Startrite Mercury question and mod

[flintandsteel]

At last a decent drill. Lovely old pillar drill in A1 order.
My only niggles are the strength of the spring on the wheel. I drill thousands of holes a year (maybe 2000+ in a week). I can see RSI developing with this one.
Can the spring strength be reduced some, and how?

The other hassle is the table being a lift and clamp type. I'm used to the old Clarke wind up type and it suits my work style much better. Can change table height, alignment, jig set and tools much quicker.

This is the mod I'm proposing. The Clarke has a 2.7/8" diameter pillar while the Startrite is 2¾"so almost there. A 1/16 " liner for the Clarke table and rack collar should do the job.

Anyone done that and anything to add?

 

[DTR]

Judging by >>this exploded diagram<<, it looks like there are two return springs. I'd suggest uncoupling one and trying it like that.

As for the table, have you thought of using a common car scissor jack underneath?

 

[flintandsteel]

The lift and lock table was a right PITA. Slowed me down no end. I need quick accurate adjustment.
Anyway, still having the old Clarke with the wind up table I measured the pillar diameter on both machines.
The Strartrite was 2 3/4“ and the Clarke 2 5/8".
Simply made a wrap round insert for the Clarke table bracket and the top ladder retaining ring.
Job done, quick, efficient, accurate, strain and hassle free.