I finally decided to purchase a drill press, not that I do alot of machining but it would come in handy from time to time. I saw a South Bend model 14 8 4a listed locally for 350. I thought it might be cool to have and possibly restore. What are some things I should look for when inspecting the drill press?I was thinking a laser would be helpful,could I retrofit one on any older drill press? Anyone familiar with this particular make? Thanks in advance
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South Bend drill press
- Thread starter Gtown1
- Start date
Packard V8
Well-known member
The South Bend is one of the best small DPs ever made. However, $350 is top dollar for any small DP. For home use, the Delta, Atlas, Walker Turner, Powermatic and earlier Craftsman will do what you need done.
FWIW, even with inflation, for $350, I'd want the South Bend to come turnkey with plenty of tooling.
jack vines, who's so old he doesn't know why a DP needs a laser.
FWIW, even with inflation, for $350, I'd want the South Bend to come turnkey with plenty of tooling.
jack vines, who's so old he doesn't know why a DP needs a laser.
Packard! I debated mentioning the laser for negative comments it might invite,lol!
Thanks so much for your insight,I just came back and although he pulled the " someone's coming over to look at it later" number I got him down to 225. I snagged it,it's got character!!!! I'll post pics when I grab it Saturday! Had an updated motor but maybe I can find something more original. The top cover doesn't sit flush but it ran real smooth!!! Does anyone know of a spot where I can find old parts for this press? Good site for drill bits??
Thanks so much for your insight,I just came back and although he pulled the " someone's coming over to look at it later" number I got him down to 225. I snagged it,it's got character!!!! I'll post pics when I grab it Saturday! Had an updated motor but maybe I can find something more original. The top cover doesn't sit flush but it ran real smooth!!! Does anyone know of a spot where I can find old parts for this press? Good site for drill bits??
paulsomlo
Well-known member
You might take a look at vintagemachinery.org and practicalmachinist.com for info. Parts? Probably ebay. And don't bother with the laser.