Newbie- Bridgeport Table Weight and Removal

[JKENIK]

My "new" 1958, series 1, J-head, was delivered yesterday. I need to pull the 42" table and auto feed off in order to move it through a doorway and to its final home. I have a manual re-print and the 4 sentences that tell me how to do it. My concern is just how much weight am I looking out when it comes off. Anybody have estimates or advise? Should I remove the auto feed first? I'm trying to replace muscle with some planning (Yes gentlemen, there are women who have always wanted a Bridgeport too!).

[austin.mn]

Don't try to remove that table with just shear manpower, or womanpower. I would imagine that it is 300lbs or so.. I would use an automotive style engine hoist and then lower it onto a heavy work cart to roll it through your doorway.

Let us know how it all goes for you.

[HimyKabibble]

Removing the table is relatively easy, but it does weigh probably 250-300 pounds, so you must treat it with respect. I removed mine using the bottom half of a mechanics rolling tool cabinet. I put a couple of pieces of wood on it, set it next to the mill. Run the table all the way to one end of travel, and roll the cabinet under the table. Lower the knee so the table just clears the wood on the cabinet. Remove the handwheels and bearing supports. Loosen the gib, and then lift and pull the table off the knee, and roll it away on the cart. Takes probably 10-15 minutes to get it completely off.

Regards,
Ray L.

[machintek]

2 people of average strength can carry the table (ONLY). The power feed may be the gear type that could weigh almost as much as the table.

George

[mc-motorsports]

2 people, no problem, but as mentioned, your better off pushing it onto a table. I would guess 200 lbs. I did it a couple of times, not a big deal. First time I just slid the table onto a work bench, the other time I didn't have that option and had a friend help me lift it.

[JKENIK]

I like the idea of using the toolbox base--that will certainly carry the weight. and provide a smooth slide off. The auto feed looks like it could be as weighty as the table. I haven't put a lot of thought into that part. It was an added bonus along with 3 (why 3?) vises with swivel bases, 2 of which I plan on putting up for sale, an 11 piece collet set and 2 Jacobs chucks. The mill seems to be in exceptional condition based on what I've been reading here over the past several months. The oilers all show some lubrication and no dust bunnies. The weighs are in beautiful condition and still show much of the original scraping pattern. The quill is mirror finished and the spindle has no wiggle. This is going to be a several month project since the final home is still under construction.

So, my current attitude is to leave well enough alone and just clean up as much as possible without major dis-assembly. I believe its been in storage for many many years, so I'm a bit concerned about oil gumming, which may force further breakdown. Any thoughts?

Also good to know that 2 people can handle the table--that was another big concern and you have put it into simple terms for me.

Thanks again for all the comments and feedback.