Uses for a die filer - please post photos of your die filer in use

[wachuko]

I don't have a dedicated die filer, but I do have a Delta 40-1440 scroll saw built in the 1940's. I looked for a couple years for a die filer without success. At the time the prices were outrageous. I decided to purchase a Delta 40-1440 scroll saw and see if I could convert it to a die filer. Much to my surprise I found It has die filing capabilities. Delta offered a chuck to hold files, and this one just happened to have it. I've used it on several occasions and have been happy with the results. This particular model has 4 speeds from 650 SPM to 1700 SPM

Here's a link to the 1940 Delta Power Tool Catalog. The scroll saws and accessories start on page 22.

Delta Specialty/Delta Mfg. Co./Delta-Rockwell/Rockwell Intl. - Publication Reprints - Delta Power Tools 1940 Catalog Q-1 | VintageMachinery.org

Here are a couple pictures of the machine

I have one just like that.



But no adapters.



Is it possible to share detailed photos and dimensions of the file adapter? I would like to make one. Your post with the photos also reminds me that I need to build a stand for it. I like what you did with the stand with wheels.



I also have the MLA-18 kit… but it will be awhile before I tackle that one….

 

[rwm]

Mine is shop built:

It is good for making square holes in panels.

New video by Robert Miller

photos.app.goo.gl

I rarely use it but I probably would if I had the space to leave it out. It's in storage now.

 

[projectnut]

I have one just like that.

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But no adapters.

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Is it possible to share detailed photos and dimensions of the file adapter? I would like to make one. Your post with the photos also reminds me that I need to build a stand for it. I like what you did with the stand with wheels.

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I also have the MLA-18 kit… but it will be awhile before I tackle that one….

I can share some photos, but right now we're out of town and don't expect to return for another week or so. We're currently at the family cottage trying to get some projects completed. Unfortunately, it's raining, and is supposed to rain all day with an accumulation of 2+ inches. I don't get much shop time during the summer months with all the yard work and other outdoor projects that need attention.

As for the stand that is the one it came on. It was from a cabinet makers shop. He didn't use it much, so he wanted to be able to wheel it off to a corner when not in use.

The chuck on your machine looks identical to the one on mine. If you look down through the table, the jaws should each have a V shape. It uses either round or square shank files. I can't remember the shank size off hand, but I believe it's either 1/8" or 3/16". You can make your own files to fit the machine by cutting off the handle tang and grinding the opposite end either round or square. Just remember the die filer works on the down stroke so what was the normal handle end becomes end sticking through the table.

There are a number of die filer machine files on eBay right now. Like most things some are reasonably priced while others are out in the dream world.

 

[wachuko]

I can share some photos, but right now we're out of town and don't expect to return for another week or so. We're currently at the family cottage trying to get some projects completed. Unfortunately, it's raining, and is supposed to rain all day with an accumulation of 2+ inches. I don't get much shop time during the summer months with all the yard work and other outdoor projects that need attention.

As for the stand that is the one it came on. It was from a cabinet makers shop. He didn't use it much, so he wanted to be able to wheel it off to a corner when not in use.

The chuck on your machine looks identical to the one on mine. If you look down through the table, the jaws should each have a V shape. It uses either round or square shank files. I can't remember the shank size off hand, but I believe it's either 1/8" or 3/16". You can make your own files to fit the machine by cutting off the handle tang and grinding the opposite end either round or square. Just remember the die filer works on the down stroke so what was the normal handle end becomes end sticking through the table.

There are a number of die filer machine files on eBay right now. Like most things some are reasonably priced while others are out in the dream world.

Thank you. No hurry, whenever you get a chance, as I am still working on organizing everything from the move.

When I got the MLA-18 kit, I also ordered a bunch of files for it… so I should be good there.

I will start working on a stand with casters. I need to be able to move it around when in use.

I hope the weather gets better so you can get what you need done.

 

[Aaron_W]

These guys offer new files for die filers.

Falcon Swiss parallel machine files

 

[BGHansen]

I have an Oliver S-1. It doesn't get heavy use, but it does the job when needed Here are some photos of mine.






I reproduce parts for Erector sets in my spare time. One part I make are Erector set part number "NU - Parachutes". I used to cut the men out by hand. The images are glued to a piece of chipboard about 0.060" thick. I'd get some nice callouses after a bit! I started by making the die which was all mill work. I clamped a piece of O-1 to the die and scribed the punch portion. Milled away close to the scribe line, then went to the Oliver.

 

[wachuko]

These guys offer new files for die filers.

Falcon Swiss parallel machine files

Yes. That is where I bought mine. They were going to stop selling them until Blondihacks made the video…. They told me, via email, that they were surprised by the sudden amount of orders… and asked me how I found out about them. I gave them the link to Blondihavks video

Die Filer

Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

youtube.com

and also a link to an older video of another MLA-18 build where the guy also mentions them…

 

[Aaron_W]

Yes. That is where I bought mine. They were going to stop selling them until Blondihacks made the video…. They told me, via email, that they were surprised by the sudden amount of orders… and asked me how I found out about them. I gave them the link to Blondihavks video

Die Filer

Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

youtube.com

and also a link to an older video of another MLA-18 build where the guy also mentions them…

Adam Savage did one a couple years ago too. That is where I found out about the MLA kit.

 

[matthewsx]

I have an Oliver S-1. It doesn't get heavy use, but it does the job when needed Here are some photos of mine.


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I reproduce parts for Erector sets in my spare time. One part I make are Erector set part number "NU - Parachutes". I used to cut the men out by hand. The images are glued to a piece of chipboard about 0.060" thick. I'd get some nice callouses after a bit! I started by making the die which was all mill work. I clamped a piece of O-1 to the die and scribed the punch portion. Milled away close to the scribe line, then went to the Oliver.

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Actually making dies. What a concept

John

 

[wachuko]

...The chuck on your machine looks identical to the one on mine. If you look down through the table, the jaws should each have a V shape. It uses either round or square shank files. I can't remember the shank size off hand, but I believe it's either 1/8" or 3/16". You can make your own files to fit the machine by cutting off the handle tang and grinding the opposite end either round or square. Just remember the die filer works on the down stroke so what was the normal handle end becomes end sticking through the table...

Reading this again and looking at my machine, I get it now... there is no need for an optional accessory... And any file with a 1/4" shank will work.

Let me get one of the ones I bought and give it a try.