Meddings Overhaul – missing parts

[WoodlikesbikesParticipant @woodlikesbikes]

I’m about to start overhauling another Meddings drill. This one is missing a few parts that I’m not sure how to replace.

First up is the cover for the spring box. I’ve not been able to find an original anywhere. Does anyone know of a supplier? My next option is to modify a Branstons pickle jar lid. I reckon i might be able to cut slots in the sides in the hope that it pops in the same way as the original Meddings did. Does anyone have alternative suggestions?

I’m missing the knob from the switch. Given a NVR switch costs about £10 I’ll probably just fit that instead. But does anyone know where to find a rotary switch knob? The shaft measures about 4.6 mm so I’m guessing that it will need a 3/16″ one. But I’ve found nothing similar.

Finally, the are two nuts, one on the foot and one on the table clamp. They look crudely hacked to fit. I’m guessing these aren’t original. But I’ve found a picture online that suggests they might be. Can anyone clarify?

Many thanks in advance.

[larry phelan 1Participant @larryphelan1]

For what it,s worth, I “restored” an old bench drill [found in a hayshed ], which was missing the cover from the spring. I made one from a piece of tubing, using a piece of scrap plate to form the front, and just cut a few slots around the rim.  Nothing fancy, but it worked. Why not just replace the switch with a NVR unit from Aliexpress ?

[DC31kParticipant @dc31k]

The whole point of rstoring these classic machines is sympathy for their original looks. A modern NVR switch will look completely out of place.

For the switch knob, search for “chicken head knob”. They are used in audio applications (amplifier ones are larger than guitar ones, and would be closer to original). Avaiable from eBay and Ali. The square hole will not be correct, but you can make an adaptor bush.

The original switch is made by Santon amd knobs are interchangeable. You can keep an eye on eBay as you can pick up a complete switch and knob for £20.

I think I 3D modelled one, so a 3D printed one or using the 3D printed one to a cast one that looks close to Bakelite is an option.

What does the spring cover look like? Can you make a drawing of the important dimensions? To me, a jar lid will be too flimsy. You could make one from steel sheet, turning a flange on it in the same way you would do for a model copper boiler (but would need a steel former and heat). An outside option is a very large core plug from an engine.

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