Tom Senior M1

I have the oppertunitybto buy a Tom Senior M1 milling machine. I think it's one of the earlier versions that does not have the oilvfilled gearbox feedingvthe table. Is this an issue. Is there anything else I should be looking out for when viewing?

Thanks Colin

Colin

I have had an M1 for years and I have never used the power table feed as the motor on top has never been connected up. It has never been a problem for me. I suppose if I did want a power feed for some job I would probably take the handle off and just use a cordless drill for that particular job.

I have a vertical head on my Tom but if you are getting the Knuckle head version then it is worth noting that there can be very little clearance left between the top of a vice and the bottom of a drill. So I would have a good think about what you are doing and what sort of vice and drill / mill chucks you are using or getting.

Because I don't have a clearance issue I think my Tom Senior is superb, from my point of view it's an ideal model makers milling machine. It has quite a small footprint but is very solid and very heavy but can be easily broken down for transport. The heaviest bit is the column and this can be lifted by two strong blokes with a pole through the hole on top. It can also be changed to horizontal in about two minutes but I rarely do this.

I cant think of anything in particular to look out for as long as it all works and isn't too badly worn out and generally knackered. Backlash isn't too much of a problem if you plan on fitting a DRO. Might be worth checking the run-out or bearing wear on the knuckle head and make sure the internal taper isn't ruined.  I would also make sure the gibs are or can be adjusted up nicely to prevent any shake or wobble on the table and knee and that it all moves smoothly.  I think my early one had a parallel gib but my younger one has tapered.  Otherwise it should be good and if it is a good machine I think you will probably enjoy having it.

Edited By Buffer on 07/12/2021 13:25:27

Buffer thanks for the input just what I needed.

I believe the early machines had a Morse taper drive in the horizontal spindle whilst the later machines have a 30INT drive. If you must have a Senior I would try to find a later machine with an improved spindle, buts that's only my personal preference.