It's been a while since I posted a re-worked Speed King, so I'll add the details. Skip to the pictures if you get bored!
First of all, it's a WFL Speed King. After working on a lot of Speed Kings, I can tell ya' that the WFLs are better made than the later Ludwigs. Example? The rocker assembly (the chrome cross piece that holds the beater and strap to the footboard) are secured to the cams with solid steel pins. And don't bother trying to drive them out... you'll get frustrated and probably bash the chrome. The Ludwigs have a steel roll pin. Cheaper material and probably easier to assemble. A big difference? No, but it's details that add up. Also, the steel for the bottom frame piece is thicker. It's fairly unusual to find play in the heel pivot/hinge. When those wear, the infamous squeak arrives! I can attest to that by the extra effort it takes to drill them.
Okay. I did end up re-working the heel pivot on this one because there was slight play. Now the pedal, heel plate and frame all work around silicone treated nylon bushings. I tried to make the long bolt holding it in place as unobtrusive as I could.
The insides of the uprights have been cleaned obsessively until they shone. Then, obviously, the springs and 'pistons' are also cleaned. Bearings were not replaced - they didn't need to be -- but they have been ultra-cleaned and soaked in brake fluid for a little extra clean/lube.
Everything cleaned and repainted. And dig the crazy wing nut that Ludwig is now selling to hold the beater in place! Obviously, THEY couldn't find replacements on line either!
Jeez, enough already. Any questions, please email me: [email]wafulton5@gmail.com[/email] or PM here.
Price: $100 + 6 to ship in continental US. International? Please get in touch for rates.
The album the thumbnails will take you to also have pics of a Leedy XL I'm also going to sell. It is just plain cool...
Thanks!