Sterling Bench Top Drill Press 1/4HP 1981

[jeffgaines]

Hi All,

I recently aquired a free press from Craigslist and have gone through the paces of breaking it down and cleaning it. It is a Sterling SP-30 Benchtop Press.

The guy who had it before me kept it outside for some reason, so there was a fair amount of rust to cut through. Long story short, the chuck was seized because of rust and it had to go. Being newbie to owning a press, the options for chucks and the amount one can spend are endless. I am on a budget, and acquiring a cheap, but decent chuck is something I would to do. The current chuck is tapered and measures, at the widest part of the opening, just over .6 in. I assume a 5/8 tapered chuck would do the trick. If so, can anyone point me in the right direction to purchase one? Any info will be appreciated. Looking for a reputable online dealer, so no ebay.

Thanks!

JG

I have a attached a couple of the before pics to give y'all some visual references. Thanks!

 

[Davefr]

If the chuck has a tapered socket it's probably a Jacob's taper. Probably a #33 Jacobs Taper but you need to measure large diam., small diam and length and match it up with a Jacobs Taper chart to be sure.

Do you really want 5/8" for a 1/4 HP DP?? You might not find that size in JT33. You'll also loose small diameter capability (ie <1/8") with a 5/8" chuck.

There are plenty of suppliers. (Zoro, Grainger, MSC, etc)

However I'd think twice about Ebay. Used chucks are plentiful and go for pennies on the dollar. Just make sure there's a return policy and make sure the seller shows images of the jaws and confirms the chuck opens and closes smoothly.

(example)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jacobs-0-1-...218893?hash=item43f2cb4e0d:g:wPUAAOSwExJXoexR

Older Jacobs chucks made in Hartford are hard to beat and I'd buy a used one in a heartbeat over the current crop of new Chinese chucks.

If you want nirvana go with an Albrecht keyless but at this point your putting lipstick on a pig. (no offense)

 

[jeffgaines]

Hi Dave,

I will measure and post some pics. Being new to this want to ensure I am getting the right parts. Noted on ebay. Will check it out. Information provided is greatly appreciated.

JG