My first Wilton Bullet Vise

[SRU1436]

This is my first Wilton Bullet vise. I can only get the swivel base to move about a 1/4 inch. I would like to do a total restoration. Can i get some advise/help on the swivel base removal? I've searched around and have come up dress far

 

[TMcCay]

First off nice vise and a C1 at that! And welcome to GJ!

You would be better off going over to the vintage tool discussion side of the forum and look for Vise Repair 101. There is some real talent there and someone if not several will be able to answer your questions for your vise. Here is the link, hope it works..

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=252830&highlight=vice+restoration

 

[exmaxima1]

That's a fairly simple design. Once you soak everything for a few days with PB Blaster (or equiv), remove the clamp handles. Carefully knock the clamp bolts down without ruining the threads (they are large carriage bolts). That center section should fall off, as it is only held to the vise base by a center dowel pin.

 

[Trey T]

what a beast!!

 

[Richard Cranium]

nice find.

 

[CNGsaves]

The5Farrs . . . . Welcome to GJ. You're going to fit in great here on GJ.

That Wilton looks like it will clean up very nice. Be sure to see the "Vises Of GJ" thread for ideas on restoration. Also, the "Vise Repair 101" thread will have details on tearing down, electrolysis, repainting, etc. Good luck.

 

[gtr1999]

I have an older Wilton bullet, I think it's a tool maker vise with smooth jaws but I don't really know. I do know it's the best vise I have used over the past 40 years.

 

[Davefr]

Go to a feed store and buy a jug of feed grade Molassis. Mix the Molasses at a ratio of around 80% water to 20% Molasses and fill a tote or large bucket.

Insert the vise and let it soak for about 2-3 weeks. Come back and it should be rust free with no damage to the iron.

The C series are great vises. Yours looks good except for that badly rusted base. Some of the base's locking serrations look like they're gone but maybe you can position the vise so the worst one's don't get used.

Good luck.

 

[cgrutt]

Nice vice! Seems as though your question has been answered. Good luck with it and keep us posted with restoration.

 

[SRU1436]

I took it apart tonight, the carriage bolts were rusted into the swivel locks. I just cut out the carriage bolts and will buy new swivel locks from Wilton. I also could not get the bolts out of the swivel locks. I am debating with either trying the electrolysis bath or trying Davefr's method. Probably going to try Davidfr's method first, it might be easier than building the electrolysis tank. Thank guys and ill keep you posted.

Matt

 

[Trey T]

cehck on ebay first or members here for parts.