Modifying an MG15 saddledrum to MG34

[mgfun]

I'm sure this has been thought of already and it's too tough, but I feel the need to ask.

An MG34 saddledrum has adjustable springs and an MG15 saddledrum does not. I'm sure the original mechanism is wonderful and allowed for infinite, easy adjustments. Maybe it would cost a fortune to get that. But what if a tricky person was to alter an mg15 saddledrum by making a few parts that:
1) grab the spring in the center and attach it to a sin with flats on it.
2) then, by using a small wrench to tighten or loosen the tension, by hand you could adjust them.
3) you could lock the center pin in a position by threading it and using a locking nut on the outside
of the drum.
4) By marking the centerpin and the outside of a reinforcing collar that rivets/welds onto the drum
centerpoint (like a clock) you could duplicate you spring setting by counting turns from a starting
point.
Or something along those lines. If it was possible, A person like Pirate has the ability to fab the bits and make a conversion kit or people could send their driums to him. It would be more awkward than production, but you could tune the drums to your personal mg34, by hand.

Or not, if it's a stupid idea.
Regards,
mgfun

[Bil]

I don't think it's a stupid idea at all.First I would find out exactly what the diferances were,and try to mimic the original as closely as possible.The outside drum shape would be the same,the problem as I see it would be the attachments to the 34 topcover more than the spring itself.The 15 feeds alternately from each drum,you would have to mimic that.The problem I see is-is it worth it,given the rarity of the topcover itself.Making the drums work would be only the first problem,then you have to have someone make enough correct topcovers .Just my opinion.Personally,I like the whole idea. ---bil

[mgfun]

Well, it is a bit of a chicken and egg problem. There seem to be plenty of mg15 saddledrums around. Good. They aren't usable for much (unless your an mg15 guy). There is no sense producing a topcover unless there is a drum to use.

Sounds like a group buy on combined topcovers and converted mg15 saddledrums is in order.

Oops, drum conversion doesn't exist.

Oops, topcovers are a rather sensitive subject, but the situation isn't good to get a traditional looking and functioning topcover...although the plans exist.

Maybe the overall price will be a sticker shock item. Still, it was a beautiful dream.
Regards,
mgfun

[Bil]

Don't give up on your dreams-thats what got me where I am today! OOPS-bad example!Anyway,I think it is worth pursuing,there are many that would like such a set-up,and like you say-the 15 drums are relatively common. ---bil

[Bil]

I have been fooling around with my 15 drums and a 34 topcover for a while today.I am going to try to get an old topcover that I can cut up and try the fit.From what I have read,the two parts will work togethert,but not well.This was tested with FA.I think the slower action of the SA might work.They might feed ok without the adjustable springs.I think I will fool around with this idea in my spare time during the summer.I will let you know how I make out. ---bil

[gordie k]

MGS had top covers for the mg15 drums they were about 250

[Bil]

Gordie-thanks-I just checked their site,no luck.I will give them a call. ---bil

[BELTLEAD]

I found the top cover on MGS website. It's item #PKMAGE01 for $299