CRADLE SEE "E" TEXT

550 031 47 CRADLE The cradle assembly serves as the sliding support for the rock drill, holding it firmly as it travels along the feed. Its primary job is to maintain the drifter's alignment with the drill hole axis. By providing a stable and low-friction guide, it ensures that all the feed force and impact energy are directed straight into the rock, preventing power loss and crooked drilling.

Over time, the slide surfaces and guide bars within the cradle will wear down. When this happens, the drifter can become loose, leading to significant drilling problems. For example, if the drifter has excessive play on the feed, it will cause the drill string to vibrate, leading to premature failure of the shank adapter and threaded joints. This misalignment also makes it difficult to collar a hole accurately and can increase the risk of getting the drill steel stuck.

Regularly check for any side-to-side or up-and-down movement of the drifter on the cradle. Keep the guide surfaces clean and lubricated as specified. When the wear pads or slide bars reach their wear limits, replacing the complete set is the best way to restore correct alignment and protect your drifter from damage.