Bridgeport J head - Do I need this????

[bill south]

This weekend while disassembling my bridgeport for cleanup and a move to a new home, I discovered the spider under the turrent was broken. One of the four arms is broken where the bolt screws in. It appeard to have been this way for years!!!
The other 3 bolts are fine. Do I need this replaced???? I checked and a new spider off of fleabay is about $75. Once I finish the move, refurbishment and re-assembly, I don't plan on rotating the turrent any way. In fact, I had to break the paint to get the head off!!! BTW, I'm moving this thing with an engine lift. Quite a job but very doable!!!!!
Any help from an experienced machine master will be appreciated!!!
Bill from Spartanburg

[mxtras]

I would feel more confident moving the machine with a hoist if the spider was intact. I am sure three bolts would be sufficient, though.

Also - depending on where you position the ram there could be a lot of reliance on the rear bolts of the swivel - meaning that if you choose to leave the broken spider in there, I would suggest positioning it so that the broken wing is in the front of the machine. Just thinking out loud.

You could always have it welded.

Scott