I'm new, so let me introduce myself. My name is David. I am a
novice-intermediate woodworker in the Bay Area. I have been reading
the wreck for some time, but this is my first post. Here is my
problem...

Someone just gave me an old Rockwell drill press. It is in great
condition. However, raising and lowering the table is a big pain. It
was built before the days of the nice hand crank and quick release
lock, so every time I want to adjust it I have to pull out the 3/4"
wrench and crank with one hand while I hold the table with the other to
prevent it from falling. Another problem is the clamping pressure
required to lock the table rigidly is so great that I stripped the
threads off the bolt last night while trying to lock it. I had to cut
it off.

So now I'm starting from scratch and wondering if anyone has any ideas
on a retrofit that will make my life easier. Perhaps some quick
release mechanism that is stout enough to withstand the pressure of
tightening; perhaps something to put between the clamp and the column
to aid in holding it and reduce the amount of clamping pressure
required; perhaps a completely different solution that has not occurred
to me.

Any help is greatly appreciated.