New here...because I found a beast from the 50's...60's?

[Peterthinking]

I have been looking to add a drill press to my lab (which is what I call my shop). I have been looking for months. I had almost given up on finding something worthy of the limited space I have. I almost went out and bought a modern low cost press but I found this.... I don't know much about it. I'm pretty sure the wiring has been redone. Probably a new motor. Switches look vintage but not original? Seems to have an old desk lamp bolted to it. Came with a cool stand and a bunch of bits. And I am about to jump into the rabbit hole. Make room! And it is so heavy I cannot lift it off the floor onto the stand. Wish me luck!

 

[HOTFR8]

Welcome to the GJ.

 

[driftpin]

I see you have the Rockwell 'Peterbuilt' model, a rare acquisition. A couple of you guys should be able to lift that onto your table/workbench, or you can use a cherry-picker to make quick work of that. Throw a couple of bolts into that to lock it in-place, once it's on the table/bench.

I approve of the high-traction yellow friction material on the table, no-need to use a vise when you've got that doing the holding for you!

You might want to look for a better, more-adjustable light once you get it onto the bench, a gooseneck usually gives you a lot of adjustability. Have you had a chance to check the runout? I'd address any significant functional issues before you do much of anything-else. Take a look inside the switchbox and the motor's wiring to ensure that you have a decent ground, and that you aren't dealing with someone else's wiring butchery.