I hate not closing a loop.
Per someone on another forum, this rotary machine is probably a Peck Smith, pre 1867.
I bought it in 2017 b/c I'd researched all the cheap plate steel Bead roller options (like from Eastwood), and then between time and materials to strengthen the frame, and options to put a motor on it (which weren't as prevalent seven years ago), I thought this was worth the effort, especially since anything comparable was thousands of dollars (a Pexto 622 with a 7" throat is $1450)
I was too busy to deal with this at the time, and stashed it in storage. Recently, I had a lull in projects, and coincidentally had to move to a new secondary storage garage, so I decided I might as well finish this project.
- I researched and got a Dayton motor
- Same, I got a variable speed foot pedal
- Found a lovejoy coupling and welded that to the handle (I had to cut the handle off for motorized use, but drilled holes and a welded studs so it can be reattache)
- I made a motor bracket out of 1/4" plate, which worked out well from a spacing and existing holes perspective.
- When it came to dies, I had zero idea, but I bought an Amazon set for 22mm shafts (thinking this is the least amount of material to remove from each die), and 2.5" centers. What I didn't realize (which is a major advantage) is they sell you a sleeve for the shaft, and all the dies use a set screw on that sleeve.
- That was huge, because I only had to machine 2 sleeves to fit my machine, and then all the dies slide on said sleeve.
- End result-Works awesome.
- Fence is there if I want it for an edge, otherwise remove it.
- Throat depth is 14+ inches
- The only thing I wish I'd done different is a reverse switch (but I may add that after the fact: probably easy).
My 11 yr daughter even made this, with zero experience.
