Can someone who has the press please tell me what the hole size needs to be for the tools to be inserted? Or just the shaft diameter of one of the tools that insert into the shaft is? Harbor freight has a good arbor press, which some companies are using for toy train presses, for only 34.00.
Rob
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Someone mentioned in the past that the HF press is the same press. Do a search, it was within the last year that it was discussed.
All of the toy train press systems seem to have interchangeable tooling.
The tools that go into the ram are 3/8 inch.
The tools that go directly into the base are 5/8 inch.
The tools that go into an anvil holder are 1/2 inch.
Thank you CW. I am building my own press with help from a friendly machinist.
Rob
Aligning the holes in the base and ram is critical.
Another tip: the end of the hole in the ram should be as flat as possible. If it tapers, the tool may wedge in the ram.
yes gunrunnerjohn i asked if they were the same kind of press or if the hf one is usable for model trains. i did not buy one because i did not think that it would work out for me.
I am no expert on this, but from what I see, at least one other company uses the Harbor Freight press with modifications. I bought one and am having a machinist make the mods. Beats the heck out of paying $275.00 for a press and tool kit that I don't need.
Thanks CW, I will mention that to my machinist.
Rob
When you get your press set up, take a look at the tools that Jeff Kane (Train Tender) has. Last I knew, Jeff had tools made locally, including a knock-off of the original 15 pieces set and more. He also carries some Hobby Horse product.
I think I have all of his custom tools, and the basic 15 piece set. IMHO, they are good.
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