Category: Troubleshooting the press
Later topic: TC Thompson No2
Earlier topic: Rollers & Bearings

Moving a Universal 1

I will be getting a Vandercook Universal 1 in the near future and it needs a good bit of restoration. I am moving it through some tight spaces and it seems there are bolts/fasteners throughout the cabinet connecting sections. Can these be taken apart and the press moved in pieces?

Thanks to all who provide so much help on this list. Neil

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As usal, it is best to leave a press intact for the move if at all possible. Is your Universal a hand crank or motorized head model? If hand cranked, you can remove the crank, see other threads here or the Vandercook website for info on removing the tapered pin for the removal. If motorized, the motor can be removed without disconnecting all the wiring, but be careful with it so you don’t stretch the cable.

Most people find it a difficult task to re-set the bearings which adjust the impression, so unless you are in for a session in the wee hours, I would leave the cylinder attached to the bed and frame.

If you have to take it apart, clearly mark the cylinder gear and track with paint or an indelible marker so you can easily get it back in time.