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Age of craftsman grinder?

fech

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Jun 22, 2015
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Just found and bought a grinder off of Craigslist. I am curious how you can tell when it was made. It's model# is 997.19501. Did a search on the forum but still not sure. Thanks.
 
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Tonellin

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I think you screwed up on the manufacturer code

397.19501 would be a 1/4 hp made by Paramount/Allegretti & Co in early 1960's
 

CNGsaves

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Congrats OP on purchasing a coveted C-Man block grinder !! :thumbup:

As you now know, Pics are required, and also post Pics in the C-Man block grinder thread.

Let's SEE that puppy !!! :D

:needpics:
 
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M_George

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Why is it considered a pre-block? The main differences I see are the power switch type and location the absence of the water tray and no lamp. Otherwise I wouldn't have known the difference.
 

torqueman2002

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Why is it considered a pre-block? The main differences I see are the power switch type and location the absence of the water tray and no lamp. Otherwise I wouldn't have known the difference.
Depending on the model prefix number, it maybe a CM grinder that looks like the round top Blocks, but preceded the Blocks.

What is a Block grinder?
"... the classic Craftsman bench grinders that were manufactured for Sears by Paramount/Allegretti & Co. from the early 1960's to early 1980's. Affectionately known as "Block Motor" grinders because of their unique shape, these power tools have developed a large following among shop enthusiasts because of their legendary reliability, accuracy, and power.

The "Block Motor" grinder can be readily identified by the Sears manufacturer prefix of 397 or 257 (as in 397.XXXXX); which is stamped on the front label. Popular models include 1/4-HP, 1/3-HP, 1/2-HP, 3/4-HP, and 1-HP Industrial units.
"
Link to: "Vintage Craftsman "Block Motor" bench grinder info -" (source)
http://tinyurl.com/CM-Block-motor-style-grinders



See post #1, in the Craftsman Block motor Bench Grinders - What's the Fuss (with resource information) thread.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4000526&postcount=1
 

CNGsaves

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OP . . . . absolutely impressive first score on CMan "block" grinder. :thumbup:

That's a sweet old grinder . . . complete with all parts. Definitely a lifetime keeper.

Tell us what you paid as you might earn some serious YS awards. ;)
 
OP
F

fech

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Jun 22, 2015
Messages
116
Says 1962 for date on the bottom. Is that the date range for a pre block?
 

tricky

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Oct 28, 2020
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Northeast Wisconsin
I just restored my 1st block grinder and it turned out great.
Now I'm addicted.
I found this bad boy on fb marketplace. Cm now is it pre-block or just a block?? what the hell is on the left side plate? Is it worth restoring or doesn't really pay? I need help I cant decide.
Thank you!
 

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torqueman2002

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I just restored my 1st block grinder and it turned out great.
Now I'm addicted.
I found this bad boy on fb marketplace. Cm now is it pre-block or just a block?? what the hell is on the left side plate? Is it worth restoring or doesn't really pay? I need help I cant decide.
Thank you!
Most GJ members consider this model a round-top Block grinder.


There are other sites (OWWM) that have a stricter definition.
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=249539
 

tricky

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Northeast Wisconsin
Thank you for the info. Is this considered a flat top block then? What is the grinder off the left of the round top? I've not seen this before...
 

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1982fxr

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Yes the one on the left is a repainted flat top. After those, they kept the same shape for a few years and the body became black. Late 70-'s-early 80's I believe.
 

lafester

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Mar 1, 2017
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Northern CO
It looks like they extended the shaft, cut a hole in the guard and attached a cup wheel to the end. I suppose it could work ok, but I don't like it and I doubt it is balanced very well.


Thank you for the info. Is this considered a flat top block then? What is the grinder off the left of the round top? I've not seen this before...
 

beltdrive

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Jan 17, 2015
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Location
Smithfield, RI
I just sold that exact grinder. Based on research I came to the conclusion it was circa 1959. The cast iron ones like that are really cool...and heavy! I am not sure what year they changed to the aluminum body.
 

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