How to Change the Cable in a Dietzgen 4411D Drafting Board

The Dietzgen 4411D drafting board is like many others, in that it uses a retaining cable to secure the parallel straightedge to the upper surface. If this cable is broken or loose, the straightedge will fall off or simply move too freely. Replacing the cable on the table is not difficult, but essential for anyone wanting to keep the vintage piece in use or for resale.

Instructions

1

Loosen the brake knobs by hand to flip the table up enough to access the bottom. Locate the existing cable.

2

Snip away any old cable still in place. Unthread it from the corner plate wheel and posts around the perimeter.

3

Thread the new cable in the same manner as you unthreaded the old. Make an X shape on the back, routing the cable around the corner posts.

4

Slide the cable through the eye bolt underneath the straight edge. Continue to slide the new wire through the stedge stop.

5

Wrap excess cable coming through the stedge stop around your hand. Pull it tight while tightening the Philips screw on the stedge stop.

6

Rotate the table back to your normal position, and tighten the brake knobs.