions
of your workpiece and the desired boring points. The stops can
be moved to any point along the fence. The fence has an integral
measuring guide with magnifying lens for precision set-up.
1. Loosen the ip stop locking levers.
2. Slide the ip stops to the desired positions on the fence.
3. Tighten the locking levers.
Step 9: Position side prole fences
Right- and left-side prole fences are easily added or removed to
accommodate various applications where referencing from the side
is necessary.
Step 10: Position rear fence
Position the rear fence in proper relation to the drill block for your
application.
1. Loosen the locking handles on the rear fence.
2. Move the fence forward or back as needed according to the
integrated scale.
3. Tighten the locking handles when rear fence is in position.
Step 11: Set feed rate
Feed rate is determined by the type of wood and drilling operation.
In general, hard woods require a lower feed rate; soft woods require
a faster rate.
Turn the knob clockwise to reduce the feed rate for the boring head
carriage. Turn counterclockwise to increase the feed rate.
NOTE: If there is burning on a drill hole or chip out on a through-
hole, feed rate is too fast or too slow. Adjust as needed based on
the material being machined.
Step 12: Select operation mode
Position 1 (hand symbol): Used when setting up the machine for
drilling depth and position. The foot pedal activates the pneumatic
movement of the boring head carriage into the desired position
without spindle rotation.
Position 2 (circular arrows): Used for normal machine operation. The
foot pedal activates the pneumatic movement of both the workpiece
hold-down clamp and the boring head carriage; the drill spindles will
run automatically when the boring head carriage moves up/forward
and stops when it is in a lowered/back position.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 17
WARNING
Never remove the bored piece until the boring cycle is complete.
7.3 Applications
Joining at 90º
Joining at 45º Using 45º Fence
Step 13: Boring the Workpiece
WARNING
Do not attempt to operate machine if you are not completely familiar
with its operation. Obtain immediate advice from a supervisor,
instructor, or other qualied personnel.
Use of this machine requires that you give your work your undivided
attention, and careless acts or not paying close attention to work
being performed may result in serious injury to yourself and/or
others. Never operate this or any machine under the inuence of
drugs, alcohol, or any medication that may impair judgment.
Do not bore warped workpieces. The workpiece must sit at on the
table without rocking.
Dust created by manufacturing activities may be harmful to your
health. Your risks from exposure may vary. Always work in a well-
ventilated area and wear safety approved, protective dust masks
specically designed to lter out microscopic particles.
1. Turn on air supply and power supply to machine.
2. Place the workpiece in the desired reference position against
the fences and/or ip stops.
3. Bore your workpiece:
a. If in manual mode, press the Start button to begin drill
rotation, then depress the foot pedal to process boring
work; the drill spindles will run continuously, even in the
lowered/back position. Press the Stop button to stop drill
rotation.
b. If in automatic mode, press the foot pedal; the drill spindles
will run automatically when the boring head carriage moves
up/forward and stop when it returns to the lowered/back
position.
4. Remove the workpiece.

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual18
Joining at 0-90º (Compound Machining)
Line Boring on Long Panel Using Extension Bar
Boring for Hinge Installation

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual 19
8.0 Maintenance
WARNING
Before performing any type of maintenance or adjustments, make
certain that the machine is disconnected from its power and air
source and completely shut off.
WARNING
Never operate the machine until it has been properly lubricated and
all necessary maintenance work has been completed.
NOTE: After changing a setting, making an adjustment, performing
repair/maintenance work, or troubleshooting, please check that all
applicable safety functions are working properly before performing
another operation.
Clean all machinery parts and surrounding areas every day.
Keep a maintenance record and perform recommended
maintenance checks.
8.1 Lubrication
Weekly, clean and lightly oil the drill head guide bars and the
positioning screw of the boring head carriage using an ISO VG32 oil.
Every 1,000 hours of machine operation, lubricate the boring
head using a grease gun and a non-melting moly grease. Apply no
more than 6 grease-gun strokes.
Spindle bearings are permanently lubricated and require no further
lubrication.
Spindle bearings may purge grease during the rst 20 hours
of operation. Wipe away any excess grease before starting the
machine.
Pneumatic System
A
E
B
D
C
Periodically ll the oil reservoir (B) with pneumatic oil. Use high-
quality pneumatic oil such as VG32 or other approved lubricant.
Drain and rell oil if there is condensation inside the reservoir (C). To
drain, press the drain knob (D).
NOTE: Reduced air ow can cause lack of lubrication. Be sure air
ow is properly adjusted to avoid mechanical damage from lack of
lubrication.
8.2 Cleaning
Blow dust from the machine frequently to avoid buildup of waste
material, dust and other debris.
8.3 Inspection
Feature Interval/Situation
Boring head and bits Every use
Emergency stop Everyday – by functional test
Pneumatic system Everyday
Electrical cabinet/system Monthly: wiring terminals loose, insulation
deterioration, vacuum dust

Ironwood BR23 | User Manual20
9.0 Troubleshooting
Trouble Possible Cause Solution
Motor won’t start Overload is tripped
Improper voltage
Failed motor
Reset overload
Check voltage to motor
Rotate motor by hand and Ohm out motor
Boring carriage will not tilt Locking lever is locked
Air switch has failed
Air cylinder has failed
No air to machine
Unlock locking lever
Check and replace switch
Check and replace cylinder
Ensure air is 90-100 psi or there's no air leaking among pipes.
Drills are burning wood Drill feed speed too fast
Drill feed speed too low
Dull tooling
Improper tooling
Slow down feed speed
Speed up feed speed
Sharpen or replace tooling
Ensure correct tooling for application (including rotation direction
of tools and spindle)
Motor not starting when foot pedal is
pressed
Machine in manual mode
Bad electrical switch
Switch to automatic mode
Call Stiles Technical Support
Drill block making abnormal noise Bad bearings or broken gears
Not enough lubrication
Call Stiles Technical Support
Add proper grease
If you cannot resolve your issue, contact Stiles Technical Support at 616.698.6615.