Need a Rockwell 17-600 Drill Press Manual? Check the Model and Revision First
My neighbor inherited a drill press from his grandfather. The nameplate said “Rockwell.” He went online looking for a manual and downloaded the first “17-600” PDF he found — only to discover the wiring diagram was completely different from his machine. Turns out he had a Rockwell Manufacturing-era 17-600, and the manual he grabbed was for a Delta-rebranded version made a decade later.
It’s a frustrating mistake that’s very easy to make. Here’s how to avoid it.
Two Companies, One Model Number
Rockwell Manufacturing was a Pittsburgh-based industrial company that produced power tools under the “Rockwell” name from the 1940s onward.
In 1981, Rockwell sold its power tool division to Pentair, which rebranded the entire line under the Delta name. The machines themselves often changed very little — the same castings, the same designs — but the badges changed, and over time the specs evolved too.
The result: there are Rockwell-branded 17-600 machines and Delta-branded 17-600 machines. They share a model number but are from different eras, and some key specifications — especially electrical components — differ.
The machine this article covers is the Rockwell-branded 17-600, made during the Rockwell Manufacturing era.
How to Tell Which Era Your Machine Is From
Look at the Badge
If it says “Rockwell” with the older block-letter or shield logo, you have the Rockwell Manufacturing-era machine. If it says “Delta” (with or without “Rockwell” underneath in transition-era machines), you’re in Delta territory.
Some transition-era machines say “Rockwell-Delta” — these are from the brief period after the sale when both names appeared on products.
Check the Serial Number
VintageMachinery.org has a serial number lookup database. Enter your serial and it will tell you the approximate year. Machines made before roughly 1981 are Rockwell Manufacturing-era.
Examine the Motor and Wiring
Rockwell Manufacturing-era 17-600 machines often have older motor styles with different terminal configurations than Delta-era replacements.
Where to Find the Correct Manual
ManualsLib
ManualsLib is the first stop. Search “Rockwell 17-600” — you’ll find multiple documents. Pay close attention to the listed date and any revision numbers.
VintageMachinery.org
VintageMachinery.org is the gold standard for pre-Delta Rockwell documentation. Search for “Rockwell 17-600” under the Manufacturer filter set to “Rockwell.”
Old Woodworking Machines Forum
Post your serial number and someone will almost certainly have your exact Type manual.
eBay
Original paper manuals for vintage Rockwell drill presses do appear on eBay.
Belt and Parts Sourcing for the Rockwell 17-600
V-Belt
Before ordering, measure your existing belt. A Bando V-belt fits several 17-600 configurations. Verify your belt dimensions before purchasing.
Chuck Key
If your original chuck key has gone missing, a replacement chuck key in the correct size fits the Jacobs-style chucks commonly found on the 17-600.
Comparison: Rockwell 17-600 vs. Delta 17-600
| Feature | Rockwell 17-600 (Rockwell Mfg. era) | Delta 17-600 (Post-1981) |
|---|---|---|
| Badge | Rockwell | Delta (or Rockwell-Delta) |
| Manual Source | VintageMachinery.org, ManualsLib | Delta/Porter-Cable archives |
| Parts cross-compatibility | Some Delta parts fit; verify each | Delta 17-600 parts are standard |
| Collector interest | Higher | Lower |
Verdict
The Rockwell 17-600 is a well-made vintage machine that rewards careful ownership. The most important step before any repair or maintenance is confirming which era your machine is from. Get that right, find the matching manual on VintageMachinery.org or ManualsLib, and you’ll have a clear roadmap for everything else.
FAQ
Q: Is the Rockwell 17-600 the same as the Delta 17-600? They share a model number but are from different eras. Specifications, especially electrical, can differ.
Q: Where can I download a free Rockwell 17-600 manual PDF? VintageMachinery.org and ManualsLib both have free downloadable manuals.
Q: How do I date my Rockwell 17-600? Enter your serial number at VintageMachinery.org. Machines made before approximately 1981 are Rockwell Manufacturing-era.
Q: What does “Rockwell-Delta” on the badge mean? A transition-era machine made shortly after the 1981 sale, when both brand names appeared on products.
Q: Can I use Delta 17-600 parts on my Rockwell 17-600? Some parts cross over, but verify each individually. V-belts, chuck keys, and JT33 chucks are generally interchangeable; electrical components may not be.
Q: What chuck does the Rockwell 17-600 use? A JT33 (Jacobs Taper #33) spindle.
Q: What V-belt size does the Rockwell 17-600 use? Measure your existing belt before ordering.
Q: Is the Rockwell 17-600 a good machine to restore? Yes. The Rockwell Manufacturing-era machines have heavy cast-iron construction that modern drill presses don’t match at any comparable price.
References
