Craftsman Block grinder - 3/4 HP model-397.19670

It has been awhile since I saw a big boy Block in these parts - SE Michigan.

I've stayed away from estate sales, because lots of other things tend to follow me home. All great things, but Mrs. T doesn't share my fine sense of appreciation for pre-pre-vintage tools.

So, when this guy popped onto my radar I scrambled the jets and brought him back.

'HD' round top 3/4-HP Block m-397.19670, shown as found, after a light dust-off and a little bit of Kroil.














Has anyone seen a dual-voltage diagram on a HD base?








This rtop Block is in great condition, with the exception of the LH eye shield glass.

The stones look like they've seen very little use, but will get replaced as a matter of personal safety preference.


Good advice to live by.


Wiring detail. This is the first time I have seen this style of relay with a terminal on the top; the above diagram does not show this style BTW.












Lamp details.










Even the rubber grommet/feet are in great shape.


Thanks for looking.

TM,

Wow, what a find. It doesn't look like that one was ever used. Congrats!

<------------------ Jealous.

Where'd you find it? And what did you give?

And why didn't you leave it for me?

Bill

bczygan said:

Where'd you find it? And what did you give?

And why didn't you leave it for me?

Bill

Click to expand...

I found it near you.

I stole it.

You gotta be quicker.


I have bought 2 other nice Blocks from him, and paid his ask (he prices them just where I like to buy them). This time, he asked if he should just call me first. I had to admit, it might save both of us time & trouble.

He is happy with his newer, non-Block Craftsman grinder. Who am I to shatter his dream?

nine4gmc said:

<------------------ Jealous.

Click to expand...

X10

Wow!!!! That. Is. Awesome!

Thanks guys.

It really doesn't need anything, except new bearings and stones, and the LH eye shield glass replaced.

I'm tempted to swap out the eye shield, then sell it (cracked eye shield) with this guy. Any interest?




I'll have to check that I still have all the bits 'n pieces shown, but I'm confident I do.

PM me for further information.

Thanks for looking.

That's one nice grinder! I have the same one, but it's missing the lamp. I have the flex part but not the socket or the shade.

Does anyone know of a source from something the same or similar?

JCMTools said:

That's one nice grinder! I have the same one, but it's missing the lamp. I have the flex part but not the socket or the shade.

Does anyone know of a source from something the same or similar?

Click to expand...

I found one on etsy.com. Search for a Vimco lamp. However, if you want the vintage part, they are hard to find and priced accordingly.

Torqueman, PM sent.

Thanks!

Hoo boy! I found a few on ebay and they are expensive. I think I'll go with my cheapo lamp for now. The grinder is missing the right wheel covers so it's not like it's a complete grinder. I have it set up with a wire week on the left and a spiral buffing wheel adapter on the right.

Wolfe,

I am glad we met. I enjoyed talking grinders and such with you.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Mike

Thanks Mike. It was a pleasure meeting with you and taking that grinder off you hands. As many of you know, Mike is a topnotch guy and it was a pleasure doing business with him.