Which component must be removed from a truck before turning on a drill press?

The key must be removed from a truck before turning on a drill press. The key is an essential part of the chuck that holds the drill bit in place. If the key is left in the chuck while the drill press is in operation, it poses a significant safety risk. The key can become a projectile, potentially causing injury to the operator or bystanders if it is thrown out of the chuck due to the high speed of the rotating drill.

Ensuring the key is removed prior to operation is standard practice to maintain a safe working environment, as well as to prevent damage to the equipment itself. While the chuck holds the bit securely, and the bit is necessary for drilling, it's the key that must be handled with caution to prevent accidents. This underscores the importance of following proper safety protocols when using power tools, particularly in an automotive or industrial setting.