torqueman2002
Well-known member
3/4 HP m-397.19350 Craftsman Block Grinder resto - Update May 31, 2011
I found this 3/4HP grinder, stand, and several diamond dressing tools on CL in SE Michigan, model number: 397.19350. It spins down slowly without vibration or bearing noise. The bearings will not need replacing. Note: After this restore, I've learned that a slow spin-down is a sign that the bearing grease is not adding 'drag', which probably indicates a need for new bearings. I now routinely replace the bearings, they are relatively in-expensive, easy to replace, and readily available.
These block style grinders are well made - the windings are hefty.
The switch and connectors are not the best feature of this guy. Notice the white jumper wire from the field terminal w/ white wire to the lamp terminal with the black wire. Not best practice.
Cleaned up in the blaster and ready for primer.
Blasting revealed a crack in the wheel housing; beveled the edges and prepped for machinable epoxy.
All primed with Valspar and ready for color.
Changed out the switch, put on new connectors, and heat shrink insulation - there have been instances where the 'hot' lead/terminal shorted out. Added a piggy-back terminal to power the lamp directly w/o a jumper wire.
Front view of single throw double pole 120V/20A switch.
Partially assembled - Body in GLOSS BERRY 65015. Motor cover in GLOSS ANTIQUE WHITE 65003. A view of it's older brother on the back of the bench - waiting for it's resto. Next project.
The power cord is in great shape and tests good - 0.0 Ohm case to ground lug and O.L (Open) between case and Hot and Neutral.
The stand assembly painted in GLOSS BLACK 5339-16, and I get to use those 8-point sockets!
Assembled and mounted on the stand.
Label reproduced with the help of a fellow block grinder fan - thanks Mickey O!
Now I get to use it to restore it's older brother.
Time to relax with a cool one.
I found this 3/4HP grinder, stand, and several diamond dressing tools on CL in SE Michigan, model number: 397.19350. It spins down slowly without vibration or bearing noise. The bearings will not need replacing. Note: After this restore, I've learned that a slow spin-down is a sign that the bearing grease is not adding 'drag', which probably indicates a need for new bearings. I now routinely replace the bearings, they are relatively in-expensive, easy to replace, and readily available.
These block style grinders are well made - the windings are hefty.
The switch and connectors are not the best feature of this guy. Notice the white jumper wire from the field terminal w/ white wire to the lamp terminal with the black wire. Not best practice.
Cleaned up in the blaster and ready for primer.
Blasting revealed a crack in the wheel housing; beveled the edges and prepped for machinable epoxy.
All primed with Valspar and ready for color.
Changed out the switch, put on new connectors, and heat shrink insulation - there have been instances where the 'hot' lead/terminal shorted out. Added a piggy-back terminal to power the lamp directly w/o a jumper wire.
Front view of single throw double pole 120V/20A switch.
Partially assembled - Body in GLOSS BERRY 65015. Motor cover in GLOSS ANTIQUE WHITE 65003. A view of it's older brother on the back of the bench - waiting for it's resto. Next project.
The power cord is in great shape and tests good - 0.0 Ohm case to ground lug and O.L (Open) between case and Hot and Neutral.
The stand assembly painted in GLOSS BLACK 5339-16, and I get to use those 8-point sockets!
Assembled and mounted on the stand.
Label reproduced with the help of a fellow block grinder fan - thanks Mickey O!
Now I get to use it to restore it's older brother.
Time to relax with a cool one.

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