Shim stock - am I overcomplicating it?

[Beanwood]

My drill press table is sagging very slightly, so I am unable to drill perpendicular holes.
I also need to add something to some of my lathe tools to adjust them to the correct height.
This is all for personal use, so no issues with calibration or anything, but what should I be looking to buy- the choices of brass, stainless, plastic etc is vast and I'm sure they all have their plus points.
OR I could just use a bit of cut up aluminium tins or similar in varying quantities to achieve the correct end result?

 

[RWD3M]

OR I could just use a bit of cut up aluminium tins or similar in varying quantities to achieve the correct end result?

Yep!

 

[Kram]

also need to add something to some of my lathe tools to adjust them to the correct height.

Here you go, it would appear they are currently half price with a set for under £80.

Model 111 Quick Change Tool Post - Arc Euro Trade

Model 111 Wedge Type Quick Change Tool Post. Options: Tool Post only, Tool Post + 3 Standard tool holders or Tool Post + 3 Slim tool holders

www.arceurotrade.co.uk

As for shim, steel is generally more durable. For small amount and a range of sizes, I have abused cheap feeler gauge sets.

How is the table mounted? Do you have a photo?

 

[Seadog]

I did a similar bodge fix in and attempt to tram the column on my Rong Fu. Not that simple since it's a square base.

 

[Beanwood]

Here you go, it would appear they are currently half price with a set for under £80.

Model 111 Quick Change Tool Post - Arc Euro Trade

Model 111 Wedge Type Quick Change Tool Post. Options: Tool Post only, Tool Post + 3 Standard tool holders or Tool Post + 3 Slim tool holders

www.arceurotrade.co.uk

As for shim, steel is generally more durable. For small amount and a range of sizes, I have abused cheap feeler gauge sets.

How is the table mounted? Do you have a photo?

That's a seriously good price - I wonder if they'll fit my Boxford.
I'll get a photo of teh table mounting - but I suspect I'll just end up having to level up accessories (Like the rotary table) rather than the table itself.

 

[Kram]

Similar size to mine, I believe it will work well. The bigger size doesnt have any real advantage, similar size holders and cost a lot more. The smaller size are far too small.

 

[MattF]

Is that centre hole sleeved, in the toolpost, or would it need boring out to fit a larger post?

 

[Kram]

14mm stud.
It comes with a base plate that may fit a slot or can be bolted down. Somone recently did the same here, minor modification of the base plate required.

Got me a lathe!

For clarity, it's not the t-link that's a bit suspect (yet) it is the 2 composite belts. Motor to layshaft and pulley system to final drive. I will measure the existing ones and see what's what, I was hoping for a "the modern equivalents are...." that's all. Thanks everyone. :-D

www.mig-welding.co.uk

 

[Farside]

OR I could just use a bit of cut up aluminium tins or similar in varying quantities to achieve the correct end result?

Beans for thicker shims, beer and cola tins for micro adjustments.

 

[Agroshield]

Have you ever read 'Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance'? That contains some guidance on shims.

 

[6ply]

My drill press table is sagging very slightly, so I am unable to drill perpendicular holes.
I also need to add something to some of my lathe tools to adjust them to the correct height.
This is all for personal use, so no issues with calibration or anything, but what should I be looking to buy- the choices of brass, stainless, plastic etc is vast and I'm sure they all have their plus points.
OR I could just use a bit of cut up aluminium tins or similar in varying quantities to achieve the correct end result?

Nothing wrong with using offcuts as suggested. But if you want to buy shimstock, I've previously purchased it on AliExpress quite cheaply. It comes in various thickness which is quite handy.

 

[Beanwood]

Beans for thicker shims, beer and cola tins for micro adjustments.

Brilliant - this has done the trick I think - two thicknesses of Hobgoblin Ruby Ale beer can in several places - now just need to replenish the ale.....

 

[Beanwood]

Similar size to mine, I believe it will work well. The bigger size doesnt have any real advantage, similar size holders and cost a lot more. The smaller size are far too small.

Damn you @Kram - I'm now poorer, with another project to do - fitting a QCTP (When it arrives) to my lathe.

 

[Jaeger_S2k]

Damn you @Kram - I'm now poorer, with another project to do - fitting a QCTP (When it arrives) to my lathe.

NOOOOOOOO!

You're RICHER, by 1 project!