Hello Everyone . . . I just recently inherited a used vice. To be a bit more specific, it appears to be a pretty well used (and abused) Columbian (made in the USA) model D43-M4.
Red in color and from the information I have been able to find when searching this site the description provided in the very nicely done spreadsheet seems to fit my vice exactly. Additionally, when reading many, many, posts about vices and some of the issues with them, it appears that I probably need a spindle and handle assembly and maybe some associated parts. What is happening is that when I attempt to tighten something in the vice, it kind of slips as the jaws get closer. So, the big question is - can anyone provide me with information as to where I might obtain such parts? Any help is very much appreciated!!! I do not think it has any bearing on assistance but I am located in the Orlando, FL area. Again, thank you. Also, I greatly apologize if I am posting this improperly or in the wrong place. Corrections graciously appreciated. Great web site. I just found it.[i/QUOTE]
Rand
Welcome to GJ.
It sounds like may be the main nut or screw might have worn out or stripped thread.
In any case to be honest notwithstanding any sentimental value (which of course is very important) the monetary value of D43 is not very high. And were you by chance ( it is often not easy to find parts for old vises) able to locate some parts for the D43 financially might not make sense to fix this vise.
Having said this, if you still want to fix this vise apart from getting really lucky and finding a donor d43 locally for cheap, you might want to try eBay. There is seller on eBay named oldtoolnut who is a nice and helpful guy. He often has parts for various vises (again mainly parts for higher end machinists vises as opposed to mechanics vises like D43). You might want to contact him and see if he can help you.
Good luck