No Low Back Gear On 2j Variable, New To Me

[genevamotorsports]

I just hooked up my new-to-me Bridgeport with the 2J variable speed head . Everything on the unit is tight and works except when shifted into low back gear, it seems to run in "neutral". The lever detent is solid. Is this a common problem? What should I look for when tearing into it?

 

[hvontres]

Are you sure you are all the way into back gear ? There is a center detent for Neutral. Sometimes I need to jiggle the spindle a little in order for the gears to change all the way.

 

[genevamotorsports]

Yes, the lever is securely in the low detent. Thanks for the input. I'll have to open her up and find out.

 

[genevamotorsports]

I found the problem. Back gear doesn't work without a timing belt! Obviously the previous owner wasn't using low gear... I had no way to check it under power but it was in such good shape vs the price, I took the risk. I'll put two new belts on while it's open. All the rest is good.