1950s drill press

[JHZR2]

Sears model 103.23131.

It's a really solid unit, I used it for years with my grandfather. Now I have it, and I'd like to service it if it makes sense. Obviously cleaning years of sawdust from the upper unit and motor is in order, and I guess I should lube the press action (or will that just collect grit and dust and be a bad idea?). What about luring the motor? Replacing the power cord? It's a real solid thing, but even with it somewhat apart, it's tough to see/know what I should or should not do.

On a related note, it takes a 1/2" x 45" belt. It will spin up to 8000RPM with the pulleys in various ratios. I'm thinking about replacing the belt. Does anyone know if a 4L and an AP 0.5" belt is interchangeable, assuming the length is correct? Is there a specific belt type I should look for? Obviously the torque level isn't that high for something like this, but I don't know what kind of v belt design and material is best. I read once that a notched v belt doesn't always work the best on old equipment...

Thanks!

 

[oilboy123]

Not an expert on drills. It looks like a nice old quality unit. You could use a dry lube product where you think it might attract particles etc.

I would probably use a good motor oil on a lot of mechanisms. Good luck with it.

 

[jcwit]

Take the belt to your nearest auto parts store or farm supply store and have them match it up. Not a big deal at all.

BTY these are a quality unit and will last another life time if given some TLC. I believe the we're made by Atles Mfg., the folks that made Atles lathes.

 

[demarpaint]

My brother has one that was given to him over 35 years ago when he was still living home with my parents. He put a motor on it and has been using it ever since. It is still a nice tool.

 

[Corelokt]

Looks like a Dunlop.
103 = Dunlop
101 equals Atlas
113 equals King Seely.

I'm an Atlas fan, but King Seeley is very heavy duty stuff.

 

[JHZR2]

Originally Posted By: Corelokt
Looks like a Dunlop.
103 = Dunlop
101 equals Atlas
113 equals King Seely.

I'm an Atlas fan, but King Seeley is very heavy duty stuff.


The top picture says specifically King Seeley...

 

[Trav]

Looks great, i can see that living another lifetime.

 

[JHZR2]

and then some!

 

[Trav]

I look at that and my dads tools (now mine) and have to wonder.
He has a tiny Atlas lathe that was made around this time and a lot of other similar aged stuff some of it from Sears.

Sears built up a retailing empire on this stuff It was good, affordable, it lasted and people bought it without reservation.
Why do companies believe the same formula wont work today? It does, just look at Hazet, Snap-On, Stahlwille, etc its a bit more expensive but people shrug that off and buy the quality.

 

[expat]

Some good info here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOAav5L3F6c

I would also remove and lube the Quill.

That is a very nice DP you have there, likely more accurate than my newer, 15 speed floor model I have. despite the hours I have put in trying to improve the poor machining by the (U.S.) manufacturer.