I can't see anything that would either look like quill feed controls or a lock. It has me stumped if I'm honest.. its not seized though as there is minor movement. I've loosened off the spindle lock and a bolt that also looks like it locked the spindle but no joy.Is the power downfeed on the quill engaged? That would stop the quill moving by any other means, I think.
Yes, I've run it up and tried the various levers and handles. They appear to just operate the table in 3 axis. I'll have another look but I'm pretty sure I've not missed any lever. It does feel like lash in either a gear or a blocking pin / wedge. Appreciate the suggestionsSorry, I'm not familiar with the Archdale machines at all. It was just a general observation from experience with other mills and drills with power feed that I own. Once engaged, the manual handles no longer turn by hand, only through gearing when the spindle is under power. The minor movement you are seeing could be backlash in the gears maybe? I'm only guessing tbh. Have you run it under power and have you identified all the levers on the machine?