Need drill press clamps

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My drill press has the T-slots like an endmill.  I would like to find a set of clamps that work with the block and threaded post.  I took a couple of cheap clamps from harbor freight, and cut the ring off the clamp.  I then used a square nut in the slot.  It works okay, but is still a cheesy setup.I think I am going to plasma cut a piece of 1/8" plate that will fit around the factory base and weld it to the clamp.  Then I will drill a hole and run a regular T-Nut, stud and nut on it.Anyone have a better idea or know where I could buy a good clamp already done this way?  Here's what the table looks like.http://www.cpojettools.com/jet-35455...-drill-pressesWell, I finally did find this.  It looks kinda lightweight.http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/9...ressclamp.aspxAny suggestions? Attached Images
Reply:Google "Step Block and Clamp Set"GravelThe difference between theory and practice is that in theory there is no difference.
Reply:I used the HF one too and have a couple Jorgensen 1623 3 inch Hold-Down Clamps that are handy too. Attachment 957871
Reply:Originally Posted by GravelGoogle "Step Block and Clamp Set"
Reply:You need to know what size Tsluts you have.  I like this style but whant to make my own from pipe.  I think Bessey makes a similar type using a large diameter welded to a smaller diameter.The gibralter strap clamp at the top of page is what Im talking about.http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?PMPAGE=732&PMCTLG=00Heres the Bessey typehttp://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?PMPAGE=733&PMCTLG=00Last edited by Insaneride; 01-03-2015 at 10:54 AM.
Reply:Originally Posted by CraboThat is the set that I have.  I was hoping there was already a good quality clamp that will work with the stud and nut setup.  I cannot leave that set where my students can get at it.I am thinking I may need to adapt a stronghand which is the first picture.  The second picture shows the base that I was talking about making, but the hole needs to be to the side so my studs will work.  I think that clamp is for the small woodworkers t-slots and not the larger machinists size.I hope this makes sense.
Reply:Why would the kids do that? Is it because nobody holds them accountable for anything? USA! USA! USA!
Reply:Originally Posted by mikecwikWhy would the kids do that? Is it because nobody holds them accountable for anything? USA! USA! USA!
Reply:[QUOTE=mikecwik;5209841]Why would the kids do that? Is it because nobody holds them accountable for anything? USA! USA! USA![/QUO
Reply:I use carriage bolts with the head ground on 2 sides to fit the slot. Different lenghts of heavy flat bar with  a hole drilled in it works for most things. Be creative , almost anything can be clamped with a few pieces tacked on to make a setup for pipe or to step over something.
Reply:You should have the students make the Gibraltar at top of page. I would use pipe cut to look like the strap and heat treat but you could forge them.Also, the T nuts are not supposed to be tapped all the way thru to prevent distortion to the T slot table. Attached Images
Reply:Originally Posted by M J DI use carriage bolts with the head ground on 2 sides to fit the slot. Different lenghts of heavy flat bar with  a hole drilled in it works for most things. Be creative , almost anything can be clamped with a few pieces tacked on to make a setup for pipe or to step over something.
Reply:I had one of my new students, Efren make a base plate.  He used two different hole saws with the drill press, the plasma cutter, and a couple of different grinders.  we drilled a couple of 3/8 holes, kissed them with a countersink and welded the cheesy clamp into the plate.  It works really well now. Attached Images
Reply:I like that idea.
Reply:This one works for me. Dan D. Attached ImagesManipulator Of Metal