Meddings pedestal drill

Hi Can any one help with a couple of questions regarding a Meddings pedestal drill that I purchased some time ago with a view to refurbishing.

Description- Meddings DTB 01723 Circa 1976 Single phase. It appears superficially to be in good condition for its age with no drill marks in table and no noticeable wear. Runs ok at the moment.

Problems 1.Original bakelite switch is broken. Could easily make up a new knob but would like to convert it to a modern on/off switch.

2. The original electric cable is perished so fitted a new one but it blows the RCD in my garage fuse box?

3.The Quill will not rise up automatically, I have checked the return spring and it is not broken, however if I operate the drill in cold weather it goes up smoothly?

4.The motor appears to be original = maker The British- Houston Company, hp 1/4, RPM 1425 ,VOLTS 230/240V.

To conclude I am considering fitting a new switch box and motor as long as I can sort out the Quill. Some would argue that due to the cost ie new motor approx. £160.00 etc is it worth it? The previous owner stated that the drill came out of an engineering firms tool room and had not been used in day to day production work hence the condition so I would like to give it a try. Can anyone offer some advice and guidance?

Paul Southern.

Can only help with one of your issues, I fitted one of these to my drill two or three years ago.

i also fitted an nvr switch to my meddings, replacing the wiring at the same time.medding are still about today and i understand very helpful. sorry i cannot remember their phone number. my drill also does not spring return but i have never considered it a major problem however I have a back up pedestal drill.

Brian

found it Tel: +44 (0)1752 313323

Email [email protected]

bri

I replaced the 1ph motor on my pillar drill with a 3ph +VFD. The pair worked out at around £100. Variable speed and instant reverse make life so much easier: power threading and no chatter with big drills come to mind.

If you are sure wiring is OK, the RCD trip could be moisture in the motor windings rather than a major problem. A spell in the airing cupboard may sort the motor out.

Morning Dudley,

Attached are some images of the power switch mod. I did about one year ago using a bog standard NVR switch.

Len. P.

Dudley, Look at the star wheel just below the switch in Len's photo, this adds or removes tension from the return spring. Len's is I believe an M4 drill?

Meddings are still around and very helpful, I just purchased some spares for my drill including a return spring.

John F

Dudley,

My Meddings Pacera (similar to Len's pictures) has its original 3-phase motor, and with the addition of a VFD I rarely need to change the belt on the pulleys. By setting the belt on mid-range, and using the 2-speed gearbox together with the VFD speed control, I can get the range of speeds I need.

If you are going to buy a new motor then I would recommend a 3-phase with VFD control.

Phil