Closer look and we can see that there are two places in which the frame is broke.

This is not only a crack in metal.  This is significant
brakeage with a displacement.

The same point on the frame from the opposite side.  We can see
clearly a displacement of this part of the frame.

Here is the second breakage point.  We can see severe breakage and
very clear, substantial  displacement.

The same point on the frame from opposite side.

Unfortunately, no repair is possible and the drill has to be discarded.

What does this mean for vintage tool users?  Well, know what you buy... 

The No. 2A-Zamak or No.2-1957 as I prefer to call it, is a good drill.  If you are looking for a drill on garage and estate sales, you can examine the drill before you buy it.  The vulnerable spots are shown above and I have not discovered any other issue with these drills.

If you buy on eBay... well, you can end up with a frame just like the one above.  I have a few of these in my scrap bin.

I expect that there will be one key question from many readers of this article:  Is it a good drill and is it worth buying?

Yes, I believe it is a good drill!  However, if you can't examine it before you buy it, I would recommend not to proceed with a purchase.  If you really want to buy No. 2A drill, either find it on auction or yard sale, where you can examine a drill or buy it from me.