carldu

I just purchased this used item (see attached jpg images) in Central California for $20, but I don't know what to call it or who the manufacturer or distributor is. It has no label of any kind. Someone told me it is a "Shopmate" but I have searched on the web in vain. I need to know if it has been assembled properly, and if I need to replace any missing parts; it seems to me there ought to be several more of the black holders that push through the holes in the top. Also, I would benefit from some directions for using this work bench, or whatever it is called.

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mpm1696

I would take it back, looks like you've been screwed!

Pete

creative novice

looks like a cheap version of the black and decker workmate. their website sells the replacement swivel pegs...they would probably work for it...or you could make some out of wood. we rec'd one about 20 years ago as a gift....use it now and then...and every once in awhile it works good for glue ups. i googled "folding workbench" and found quite a few...no red ones!

Ohio Ron

It appears that one of the two sides is improperly installed and needs to be turned 180 degrees, that would prevent It from tilting in the same direction as shown in the pictures. It may require that you remove and turn the bottom bracket to its proper position. It isn't junk and you should be able to use it as you as you would a workmate. Most likely made in China. Yes, it should have more of the plug in posts, but you could make something else work, maybe a dowel. It depends on how much time you want to spend to make it work.

Just my 2 cents

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b00kemdano

I got one of these things when I "inherited" most of my shop tools. Grandpa had his scroll saw, 9" band saw, small joiner, and belt sander all mounted on pieces of 2x8s which he clamped down on this little workbench thingy. If you're low on space in your shop, that's a great solution IMO.

As for the blocks, I'd say you could make some pretty easily by tapering a dowel and fitting it into a scrap block.

Not too shabby for $20!

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Sawduster

I think you got your $20.00 worth. I agree about turning one of the platforms around. I guess then you'd have a 45 degree clamp. What you need are bench dogs. Find out the exact diameter of the ones you have then check with some places like Woodcraft.

carldu

I appreciate all the help I have received in just a few hours. I now know that this is a Nikota Work Bench Mate #95002 no longer being manufactured. It does seem to be a cheap imitation of the Black and Decker Workmate. I was suspicious that the movable top on the side attached to the screws was mounted backward and needs to be reversed, as some of you have now confirmed. In addition to making that change, I plan either to purchase or to fabricate additional plug-in posts to make it more usable. Because my only workshop is a small tool shed, I like the suggestion to mount power tools on wood blocks and then clamp them into the work bench for use. My sincere thanks to all who contributed suggestions.

firehawkmph

I have the original version of the black and decker workmate. My wife bought if for me before we were married, so I know it is over 30 years old. Right now my jet buffer is sitting on it. When I have to do any door work, I take it with me to jobs. When you fold it down it makes a great door buck and holds the doors at a nice working height for cutting hinges, etc. I am keeping an eye out for another one if I can find one. They come in very handy.
Mike Hawkins

Basser425

those black bench doggies you can replace. We have a Black & Decker outlet near here and I saw them in that store...so I assume you can order them online also. For $20 I would make it work. Fair price

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icrusbound

except for the color, it looks exactly like this one from harbor freight...

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=47844

And if so, you got screwed by 1 cent. ;o)

P.S. note the link at the bottom of the page to the manual.

Dean Miller

I have one free to anyone thats wants to come get it. Dean Calif.