We have recently begun having an intermittent problem with our SP-15. After printing, when the cylinder is returning to home position, it hits some obstruction about 12″ away from the feed board that causes a jolt and a significant bang. It doesn’t do this all the time (maybe 1 in every 4-5 print passes), and […]
MoreVandercook 3 Proof Press
Does anyone know if a Vandercook 3 Proof Press is galley high or type high? Serial # 7617. Also, what is the exact size of the steel sheet that comes in the bed? I want it to be able to fit in the bed (inside the lock up bar). I have tried printing without this steel […]
MoreModel 4 packing question
Hi, I have the press basically back together and I’m starting to get things reset so that I can start printing. Some quesitons on how to do a few things: 1. How can I determine the amount of packing needed on the roller [impression cylinder]. 2. inking rollers that are on the oscillating roller group […]
More15-20 at Auction
Another press on Bidspotter.com this month that I’ve been repeatedly asked about is a Vandercook 15-20 Dry Offset press. Dry offset refers to the absence of water in the inking system. The process is used to print plastic containers and lids, cosmetic tubes, aluminum cans, etc. Dry offset ink is cured onto the substrate using […]
MoreRocker at Auction
Several people have written to me about the Vandercook to be auctioned later this month on Bidspotter. This press, Vandercook’s first production model, is a circa 1909 Trip Action High Side Arm Press aka the Rocker. (Vandercook didn’t stamp serial number into their presses until 1914 and it’s not known how long the Rocker was […]
MoreRider Roller on SP15
Hello All, I’m working on cleaning up an SP15 that hasn’t been touched in maybe 30 years. I have all the rollers lubricated and in their right places (as far as I can tell) but when rolling the carriage down the press bed, the rider roller isn’t moving. It almost seems as though it’s a […]
MoreSoldan Lightning Proof Press
Greetings all. Approximately 6 years ago I took delivery of a proof press that remained in storage (in bits) until November 2010, when it was dragged kicking and screaming out of hibernation and pieced back together using the only picture I had. The picture showed the press assembled and in situ where it had come […]
MoreHow Best to Clean Dried Ink Buildup on Ink Drum
I’m cleaning up a Uni-I AB, and there is quite a bit of hard, dry ink build up around the ink drum. I tried chipping at it, but I don’t want to accidentally scrape the drum. Is the best course of action to remove the drum? Is that tricky? I don’t see an easy way […]
MoreLeveling casters
I’d like to consider installing leveling casters on the 2 SP-20s and SP-15 I recently purchased. The casters I’m considering are here I’d like to know if anyone has tried these, or other solutions for making your presses semi-mobile. thanks!
MorePhiladelphia Vandercook teachers?
Looking for experienced Vandercook printers, to teach hands-on workshops in Port Richmond, Philadelphia– off of a Vandercook No. 3 Proof Press. I am not quite ready to teach, but want to use the studio & equipment– for classes. I would love to begin as soon as late February. Please be in touch, as proceeds from classes will be shared. […]
MoreHelp with ink distribution roller Challenge 21MP
Hi folks! I’m hoping that your collective knowledge can help with a Ink Distribution Roller issue. I have a Challenger 21MP. I’ve restored it and it is in great shape….except for the Ink Distribution Roller. I’m not familiar with the guide mechanism for oscillating the roller. When I opened the roller I found the shaft […]
More#4 Rider Bushing Replacement
Hello all. I was fortunate enough to attend Paul’s workshop in Chicago last week and learned a great deal, but the one thing I was unable to retain is what exactly the process is for fixing these missing (broken?) bushings in my riders. As I understand it, there are taper pins holding the assembly together, […]
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