Quill repair Delta 46-250

[Fred Van Etten]

I belong to a community makerspace and volunteer to try to keep the lathe studio operational. We have an old Delta 46-250. An unknown member was using (?abusing?) it - left a note saying “tailstock broke”.
I found an exploded parts diagram. It looks like a snap ring has disappeared. (Part 55),
Delta part number M1310064, M10.2 Ext Ret Ring. I’m looking for correct size snap ring but not sure I understand the mechanics of what prevents the quill from just rotating when the hand wheel is turned. Any insights appreciated.

 

[Wyatt Holm]

There should be a bolt or a set screw, that goes in the slot down the quill to prevent it from rotating.

 

[Fred Van Etten]

There should be a bolt or a set screw, that goes in the slot down the quill to prevent it from rotating.

Wyatt - thanks. The quill handle assembly went missing at same time. I had a bolt that matched the thread - but that only locked the assembly in place. But know realize that the factory handle might have had a pin or reduced diameter at the tip that would engage the slot when the handle was loosened and still allow the quill to travel. Thanks.

 

[Dean Center]

The parts diagram shows an L shaped screw that would go in the groove and guide the quill. It would be part #59. If the OEM part is not available, as is likely, McMaster-Carr or Grainger or even Amazon would likely have a replacement in the correct size. You'd need to know the diameter and threading, and approximate length of the threaded part needed. These are in common use on lathes.

The clip ring for the quill is part #56 and is a C-clip, but size is not specified on the parts diagram. These are available at your local hardware store. If you take the quill in with you, you can probably find one that fits.