What handles can I add to this work bench to restore functionality?

[username132]

I recieved this old Black and Decker workbench from a neighbour and it's a little worse for wear but still functions. I rivetted on some mending plates to gain leverage on the stubs which were all that was left of the handles. I don't know what mending plates are meant to be used for nor why I had any but they seem to just about do the job. I'd really like something to attach to the mending plate but I don't know what these kinds of handles are called so I don't know what to search for. Thanks for help.

 

[JohnD]

you are meant to have crank handles. Somewhat like manual car window winder handles. You could fix some small doorknobs through the holes or you mending plates. There are small ones sold for cupboards, where they are fixed with a screw from the inside of the door. Judicious use of washers and locknuts might prevent the knobs from unscrewing.

I am quite clumsy and I am sure the ends of the plates would soon be garnished with scraps of clothes and skin. Have you got a grinder or a dremel to round them off?

Spare plastic parts for workmates are often available. I don't know the age of yours, but they have got flimsier and more cheaply made over time. My first one had a cast alloy panel in the middle.

edit
like this but an entire set looks expensive
http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_sacat=0&_nkw=workmate+spare&_sop=15

edit again
here they are!
http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_o...e+handles.TRS0&_nkw=workmate+handles&_sacat=0

check if they fit your model

maybe the old ones broke from lack of lube on the threaded bar

 

[big-all]

they are probably over 40 years old the original cast handles where changes to drive costs down
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencet...e-inventor-DIY-possible-millions-dead-78.html