Heavy Machine Casters Build

[Uglydog]

I had the opportunity to visit the shop of a local machinist. Amongst other machines he runs two Acer Mills.
He found that maintenance or cleaning behind and around his Acers was problematic. Thus, he built and installed these casters.
To raise he attaches simply turns the threaded rod, the caster lowers and the mill rises. He is then able to easily move the mills without fuss.

Due to limited shop space I'm thinking of adapting the concept to my Cincy. It may also hold some clues for getting her off the pallet.

Daryl
MN

 

[bcall2043]

I have been looking for a good way to add wheels without height. The idea of having the caster mount on top of the base solves that concern. I already have to stand on my toes to reach the motor switch. Could you fill us in a little more on how they work? It looks like the jacking screw just pushes the wheel straight down in the photo below and the bracket is bolted to the mill through the existing factory hole.

Do the rear wheels mount the same way?

Benny
The Orphanage Never Closes

 

[Uglydog]

I have been looking for a good way to add wheels without height. The idea of having the caster mount on top of the base solves that concern. I already have to stand on my toes to reach the motor switch. Could you fill us in a little more on how they work? It looks like the jacking screw just pushes the wheel straight down in the photo below and the bracket is bolted to the mill through the existing factory hole.
Do the rear wheels mount the same way?
Benny
The Orphanage Never Closes

That's exactly how they work.
Very simple design.

I'm concerned that it may put alot of stress on the in the base designed to secure the mill to the floor.
But, then the intent of the wheels is not not to bounce the machine down a flight of steps.
The rear wheels are the same construction.

 

[GK1918]

Although not finished yet, got it half way built, I simply went over the top of the base using the existing
holes already there (most mills have them I think) with channel iron welded channel iron which the
cast iron wheels are mounted. I had to lift the mill up a little just to snake the bolts under, then picked up
with a magnet then nuts on those. Channel iron and wheels go over the bolts add nuts and tighten
two nuts even thus raising the mill. All we need is just enough to roll. I know I wrote this somewhere
forgot to write myself a note, anyhow its on the back burner for now cause the other day the mill
mysteriously moved 35 feet, now in a corner??? while I was sleeping. I dont see any crow bars, pipe
rollers or scratches or marks on the floor. No matter what, there is always trace evidence in any crime,
but I can't find any. 3000 pound can not be dragged across the floor without marks. Kid power.

 

[Daver]

...cause the other day the mill
mysteriously moved 35 feet, now in a corner??? while I was sleeping. I dont see any crow bars, pipe
rollers or scratches or marks on the floor. No matter what, there is always trace evidence in any crime,
but I can't find any. 3000 pound can not be dragged across the floor without marks. Kid power.

I would love to hear the story behind that! Keep us posted.