Drill Press
This unusual drill press has a vertical column with a bed similar to a lathe on both the upper and lower half. The lower spindle bearing rides on the upper bed and can be clamped at any height above the table. A bracket holding a center rides on the lower bed. The center is in line with the drill spindle, allowing center drilling in cylindrical stock. The table is fitted to a journal on the column and is not adjustable for height. It swings out of the way when the lower center is to be used. A lever operates the rack and pinion spindle feed. The table can pivot 90 degrees in either direction and positions a second short slotted table perpendicular to the spindle when tilted 90 degrees to the right.
Height from floor to the top of the belt guard is 67". Maximum height to top of spindle, when fully raised, is 75". The drill has a 12" swing (6 1/4" radius). The table is 11 1/4" square and the smaller table is 11 1/4" by 4". An 11/16" steel plate has been bolted to the top of the table and shimmed to bring the surface perpendicular to the spindle. A vise is bolted to this plate. The plate is marred by a continuous crescent of drill marks, almost appearing to have been done on purpose, but I can't imagine what purpose. The table underneath likely also has some drill holes, but I haven't removed the top plate to check.
Originally flat belt driven, a motor and gear reduction have replaced the original pulleys. The motor is a G.E. 1/3 hp, 3450 rpm, 120 volt single phase. The gear box and drive pulleys provide a 1:36 reduction for approximately 100 rpm at the spindle. To return the machine to belt drive, all that is needed is a short 7/8" shaft which fits the post socket and is secured with a set screw, and appropriate loose pulleys that turn together - one v-pulley to drive the spindle and whatever pulley you desire for your power source.
The drill runs smoothly and the only problems I see are aged belts which should be replaced and a weld (which is broken) on the bracket securing the center underneath the table.
closeup of column, showing the journal for the table and the 7/8" socket for the belt drive.
the column, stripped down.
An image from Joshua Rose's 1888 Modern Machine Shop Practice, showing a "Slate's sensitive drilling machine" with many of the features of this drill. Rather than a center in the lower bracket, a cup chuck is shown.
With the Jacobs chuck removed, a tapered spindle is revealed. Slightly larger than an MT1, it's likely a Jarno taper. The Jacobs chuck fits the outside of the spindle and is secured with three set screws.
Side view, showing the belt guard and motor and gearbox mount.
Rear view of the motor and gear reduction.
the lower section, showing the table, center and base.
The lower bracket with center. Note the broken weld.
The table pivoted to bring into place the 4" wide slotted table.
The upper section, showing the belt guard and table
Price: $300
This item can be safely stored until your next trip to Maryland
Contact: Richard Van Vleck - Email: richard@americanartifacts.com
© 2007, American Artifacts, Taneytown, Maryland.
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