280VS Apron removal.

[MacGregor]

Hello and thanks for reading my first post!

I'll keep it quick; I am trying to remove the saddle from my 280VS in order to diagnose a power feed engagement problem. I am aware that I do not have to remove the lead screw and feed shaft from the gear box to slip the saddle off but for the life of me cannot figure out how to get the shafts out of the end bracket. The feed shaft will slide cleanly out of the end bracket I'm pretty but I cannot get the feed screw to pass.

So my question to anyone who knows this machine is: Do I need to remove the end cap from the screw, which is secured by a roll pin, or just apply more force!?

I've attached a couple of images to illustrate what I'm on about.

Many thanks. Duncan.

[Pete.]

Bit confused over what you're saying. If you know you can remove the saddle with the shafts still fixed in the end block then why not just leave them in the end block? I've removed mine several times and never had to release the leadscrew or feed rod, I just un-bolt the end block from the bed and support the apron when it's un-bolted from the saddle.

[MacGregor]

Hello and thanks for the reply. I wasn't very clear in what I was asking. The problem I had was working out how the leadscrew was secured in the supporting bracket. However I have worked it out: the retaining block at the end of the leadscrew is screwed on. Mine was locked solid which confused me. I thought I was going to have to drift it out! Thanks again. Duncan.