I need some help/info on a drill press return spring

Karl B. Andersen

Karl B. Andersen

Joined
Jul 27, 2003
Messages
5,663
Today, of course, during preparations for the Wisconsin Badger Show, the return spring on my floor drill press broke.
I understand how they work and how to replace them.
However, this drill press doesn't even seem to be made anymore, and the owner's manual doesn't list the spring as a part.
Luckily, the return spring looks pretty generic.
That said, I can find online 2", 2 1/8" and 2 1/2" springs.
How are these measured?
When I measure the outside of the spring case, it measures 2 1/16"!!
Is this a 2" or a 2 1/8" spring?
Most references also say that 15-17" floor presses use 2 1/2" springs. I can find nothing on the spring or case that measures 2 1/2". ANd most listings say the smaller springs are for smaller bench top presses.
What the hell do I have?
 
Karl, I feel your pain. Hey the old bungee cord to the drill handle works.;):D You might have to find someone who has a similar drill press that is not working and scavenge the spring. What type is it and what is the model number. There might be someone out there who can help you out.
 
A C Richards said:
Karl, I feel your pain. Hey the old bungee cord to the drill handle works.;):D You might have to find someone who has a similar drill press that is not working and scavenge the spring. What type is it and what is the model number. There might be someone out there who can help you out.
Click to expand...

Chuck, You beat me to it. The drill press I replaced about a year ago was set up with a bungee cord return. I must have used it that way for a couple years. I found a pretty decent floor mount at Lowes for around $300.00. It was a Porter Cable and of coarse it was made in China.
 
Just did a google of "shop king and came up with zero results. Got some stuff from canada but it was basically craftsman. there are a bunch of custom shops out there if you call them they could make one up for you.
 
I have cut those down before and reformed the end. Just heat the very end and bend it. It will last for a while and then you can decide what you wanted to do. That is unless it broke in the middle then you really need a new one.
 
There are all kinds of them on Amazon of various sizes. I think I'll just get the 2 1/8" and see what happens.
Chuck, I found the same thing.
I at least have the sense to check Google first.;)
I was just hoping someone would know how they come up with their measurements.
 
I would guess that if your spring measures 2.062" now it was a 2" spring new. The longer spring may not allow the spindle to fully retract.
 
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