J-Head on Van Norman/Nichols MIll?

Question

Has anybody put a full sized Bridgeport type milling head on a Van Norman #12 or a Nichols Hand Miller? If I put one on the Nichols the mill will be dedicated to that head, which will greatly simplify the installation. The Van Norman I would like to keep using in the traditional modes if possible, and I can't envision how that huge head could go on there and swing out of the way for horizontal milling, for example. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Waynemak · Accepted Answer

Mike how are things?Getting back into the shop these days? I have to sell off some of th extras to make some room for a few projects. I saw a J head for $200 last week, I could take a close look if you want. I think the J head on the nichols would be a bit top heavy, I have not been face to face with a #12. I had a guy talk to me about a Van Norman 1/2 but that was a few weeks ago and I am sure thats an OLD machine. I think you would do best to pick up a good vertical mill, I use mine more than I use my Nichols, I don't use my drill press to much with the mill sitting there.Prices have still been very low on these machines up in our neck fo the woods.

ATP · Answer

I picked up some J-type heads. I probably should have just waited for the right vertical mill to come along. Sometimes I can't resist a project but don't always have time to finish it. Last night I made an auger extension for my posthole digger, for the purpose of stirring cesspools. Probably one of the more practical uses of my shop:-)

Waynemak · Answer

You picked up some??More than 1?

ATP · Answer

4, two are pretty close to complete, the third is not too bad, but thefourth is for parts.

Waynemak · Answer

You are better than me at collecting "stuff"

J-Head on Van Norman/Nichols MIll?

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