Kempsmith 10 1/2" Universal Dividing Head

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Assembling a vintage dividing head from the early 20th century requires attention to detail and a bit of mechanical know-how. The process begins by acquiring a sturdy base plate, typically made of cast iron or steel, which serves as the foundation for the entire assembly. Next, install the spindle, a crucial component that allows the workpiece to be securely held in place. This is usually accomplished by threading the spindle into the base plate and securing it with a lock nut. Make sure the spindle is properly aligned before moving on to the next step. The dividing head itself consists of a series of gears and pinions that enable precise angular measurements. Attach the gear train to the spindle, taking care to ensure all components are correctly meshed and free from backlash. This may require some trial-and-error adjustments, but patience will pay off in the end. With the gear train in place, it's time to add the dividing head's central component: the vernier scale. This clever device allows for precise angular measurements by reading off subtle changes in the gear train's position. Attach the vernier scale to the gear train and ensure it's securely fastened. Finally, attach the handle or crank to the dividing head, allowing you to manually turn the gears and make adjustments as needed. With all components properly assembled, your vintage dividing head is now ready for use.