Challenge EH-3 Multiple-Spindle Drill
Challenge EH-3 three-spindle hydraulic paper drill. 2-1/2 inch capacity, drills 1, 2 or 3 holes. Authorized Challenge dealer for about 30 years, based in Michigan.
Freight items can be purchased online; final delivery details may be confirmed before shipment.
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Details & specifications
Challenge EH-3 multiple-spindle drill. A multiple-spindle Challenge drill for higher multi-hole production than a single JF.
Overview · Specifications · Why Mid-State Litho · Related · Request a quote
Overview
The EH-3 multi-spindle drill is for shops that run multi-hole patterns every day and need more production than a single-spindle JF. Confirm spindle count and pattern against your jobs.
The Challenge EH-3 is a three-spindle hydraulic paper drill. Challenge calls it the original multi-spindle drill, in production since 1961.
It has steel and cast-iron construction, a hydraulic drive, and fast head adjustments for high-volume drilling.
The EH-3 drills accurate, clean holes with less operator fatigue.
Challenge Machinery builds this equipment in Norton Shores, Michigan. Mid-State Litho is the authorized Michigan dealer (about 30 years).
Key features
- Multiple-spindle production drilling
- Higher multi-hole throughput than single-spindle
- Challenge platform
- Integrator pattern and tooling support
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 18 strokes/min, adjustable |
| Electrical | 208 V, 18 A or 230 V, 17 A; single phase, 60 Hz; 30 A service recommended |
| Motor | 1/2 hp hydraulic pump, 1 hp spindle motor |
| Overall height | 59.25 in (1,505 mm) |
| Table height | 37 in (940 mm) |
| Footprint | 36 x 41.5 in (914 x 1,054 mm) floor space |
| Net weight | 520 lb (236 kg) |
| Shipping weight | 570 lb (259 kg) |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Options | Auto-trip side guide; 230 V 50 Hz motor |
| Drill heads | 3 |
| Drill sizes (2 in capacity) | 1/8 to 1/2 in (3 to 13 mm), 13 sizes |
| Drill sizes (2.5 in capacity) | 1/4 to 1/2 in (6 to 13 mm), 4 sizes |
| Range between drills | 2.75 to 4.5 in (70 to 114 mm) |
| Range between outside drills | 5.5 to 9 in (140 to 229 mm) |
| Maximum drilling capacity | 2.5 in (63 mm) |
| Backgauge adjustment | 0 to 4.5 in (0 to 114 mm) |
| Vertical adjustment of individual heads | 0.25 in (6 mm) |
| Left drill to side guide | 0 to 14.5 in (0 to 368 mm) |
| Table size | 19.5 x 31.5 in (495 x 800 mm) |
Specifications from challengemachinery.com (EH-3 page) and the Challenge EH-3 brochure (09/2018). Verified 2026-11-07. Specs can vary by configuration and options. Confirm against the factory sheet for the unit you order.
Two-Hand Control model (CMC-391-11D-2H, 208/230V 1-phase): backgauge, contact us.
Specs can vary by configuration and options. Confirm against the factory sheet for the serial and options you order.
Why buy from Mid-State Litho
Mid-State Litho has been an authorized Challenge Machinery dealer for about 30 years. Challenge is based in Norton Shores, Michigan, about two hours from our Grand Blanc showroom and service depot. We stock knives, sticks, drill bits, and wear parts. We install and train on site, and we service equipment across Michigan and the Great Lakes. Call 1-800-343-4231 or request a quote. Browse Challenge Machinery.
Related equipment and supplies
Related: MS-5 · JF · paper drills.
Call 1-800-343-4231 to size this for your stock and volume.
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This is not a drop-ship. Our factory-trained technicians install on site, train your operators, and back it with same-day and next-day service across Michigan and the Great Lakes.
Install & train
On-site setup and operator training included.
Same / next-day service
Fast response across the Great Lakes.
Precision machining
Replacement parts fabricated in-house.
Financing
Lease and purchase options available.