I’d like to thank Jason for this concept of adding thrust bearings to the vises.
I’ve added it to a Ridgid 60CPN and a french leg vise so far, and I intend to do so in every vise I have that it’s possible. It’s really a game changer once you do it.
The leg vise was particularly interesting. It’s in perfect condition (nut, screw, jaws, etc), but when tightened to high loads, the whole thing wanted to “spin” counter-clockwise when I would loose the handle. The workbench (which is a wood and not so steady one) shaked side-to-side.
With the bearing added, it’s just crazy how much smoother it its (both for clamping and for loosening the vise).
Thrust bearings are great. They sometimes work to good if the screw pitch is to low, the screw will reverse on its own. What’s the TPI on your leg vise?
Hey Jason. The leg vise I installed the thrust bearing has a 3 TPI thread with 45mm diameter. There’s another one I intend to install with 2TPI and 45mm diameter. What you think?
You’ll have to try it. It’s definitely going to improve the clamping force. 2tpi is very low but the large diameter of the screw might prevent it from backing off during impacts. One way to find out.
