Abstract: The conversion kit includes a pair of side frame mounting plates, one for each side frame of an older printing unit, wherein the mounting plates are mounted on the inwardly facing surfaces of their respective side frames after a cylinder, an ink fountain, and a doctor blade assembly of the printing unit are removed therefrom. The kit also includes a new ink fountain having an ink well positioned beneath the cylinder, and a sock roll for smoothing out ink on the cylinder and for impregnating engraved cells formed therein with ink. The ink fountain is mounted on and supported by the mounting plates. Also provided is an adjustable doctor blade assembly which is mounted on the mounting plates, the assembly having a doctor blade, and an actuating device for moving the doctor blade towards and away from the cylinder.