Simple conversion of an Arbor Press into a Ratchet Broaching Press

[Me2]

I purchased an Arbor press some time ago and quickly got frustrated with constantly trying to pack the work piece to get the handle into the optimum position to apply the reactive force. This was especially so when trying to press a keyway broaching tool through a bore. The below video shows how this simple re-work was done to convert the Arbor Press into a much more useful and easy to use Broaching Press.

[Frank S]

Some good mods I particularly like the Delrin friction pads. My arbor press has a 2 ft long 1" diameter handle and just like you describe it is a pain to get things packed to a good working height I also have a 1" drive ratchet that would do nicely on my large press if I would just take the time to do what you did
Thanks

[Me2]

No worries Frank, sounds like your half way there with what you have on hand.
Cam

[jdurand]

For someone without a ratchet, you could just attach a quality bolt head onto the end of the shaft and use a box wrench or breaker bar to turn it. Box wrench gives you 12 handle locations while the breaker bar is probably only 6. Still, 6 is a lot better than 2.

[Me2]

Yep, that's another solution. I would still prefer the constant ratcheting motion than having to re-set the breaker Bar each time.
Cam

[DIYer]

Thanks Me2! We've added your Arbor Press to Broach Press Modification to our Brakes and Presses category,
as well as to your builder page: Me2's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Arbor Press to Broach Press Modification by Me2

tags: keyway, ratchet, broach