Myford ML7 & Super 7 beds

Does anyone know if I can replace a very worn early Super 7 bed with an ML7 bed.

I have the opportunity to buy very cheply a complete but worn out bed Super 7 and I already have a complete OK condition ML7.

I am not really bothered by continuity of serial numbers and originality, but thought I might get a Super 7 with all it's updated drive, clutch, speed etc. for a pretty cheap price. And I don't mind spending money on my hobby (within reason)

Thanks all, Ivy.

I think they are the same. But maybe Hopper or someone else may know for sure.

Steve.

One of the difference's between beds can be in the cutout in the bed under the headstock casting that allows clearance for the back gear cluster

A super 7 cluster gear is larger ,

i'm not sure how easy it would be to tell though until you start removing headstocks , but on the other hand you could probably add clearance if this was an issue without to much problem

Edited By T.B on 16/03/2021 17:03:34

T.B

Yes, I can see that clearance for the back gear now on google images.

Unless someone has already done this I guess it will be a case of trial and error.

Hopefully someone has done it before me.

If you have a late model ML7 with a 3/4" leadscrew theres a good chance this will not even be an issue as myford started standardising parts between the ML7 and S7 , presumably to simplify production

Another thing to think about is the fixings for the rear countershaft bracket they are different between ML7 and S7's , although i'm pretty sure I have seen some beds with tapped holes to take both ML7 and Super 7 countershaft brackets 

Edited By T.B on 16/03/2021 18:14:23

Edited By T.B on 16/03/2021 18:16:36

My ML7 is an early one but thanks for the insight T.B.

I think I will buy it and start looking for a decent second hand Super 7 bed. Then if I sell the ML7 it will probably recoup the cost of the Super.

Ivy,

I rebuilt an early (1957) Super 7 on an unworn bed from an ML7 capstan lathe. I believe this is the same bed used on the standard ML7. There were only 2 issues. As TB has pointed out, the Super 7 needs a new mounting hole for the countershaft arm drilling and tapping in the back of the bed. The other issue was that the mounting holes for the saddle rack were offset. I needed to drill and tap new holes to suit the Super 7 rack. Otherwise plain sailing. No issue with clearance for the backgear.

Hope this is of help

Regards

Mike

Thanks Mike,

Thank good to know, and first hand experience is what I was hoping for.

Well I only had to drill and tap one hole for the countershaft as I'm using the ML7 rack and apron, so strip down and paint now it all fits.

Incidentally the cut-out under the headstock was the same on both beds, unlike other ML7s being smaller.

Thanks for giving me the confidence to do this Mike.