xs650shawn
Well-known member
Didn't want to call this a full restoration. I got this press on craigslist for $150. Bought it with the intention to use it, still plan too. Was pretty rough when I got it, but the previous owner was willing to deliver, so I didn't argue the price. Found out by some searching and help on a vintage metalworking machine forum (owwm.org) that this press was made in the forties, and was originally a bench model. Someone prior turned it into a floorstander by splicing the post with fence post. Original thumbscrew areas for motor post mounts were also broken, but it functioned. Decided to clean it up, quick repaint, and replace any necessary parts.
Only major part needing replacement was the post. Not easy to find at 2 3/4" diameter. Not a common size, but found one near enough to the original length. I know most common Atlas color seems to be gray, but when wire brushing the parts, I found this green to be the base color. Rust-Oleum Sage green seemed a close match, and I kinda liked it.
Spindle bearings were still decent, and everything else seemed tight, so I put it back together. But the head fit tight on the post. I then had to build a base for it, as being on my workbench made it too tall. So I built a wooden rolling stand.
Replaced the motor with a new 3/4 hp Marathon reversible motor, with a directional switch. Now I just need to replace the test cord with a heavier one.
Only major part needing replacement was the post. Not easy to find at 2 3/4" diameter. Not a common size, but found one near enough to the original length. I know most common Atlas color seems to be gray, but when wire brushing the parts, I found this green to be the base color. Rust-Oleum Sage green seemed a close match, and I kinda liked it.
Spindle bearings were still decent, and everything else seemed tight, so I put it back together. But the head fit tight on the post. I then had to build a base for it, as being on my workbench made it too tall. So I built a wooden rolling stand.
Replaced the motor with a new 3/4 hp Marathon reversible motor, with a directional switch. Now I just need to replace the test cord with a heavier one.
