A Couple Block Grinder Questions

[xs650shawn]

Started to overhaul my 1/3 Horse Block Grinder today. Needs new bearings (expected), and a power cord. These are easy enough to get, but had some questions on other findings.
-Left housing has a small crack, which is covered by the center strap. Is there enough stress on the housing to make it crack further. Should I worry about having it welded? Not a big deal? Maybe just stop-drill it? I've included a pic.
-Original cloth-insulated wiring has become brittle, as well as what appear to be paper tubes for additional insulation where the wires are actually joined to the winding wires. I feel competent enough to replace the wiring with new, but before I tear it apart, wanted to know if the wires are directly soldered to the single winding wires.
- Also, any resources to find replacement work rests and shield glass? Maybe have to make my own? Not much luck on ebay.

 

[drivesitfar]

XS: instead of starting a new thread might i suggest you post your questions with more pictures of your block on the block grinder thread in the vintage tool section? i can't answer all your questions so post over there and I think you might have better luck getting the answers you are looking for. ok?

here's a link.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=157794

 

[exmaxima1]

Started to overhaul my 1/3 Horse Block Grinder today.

That looks like a PRE-block