Sorry to revive this old thread, but I'm having the same issue as the OP.
I recently acquired a Heald 1-V Vertical Milling Machine from a retired gunsmith. The machine is in good shape, but I've been unable to find much information about it. Does anyone have a copy of an owners manual? I did give the publications posted at VintageMachinery.org a peek, but I'm mostly interested in how to properly care for it, and what the spindle speeds are for the different belt configurations.
Thank you in advance!
I looked at TWO that were for sale years ago for $500 each. One was a vertical, the other a horizontal.
Such research as worked at all pegged them as "production line" critters - much as Burke, Barker, or Nichols specialized in, only better built and with far fewer options.
The compact shape and clean integration - similar to Sheldon/Vernon's wont, wudda been a plus as they took up very little floor or "shoulder" space.
Downside is stingy work-envelope.
If that work-envelope suits your needs? You've effectively gotten hands onto a decent alternative to a Hardinge TU/TM with the more powerful #9 B&S or 40-taper of a Burke or Nichols.
Simplicity, build quality, durability, maintainability should all prove to be top-drawer.
If no lube info, check other mills, there isn't usually much diff. Speeds you can calculate or just measure, HF or better tachometer.