Jaw inserts for vise

[illmatyk]

Has any one ever tried to make their own jaw inserts? If so, any suggestions or tips?

 

[Hammer1963]

I have a set of Delrin (plastic) and Copper jaws that I have made. I simply transfered the bolt pattern and jaw dimensions from the originals and made new ones. Careful with the Copper when you go to drill it. it will grab the drill bit, and reek havoc on your project. Brass and Aluminum also will suffice and are much easier to come by than the Delrin and Copper

 

[Packard V8]

Yes, as long as you're not trying to make cross-hatched hardened jaws, it isn't rocket science. Think about what you usually hold in your vise. Does it need to be clamped so tight hardened cross-hatched jaws would leave a mark? If not, mild steel will work. All you need is a hacksaw, a drill press and a good layout square. Find or buy stock at the scrap yard about the same size as the finished jaws. 1" x 1/2" bar stock is a good starting place for most Wilton-style vises.

jack vines

jack vines

 

[illmatyk]

I have a set of Delrin (plastic) and Copper jaws that I have made. I simply transfered the bolt pattern and jaw dimensions from the originals and made new ones. Careful with the Copper when you go to drill it. it will grab the drill bit, and reek havoc on your project. Brass and Aluminum also will suffice and are much easier to come by than the Delrin and Copper

Yes, as long as you're not trying to make cross-hatched hardened jaws, it isn't rocket science. Think about what you usually hold in your vise. Does it need to be clamped so tight hardened cross-hatched jaws would leave a mark? If not, mild steel will work. All you need is a hacksaw, a drill press and a good layout square. Find or buy stock at the scrap yard about the same size as the finished jaws. 1" x 1/2" bar stock is a good starting place for most Wilton-style vises.

jack vines

jack vines

Cool thanks. Also, is there a special drill bit to drill counter-sunk holes?

 

[Hammer1963]

Normally you would use a counterbore bit for that, but if you are handy with a bench grinder, you could make your own by using a drill bit 1/16" larger than the head of the bolt and do a little creative grinding and make your own. Good luck and have fun.

 

[Outlawmws]

I've made jaw caps from heavy lead sheet, copper, and wood for quick "soft jaws" on my Parker, and my Morgan came with Copper jaw caps.

 

[Elroy]

Has any one ever tried to make their own jaw inserts? If so, any suggestions or tips?

Elroy has no idea what you're talking about

As a follow up to this old thread, Elroy tenders these hard wood vise jaw inserts for your enjoyment:

It also helps to have the appropriate size transfer screws. In this case 5/16-18. Start off by cutting some hard wood blanks.

Install the transfer screws in all (4) locations

Line up the blocks and close the vise solid to mark the hole locations on the back side of the blocks.

Pilot drill through the block from the back side

Flip over and counter bore for the screws heads using the pilot drill to pick up on. Counter bore for the heads first going deep enough to cover the screw heads. Drill the clearance hole for the screw shank last

Install and enjoy.

 

[illmatyk]

Thanks for all the inputs and suggestions.

Elroy, that's a really great idea!

 

[SWT Racing]

I usually buy some cheap aluminum angle and some strip magnet to make quick soft jaws.

 

[mooman]

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That's what I did. Then I glued some cork gasket material to the angle.