The Book Arts Program needs to replace the motor on our No. 4. I’ve written down all the specs from the maker’s nameplate – the current motor was manufactured by Westinghouse (no longer in business) – and contacted a few local companys about replacement. I was told I would need to bring the motor in. […]
MoreVandercook 219 Power – 3 phase to Single Phase?
I recently purchased a Vandercook 219 power, and I’m weighing my options on switching it from 3 phase to single phase. Is it possible to switch out the motor to a single phase motor, or should I just go with a rotary converter? Thanks!
MoreVandercook No. 4 gears grinding
I purchased a Vandercook #4 about 2 years ago, which had been working beautifully until about a month ago. The roller gears have been grinding against each other when sitting idle. Here’s a link to a video showing the problem. Vandercook #4 gears grinding I would appreciate any help I can get. Thank you!
MoreInking/Impression problems
I am having problems getting the correct inking coverage as well as impression for what I’m trying to print. I apologize if you’ve read about this on the letpress listserv or briarpress….I suppose I should’ve posted here all along. I have a Universal III, and I am printing on 220lb Crane’s Lettra Duplex paper. If […]
MoreNeed Potter model ID
I have a Challenge Potter proofing press. I’m not sure of when it was manufactured. Here’s a photo if anyone can possibly identify it.
More7 vs 10 mill mylar for Vandercook
The top sheet that we have on our Vandercooks is 7 mill mylar. I notice that Talas has rolls of both the 7 mill and 10 mill mylar. Although I don’t see any impact on printing quality the 7 mill will show indents when we’ve run a particularly large edition. I was wondering if anyone […]
MoreVandercook 325A rollers
The University’s Vandercook 325A needs a new set of rollers. I’ve got the old cores, etc. but don’t know the proper dimensions. Also, does anyone have recommendations about where to have them recovered?
MoreHow do you party?
I’m writing an article for the American Printing History Association Newsletter about the Vandercook centenary. The focus is on the various celebrations such as our Vandercook Centenary Print Exchange, the recently published Vandercook Book (currently on exhibit around the U.S.) and a series of panel discussions that were held at the Center for Book Arts […]
MoreNo. 4 rear roller will not rotate
After much successful use, I had to move my Vandercook 4 proof press. In putting everything back where it is supposed to be, I have encountered a problem (actually several problems, but I fixed the sheared drift pin on the gripper foot lever as well as the sticking and bent grippers). After much scouring, I […]
MoreGravity press & 4 T problem
The Gravity Press census seems like a great idea. I have a Number 0, Serial number 07756, supposedly made in 1953. But it is my 4T that I need help with. After finally getting all the parts right, new electrical cord and switch, etc., it did not print evenly across the width of the bed. […]
MoreSuggestions for model of press to buy
I have used an SP-15 and enjoyed it. I would like to get my own press. However, I’m overwhelmed by the number of types of Vandercook presses available. I would like a self-inking model. Which models could people suggest? My space is not really limited.
MoreVandercook & Company ca. 1890
This image is for a billhead for a wood and photoengraving company partnership between H.R. Vandercook and F.N. Tucker in Chicago. H.R. Vandercook and R.O. Vandercook were first cousins. No mention of R.O. having worked there has been found in any trade journals or other documents. Below is a display ad from the […]
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