Rapid E binding problem

[morph5690]

Hello there. First time posting. I acquired a rapid E outsole stitcher from a closing shoe repair. I have my own outsole stitcher that I've maintained and done minor maintenance on. However. The rapid E I got had the head detached from the base. The person that gave it to me assured me it just needed to be attached and have a motor hooked up. Seemed simple enough.

 

However when I put the head on the base and tighted it down. The head won't turn. It seems bound up. When it's off the base and the two bottom bolts are loose. It will turn, but not the best. I can get a full rotation when it's loose and "shimmy" it while I turn it. But when the bolts are tight it locks up. 

 

I assume it's a timing issue or maybe needs an oil blast? I understand this is probably a huge project. But I got it for free...I wouldn't be devastated if I never get this working. But I'd love to. Any help to a point in the right direction would be great. Thank you.

 

Mikes shoe repair. Eagan Minnesota. 

[petercoulson]

That's an odd one, Rapid E are very reliable and about the best outsole. taking the head off won't have been that easy but even if dropped the castings are strong and will either snap or not and won't warp. If it's definitely a rapid e there should also be some connecting bars from the bottom depending on the actual model perhaps it's these that cause the issue? Is the head free when it's not got the bolts nor belt in or difficult like you describe? soak it in WD40 or similar in case it's been sitting and rusty inside somehow, there are 2 little oil pots on the columns it's important these get lubricated

[grahamparker]

Make sure if you use WD40 you use a proper lubricant after.

[petercoulson]

29 minutes ago, grahamparker said:

Make sure if you use WD40 you use a proper lubricant after.

Very good point I should have mentioned that 

[Auto Key Wizard]

You shouldn't have mentioned WD40 in the first place
Maintenance or penetrating would have been better, then lubricant after

[Gray]

7 hours ago, Auto Key Wizard said:

Maintenance or penetrating would have been better, then lubricant after

That's what she said