Vandercook No 4 gripper foot pedal problem

We have a No. 4 (S/N 8655) and have a problem with the foot pedal mechanism that interacts with the gripper trip assembly.  The foot pedal is connected to the pivot mechanism on the non-operator side of the press by way of the bicycle chain on the outside of the press cabinet.  I had the cylinder rolled to the end of the bed and was oiling the gripper trip assembly and pivot mechanism attached to the foot pedal.  I happened to hit the foot pedal and heard a ‘snap’.  At that point the foot pedal dropped to the floor and did not come back up to the normal position.  The gripper trip assembly had moved outward to the point that the spring (MRS-106) was fully extended and away from the side of the press.  I found a small spacer on the floor.  It has a 1/2″ outside diameter with a 1/4″ center hole and is 1/4″ thick.   The manual we have does not have any diagram of the pivot mechanism which is attached to the foot pedal via the chain and has a tongue that is between the gripper trip assembly and pushes on the gripper trip assembly to open the grippers when the cylinder is at the feed table.  Does a diagram of this part exist which would assist me in determining what happened, how to fix it, and if the spacer is key to the repair?

The problem happened late in the evening so I have yet to take steps to remove any parts.  It is also difficult to provide photos because limited space in out print shop means we have the non-operator side of the press fairly  close to the wall.  I thought I would check with the experts for help before I begin taking things apart.

Thanks.

John Johnson

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springtide
4 years ago

Can I access the photos mentioned in the above posts?

Paul Moxon, Moderator
Admin
9 years ago

These photos, courtesy of Jenny Wilkson, show the 4 OS at the School of Visual Concepts in Seattle.

Paul Moxon, Moderator
Admin
9 years ago

Here are photos of the pedal assembly on a well-preserved old style No. 4.

Paul Moxon, Moderator
Admin
9 years ago

I’m traveling without a laptop, but will look for photos on Tuesday. I will also alert other old style No. 4 owners to this post.

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