Restoring a Wonderful Old Drill Press! Worth it? or should've bought new?
My Brass Hammer Waitlist: paskmakes.com/the-brass-hammer/
It took a while to get around to restoring this drill press but it was definitely worth the wait.
Now I just need to make a stand for it and maybe a vintage style control box.
Just to add some more info:
Paid $200 for the drill press, the VFD was $90, bearings and belt $125 and the paint $40.
A new Brobo Walden drill press can be found here for comparison brobo.com.au/product-category... They're not exactly the same but they are very similar.
As always I'm happy to answer any questions.
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My Brass Hammer Waitlist: paskmakes.com/the-brass-hammer/ It took a while to get around to restoring this drill press but it was definitely worth the wait. Now I just need to make a stand for it and maybe a vintage style control box. Just to add some more info: Paid $200 for the drill press, the VFD was $90, bearings and belt $125 and the paint $40. A new Brobo Walden drill press can be found here for comparison brobo.com.au/product-category/drills/3m-drills/ They're not exactly the same but they are very similar. :)
Highlight the letters on the casting in red. That would rely set it off nicely. You've done a cracking job on it though!
Oh wow. Two fifty to fix it is cheap.
Keyless Chuck is must have on restored press
Just a ti when making a restoration video: don't show it restored in the thumbnail
Thank goodness
If you're doing home repair, kitchen upgrades, bathroom remodel, windows... I'll watch all of that as well. You can make your wife happy and still keep up with videos on the channel!
Basically you mentioned everything that needs doing! :)
@@PaskMakes I know how it goes! By the time we're retired it'll all be done, right?
Hush, keep that a secret from the wife! He deserves doing what he loves the most!
As would I. I like the variety of your channel and can't help but see those as just more of what we love.
Honestly, I have never seen a Pask Makes video that I didn’t think was awesome. Your narration, filming, editing, story telling, and workmanship are top notch. Please don’t ever think something you’re doing is not video worthy.
I agree. The project being done in the video doesn't matter nearly as much as the storytelling and all that goes along with it. I'd happily watch Neil do home repairs and old tool restorations along with his other content!
Thanks very much Chaser! Glad you're enjoying the videos - not everyone likes my narration though, I get the odd comment about it. :)
@@SuperDavidEF Thanks David! :)
@@PaskMakes Can't be all things to all people Neil! For what it's worth, I watch way too much KZhead and your narration is among my favourites. Much prefer your dulcet tones to having my ears assaulted by the hyperactive yelling at you infomercial kind.
The best part of his videos is that he tackles anything and everything. "How hard can it be?" is a great motto to have.
What a beautiful old drill press. Glad to see such a thorough restoration on it. Side note: I'm sure most of us wouldn't mind watching you tackle a few home repair projects; especially if it will help you stay on good terms with the missus.
exactly what i was thinking
Ditto!
Agreed. Frank Howarth does this all the time
Most definitely. Neil can film anything and I'd watch it.
Hell, it's probably more applicable to most of us. Fascinating as this video is, I'm not likely to ever rebuild a drill press. But there's dozens of home improvement projects I need to get done.
Vintage tool restoration is some of the best content on KZhead. Thanks for this!
Especially when it is done like in this video. A real treat.
He does such a superb job on all of his projects. Would love to see him make the base for it now.
Glad you enjoyed it! :)
Some of it is "fake", however. I also hate seeing old castings all filed down and filled in. It's not a show car, it's a tool! Most of those restorations completely destroy any value the tool had.
It is always worth fixing old stuff, and new. As consumers (not businesses where time and money are the bottom line ), we have a social responsibility to keep stuff out of the waste stream and landfill. It is (or should be) the other side of the coin of consumerism. Also old fixed stuff is just cooler. And learning the skills to fix newer value-engineered items is satisfying in it's own way
Also the older stuff is usually better made so it is actually probably going to last a lot longer!
@@markjust86 agreed - however it's also worth people learning how to fix even today's cheaper stuff. Worst case you learn something and it still has to get thrown away (or given to someone who wants to fix it), best case it's fixed and a new skill is learned. Too many people unfortunately think that just because todays stuff wasn't made with repair in mind means it can't be fixed. It can, someone designed and made it in the first place - it just takes an evolving skill set and refusing the pro-consumerism brainwashing that "if isn't worth fixing" or "it can't be fixed"
@FliesLikeABrick since I was a kid, whenever I got some new device or tool, I would take it apart and discover how it works. I have found that a lot of newer items are purposely made so repares are not possible. But you are right, most things can be repaired.
Amen. The disposable nature of modern products to maximize profit is abhorrent.
@@carbonstar9091 yep part of the solutions to consumer sustainability is avoiding products which are designed to be disposable, finding alternatives and giving them money instead. It takes will power not to buy the cheapest possible solution
Lovely work as always Neil and well worth shooting a video. It came out looking great and those classic blue-green machine colours are just so distinctive. I vote for painting the lettering. I'd love to see a classic style control box to hide-away the modern VFD too.
Thanks very much Dominic - glad you enjoyed it! I'm still not sure about the lettering but I'm eager to make the control box! :)
@@PaskMakes One more vote for painting the lettering here, white like you suggested would look great. But obviously you're the one who has to look at it every day, so whatever ends up floating your boat!
Although the classic colour does look nice, my personal preference would have been to paint it in the same blue as the other machines. This colour seems to clash rather harshly with those, but perhaps that's just me 😁
@@goldenghostinc Mate it's in a workshop not a women's fashion shop. Colour matching is not a priority. 💅
@@garywilson3485 Absolutely not a priority, but it brings me happiness, even in a workshop 😜
This press has worked like a charm for my projects kzhead.infoUgkxajoEbapTfqWaadnqb04h6U576yxXp-FE . I didn't even secure it to my table top, mainly due to the fact that I was using a 15 lbs drill vise. It's not flimsy at all as to what others have claimed it to be. Make sure the locking nuts and levers are secured and there won't be any issues with light pressure and patience. I was able to drill through aluminum, plastic, and steel (steel took a while) with no problems at all. Yeah it took a little longer than a regular drill press, but I don't have the space OR the money for one.The instruction manual was worthless, but luckily assembling the press was intuitive. However, the manual would be good for ordering replacement parts if needed. There is a nice breakdown of the parts that are included in the kit. Before ordering, make sure it is compatible with your unit, it is clearly stated what models the press is compatible with.This was an excellent purchase for $40!!
when you ask us "to let you know if that's something that we'd be interested in watching", the answer is yes! always yes! 🙂
SAME HERE!!! I love watching your videos and I’m always interested!!
I love restoration videos when they're done with an attention to aesthetic details while maintaining elements of its original design. This definitely is one of them. I would only paint the original casting letters to white because it seems to demand it. A control box build video would be nice too!
Thanks very much Bob - glad you enjoyed it! I'm still not sure what to do about the lettering so I'll leave it for now and see. :)
The majority of this model did not have the letters painted however those the were painted, were painted red and only if the body was painted in dolphin blue as yours is. if that's any help for you. these were also painted in a grey and also a green depending on when it was made. what was the thread for the knob that you made? metric or imperial?
I am not sure why you didn't think restoring that drill press would be a great video. Thus was awesome. Live seeing an old tool getting a new lease on life. And seeing the methods and chemicals used is always useful. I would be very interested in seeing how you deal with the 3 phase power issue.
He bought a VFD $90
I thought there would already be too many drill press restoration videos and wasn't sure another one was needed. Glad you enjoyed it though Doug! :)
Last year I was given the exact same Waldown 8SN Series 3 from my father-in-law, whose father originally owned it. He bought it in the early 1950’s in Victoria where it was originally manufactured. It has seen a lot of action in its life but still runs flawlessly. It’s a beautiful machine. I have given it a quick clean, but would love to restore it properly to see it live another 70 years, and I now have a complete and in-depth guide, thankyou! Keep up the good work!
Early to mid 1900 machines are the best ever made. They were built to last. You have real talent to keep this era alive. Thank you for sharing.
What a beautiful old drill press and skillful restoration. Neil, you never disappoint!
Glad you enjoyed it Bob! :)
I just stumbled across this and it was so impressive. You literally rush through this process wasting no time with what I call "filler" or useless prattle totally unrelated to the main point of the video. You're the first KZheadr I've seen who does that and I salute you. Of course I subscribed and hit the bell to see what else you have available. It was a thrill watching a videographer get straight to the point. It made me literally sit on the edge of my seat hoping I didn't miss whatever came next.
Thanks very much Ron! Glad you enjoyed it! :)
I have my Dad's old drill press. Very similar to this one. He attached a length of chain connecting the chuck key and the housing so it would never get lost. Best low tech hack ever!
Very nice result. Those old machines have much more character than the new ones
What a gorgeous machine. I love these restoration videos. You have just the right mix of “go the extra mile” and “good enough” to make it fun and seem attainable to us mere mortals.
Glad you enjoyed it Phil! :)
It would be awesome to see how you make modern vfd control to look period correct and as though it was original for the unit rather than an afterthought. Beautiful job!
Thanks very much! I'm still thinking the control box through but I reckon it could be a fun project. :)
Yes on the vintage controls and table. We need more Pask
I've been sick today convalescing in bed re-watching my favorites of your videos from over the years. They've been a source of rest and inspiration. Thank you!
Subbed about a year ago, probably my first time commenting. I just wanted to thank you for the content, it's always interesting and informative. Your projects are always unique your skills amazing and your imagination awesome. BTW, your formula for videos is perfect.
These resto videos are popular! I'm hooked, you should do more!! 😃😃
Glad you enjoyed it Martin! :)
Great job, Neil. Looks like new. It's always worth it to rebuild if you can. There's the satisfaction of saying (to yourself) I did that. Bill
At 0:50 - Famous last words, "...how hard could it be?" Always precedes hours of frustration for me on what i thought was an easy task.
Awesome job!!! ❤️❤️❤️👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 I wouldn’t mind seeing a whole house restoration, might make Cath a little happier! 😁
I'll definitely have to start thinking about it Samantha - it really would make Cath happy! :)
I haven't seen the video yet, but just wanted to say the finished result in the thumbnail is beautiful. Absolutely worth it, whatever it took 😁 Edit: awesome result Neil. And yes, would love to see a vintage inspired control panel 👍
Thanks Craig - I've been working out some ideas for the control box, hopefully I can get them to work. :)
@@PaskMakes I have complete confidence they will work. 👍 Looking forward to it.
I feel like I would watch any video you make. I'd watch you watching paint dry as long as you did a voice over of it. That's how good your videos are.
I think you’ve underestimated the KZhead restoration community Neil, actually woodworking videos eventually led me to restoration videos so this is lovely. I love all your videos but I saw this I was like ooh yay! Lol and yes show us how you further modify it!
I'd always buy the older ones, the modern ones aren't built to last. You'll not be buying any of them in 50 years time.
When a KZheadr says "let me know if that's something you'd like to see." I imagine that it's just a way of baiting people to comment. Thus showing engagement and helping their videos in the algorithm... But of course I would love to see you both make the metric conversion of the dial and the VFD retro control box. Anything you make is a pleasure to watch and I'm happy to show my engagement for the algorithm!
Certain things like tools made in a time when they were made to last will never stop having their beauty and optimal functionality, great work and thanks for sharing it, Regards
This drill press is high quality, made for eternity! New comes mostly from China and live time is limited for a few Years. You made a very good decision to restore it!!! Great job done.
Nice to see a restoration video that isn't fake, also nice to see some old iron get some new life, they don't make em like they used to for sure.
I love seeing these old tools brought back to their former glory. I do believe that painting the branding white will really make the whole unit pop!
I think your restoration made the drill press better than new. You couldn't buy one today that can compare to what you've done. One suggestion: don't highlight the letters in white. Instead use a creamy white. You owe me two cents.
It's always a joy to see an old tool set back to life ! Congrats to you !
I love these old tool restoration projects. Great job
Great job... This is a quality made machine, it‘s not in the same league as a new import. The fact that it can be stripped down, cleaned & repaired speaks volumes... 👍🙂
Fantastic result. For some reason, old machinenery is more robust then todays stuff. Less electronics and build from grey cast iron. Wonderful
Very well done. There is always great satisfaction in rescuing vintage machines such as this.
Tool restorations are some of my favorite videos that makers put out on KZhead. And it really doesn't matter to me what type of project you're doing. I'm going to watch regardless.
Beautiful work Neil! What a great project and addition to your shop.
I truly enjoy and appreciate your videos! This is right up my alley of types of projects. You will use this machine for years to come!
These videos are always fun to watch. You do great work. I'd love to see more restorations/reproductions like this. I'd enjoy watching you reproduce the control box.
I started out watching your channel for the quality and innovation in your woodwork. And now I’m equally impressed with your machining and restoration videos. Fantastic work all around!
Absolutely gorgeous work!
Gorgeous work!
A wonderful restoration of a wonderful piece of kit! Thanks for posting.
That's more than worthy for a video mate! Nice job! Is always good to see old wonders like that still kicking it cheers
Stunning result !!
Brilliant! Love watching restoration projects
A real beauty! Nice job. Thanks for sharing
Congratulations Mr. Pask, you're now am official KZhead Restorer, amongst other great things 😁. Please please do make a vintage-style control box and show us 🙏🙏🙏. That'd be awesome!!! 😎
Thanks for taking the time!
Love it! Such a beautiful machine to begin with and you made it shine. Looking forward to seeing you using this in future videos.
I loved watching you re do this old machine. One love!
Perfect result as always Neil! So glad you went with the original color, it looks fabulous!
Thanks for sharing that!
Great restoration ! Thanks for sharing 👍
I have no need for the knowledge imparted in these videos, but I am fascinated by them. I could watch "Pask" watch paint dry and STILL be enthralled......................and when it involves resurrecting a worthy piece of kit its even more intriguing........ Thank you!
Top job! Looking forward to the stand and control unit.
Gorgeous restoration and a brilliant re-build video - it was worth it after all!
Wow ! You've set the bar pretty high with this one. I have a drill restoration waiting for me with the VFD and 3 phases motor upgrade. Seeing your restoration is a great motivation. Thanks
Taking the time to fix a restorable tool is always worth the time. I appreciate you taking the time to make one of your videos of the process. It may be the inspiration for one of your viewers to do the same.
I watch a lot of these type of videos, restorations, and you telling what and why your doing it as the video goes on , is perfect. Well done and your work is top notch 👏
so satisfying and what a beautiful piece!!
Once again just watching you work is enjoyable.all the videos you make are worth doin.Ive learned a lot of what to do and how to do it .thanks brother.looking forward to the next video
Pretty sure all 1.08 million of us are going to watch anything you do, so post whatever videos you want. I personally would love some home renovation in between the woodworking and what not.
Amazing build Neil! Great work
Congratulation on a million subscribers, Neil. Well deserved! Great job with the restoration. I appreciate the time and attention you spend on details. With a tool restoration, if it's worth doing at all, then it's worth spending the time to do it right.
So glad you decided to restore the drill press, it's beautiful as well as functional and deserves a new life. Always inspirational as usual.
Such a joy seeing older models restored and looking great. A testament to how well things have been made. Great restoration job 👏
This is a thing of beauty!!! Thanks for sharing the process of Retoration.
A beautiful restoration! Great job! Always worth fixing up any old tool or equipment you can put back into service! 👍👍👍
That's a beauty! Nice work.
Always worth a video! I'm willing to bet I'm not the only one of your viewers who regularly watches restoration videos...
Great work, as always! I loved how you made that puller washer so you could use the gear puller like you did. Very unique idea that I'll be sure to borrow!
As always - inspiring and well-made videos from you. You are good at content and explanation of what you do. I'm looking forward to the next video. Thanks again for the great videos
I love restoring old tools! Fantastic job on that drill press!
Really nice restoration job, Neil. It's so pleasing to put something back into use that might otherwise have been headed for the scrapyard.
Well done. Always like the styling of these vintage machines.
Awesome project - as always. And what a beauty that drill press is. Few years back I went the same route and restored an old Atlas 64 press. You will have plenty of joy using it.
You are so amazingly talented. Thanks for sharing with us.
Sooooo awesome. I'm a huge fan on the looks of old drill presses. Thanks for restoring it and not buying new!
Your workmanship is outstanding . The 3 phase motor speed control makes the press delicious.
I love old machines, nice job turning this one around Neil 👍👍
Great work once again. Thank you.
Yes, i love to see an follow up on this, thanks in advance.
Nice work Neil, looking forward to seeing a video of the stand and VFD- box. I have a old floor standing drill press I am going to restore and now I have a reference of the standard of restoring to meet.
A truly outstanding renovation, most impressive!
Very Nicely done!!!! A beautiful restoration to any workshop!!!
@PaskMakes love to see that video for the VFD love your work 💪👍
It looks fantastic Neil super perfect job done there mate. Great video 👍🏽👍🏽
Beautiful work, thanks for saving that wonderful old drill press.
The diversity of content, and your delightful narration, is what keeps me coming to your channel! I love it :)
Love a restoration video. Can we get a "Pask makes his wife happy by fixing up the house" series?
Excellent restoration 👍👍👍Thank you for sharing. Be safe🇨🇦
Wow!!! Just ...... wow!!! I watched the other video for the knob and that turned out great, too!!!
That was a perfect blend of narration and action. Just the right amount of each.
Always enjoyable to see a vintage machine restored for a long second life. Well done. As you said, a thing of beauty. Dave.