Spindle problems- bridgeport mill 1980s series 1 2j

[blocka435]

I just purchased a bridgeport series 1 2j mill and am still learning everything about the machine. I plan to take the machine completely apart and replace parts the parts that show significant wear and tear. I figure this will give me a better understanding of the machine as well as ensure that it will be running properly. My first problem is regarding the spindle. The spindle length is correct (roughly 545mm ), my drawbar length is correct (roughly 18.25 inches with the proper thread length).
Here's my issue: the drawbar will not reach to be able to thread onto a collet. I am attempting to us r8 collet but they will not fit into the spindle. Roughly needing a little over an inch more space.


My guess is that I have a piece of a collet that someone snapped off inside the spindle and now has been lodged in there. I added some pictures for reference. If I am correct, someone already bored out the piece because the drawbar no longer threads into it. My only thought is to tap it and use a separate threaded bolt to get it out.


Let me know if this sounds correct or I'm completely wrong. Thank you

 

[Superbowl]

Are you sure you have an R8 spindle? If you think there is a piece of a collet inside, put a hook on a piece of wire, push it up into the spindle and pull it down all around to see if it catches on something.

 

[blocka435]

 

[blocka435]

Im not sure of anything. But it looks like it's not as large of a piece as I thought. It looks like 3-5mm wide like a spacer and there is a gap between that and the starr of the shaft

 

[memphisjed]

The picture of your collet is not a standard r8. R8 are longer.

 

[4GSR]

I recall looking at a older Bridgeport catalog from years past. They showed a collet that had the same dimensions as a R-8 collet but about 1-1/2" shorter in length. Never seen a Bridgeport with that short R-8 being used or any tooling with that shorter shank.
Find a used spindle that is not bent, compart the two. If the same, replace it. Or buy one of those Asian made spindle assy and replace it.

 

[blocka435]

Problem solved. It was the spacer/ bearing from the drawbar when it was stored