let's see your craftsman block grinders

RivennHewn · Jan 22, 2015

Anybody need a new block?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sears-craft...537?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43d64cfce9

Interesting to watch the auction and see how high it goes.

drivesitfar · Jan 22, 2015

Waltrip: so the seller was actually a good guy cause that's a helluva grinder for $80. Nice

montanafordman · Jan 22, 2015

RivennHewn said:
Anybody need a new block?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sears-craft...537?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43d64cfce9

Interesting to watch the auction and see how high it goes.

I'd be more interested in this one. I have a 1/2 hp just like it and it runs nice! This one looks pretty nice with little use.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Craftsman-Commercial-1-2-HP-7-Inch-Bench-Grinder-Tool-Model-397-19591-/131406237275?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e986c0e5b

Waltrip88 · Jan 22, 2015

drivesitfar said:
Waltrip: so the seller was actually a good guy cause that's a helluva grinder for $80. Nice

He said he had a lot of people interested in the grinder and kept hauling it to work, but the buyers never came. So he became a little irritated. I guess I would be too if I hauled this heavy thing around for nothing!

Waltrip88 · Jan 22, 2015

I was at an estate sale in October that had a Craftsman vintage 1/3 hp grinder and stand new in box for $120, but didn't get it because it was the first day and they weren't negotiating.

exmaxima1 · Jan 22, 2015

Waltrip88 said:
I was at an estate sale in October that had a Craftsman vintage 1/3 hp grinder and stand new in box for $120, but didn't get it because it was the first day and they weren't negotiating.

FYI, the stand would have easily cleared you >$120 on fleabay, and the grinder would have been free. Bummer

exmaxima1 · Jan 22, 2015

montanafordman said:
I'd be more interested in this one. I have a 1/2 hp just like it and it runs nice! This one looks pretty nice with little use.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Craftsman-Commercial-1-2-HP-7-Inch-Bench-Grinder-Tool-Model-397-19591-/131406237275?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e986c0e5b

"Standard" shipping seems very high at $44. You need to factor about 1/2 that as overcharge in the final price. And if it clears $100, I'm selling mine!

bluebolt · Jan 22, 2015

That 1/2 HP one sure has a big water pot! And if I had one that nice it would have to be WAY over $100 for me to sell it!

vertguy · Jan 22, 2015

I finally got around to taking a closer look at the grinding wheels that came on my recently acquired '68. Man, is this thing ever clean under the covers and these wheels look fairly dated. Aside from needing a quick dressing (both passed the ring test), both seem to be in very good shape... one fine (60) and one coarse (36).

Could these be original?

McBrownie · Jan 22, 2015

vertguy said:
I finally got around to taking a closer look at the grinding wheels that came on my recently acquired '68. Man, is this thing ever clean under the covers and these wheels look fairly dated. Aside from needing a quick dressing (both passed the ring test), both seem to be in very good shape... one fine (60) and one coarse (36).

Could these be original?

My 1968 3/4Hp had those blue and yellow labels too. One was worn down from 8" to about 4". The way they were stuck to the arbor washers made me think they were original. Yours are in great shape.

drivesitfar · Jan 22, 2015

Vert: since we are still finding old NOS in the box block grinders it's pretty likely your stones are original. the paper and colors look right and I've got a few myself in a box somewhere.

vertguy · Jan 22, 2015

I figured as much. Makes me not want to use it

On a related note... my CM stand from the "Block Whisper" (aka Torqueman) showed up today and when I explained the contents to my wife, she jokingly recommended we find a good spot to display the finished stand/grinder in the house :thumbup:

McBrownie · Jan 22, 2015

montanafordman said:
I'd be more interested in this one. I have a 1/2 hp just like it and it runs nice! This one looks pretty nice with little use.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Craftsman-Commercial-1-2-HP-7-Inch-Bench-Grinder-Tool-Model-397-19591-/131406237275?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e986c0e5b

This is interesting. I have the same model with the metal switch and the plastic eye shields. It's a great grinder, btw. I always figured it to be early '70s, but the manual, dated 1969, show a plastic switch. I just assumed that the plastic switches came later, but apparently not. :headscrat

View media item 47502
By the way, the Power Took Institute, Inc. company referenced in the manual is still in Cleveland (according to Google) and right by Progressive Field (It should still be "The Jake") and the cemetery. I'm going to try to give them a call.

torqueman2002 · Jan 22, 2015

exmaxima1 said:
"Standard" shipping seems very high at $44. You need to factor about 1/2 that as overcharge in the final price. And if it clears $100, I'm selling mine!

I use FedEx 2-nd day ground, pack & ship for Block grinders that weigh ~ 38 lbs.

From MI 48334 to NC, AL, AR, TX, and WI the actual charges are between $28 - $44. Insured value of $100.

torqueman2002 · Jan 22, 2015

My comments are in Blue.

vertguy said:
I finally got around to taking a closer look at the grinding wheels that came on my recently acquired '68. Man, is this thing ever clean under the covers and these wheels look fairly dated. Aside from needing a quick dressing (both passed the ring test), both seem to be in very good shape... one fine (60) and one coarse (36).

Could these be original? They look like some I have found on Blocks of that vintage. I think they are OEM.

McBrownie said:
My 1968 3/4Hp had those blue and yellow labels too. One was worn down from 8" to about 4". The way they were stuck to the arbor washers made me think they were original. Yours are in great shape. I've had some of the labels, tear upon removal too. The labels help distribute the flange load more evenly over the sides of the stone to reduce chances of damage.

drivesitfar said:
Vert: since we are still finding old NOS in the box block grinders it's pretty likely your stones are original. the paper and colors look right and I've got a few myself in a box somewhere.

vertguy said:
I figured as much. Makes me not want to use it

On a related note... my CM stand from the "Block Whisper" (aka Torqueman) showed up today and when I explained the contents to my wife, she jokingly recommended we find a good spot to display the finished stand/grinder in the house She's a keeper! Glad the stand made the trip in good shape.

torqueman2002 · Jan 22, 2015

McBrownie said:
This is interesting. I have the same model with the metal switch and the plastic eye shields. It's a great grinder, btw. I always figured it to be early '70s, but the manual, dated 1969, show a plastic switch. I just assumed that the plastic switches came later, but apparently not.

View media item 47502
By the way, the Power Took Institute, Inc. company referenced in the manual is still in Cleveland (according to Google) and right by Progressive Field (It should still be "The Jake") and the cemetery. I'm going to try to give them a call.

Maybe, one day we'll understand/know all of the combinations these 'simple' machines were produced. :eyecrazy:

torqueman2002 · Jan 22, 2015

I met-up with FrankLee again today. A fellow GJer and great guy today!

Thanks for the photo enlarger(?). :thumbup:

As you suggested, I may re-purpose the lamps for grinder, or DP duty after my picture archiving project is done, or when I can swing a dedicated photo scanner.

exmaxima1 · Jan 22, 2015

torqueman2002 said:
I use FedEx 2-nd day ground, pack & ship for Block grinders that weigh ~ 38 lbs.

From MI 48334 to NC, AL, TX, and WI the actual charges are between $28 - $44. Insured value of $100.

In my mind, that's a big spread, so I wouldn't use a Flat Rate if I was selling. In this case, based on 40 lbs (which is high for that grinder) it would be $28 worse case from a Fedex store in Belleville IL to my home in Chicago subs. Fedex includes $100 free insurance. In reality, I would use my commercial address, so it would be less than $25 so the flat $44 is certainly excessive.

exmaxima1 · Jan 22, 2015

bluebolt said:
That 1/2 HP one sure has a big water pot! And if I had one that nice it would have to be WAY over $100 for me to sell it!

That tray looks correct. I have the exact grinder, and it's the same size.

torqueman2002 · Jan 22, 2015

exmaxima1 said:
In my mind, that's a big spread, so I wouldn't use a Flat Rate if I was selling. In this case, based on 40 lbs (which is high for that grinder) it would be $28 worse case from a Fedex store in Belleville IL to my home in Chicago subs. Fedex includes $100 free insurance. In reality, I would use my commercial address, so it would be less than $25 so the flat $44 is certainly excessive.

It's always good to hear ways to keep costs down.

I wish everyone had a commercial address where they can accept shipments.

Sorry, I should've checked first, the Block I was recalling is 33.50 lbs., with packing and box; not 38 lbs.

MI 48334 to TX 75454 = ~1,134 miles
Belleville IL 62220 to Chicago IL 60605 = ~295 miles

FedEx uses a 16x16x16 size box, I haven't found USPS, UPS, or a FedEX flat rate box that size.

The prices include FedEx packaging & materials, and shipping. I recommend and the recipients agree to the FedEx packing because in the event of damaged or loss, they cover it fully.

I am now in the process of a damage claim. I will find out in short order how customer focused FedEx is. I can only hope they are 1/2 as good as Amazon.

bluebolt · Jan 22, 2015

exmaxima1 said:
That tray looks correct. I have the exact grinder, and it's the same size.

Good to know, I figured it was original, just didn't know the Commercial ones had a bigger pot.

bluebolt · Jan 24, 2015

OK who in the St Louis area wants an NOS 3/4 HP block? Unfortunately it's missing the side shields and tool rests and eye shields.

http://stlouis.craigslist.org/tls/4855364929.html

I sent them an email.

Thank you for your interest. The double grinder is BRAND NEW NEVER USED. I don’t have andy side shields. Cord is still wrapped up. $125.00 I can meet you tomorrow at 11 in Olivette. Let me know and our phone number please if interested. I have MANY OTHER TOOLS and I will provide you the address is your wish to purchase. I only accept CASH

drivesitfar · Jan 24, 2015

BB: tempting, but one of the reasons i like the commercial block grinders are for their awesome water tray tool rest combo. if that was local and wasn't that price with shipping on top of it i'd be a little more tempted. i'm passing, but thanks for posting it.

TM: do you have any pictures of how you ship a block? i'm guessing you take the wheels and shields off or do you just leave everything on and give them a nice cushion? also good to hear Mrs. T approves of a college or pro team color for the block restorations like Go Blue has.

McBrownie · Jan 24, 2015

bluebolt said:
OK who in the St Louis area wants an NOS 3/4 HP block? Unfortunately it's missing the side shields and tool rests and eye shields.

http://stlouis.craigslist.org/tls/4855364929.html

I sent them an email.

Thank you for your interest. The double grinder is BRAND NEW NEVER USED. I don’t have andy side shields. Cord is still wrapped up. $125.00 I can meet you tomorrow at 11 in Olivette. Let me know and our phone number please if interested. I have MANY OTHER TOOLS and I will provide you the address is your wish to purchase. I only accept CASH

Too bad it's missing the side shields, but what a grinder! Hope somebody here gets it.

torqueman2002 · Jan 24, 2015

Hi guys. See my comments in Blue.

bluebolt said:
OK who in the St Louis area wants an NOS 3/4 HP block? Unfortunately it's missing the side shields and tool rests and eye shields. Thanks. I need a replacement arbor/shaft, but maybe this one will get the parts instead.
....

drivesitfar said:

.... TM: do you have any pictures of how you ship a block? I turn over the block to the FedEx people for packing. I am thinking, that removing the wheels from the arbor/shafts is a good idea. I think a grinder was damaged because they were left on. On the other hand, that is how NIB ones are packed. i'm guessing you take the wheels and shields off or do you just leave everything on and give them a nice cushion? also good to hear Mrs. T approves of a college or pro team color for the block restorations like Go Blue has.

Click to expand...

McBrownie said:

Too bad it's missing the side shields, but what a grinder! Hope somebody here gets it. I'll eMail the seller, keep your fingers crossed and thanks.

Click to expand...

torqueman2002 · Jan 24, 2015

"I'll eMail the seller, keep your fingers crossed and thanks."

I received a call from the seller.

We have reached an agreement.

Thanks! :thumbup:

I will post pictures when I get it.

Waltrip88 · Jan 24, 2015

I found a beat up craftsman 1/2 hp grinder with the original pedestal. I'm negotiating for just the pedestal and would like to know how much i should spend on it.

bluebolt · Jan 24, 2015

Waltrip88 said:
I found a beat up craftsman 1/2 hp grinder with the original pedestal. I'm negotiating for just the pedestal and would like to know how much i should spend on it.

They sell for $80 and up on Ebay.

Waltrip88 · Jan 24, 2015

bluebolt said:
They sell for $80 and up on Ebay.

Sweet. We settled on $40.

bluebolt · Jan 24, 2015

Waltrip88 said:
Sweet. We settled on $40.

Nice score!

mtwaterguy · Jan 25, 2015

montanafordman said:
I'd be more interested in this one. I have a 1/2 hp just like it and it runs nice! This one looks pretty nice with little use.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Craftsman-Commercial-1-2-HP-7-Inch-Bench-Grinder-Tool-Model-397-19591-/131406237275?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e986c0e5b

$202.50 total for this one. I had a hard time justifying a $160 bid.

exmaxima1 · Jan 25, 2015

mtwaterguy said:
$202.50 total for this one. I had a hard time justifying a $160 bid.

That settles it-- mine is going on the block this week!

nine4gmc · Jan 25, 2015

exmaxima1 said:
That settles it-- mine is going on the block this week!

Sell out

j/k, it's got me considering putting one up as well. :thumbup:

drivesitfar · Jan 25, 2015

ALL: don't sell because our sons need them and there wont be a NOS one to buy 30 years from now. the $200-300 will be spent tomorrow on another tool so wouldn't you really all rather have a block? i just noticed the 12 gauge garage just picked up another so even Jack has a one or maybe two now.

cheers

mtwaterguy · Jan 25, 2015

drivesitfar said:
ALL: don't sell because our sons need them and there wont be a NOS one to buy 30 years from now. the $200-300 will be spent tomorrow on another tool so wouldn't you really all rather have a block? i just noticed the 12 gauge garage just picked up another so even Jack has a one or maybe two now.

cheers

If they sell to a member, they'd still be in the family so that would be ok?

Gareth68 · Jan 25, 2015

Well, I finally joined the club.

I just picked up a nice 1/2 hp for $50.

It's missing the light (has the gooseneck still). ]

Otherwise looked pretty good.

I'm at work....I haven't had time to take pics yet or examine it even too closely as I was pressed for time.

I will update soon.

Waltrip88 · Jan 25, 2015

Picked up the pedestal today and mounted my 3/4 on it. It looks great, but it slides on my floor while running.

Is there anything I can do to stop that besides bolting it down?

nine4gmc · Jan 25, 2015

I put my foot on mine while using it. One member mentioned to me that he just picked up one that had a 1" thick piece of steel plate attached to the bottom for added mass.

torqueman2002 · Jan 25, 2015

Waltrip88 said:
Picked up the pedestal today and mounted my 3/4 on it. It looks great, but it slides on my floor while running.

Is there anything I can do to stop that besides bolting it down?

Nice set-up.

Try an old door mat if the vibration isn't too bad. Otherwise, look for an out of round/out of balance wheel.

drivesitfar · Jan 25, 2015

Waltrip: what i think TM meant is one of your stones is out of round or balance so a good way to test that is to take both stones off and then try turning it on and see if your grinder still walks about the floor.

another fix is to get a good chunk of rubber mat from a gym or they are sold as horse mats at the feed store.

let's see your craftsman block grinders

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