Tough Times in Treadle Town
Hello all,
My boss and I are trying to assemble the treadle that came with our Chandler and Price 8x12 (I believe that’s the correct model). So far, all we have are dirty hands and a broken hook thingy (we have a back up…hopefully this doesn’t require two). I’ve attached a photo of what we’re working with. Please excuse the black ribbons that have been tied on to one of the bars and/or the missing elements in the photo…we’re new at this and trying to learn!
Thanks,
Megan
treadle.jpg
If you are using a Hern treadle and hooks, the hooks are probably cast iron, not the wrought iron or forged steel of the originals. Several reports indicate the hooks do not fit the crank shaft correctly and may bind or wear the shaft unevenly. I suggest remove the (broken?) hook from the treadle and before mounting the second one check how the hook fits on the crank. if it doesn’t fit smoothly you may need to file or grind inside the hook to get a smooth curve and smooth surface. Be sure it is well oiled too.
It is also important that the hook face the correct way as there is a part of the cycle where there is another part of the press that is too close for the hook to clear it and that could be what broke the one hook.
Hope that helps!
Bob
if cast iron I suggest get a replacement made in steel……..
The originals were wrought iron, and can be easily and relatively cheaply made by a blacksmith. Don’t forget to put an oil hole at the top of the bend in the hook.
Paul
Treadle Problems, there was in depth discussion, a little while since, re this problem, Others and Myself offered some small solutions (stopping short of machineing, re manufacture, or even repurchase, if cash flow was an issue!) If the hook or the shaft is/was worn out of truth, but NOT yet in danger of imminent faliure, the suggestion was the introduction of a brass or plumbers lead “U” shaped slipper, around the crank pin, and under the hook. Within a few treadle,s it adopts the shape (or mis-shape) to match the wear!!!.. Instant solution? No cost? Replacable at a few seconds notice….As the hook has to approach the crank pin with parallel approach to drop on, the slipper has to do the same, but the very action of the crank pin within the hook and the rotation of the shaft automatically closes the legs of the “U”….Worn out? slip out and IN in another one!!! …BUM STEER….NO.. several posts from last time were from U.S. based B. P. contributors, who were quoting actual employment of method….This probably relevant fitting second hand replacement, different wear etc.
Just to make it clear…the open end of the hook faces the operator. I have an OS 8x12 with original treadle parts and can provide photos if you need.
Does the nameplate state “Chandler & Price Co./Cleveland, Ohio”?
This doesn’t appear to be a C&P, or are we looking at the back side?
Where is the (#6) Rocker Lock?
Where is the (#41) Side Frame Connecting Bracket?
Certainly looks like something from Palmyra, N.Y.