SafetySpeed SPM301HD User manual

Screw Pocket Machine
Owner’s Manual
SPM301, SPM301HD & SPM301NE
SPM301 Screw Pocket Machine
Proudly made in the USA
www.safetyspeed.com
Read and understand this manual before operating this tool. Failure to follow the safety precautions and instructions
can result in serious injury or death. Keep this manual in an accessible and safe location for future reference.

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A message from all of us at SAFETY SPEED MANUFACTURING:
Thank you for purchasing a Safety Speed Manufacturing (SSM) Pocket Screw Machine. We take pride in building
these fine products in the U.S.A.
Each SSM product is designed to give years of dependable service. Your new pocket screw machine was built
from the finest components available, and every machine is individually assembled by craftsmen - some of whom
have been building our products for more than 25 years. We appreciate you choosing SSM products for your
facility.
Team Safety Speed,
Ham Lake, Minnesota
Limited Warranty
Safety Speed Manufacturing (SSM) warrants the parts and workmanship of this tool, except for the
electric motor(s), for one year from the date of purchase. SSM will repair or replace, at our discretion,
any component that is determined to be defective. Repair or replacement is limited to providing
replacement parts from the factory. SSM assumes no responsibility for making repairs on site. Parts
returned to the factory must be returned freight prepaid and include a Return Authorization (R.A.)
number. Please call SSM 763-755-1600 for a R.A. number.
All motors are warranted directly by the motor manufacturer. See local repair and maintenance centers
for warranty claims for motors.
Safety Speed Manufacturing assumes no responsibility for any damage or accidents resulting from the
misuse of this tool, its misapplication, or failure to follow precautionary safety measures. SSM assumes
no responsibility for any consequential damage or loss of production. SSM will not be responsible for
claims made for machines that are not used or maintained in the normal course of business, used for
applications not intended, or modified in any way. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you
may also have other rights which vary from state to state. SSM # 763-755-1600.
This manual applies to the following SSM Screw Pocket Machines:
SPM301 SPM301HD SPM301NE
(Non-Electric)
Enter your model number and serial number for quick and easy reference when ordering accessories, supplies or
parts.
Note: The Model and Serial Number label of the SPM301 variations can be found inside on the left, upper side of
the cabinet on top of the electronics enclosure. Note: The cover must be open to view serial label. (Fig. 1).
Model No: _____________________________
Serial No: _____________________________
Figure 1: Serial & Model label
Safety Speed Mfg.
13943 LINCOLN ST. NE
HAM LAKE, MN 55304
1 763-755-1600
Serial & Model
Label

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CONTENTS
Safety…………………………………………………………………. 4
Safety & Warning Label Placement…………………………………………… 4
Safety & Warning Labels Identified....…………………………………….…… 5
Safety Procedures………………………………………………………..……... 6
Proposition 65 Warning…………………………………………………………. 8
Electrical Safety…………………………………………………………………...9
Extension Cords………………………………………………………………... 10
Short-Circuit Protection………………………………………………………... 10
Electrical Connections.………………………………………………………... 11
Screw Pocket Machine Components.…………………………………….…. 12
Inventory………………………………………………………………………… 12
Unpacking……………………………………………………………………… 13
Installation/Set Up...................................................................... 14
Tools Required for Installation................................................................... 14
Operating Environment ............................................................................. 14
Installing a Router Bit ................................................................................ 15
Selecting Bits ............................................................................................ 16
Installing a Drill Bit..................................................................................... 17
Operation................................................................................... 19
Capacities of the Machine......................................................................... 19
Variable Cycle Speed ............................................................................... 20
Janka Hardness Chart .............................................................................. 22
Pocket Depth Adjustment.......................................................................... 23
Selecting Screws ...................................................................................... 24
Depth Gauge ............................................................................................ 25
Pocket Hole Positioning ........................................................................... 26
Fence Adjustment ..................................................................................... 26
Perpendicular Guide Adjustment .............................................................. 27
Maintenance .............................................................................. 28
General Maintenance................................................................................ 28
Cleaning .................................................................................................... 28
Maintaining Motors.................................................................................... 29
Service....................................................................................... 29
Removing Motors ..................................................................................... 29
Installing Motors ....................................................................................... 30
Adjusting the Guide Arms ......................................................................... 31
Lubricating the Guide Arms & Bushings .................................................. 32
Replacement Parts & Repairs .................................................................. 32
Adjusting the 3-Way (Poppet) Valve ........................................................ 33
Dust Collection........................................................................... 34
Specifications............................................................................. 35
Accessories................................................................................ 35

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SAFETY
Read and understand this manual before operating this tool. Failure to follow the safety
precautions and instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep this manual in an
accessible and safe location for future reference. Electronic copies of this manual are available
at www.safetyspeed.com. Printed copies are available by calling SSM 763-755-1600.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a 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.
Safety & Warning Label Placement
Figure 2: Safety & Warning Label Locations (SPM301 shown)
Depth Gauge
Read Manual
Rotating Bits
Depth Adjustment
Model
Caution: Oil & Lubes
(SPM301 only, back
of machine)
Electrical Warning
(SPM301HD only,
back of machine)
Wet Conditions
(near ON/OFF)
Pinch Point
Fence (Web)
Ruler

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Safety Warning Labels Identified
Do Not Place Hands Under Guard
Keep Hands Clear Of Area To Prevent Pinching
Do Not Place
Hands Under
Guard
SPM301 ONLY! Do Not Use Oil In Air System
Disconnect Power Before Opening
Clockwise Raises
Pocket
Read Manual Before Operating
Depth Gauge
Cycle Speed Selection
Keep Hands Away
Do Not Operate
In Wet Conditions

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When using electric tools, always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire,
electric shock, and personal injury.
READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE USE. Before use, be sure everyone using this tool reads
and understands this manual as well as any labels packaged with or attached to the machine.
1. KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read this manual carefully to learn your power tool’s applications and
limitations as well as potential hazards associated with this type of machine.
2. DO NOT ALLOW UNQUALIFIED PEOPLE TO OPERATE the machine.
3. AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS. Do not use your power tool in rain, damp or wet locations, or in the
presence of explosive atmospheres (gaseous fumes, dust, or flammable materials). Remove materials or
debris that may be ignited by sparks.
4. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN AND WELL LIT. Cluttered, dark work areas invite accidents. Provide at least
200 watts of lighting at the front work area of the tool. Eliminate all shadows that could interfere with clear
viewing of the work area.
5. DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing or jewelry. Wear a protective hair covering to contain
long hair, as it may be caught in moving parts. When working outdoors, wear rubber gloves and insulated,
nonskid footwear. Keep hands and gloves away from moving parts.
6. USE SAFETY EQUIPMENT. Everyone in the work area should wear safety goggles or glasses with side
shields that comply with current safety standards. Wear hearing protection during extended use and a dust
mask for dusty operations. Hard hats, face shields, safety shoes, etc. should be used when specified or
necessary. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
7. KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY. Keep children and bystanders at a safe distance from the work area to avoid
distracting the operator and contacting the machine or extension cord.
8. MAKE THE WORKSHOP CHILD PROOF with padlocks, master switches, etc.
9. NEVER LEAVE THE MACHINE RUNNING UNATTENDED. Turn the power OFF. Do not leave the tool until
it comes to a complete stop.
10. PROTECT OTHERS IN THE WORK AREA from debris such as chips and sparks. Provide barriers or shields
as needed.
11. SECURE THE WORK. Use a clamp, vise, or other practical means to hold your work securely, freeing both
hands to control the tool.
12. USE THE RIGHT TOOL. Do not use a machine or attachment to do a job for which it is not recommended.
For example, do not use a circular saw to cut tree limbs or logs. Do not alter the tool, remove guards, or
operate the pocket screw machine, router or drill when removed from the carriage and frame.
13. USE PROPER ACCESSORIES. Using non-recommended accessories may be hazardous. Be sure
accessories are properly installed and maintained. Do not defeat a guard or other safety device when
installing an accessory or attachment.
14. CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS. Inspect guards and other parts before use. Check for misalignment,
binding of moving parts, improper mounting, broken parts, and any other conditions that may affect operation.
If abnormal noise or vibration occurs, turn the machine off immediately and have the problem corrected
before further use. Do not use a damaged tool. Tag damaged tools “DO NOT USE” until repaired. Repair or
replace a damaged guard or other part. For all repairs, insist on identical replacement parts or factory
certified conversions.
15. REMOVE ALL ADJUSTING WRENCHES, TOOLS and GUIDES from the machine before turning it on. Make
this a habit.

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16. GROUND YOUR MACHINE. See “Electrical Safety,” page 9.
17. AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Be sure your tool is turned OFF before plugging it in. Do not use the
machine if the power switch does not turn it on and off. Observe correct Lockout/Tagout procedures when
performing maintenance on the machine.
18. DO NOT FORCE THE MACHINE. Your tool will perform best at the rate for which it was designed.
Excessive force only causes operator fatigue, increased wear, increased risk of binding or sudden breakage,
and reduced control.
19. KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM ALL CUTTING EDGES, MOVING PARTS AND PINCH POINTS.
20. DO NOT ABUSE THE CORD. Never unplug the cord by yanking it from the outlet. Pull the plug rather than
the cord to reduce the risk of damage. Keep the cord away from heat, oil, sharp objects, cutting edges, and
moving parts.
21. DO NOT OVERREACH. MAINTAIN CONTROL. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Maintain a
firm grip.
22. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing, and use common sense. Do not use a tool when you are tired,
distracted, or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any medication causing decreased control.
23. UNPLUG THE MACHINE/DISCONNECT POWER when it is not in use, before changing items such as bits
and before performing recommended maintenance. Observe appropriate Lockout/Tagout procedures.
24. MAINTAIN TOOLS CAREFULLY. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Keep cutting
edges sharp and clean. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Periodically inspect
machine cords and extension cords for damage. Have damaged parts repaired or replaced.
25. MAINTAIN LABELS AND NAMEPLATES. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing,
contact Safety Speed for a free replacement.
26. DO NOT USE PUSH STICKS.
27. ALWAYS WAIT FOR THE BITS TO STOP COMPLETELY BEFORE CHANGING POSITIONS. Unplug the
machine and disconnect the air supply before transporting or moving it.
28. DO NOT PLACE YOUR HANDS ON OR UNDER THE GUARDS, CLAMPS OR IN THE PATH OF THE BITS.
Do not try to retrieve a piece of material while the bits are rotating. This symbol is to remind you:
29. DO NOT DEFEAT THE GUARDS OR OPERATE THE MACHINE WITHOUT THE GUARDS IN PLACE. Do
not remove the router motor, drill motor or cycle motor from the mounting plate or carriage.

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30. NEVER STAND ON THE MACHINE. Serious injury could occur if the machine is tipped or if you
unintentionally contact the cutting bits.
31. HOME CENTERS AND COMMERCIAL LOCATIONS should check as part of the installation with their local
electrical contractor to be sure the proper amount of electrical power (volts/amps) and/or air supply will be
available for this machine during all operating hours and conditions. Be aware of any special electrical safety
requirements for this machine (examples: key lock offs, timers, coded security, touch pads, disconnects, or
time lockouts) required by local codes.
32. DISCONNECT AND LOCK THE POWER OFF before changing bits or making any adjustments.
33. BEFORE CONNECTING THE MOTOR(S) TO THE POWER SUPPLY BE SURE THE MOTOR SWITCH IS
IN THE OFF POSITION.
34. KEEP THE TOP COVER TIGHTENED and in place when the machine is not in use.
35. DO NOT PLACE HANDS UNDER GUARDS OR IN LINE WITH BIT TRAVEL. Be aware of potential pinch
points. Only hold or operate machine with designated handles.
36. REFER TO PAGE 5 FOR WARNING LABEL IDENTIFICATION.
Please Read Before Operating the Pocket Screw Machine
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities
contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:
•Lead from lead-based paint
•Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
•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 specifically designed to filter out microscopic particles. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/wood

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Electrical Safety
Improperly connecting the grounding wire can result in the risk of electric shock. Check
with a qualified electrician if you are not sure that the outlet is properly grounded. Do not
modify the plug provided with the tool. Never remove the grounding prong from the plug.
Do not use the tool if the cord or plug is damaged. If damaged, have it repaired by a
qualified electrician before use. If the plug will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet
installed by a qualified electrician.
Some machines are equipped with a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in a
polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit,
contact a qualified electrician to install a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug in any way. Double insulation
eliminates the need for the three wire grounded power supply system mentioned above.
Do not expose your tool to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of
electric shock.
For best performance and to prevent damage use a dedicated electrical circuit for all SSM tools.
The plug must be connected to a properly grounded outlet (Fig. 3). If the tool should electrically malfunction or
break down, grounding provides a low-resistance path to carry electricity away from you, reducing the risk of
electric shock.
Figure 3: Grounded Plug and Outlet (120 Volt Plug Shown)
The grounding prong on the plug is connected through the green wire inside the cord to the grounding system in
the tool. The green wire in the cord must be the only wire connected to the tool’s grounding system and must
never be attached to an electrically “live” terminal.
The machine must be plugged into an appropriate outlet, properly installed and grounded in accordance with all
codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet should look like those in Figure 3 for the SPM301.
Figure 4 illustrates a temporary adapter available for connecting grounded plugs. The green rigid ear or lug
extending from the adapter must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box or
receptacle. Simply remove the center screw from the outlet, insert the adapter and reattach the screw through
the green grounding ear to the outlet. If in doubt of proper grounding, call a qualified electrician. A temporary
adapter should only be used until a qualified electrician can install a properly grounded outlet. The Canadian
Electrical Code prohibits the use of temporary adapters.

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Figure 4: Temporary Grounding Adapter
Extension Cords
Extension cords are NOT recommended. If an extension cord is used, please adhere to the following
suggestions. Grounded tools require a three-wire extension cord. As the distance from the supply outlet
increases a heavier-gauge extension cord must be used. Extension cords with inadequately sized wire causes a
serious drop in voltage, resulting in loss of power and possible motor damage. Refer to Table I below to
determine the required minimum wire size.
Table I: Recommended Minimum Wire Gauge for Extension Cords
* Based on limiting the line voltage drop to 5V at 150% of rated amperes.
Not recommended
The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the ampacity (capacity) of the cord. For example, a
14-gauge cord can carry a higher current than a 16-gauge cord.
Guidelines for Using Extension Cords
For longest motor life and optimum performance extensions cords are NOT recommended.
If you are using an extension cord outdoors, be sure it is marked with the suffix “W-A” (“W” in Canada) to indicate
that it is acceptable for outdoor use.
Be sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition. Always replace a damaged
extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified technician before using it.
Protect extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat, and damp or wet areas.
Short-Circuit Protection
Only qualified technicians should make electrical connections. Confirm power is
OFF/Disconnected before making connections.
Extension Cord Length*
Nameplate Amps
25’(7.6m)
50’(15m)
75’(23m)
100’(31m)
150’(46m)
200’(61m)
< 5
16
16
16
14
12
12
5 - 8
16
16
14
12
10

8 - 12
14
14
12
10


12 - 15
12
12
10
10


15 - 20
10
10
10




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This tool must only be wired into a dedicated circuit that has a short-circuit protection device which is located
ahead of the equipment in the circuit, in accordance with local codes.
General guidelines are as follows:
SPM301; 110 Volt, Single Phase: min. 20 Amp circuit protection.
SPM301HD; 208-230 Volt, Single Phase: min. 20 Amp circuit protection.
SPM301NE; N/A*
Reference your Model/Serial Label (Pg. 2, Fig. 1) and your local codes before installation.
*N/A = not applicable
Electrical Connections
The SPM301 and SPM301HD screw pocket machine variations require a dedicated circuit that meets the
requirements of the motors and local electrical codes. Connect the power cord from the dust collector to a circuit
that meets the requirement of the dust collector and all local codes.
Electrical connections should only be completed by a qualified electrician in accordance with all local
codes.
The SPM301 requires a dedicated 110 Volt, 20 Amp circuit and includes a cord and plug.
The SPM301HD requires a 20 Amp, 208-230 Volt, single phase dedicated circuit and cord. A minimum 12/4 cord,
to be connected to a plug or a disconnect is required. The circuit must include a (N) neutral (common, white), two
powered lines (L1 & L2), (red & black), and one (G) ground wire (green or yellow and green). See wiring diagram
below (Fig. 5) and inside electrical enclosure on the SPM301HD.
Figure 5: Electrical connections SPM301HD
L1 L2
G N N
VFD
Electrical Supply Line
Min. 12 ga. 4 wire
(including ground)
Will NOT run properly
w/o 4 wire connection
w/o
L 1 - Hot, (black)
L 2 –Hot, (red)
G –Ground, (green)
N –Neutral, (white)

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READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
Screw Pocket Machine (SPM)
Components
Figure 6: SPM Components
Inventory
Each model includes the frame/stand, fence, foot control, motors, guides, router and drill wrenches and two hex
wrenches, router bit and drill bits. The Manual, Collet Wrenches (see Tools Required for Installation, page 14),
Spindle Wrench, Bit Gauge, Hex Wrenches and extra drill bit are included in a separate box or boxes.
The SPM301 router includes a 1/2” collet installed and an optional 3/8” router collet with the parts box.
The SPM301 drill includes a 1/4” collet.
The SPM301HD router includes a 3/8” collet (ER 20), installed. The SPM301HD drill includes a 1/4” collet.
NOTE: Sioux Tools offers an optional 9/64” collet for the SPM301HD air drill.
Accessories may be packaged and included with the machine or shipped separately. Carefully remove and
inspect all items before assembly and operation.
Variable Cycle
Speed Control
Foot Control
Pocket Depth
Control Handle
Emergency STOP
ON/OFF Switch
Fence Adjustment
Knobs (4)
Pneumatic Clamp
Perpendicular
Guide Knobs (4)
Depth Setting Gauge,
red (behind drill cover)
Dust Collection
Connection
Perpendicular Guides
Fence
Fence Scale
Clamp Guard

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Unpacking
Removing plastic sheeting, protective cardboard, and wood crating. NOTE: Uncrating material and methods vary
by model and accessories. See instructions below.
Have a helper(s) assist in removing crate and machine from pallet.
Figure 7: Unpacking
1. Remove screws from bottom of each upright corner piece (Fig. 7), typically three screws per corner.
2. With the help of an assistant, lift crate from machine and pallet, being careful not to damage machine or loose
parts (Fig. 8).
3. Remove screws from cleat (Fig. 7 & 8)
4. With the help of an assistant, remove machine from pallet.
5. Place machine in desired location and adjust leveling feet, if necessary, to level and stabilize machine.
6. Remove plastic wrap and other items from top of machine.
Figure 8: Uncrating
Remove 3 screws
from each corner
Remove 3 screws
from each corner
Remove screws from cleat
Cleat (2)
Crate lifted (removed)

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INSTALLATION/SET UP
Your SSM Screw Pocket Machine comes from the factory assembled and aligned. You will only need to place the
machine on a level surface and supply power and dust collection and check both the router bit and drill bit. The
included leveling feet allow adjustment to prevent “rocking”.
Tools Required for Installation
Note: Additional tools may be required for installing accessories or making adjustments.
MODEL SPM301:
17mm wrench –Drill, nut, included
22mm wrench –Router, collet, included
Spanner wrench –Router, nut, included
5/32” Hex wrench – Side panels
7/32” Hex wrench –Top lock bolt, included
MODEL SPM301HD
9/16” wrench – Drill, collet, included
3/4” wrench – Drill, nut, included
22mm wrench –Router, collet, included
Spanner wrench –Router, nut, included
5/32” Hex wrench – Side panels
7/32” Hex wrench –Top lock bolt, included
Operating Environment
For safe operation, install the machine in an area that is well lit. Eliminate all shadows that could interfere with
clear viewing of the work area.
Do Not locate the machine in a damp or wet location, or a location where it may be exposed to rain.
SSM strongly recommends installing a dust collector with a minimum of 600 CFM to extend motor and bit life.
Avoid explosive atmospheres (gaseous fumes, dust, or flammable materials).
Secure the area so that children and bystanders are kept a safe distance from the work area. Provide barriers
and shields as needed.
NOTE: The average noise level for all the SPM301 models is less than 80 dB.
Initial Set-Up checklist & test:
1. Place machine in desired location.
2. Adjust the four leveling feet (by rotating the feet), if necessary, to prevent “rocking” of machine and to make the
machine level.
3. Confirm both the drill bit and router bit are in the correct position by checking with the Bit Gauge (Pgs. 16 & 17,
Fig. 10 & 11). Place the Bit Gauge on the Router Motor Mount or Drill Motor Mount, the bit should just touch
the bottom of the Bit Gauge. If the bits are not positioned properly, follow the correct “Installing a Drill/Router
Bit” instructions to adjust.

15
4. Check both the drill collet and router collect for tightness. Tighten if necessary using the included wrenches,
see details in “Installing a Router Bit” or “Installing a Drill Bit”.
5. Attach clean, dry, air supply to machine, minimum 80 PSI, maximum 150 PSI.
Air use @ 80 PSI: SPM301, 1-2 CFM; SPM301HD, 30 CFM.
If your model includes a pneumatic oiler (e.g. SPM301HD), make sure
it is filled with “pneumatic tool oil” before operating machine!
6. Connect electrical supply, see “Electrical Connections” page 11.
Figure 9: Bit & Clamp Guard
7. Adjust Bit & Clamp Guard (Fig. 9) over test piece, approximately ¼”. Loosen the Clamp Guard Adjustment
Knobs (Fig. 9) and adjust Bit & Clamp Guard to allow insertion and removal of material, but so as to NOT
allow fingers or hands under or behind the Bit & Clamp Guard during operation. The “Pocket Hole (red)
Alignment Guide”(Fig. 9) indicates location of pocket to be cut.
8. SPM301 only: Make sure both Router and Drill switches are turned ON.
9. Make a test cut in scrap which is the same thickness as material to be used. Place sample stock against
fence and perpendicular guide. Step on the “Foot Control” to activate cycle and remove your foot to complete
cycle. Keep your hands away from clamp, bits and Bit & Clamp Guard.
10. See “OPERATION” section for making machine adjustments, (e.g. depth of pocket or length of web), if
necessary. Installing a Router Bit
Unplug tool and disconnect air supply before making adjustments, installing bits
or accessories. Observe appropriate Lockout/Tagout procedures to insure the tool
cannot accidentally be powered.
Bit & Clamp
Guard
Bit & Clamp Guard
Adjustment Knobs
Pneumatic Clamp
Pocket Hole (red)
Alignment Guide

16
Figure 10: Installing a Router
Bit (SPM301 shown)
Installing a Router Bit (all models):
1. Unplug tool and disconnect air supply.
2. Select correct router bit for your application.
NOTE: (Contact your machine dealer or SSM (763-755-1600) for help in selecting the appropriate
router bit for your materials and applications).
3. Using the wrenches provided, loosen the collet nut (by turning counter clockwise when looking “down”) (Fig.
10), while holding spindle nut. Remove the router bit.
4. Insert new bit into collet. Finger tighten collet nut.
5. Position the Bit Gauge (Fig. 10) against the router mount (Fig. 10) and pull the router bit up against
the bottom of the Bit Gauge.
6. Tighten the collect nut securely, while holding the spindle nut.
IMPORTANT: Select the correct bits for your needs. Consult with your machinery dealer, or with the SSM
customer service department (763-755-1600) to determine the best bits for your application(s).
Always use the supplied Bit Gauge (Fig. 10 & 11) when installing bits.
Always use supplied Bit Gauge (Fig. 10 & 11) when installing bits. Failure to do so could result in the bits
colliding with the machine table or the drill when the machine is cycled. If your Bit Gauge is missing or
damaged contact Safety Speed for a replacement (763-755-1600).
Bit Gauge
Collet Nut
Spindle Nut
Router Mount
Router Bit

17
NOTE: If the Bit Gauge is not available, the router bit should extend 3-1/16” from the top of the “Router
Mount”. Measure from the top of the router mount to the top of the bit with an accurate and
square measuring device. Or call SSM for a temporary solution (763)-755-1600.
Installing a Drill Bit
Unplug tool and disconnect air supply before making adjustments, installing bits
or accessories. Observe appropriate Lockout/Tagout procedures to insure the tool
cannot accidentally be powered.
Figure 11: Installing a Drill Bit (SPM301 shown)
SPM301 (electric drill):
1. Unplug tool and disconnect air supply.
2. Using the wrench provided, loosen the collet (by turning nut counterclockwise) (Fig. 11) while holding the (red)
spindle lock and remove drill bit.
NOTE: It may be easier to hold the spindle lock with a small stick or other non-sharp object.
3. Select new/sharp drill bit.
NOTE: (Contact your machine dealer or SSM (763-755-1600) for help in selecting the
appropriate drill bit for your materials and applications).
4. Insert new drill bit into collet. Finger tighten collet.
5. Position the Bit Gauge (Fig. 11) against the Drill Mount (Fig. 11) and pull the drill bit up against the bottom of
the Bit Gauge.
NOTE: If the Bit Gauge is not available, the drill bit should extend 2-7/8” from the top of the “Drill
Mount”. Measure from the top of the router mount to the top of the bit with an accurate and
square measuring device. Or call SSM for a temporary solution (763)-755-1600.
6. Tighten the collect nut securely while holding the (red) spindle lock.
Always use the supplied Bit Gauge (Fig. 10 & 11) when installing bits.
Bit Gauge
Drill Bit
Collet Nut
Spindle Lock (SPM 301 only)
(may be next to drill mount)
Drill Mount

18
SPM301HD (pneumatic drill):
1. Unplug tool and disconnect air supply.
NOTE: The included drill collet and bit is ¼” diameter. Sioux Tools offers an optional 9/64” collet.
2. Using the wrench kit provided, loosen the collet nut (Fig. 12), while holding the spindle nut, and remove drill bit.
NOTE: The SPM301HD requires two (included) wrenches to loosen and tighten the collet nut.
3. Select new/sharp drill bit.
NOTE: (Contact your machine dealer or SSM (763-755-1600) for help in selecting the
appropriate drill bit for your materials and applications).
4. Insert drill bit into collet. Finger tighten collet.
5. Position the Bit Gauge (Fig. 11) into the notches of the Drill Shield and against the drill mount (Fig. 12) and
pull the drill bit up against the bottom of the Bit Gauge.
6. Tighten the collect nut securely with the two wrenches.
IMPORTANT: Select the correct bits for your needs. Consult with your machinery dealer, or with our
customer service department (763-755-1600) to determine the best bits for your application(s).
Always use the supplied Bit Gauge (Fig. 10 & 11) when installing bits.
Always use supplied Bit Gauge (Fig 10 & 11) when installing bits. Failure to do so could result in the bit
colliding with the machine table or the router when the machine is cycled. If your Bit Gauge is missing or
damaged contact Safety Speed for a replacement (763-755-1600).
Always wear proper eye protection when operating machinery. If your Bit Gauge is missing or
damaged contact Safety Speed for a replacement.
Always keep bits clean and sharp for the best performance. A dull or dirty bit can bind and pinch,
resulting in poor quality cuts. If in doubt, replace the bit with a new one.
B
DETAIL B
SCALE 1 : 4
Drill Bit
Collet Nut
Spindle Nut
Drill Mount
Drill Shield
Notches for
Bit Gauge
Figure 12: Installing a drill bit
(SPM301HD shown)

19
OPERATION
The following are suggestions that give a general idea of how a Screw Pocket is intended
to be operated. No instructions can replace common sense and experience. Be sure all
operators have enough time and material to become familiar with the operating
characteristics of this machine, and have FULLY READ AND UNDERSTOOD all operating
and safety instructions.
Capacities of the Machine
Small Work pieces:
Do not process pieces that are so small that your hand must be behind or under the Bit & Clamp Guard
(Pg. 15, Fig. 9). Safety Speed Screw Pocket Machines are not recommended for work pieces that are shorter
than the clamp guard. Rails and similarly narrow stock can be positioned using the Perpendicular Guides as long
as they extend beyond the clamp guard and have a minimum of 3/8” on each side (offset) of the pocket.
Large Panels:
There is no limit to the size of large panels, as long as they are supported properly. For example, the use of
support tables or roller stands can help stabilize long or large panels. When processing large panels, the
Perpendicular Guides (Pg.12, Fig. 6) can be removed. This allows large panels to lay flat on the table. Remove
the four Perpendicular Guide Knobs (Pg.12, Fig. 6), then remove the two Perpendicular Guides. The
Perpendicular Guides and Knobs should be reinstalled for efficiently and quickly processing rails or similar stock.
Work piece thickness:
The Screw Pocket Machines can process material with a thickness range of ½” (minimum), through 1-½”
(maximum).
Do not cut pockets in material less than 1/2" thick. Doing so could result in the workpiece
being insufficiently clamped, and could cause bit breakage or operator injury.

20
Variable Cycle Speed
All models have variable cycle speed control. The speed control adjustment knob is located on the side of the
machine (Pg.20, Fig.13) and includes a basic guide for various speed settings. Rotate the knob
counterclockwise to reduce cycle speed and clockwise to increase cycle speed. Use slower speeds when
cutting deep pockets and/or harder materials. Faster speeds can be used for cutting shallow pockets or softer
materials. The correct cycle speeds typically produce more accurate pockets and a better finish.
NOTE: See Janka Hardness Chart on Pg. 22 for a wood species hardness reference.
NOTE: If the cycle speed is set too slow, excessive heating of the bits and burning of
the stock is possible. Burning can also be an indication of dull bits.
Figure 13: Variable Cycle Speed Control
Cycle Speed must be matched to the materials being mcahined. Improper speed selection can result in reduced
tool life, inaccurate, poor quality cuts, and safety risks. After installing new bits, or when cutting a new material,
use a slow cycle speed for the first cut. Gradually increase cycle speed for subsequent cuts until the desired
performance is achieved.
NOTE: If in doubt regarding the correct cycle speed, consult with your machinery dealer or call
Safety Speed (763-755-1600) to determine the correct settings for your application(s).
Variable Cycle
Speed Control
ON/OFF Switch
(Clockwise =
Faster Cycle)
Emergency Stop