What action should be taken if a vertical mill table is loose and has side play?

When a vertical mill table is loose and exhibits side play, the appropriate action is to tighten the taper gib adjustment. The taper gib is a component that helps secure the table in place, preventing unwanted movement. By tightening the gib, you can eliminate the side play and ensure that the table remains stable during machining operations.

Tightening the taper gib adjusts the fit between the sliding surfaces and restores the necessary rigidity for accurate machining. This process is typically straightforward and can often be done without the need for more extensive repairs or adjustments.

In contrast, replacing the table would be an unnecessary and costly action when the issue can be resolved through adjustments. Increasing oil pressure may improve lubrication but would not address the root cause of the looseness. Realigning the entire mill machine is also excessive if the only issue is the adjustment of the taper gib, as there may be no misalignment involved. Thus, adjusting the taper gib is the most efficient and effective solution for correcting side play in the vertical mill table.