Kelsey Damaged in Shipping

Hello All

I recently purchased my first press- a Kelsey 5X8 model O online. The gentleman I purchased it from, was quite good about packing securely, however despite that- when the press arrived the gooseneck on the press was snapped clean in half. The guy I bought it from is willing to compensate me for the cost of repairs, however I will need to arrange repairs. What can be done? Can I use a strong adhesive like WellBond, or am I going to need to contact a machinist company/ someone that does welding?

The photo below, shows the press, with most of the peanuts and packing material cleared out. I have slipped a piece of blank paper between the gooseneck and body of the press to clearly illustrate the damage.

Also does anyone know how to manufacture/ where to purchase a platen back spring?

Thanks
Tara

I would recommend getting a welder to weld it for you.

Right, or better yet find a replacement part.

Indeed- I’ve heard that John Barret of Letterpress Things in Chicopee might be a good person to approach on such matters.

Hard to believe shipping could cause such a break.

Yeah its a weird place for a shipping related break – but the gentleman I purchased the press from has been a standup guy about replacing/repairing the gooseneck so I’m erring on the side of believing the shipping exacerbated existing damage that this guy didn’t notice maybe? 

Tatiana, my experience is to be wary of welding a key broken part due to issues of strength and precision. I would get a replacement part if possible.

That is my thought as well – I am hopeful that John Barrett at Letterpress THings might have the replacement piece available in his warehouse.

I am also slightly concerned about the possibility of accidentally damaging the gooseneck in the process of removing it though. Apparently (and I quote) the Model “O” makes this a challenge as the shafts, if original are peened over at the the ends and will not pass through the parts without great care. I have no idea what peened means – aside from the possible double-entendre- but it does not sound simple.

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