let's see your craftsman block grinders

[MercLSU]

Thanks Merc!

This was a 160 miles away from me. But the temptation got the best of me and I made an offer of $85 in the last day. The next morning my offer was accepted!

Picked it up this AM. It was a long drive, but I stopped at the Camp Ripley Military Museum to help offset the gas money. Well worth the stop.

She spins up fine and takes forever to wind down. And it has the rubber feet to boot.

Not like the deal WWShop managed, but 1HP blocks are hard to find.

Looks great, I'm glad that another GJ member got it if I couldn't! Hopefully I'll come across another decent deal soon, just will have to be patient. And I probably have enough grinders as it is...wait, no, that's not possible, is it?

 

[vertguy]

I somehow missed this one over the weekend on CL and was very surprised to see it still available when I contacted the seller yesterday. Made the 90 minute round trip drive tonight and quickly paid the $50 asking price after hearing it run (smooth as butter and seems to run forever after power down) as he had several other potential buyers in the queue. Pretty excited as this is my first cap start and a bonus with the stand/tool rest.

But this makes 2 block additions in the last 15 days... think I need to attend some blockhead anonymous sessions as I am not sure what one needs with 5

Now I am looking forward to some down time this fall/winter to start tinkering with the new arrivals... along with sorting out what stays/goes.

 

[S4cruiser]

^^^^^ Dude you ****!!

 

[exmaxima1]

I somehow missed this one over the weekend on CL and was very surprised to see it still available when I contacted the seller yesterday. Made the 90 minute round trip drive tonight and quickly paid the $50 asking price after hearing it run (smooth as butter and seems to run forever after power down) as he had several other potential buyers in the queue. Pretty excited as this is my first cap start and a bonus with the stand/tool rest.

But this makes 2 block additions in the last 15 days... think I need to attend some blockhead anonymous sessions as I am not sure what one needs with 5

Now I am looking forward to some down time this fall/winter to start tinkering with the new arrivals... along with sorting out what stays/goes.

I was surprised to see it even an hr after it was listed, and it was in Beach Park where my son lives. But that was still 1-1/2 hrs away, and I have too many projects going on to deal with missing rest, eyeshields, labels, etc. I'm glad it went to someone that will appreciate it! You ****!

 

[torqueman2002]

I somehow missed this one over the weekend on CL and was very surprised to see it still available when I contacted the seller yesterday. Made the 90 minute round trip drive tonight and quickly paid the $50 asking price after hearing it run (smooth as butter and seems to run forever after power down) as he had several other potential buyers in the queue. Pretty excited as this is my first cap start and a bonus with the stand/tool rest.

But this makes 2 block additions in the last 15 days... think I need to attend some blockhead anonymous sessions as I am not sure what one needs with 5

Now I am looking forward to some down time this fall/winter to start tinkering with the new arrivals... along with sorting out what stays/goes.

Saaaweeeettta!

 

[WWShop]

Drives, those are some great pics. Very pretty.

 

[WWShop]

Picked up this 1 hp this morning for $55. Another person no showed twice, so the seller text me and I was able to pick it up. Great condition and runs perfect!

 

[CNGsaves]

^ ^ ^ ^ That is serious YOU **** at only $55 for 1HP CM block !!

 

[torqueman2002]

^ ^ ^ ^ That is serious YOU **** at only $55 for 1HP CM block !!

It sure is! And it came with the sharpening attachment.

 

[WWShop]

A while back I had to sell a bunch of tools along with my beloved 1/2 hp block with stand. My wife and I have good jobs but we had a long stretch of one financial setback after another. With four kids we found ourselves struggling to keep our heads above water. We have very fortunately gotten back on our feet, and the future looks bright, and I was rewarded with two 1 hp blocks the last few weeks!!

 

[jreb10]

Picked up this 1 hp this morning for $55. Another person no showed twice, so the seller text me and I was able to pick it up. Great condition and runs perfect!

Shucks!

Jeremy, I called the guy on that grinder a few hours after he posted, and he said someone was "on his way" to pick it up.

I was hopeful a GJ'er would wind up with it, and maybe it would be you.

It looks to be in great shape. Nice pickup!

 

[WWShop]

Shucks!

Jeremy, I called the guy on that grinder a few hours after he posted, and he said someone was "on his way" to pick it up.

I was hopeful a GJ'er would wind up with it, and maybe it would be you.

It looks to be in great shape. Nice pickup!

Sorry, Joe

Yes, it runs beautifully!

 

[jreb10]

Sorry, Joe

Yes, it runs beautifully!

So, when are you going to break the news to everyone that it came with the stand as well?....

 

[87quest]

Question for the group since there seems to be occasional trouble shooting here. I have a half hp block. It doesn't spin when turned on. I can hear it hum and the shaft feels locked in place. Spins freely when off. I have two or three small winding wires that are cut, if that would lock it. Also, which way do the spring washers things face on the outside of the bearings. Thanks for any help.
quest

 

[drivesitfar]

87: i'm guessing one of the guys might know what the potential issues are so you can (and they) can help you troubleshoot the issue. i'm betting you are not the first member to have this issue so while you are waiting you might read this thread and a few of the threads in Tourqueman2002 sig line to maybe find some answers. also welcome to GJ.

WW: happy to hear you are doing better. i raised 5 kids so i have an idea what you are going though. it's a rough and bumpy ride raising 4 kids, but not a better one on the planet and just do the best you can to hang on and keep smiling.

good luck

ALL: i found a flat top 3/4 HP today that runs great and has all it's parts, but i don't need it so it's going up for sale in case any of you might want to pick it up locally. cheap and dirty is the deal

 

[WWShop]

So, when are you going to break the news to everyone that it came with the stand as well?....

Yes, it came with a four legged stand but it was extremely flimsy and very short. So I am hoping to locate another craftsman stand. Also, I knew that was a sharpening attachment when I bought it but not exactly sure how those work or what they are meant to sharpen. Any help with that? Please excuse my ignorance.

 

[jreb10]

Yes, it came with a four legged stand but it was extremely flimsy and very short. So I am hoping to locate another craftsman stand. Also, I knew that was a sharpening attachment when I bought it but not exactly sure how those work or what they are meant to sharpen. Any help with that? Please excuse my ignorance.

That stand is in the 1976/77 catalog, so it is stock. I will try to post an image I saved, although it is fuzzy. Look in the upper right corner.

 

[WWShop]

Oh wow! I had NO clue that was a craftsman stand! I am not as smart as I thought I was.

 

[torqueman2002]

Oh wow! I had NO clue that was a craftsman stand! I am not as smart as I thought I was.

Truthfully, it's not much of a stand; even if it's not compared to the beloved ci CM stand (the one below is naked, awaiting a coat of paint).

You may wind-up paying as much, maybe more, for a ci stand than your 1-HP [YOU ****] Block.

 

[torqueman2002]

I confess, I have a thing for grinders; Blocks, Baldor, Milwaukee, ... But that's not news to frequent readers of this thread.

I have wondered out-loud (or in this forum), if I have become a Baldorhead.

What?! Has a Blockhead become a Baldorhead?! or Baldor 7312 Dual Speed Grinder
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=340174

Can I still be a Blockhead, please?

 

[john6185]

I just signed on and I have a problem with the Craftsman 397.19440 grinder. The switch locked up on me. I used a 15 Amp house switch for awhile but in trying to use it awhile back it simply wouldn't work. The stock switch has 4 poles and there is at least one capacitor within the grinder.
I cannot find a substitute switch, I've gone to Grainer, Zoro etc. and can't find a switch except for those with two poles, off/on. So I'm looking for a switch and ideas...

 

[exmaxima1]

I just signed on and I have a problem with the Craftsman 397.19440 grinder. The switch locked up on me. I used a 15 Amp house switch for awhile but in trying to use it awhile back it simply wouldn't work. The stock switch has 4 poles and there is at least one capacitor within the grinder.
I cannot find a substitute switch, I've gone to Grainer, Zoro etc. and can't find a switch except for those with two poles, off/on. So I'm looking for a switch and ideas...

If you are running the grinder on 120vac you don't need a double pole (4 terminals) switch. Use a single pole (2 terminals) switch and only on the black wire from your power cord. Connect the white wires together with a crimp connector or wire nut. Should be fine.

 

[Blue Frog]

I couldn't pass on this duo last week for $60.00.








Blue Frog

 

[Shiftless]

BF:
You bagged a fantastic deal on that grinder.
SCORE!

...but may I mention to you that there is another thread for vintage grinders other than Craftsman block styles

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=6005619#post6005619

 

[cagullett1]

There are safety concerns with vitrified grinding stones that are not stored properly.

If they are exposed to damp/wet conditions [ie: damp basement/garage, ...], they can disintegrate with explosive force.

For about $10/ea, I find peace of mind to toss any unknown stone and replace with new.

The following links are for hard to find 7", but the suppliers in the thread also carry 6" & 8" stones & wheels.

Stones
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=5303162&postcount=7364

Wire Wheels
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=5561379&postcount=8031

Be safe.


Also, be sure to see: "GRINDER SAFETY 101 (graphic injury video so be warned)", by drivesitfar.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=263083

Thanks for the reminder about these other threads. I was just needing to order some new stones/wire wheels to setup my grinders.

Do the crimped wheels you mentioned in the link above lose wires like I'm used to with crimped brushes in an angle grinder? I'd like a wire wheel and knotted wheels aren't very appealing, but I'd prefer not to constantly be losing wires (I'll wear glasses and a face shield, safety shouldn't be a concern). Opinions?

 

[torqueman2002]

Thanks for the reminder about these other threads. I was just needing to order some new stones/wire wheels to setup my grinders.

Do the crimped wheels you mentioned in the link above lose wires like I'm used to with crimped brushes in an angle grinder? I'd like a wire wheel and knotted wheels aren't very appealing, but I'd prefer not to constantly be losing wires (I'll wear glasses and a face shield, safety shouldn't be a concern). Opinions?

YW

The more I use crimped wire wheels, even good quality Wieler, the more I find they lose those danm wires.

The exception as you noted above are the twisted/knotted wire wheels - but the ones I've seen are very aggressive and don't suit all jobs.

 

[torqueman2002]

I just signed on and I have a problem with the Craftsman 397.19440 grinder. The switch locked up on me. I used a 15 Amp house switch for awhile but in trying to use it awhile back it simply wouldn't work. The stock switch has 4 poles and there is at least one capacitor within the grinder.
I cannot find a substitute switch, I've gone to Grainer, Zoro etc. and can't find a switch except for those with two poles, off/on. So I'm looking for a switch and ideas...

SPST 15A toggle switch will be OK, if you run it on 125VAC.

Here's one rated for 3/4-HP, 20A @ 125VAC - but screw terminals <$7.
https://www.zoro.com/ideal-toggle-switch-spst-10a-250v-screw-774011/i/G0275116/

Here's a DPST 3/4-HP, 15A @ 125VAC with spade terminals <$6.
http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/26-5165

Here's a thread on your model, with pictures & diagrams of the switch, cap, and relay.
1/2-HP Block Grinder m-397.19440 - post mortem
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=311149

Here's a thread on replacement switches.
CM Block Grinder power switch - replacements
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=310418

Here's a thread on repair of that OEM style switch.
Block Grinder rescue - HD Big Blue unknown model and HP
http://tinyurl.com/Go-Blue-Block-Sw-Rpr1

Here are 2 threads with additional information on parts, repair, and restorations.
Craftsman Block motor Bench Grinders - What's the Fuss (with resource information)
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=249539

Craftsman Block motor Bench Grinders - Restorations
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=325578

Let us know how you make out, and/or if you have any questions.

Also, feel free to PM me with any questions.

BTW - unless it looks like the Block in 1/2-HP Block Grinder m-397.19440 - post mortem, it is repairable.

 

[john6185]

Thanks a lot! I was looking for a wiring diagram to wire an off/on switch but from what you've given me, I overhauled the old switch which was somewhat melted inside but I took a drill bit and cleaned out the area where the spring was under the plunger and I think it will hold for awhile and that will give me time to ferret out how to wire the on/off switch.
I think I may leave the old switch flipped on and put an inline on/off switch.
Thanks again, you help was greatly appreciated.
One of life's great peeves is needing to use a grinder and it doesn't work.

P.S. I think I've found a replacement switch on EBay, Craftsman Table or Radial arm saw Switch RED Mounting holes 1 5/8" OC TAPPED (112141025967 ). It has four connections and well worth a try.

 

[cagullett1]

YW

The more I use crimped wire wheels, even good quality Wieler, the more I find they lose those danm wires.

The exception as you noted above are the twisted/knotted wire wheels - but the ones I've seen are very aggressive and don't suit all jobs.

So you'd suggest still getting a Wieler crimped? Would a scotchbrite wheel be a substitute to the crimped wire wheel, albeit expensive?

 

[torqueman2002]

Thanks a lot! I was looking for a wiring diagram to wire an off/on switch but from what you've given me, I overhauled the old switch which was somewhat melted inside but I took a drill bit and cleaned out the area where the spring was under the plunger and I think it will hold for awhile and that will give me time to ferret out how to wire the on/off switch.
I think I may leave the old switch flipped on and put an inline on/off switch.
Thanks again, you help was greatly appreciated.
One of life's great peeves is needing to use a grinder and it doesn't work.

P.S. I think I've found a replacement switch on EBay, Craftsman Table or Radial arm saw Switch RED Mounting holes 1 5/8" OC TAPPED (112141025967 ). It has four connections and well worth a try.

You are welcome, let me know if you need more information on the wiring.

You probably know that not all switches can handle the load of a motor, should you add an in-line switch.

Thanks for the eBay switch heads-up. I may see if one will be OK for a 1-HP Block I have waiting for a rebuild.

 

[torqueman2002]

So you'd suggest still getting a Wieler crimped? Would a scotchbrite wheel be a substitute to the crimped wire wheel, albeit expensive?

I'd like to try a scotchbrite wheel. I understand they do a great job.

So, I can't answer your question.

 

[exmaxima1]

So you'd suggest still getting a Wieler crimped? Would a scotchbrite wheel be a substitute to the crimped wire wheel, albeit expensive?

Huge difference in how they function. Wire wheel removes paint, stains, and rust. Scotchbrite pad is abrasive, so it also grinds the substrate metal.

 

[87quest]

Not to be selfish, but any help for my query on the previous page? Please. Haha

quest

 

[Bobioz1]

87, when was the last time your grinder worked? Did it just die one day, was it taken apart and now it doesn't work, was it broke when you acquired it? Also some pics of the "cut" wires might help.

 

[torqueman2002]

Question for the group since there seems to be occasional trouble shooting here. I have a half hp block. It doesn't spin when turned on. I can hear it hum and the shaft feels locked in place. Spins freely when off. I have two or three small winding wires that are cut, if that would lock it. Also, which way do the spring washers things face on the outside of the bearings. Thanks for any help.
quest

For the spring washer - see the 1st post in the following thread.
http://www.thegaragegazette.com/index.php?topic=18119.0

"I can hear it hum and the shaft feels locked in place. Spins freely when off. I have two or three small winding wires that are cut, ...."
That is a symptom of a start-up circuit malfunction. Not knowing more specifics, or having any visuals to go-by, my best guess --- the 2 or 3 cut small winding wires are preventing voltage from reaching the start-up winding.

The function of the start-up winding is to over come the rotor's inertia when the grinder is first powered up. The s-u winding is energized, by either an internal centrifugal-switch or relay, until the rotor reaches about 70% final speed.

If the s-u winding wires are cut and that is the cause of the humming no-start, try giving the wheels a spin just as the power is switched ON. If you can get it up to speed, it should keep running.

Chances are, those wires are going to be difficult/impossible to repair. They do have a varnish insulating coating, even-though they look like bare copper wire.

 

[bubinga]

It sure is! And it came with the sharpening attachment.

^ ^ ^ ^ That is serious YOU **** at only $55 for 1HP CM block !!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This

 

[cbacres]

Here's another 1/2 hp pre block I picked up today. I'm slowly replacing my later blocks with these.

Stand may be available soon, all my grinders will be mounted on a common table.

Turned it on to test, ran just fine, turned off and had to wait a while to spin down. Now if I could just find a 3/4 like this......

 

[torqueman2002]

Here's another 1/2 hp pre block I picked up today. I'm slowly replacing my later blocks with these.

Stand may be available soon, all my grinders will be mounted on a common table.

Turned it on to test, ran just fine, turned off and had to wait a while to spin down. Now if I could just find a 3/4 like this......

Very nice, indeed cb!

Not to pick nits, but that style is a round top Block.

 

[cbacres]

Torque, your right, it's a round top.I'd better spend more time here reading up again.

 

[87quest]

I'm Will try spinning it tomorrow when it gets back together. Ran into a pretty good deal on an 8 drawer vidmar today. But here are the broken windings. They are the smaller ones. I attached the images but not sure if that will work. I added an album in my profile as well with them. On an iPhone and first time with oictures so we will see how it works.

quest