Presses for Sale
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Print
Vandercooks and other brands of presses have been known to appear on these websites
Book Arts Classifieds
Briar Press Classifieds
Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild Bulletin Board
Don Black
Drupama (German site with some translation)
EBay
GT Graphic Service & Supply
John Barrett’s Letterpress Things
San Francisco Center for the Book Equipment Exchange
FAG Presses
Company sells used letterpress proof presses on their website
Harry Rochat Ltd. New UK built flatbed cylinder proof press discussed on the Photopolymer List (10-29-06). Comparable to early Vandercook models without inking systems, expensive.
Important factors to consider when buying
Is the size of the press appropriate for the kind of work you want to produce?
Will the press fit in its designated space?
How difficult will it be to move? Where is it located: a basement, or a third floor walk-up?
Take an inventory of main components
Motor–check oil level and wiring, then power on. Listen for odd noises
Carriage–there should not be any lateral play when carriage is rolled in print mode over press bed. If so, carriage bearings may be out of adjustment or there may be excessive wear on under rails due to lack of lubrication. Also test print stroke and return trip.
Under rails–run finger along length, feel for fine metal shavings or sharp edge indicating wear and neglect. Press may not be suitable for close register work or fine printing.
Inking system–Is oscillating roller assembly complete? Roller cores and bearing assemby can be replaced. Assume roller rubber will need to be replaced.
Condition
Rust surface or deep –impression cylinder, oscillating roller and reservoir drum, press bed
Physical damage from previous moves–bent feed board, broken handles, or levers, dented cabinet.
Excessive grime, dried ink, or rust–will it take a wire brush, mineral spirits and WD-40 or naval jelly and a chisel?
Contact NA Graphics to find out whether replacement parts are available.
Learn more about the press model at vandercookpress.info.