I have a tool holder that will not release from my AV70s spindle. I was very careful in keeping the taper clean, so I am not sure why this has happened.
I have tried a variety of air pressures from 90-120 psi, and gently tapping with a rubber mallet. When I press the tool release button it makes the same sound/percussion/puff of air as usual, but the tool does not budge.
I am guessing the build is quite similar to the CNCdepot spindles given that they manufacture them. Can anyone offer any advice on how to get the tool to release?
I have the CNCdepot spindle, and I’ve had stuck tools before.
First, more air pressure is better. A fixed amount of the air opens the grabber, and any excess air is used to push the tool holder out.
Second, AFAIK tool holders and the spindle are much harder than, say, a nice soft screwdriver. Insert a big screwdriver between the tool holder and the spindle, and using it as a wedge, tap it in (or down) gently. You may need to put your tool wrench on the ER32 nut to keep the spindle from turning.
Third, have something soft and fluffy to catch the tool when it suddenly drops out 
There are other ways to try to release the holder, but they all involve pushing it DOWN. Don’t tap it sideways.
Also, you may have more luck removing it when the spindle is warm.
I’ve learned to always remove the tool before “parking” the cnc to shut it off.
@Eric gave me a call and recommended giving a little stronger whack. It worked, and now it is exchanging tools again flawlessly!
Thank you for the advice @djdelorie !
For future proofing it, I use a Permatex 77134 nickel based anti-seize on the inside of the spindle’s taper, and again, I make sure the spindle is empty before it cools down. I also needed to clean the release mechanism so it would open more, but that procedure is spindle-dependent.
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