Powermatic 1150

[EdT]

Some time ago, I bought a Powermatic 1150 variable speed drill press at a school auction for $75. It had been sitting for a while before I got it and it sat for a while after I brought it home. A couple of years ago, I decided to set it up in my new shop . It had been sitting so long that the VS belt had developed a permanent "lump" in it so I replaced it and things were better. I have not done a complete teardown; yet. When I run it it sounds like a threshing machine. Not pleasant to use. The spindle seems to turn freely w/o the belt installed. I am not familiar with the variable speed drive and maybe "they're all like that", but I thought I'd see if anyone had a suggestion on what direction to go to get the thing running with less noise. I think I know the answer, but there are lots of folks out there with more experience than I who might know a shortcut.

 

[Todd.Brock]

My Clausing has a new belt. Apparently they are a little loud when the belt in new/ stiff. I was surprised a bit at the sounds coming from the top. But the hole gets drilled. I don't think I am ever going to use mine enough to see it quiet down!

 

[Craptain]

Tough to give an opinion from the short description you gave us. But both my dp's run quietly and smoothly running link belts. I have started to switch all my power tools to link belts and I am delighted with the difference. Definitely quieter and smoother. Just my thoughts. Otherwise a teardown is imminent.

 

[Bob Hall]

Short answer is that machine should be very smooth and relatively quiet. We'd need a whole lot more info and of course, pictures, to offer anything more.

 

[EricP]

The variable speed pulleys might be worn. Inspect the bronze bushings that the halves slide up and down on. They should fit very closely. If worn the pulley halves knock around. Also look at the pins that the halves ride up and down on and the associated grooves. Wear there causes noise when running. I'd post pictures but they are at home. If you take the pulleys apart it will become obvious if there is significant wear. That is a major source of noise.

 

[A_Pmech]

Most of those machines use a plastic bushing with a plastic lined keyway. when the bushing fails the reeves drive starts clattering.

 

[EricP]

Most of those machines use a plastic bushing with a plastic lined keyway. when the bushing fails the reeves drive starts clattering.

Powermatic uses either one or two square head pins that ride in a machined slot. The relatively small pins wear the slot resulting in the clattering you mentioned. Worn bronze bushings are another problem source.

 

[EricP]

Here are a couple pictures. Look for sloppiness in the fit between the two halves of the pulley. Usually created by worn bronze bushings, worn pins, or worn keyways.

 

[EdT]

Thanks to all for the replies. The pictures are helpful so I know what to expect. Since this was a school machine it either had a horrible and tortuous life or sat over in the corner and was seldom used. There are only a few marks of shame on the table, so maybe it had an easy life. I guess I'll be digging deeper as time allows. I guess I'll just lower the head down to a convenient work height and have at it.