CM pre-Block Grinder 115.19500 restore, ver. 2

[torqueman2002]

TM, it appears that fellow Blockheads have similar life histories. My uncle also repaired TV gear after WW2, and I inherited most of his tools around 50 years ago. Still have my Xcelite Compact set of hollow shaft drivers. Check out the printing on the black handle

Torque Amplifier! Love it!

 

[Carl53]

Cord came in yesterday. Slightly larger diameter than old cord. After removing the old cord and metal cord clips, I was able to work the new cord through the old strain relief by using a little bulb grease and then reinstalled the clips. This grinder had a couple of threaded holes in the center of the housing base underneath. Found a bolt to fit and used it for the ground wire. It was interesting that on this grinder the hot wire was attached to the opposite side of the switch from what TM showed. Upon turning the unit off I was amazed to see it coast better part of a minute.

 

[imgn tht]

I just started to work on the exact same unit dated 2/57. Got it all torn down with the exception of removing the old bearings. Do I need that Sunex set or similar specialty tools to pull the old bearings off and install new ones?

 

[exmaxima1]

I recently installed new bearings in a Pre-Block grinder and didn't need any special tools. A gear puller is useful to remove the old bearing, but you could also pound them off with a few steel bars (to support the beaing) and a mallet. New bearings are installed with a piece of pipe that fits over the arbor shaft. Very easy.

 

[imgn tht]

I recently installed new bearings in a Pre-Block grinder and didn't need any special tools. A gear puller is useful to remove the old bearing, but you could also pound them off with a few steel bars (to support the beaing) and a mallet. New bearings are installed with a piece of pipe that fits over the arbor shaft. Very easy.

Thanks took a few moments this morning to work on it and easily pounded them out. Placing an order this afternoon through Amazon for new ones. Saw earlier in this thread the correct replacement bearings being from NTN. Saw equivalent unit under Xike brand for less. Assume not an issue to use these?

 

[exmaxima1]

I would not buy the cheapest bearings for this application. I've tried various low-cost versions and ended up replacing them immediately due to noise or vibration. I've had good success with virtually any bearings that weren't from China. I know China makes decent bearings, but I would not trust any from anywhere other than a reputable bearing supplier. At least with a name brand you have a good chance or getting reliable bearings.

 

[torqueman2002]

I like NTN, bearings are not that $$.


Also, take a look at this thread: "CM Block Grinder bearing replacement - 3 methods".
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=328228

 

[mmsafd]

Great job with your restoration! When I pulled my grinder apart I managed to crack the switch. I ended up removing the components and reinstalling them on a board I fabricated. On a high note it let me clean the contact surfaces thoroughly.

Good write up. I am working on my Craftsman grinder right now too. I did notice a crack in the brown fiberglass looking part of my switch. Is that a problem?