Black & Decker Workmate

[fartymarty]

This has most likely been done before, but other's were too embarrassed to post about it. I have no such problem :tard: even though I do realize that it isn't something to be proud of.
In a pinch for an out-feed support for my table saw I turned my HF Mechanic stool upside down and clamped it in the workmate.

 

[rmalkow2]

Quick thinking!

 

[jimreed2160]

Just used my Workmate to hold a Parker vise dynamic while I tapped on the static to get it moving.

I am always amazed when the Workmate does tricks that nothing else can do.

 

[Outlawmws]

I might have slipped some angle on the jaws to spread the load a it and avoid getting any compressed spots on the WM jaw face.

 

[McBrownie]

Hi -- new member here. I came across this discussion about Workmates and I registered for the forum so that I could contribute to discussion. I learned a few things by reading the old messages, and I think I can add some more info that will help others.

I currently own four Workmates and I have owned (and sold) four others in the last five years. All eight of mine have been variations of the original design, dating from about 1975 to 1979 and differing slightly in materials and details. They have all been dual height 79-00X models; I've never had any of the 2XX, 4XX, 5XX, benchtop, wall-mount, etc. models, so I can't speak to those at all.

I think of these original Workmates as falling into three categories based on the material used in the frame: 1) all aluminum, 2) aluminum and steel, and 3) all steel.

I currently have (oldest to newest production):
79-001 Type E all aluminum Made in England
79-001 Type 2 aluminum and steel (this and the next one are identical) Made in Canada
79-001 Type 2 aluminum and steel
79-001 Type 4 all steel (This is my own original Workmate, bought new in 1979. All the others are older production, but bought more recently, in the last six years or so.)

I've sold:
79-004 Type 1 aluminum and steel Made in Canada (identical to the next one)
79-004 Type 1 aluminum and steel Made in Canada
79-001 Type 4 aluminum and steel Made in Canada
79-001 Type 2 aluminum and steel Made in Canada

I sold three of these on eBay, and they may have been among the sales mentioned by members here because of the high prices! The fourth one I sold on CL for much less.

That's it for an introduction right now -- I'll be posting more in the next few days.

In the meantime, since everyone always wants pictures, here are some of the 79-004 Type 1, which I don't think I've seen mentioned here before. Its distinguishing feature is an attached multi-outlet power strip. Also a good photo of its carton and owner's manual.

Wolfcj,

Welcome! Thanks for the list. I would like to add my blue aluminum and steel made in Ireland to your list. It's a heavy one, but still works great.
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[wolfcj]

The blue ones are quite cool; hope I come across one someday!

I believe (but I'm not sure) that the blue ones were made only in the UK. The UK used a different product numbering scheme than the US, so the one you show would have been sold in the UK as the WM625, but in the US as 79-001 Type 3 (marked on the bottom of the jaws). Similarly, the all-aluminum 79-001 Type E that I have was sold as the WM325 in the UK.

Much later on, B&D confused things by selling subsequent models in the US numbered WM225 and WM425, which, are very different than (and generally inferior to) the earlier UK models with similar numbering. These later ones had many more plastic parts, for example.

I'm a little surprised at your comment about it being a heavy one. I have weighed a number of Workmates and find that all of the aluminum/steel and all-steel dual-height models weigh about the same, roughly 31 pounds for all-steel and about half a pound less with the aluminum H-brace. There seems to be a perception that the aluminum H-brace saves a bunch of weight, but it is barely noticeable in practice. On the other hand, the original all-aluminum "spider-" or "skeleton-frame" model weighs just over 24 pounds and is very noticeably easier to move around.

 

[wolfcj]

If you're looking for a Workmate in the Detroit area, this one could be yours!
https://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/tls/6003048857.html

 

[Outlawmws]

Almost a year late, but I was looking for the instructions for the B&D Mitremate as well... (I've had this thing for several years and it was NOT obvious how it was used... Decided I would check it out and decide if I keep it or sell it...)

The user manual is Unobtainum, (even the B&D site that USED to have most manuals available has eliminated this feature (stupid as someone buys something used and hurts themselves can now say, "You are responsible B&D!")

Anyway I found a pic of the package and got this image:

It MUST be used with a W-M and if the 2XX series frame, the supports (unlabled Arrow X2) will sit right on the frame. This seems to make it so a 2X will slide right under the rail and against the guide. to cut thinner material offset it off the frame and clamp it lower in the W-M...

NOW! the drawbacks:

• Its for Circular saws NOT Skillsaws (blade is on the wrong side)
• Modern Circular saws MAY not fit; although the clamps to hold the saw seem plenty adjustable... (This was a mid 80's accessory, and dang, not cheap! about $50 MSRP, which is about what a WM went for back then!)
• You had better get it parallel to the rail! (Kickback)

Disclaimer: I have not used it, just mocked it up.

If cheap to acquire, I would go for it again (If I didn't already have one), now I know how its used...

This weekend I picked up another 79-001 Workmate. So I have 2 now.
I don't really know which type either of them are, but the first one I have has a marine plywood top and the newer one has an MDF core laminated with plywood on top and bottom. That makes them different in heighth by a 1/4".
I was hoping that they woud be exactly the same so I could put a top between the two of them. No problem though, as I can use a plywood shim on one of them if necessary.
The new purchase also included a set of 2 clamps, a Router and Shape guide and a Miter & Saw Guide.
I have Googled for the manual of the Miter and Saw Guide. Model 79-012. I've not been able to find it anywhere. It's probably pretty simple, but I would like to find it somewhere. Maybe someone knows where to find one?
Also, I have been a long time lurker of the GJ and this is my first post.
So, Howdy all! I'm glad to be a part of this group as I spend a good part of my time out in my garage.

C

 

[wolfcj]

That's a pretty accurate description. Within its obvious limits, and if your expectations aren't too high, it actually works halfway decently. It's best if you can dedicate a saw to it to avoid the hassle of mounting and unmounting it. I got both the Mitremate and Routermate with my original Workmate in about 1978. I used both of them on several projects until I eventually upgraded to a sliding compound miter saw and router table. I held onto the two accessories for a few years after that, but eventually gave them away or sold them.

 

[SilverDeck]

I've been searching for earlier Workmates with the cast aluminum uprights for several years now. The last one I ran across was at a garage sale two years ago for $15 and ended up doing a full restoration on that one. Stopped by a moving sale today that advertised "tools" and almost walked right past this baby down low leaning up against the cabinets. Model 79-001 Type 2 (mid to late 1970s). Definitely couldn't argue with the price. Has some saw cuts and nicks in the top but should be repairable. The steel components are pretty solid with minimal rust. It's covered in sawdust and needs a good bath but it should clean up well.

 

[elguappo]

Very nice score, I've been looking for an early one too, but zero luck so far.

 

[smokeyburb]

Where does one find the model number? I have two slightly different models and would like to know the difference.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

 

[Outlawmws]

Type numbers are typically on the underside of the wood jaws.

 

[bobpal]

Anyone know what this one might be? I'm trying to buy it from a local guy here. How much is reasonable? It seems to be in pretty good condition.

 

[Vintage Veloce]

bobpal, They sold millions of these, so the value if you find it at a garage sale isn't much. However, if you "have to have it now" and look to buy one on ebay, it costs a good amount! I'd say that one is worth about $80 to $100 plus shipping on ebay. At a garage sale its worth $20. Decide what it's worth to you.

 

[Outlawmws]

That is the early aluminum framed model, so has more demand by those that know the difference.

I think VV's assessment is generally OK, but it does depend on a number of factors. New a 225 (roughly equivalent in size/function) is around 100.

I just sold 3 200's for $130 all. Two had the plastic retainers on the extension legs and the third had the legs like that one you just posted (so IMO better as no plastic to break...)

VMMV, but that one looks to be in excellent shape. (the crank handles are not shown in that pic however, and if one of those is broken...)

 

[bobpal]

Thanks for the info guys. I think I can get it for $30 but it may be gone already.

 

[Outlawmws]

For an aluminum model that nice, and assuming no damage not seen in the one pic, I'd have jumped on it for $30. I'd have been making an offer on inspection to be sure, but IMO its worth the $30

 

[TIME TRAVELLER]

I have three of the newer model Workmates, all of them severely used and abused, but I’ve always kept an eye open for the original version with the cast aluminum frame. Bingo, I got one for free from a guy who was downsizing his home. It’s in terrible shape but I’ll clean it up and keep it as a special addition to my workshop. I use one of the others as my go-to table in my little basement workshop, with an old plywood cupboard door as a top work surface, with a 2x4 cleat screwed on the bottom to clamp into the jaws. I have the same setup in my garage and I wouldn’t be without them.

 

[RandyRanderson]

I wish I still had mine. It was from the late 80s/early 90s. Someone stole it out of my barn before I lived on the property (along with an engine stand, my old vise, and various digging tools) I used it mostly for securing rifles to site in.

 

[bczygan]

Picking this up today for $15:

Bill

 

[bczygan]

Picking this up today for $15:

Bill

I didn't even have to dicker. She gave it to me for $10!

Bill

 

[Vintage Veloce]

Spotted near Phoenix AZ. Anyone want to buy it and send it to me? ;-)

https://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/tls/6102391550.html

 

[SilverDeck]

Spotted near Phoenix AZ. Anyone want to buy it and send it to me? ;-)

https://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/tls/6102391550.html

That looks like an unusual variety that has a factory-installed power strip on the right-side upright supports. I remember reading about those.

 

[Vintage Veloce]

I'd grab it if I was nearby there! I'm at least half serious if someone is nearby there and wants to pick it up and ship it to me! But I suspect whoever picks it up will want it for themselves, and I'm Ok with that, that is why I posted it.

 

[SilverDeck]

Here are the other pics from the ad. As I suspected this one has the factory-original power outlet on the side. This model was called the "Deluxe Dual Height Workmate No. 79-004 Type 1". It has the die-cast aluminum H-frames supporting the top. The two-socket outlet strip is attached on one side, supposedly for the purpose of making power tool use more convenient. Originally these also come with a 12-foot extension cord.

Here are the other two pictures that were posted with the ad:

 

[calif phil]

Ask the seller if they would ship it?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[wolfcj]

Here are the other pics from the ad. As I suspected this one has the factory-original power outlet on the side. This model was called the "Deluxe Dual Height Workmate No. 79-004 Type 1".

That's the same model I posted pics of last month in message #683.

 

[Outlawmws]

Isn't that the same pics?

 

[PelicanPines]

Recently scored a workmate bench top... slightly used. Been looking for a reasonably priced one for several months.

Wanted it for the articulation...

 

[Bunk]

​I don't think I've ever shared my Workmate and it's story, and the recent acquisition of my new replacement dogs has inspired me to.

Back about 40 years ago, my Mom bought our Workmate for us kids to give to my Dad for Father's day. It went into the basement utility room/work room for the next 30 years. Dad's been gone several years now, and Mom moved into a Condo, so I rescued the Workmate. It's mine now for the next 40.

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The original bench dogs have been long gone, and just last week I finally got around to ordering a set from Amazon. They look pretty good, fit pretty good in the holes, and I think they do just fine for any appropriately assigned duty.

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The top is original and shows the patina of 40 years of painting projects, bike repairs, golf club making, etc. The bottom part of the v-groove is splitting a little bit on one end, but you know what? I'm going to leave it as is. It works fine and its honest.

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[CJ7VFR]

​I don't think I've ever shared my Workmate and it's story, and the recent acquisition of my new replacement dogs has inspired me to.

Back about 40 years ago, my Mom bought our Workmate for us kids to give to my Dad for Father's day. It went into the basement utility room/work room for the next 30 years. Dad's been gone several years now, and Mom moved into a Condo, so I rescued the Workmate. It's mine now for the next 40.

.......The top is original and shows the patina of 40 years of painting projects, bike repairs, golf club making, etc. The bottom part of the v-groove is splitting a little bit on one end, but you know what? I'm going to leave it as is. It works fine and its honest.....

I love this! This is exactly how tools are supposed to be used! Just like a real workbench with a top that shows its use over the years, and the hint of the many projects it has done, so does your Workmate.

Your dad used it. You and your siblings used it. Now you get to keep it at your house and use it. And the best part is every time you use it, it will remind you of your dad.

I always feel a bit sorry for workbenches that have pristine tops because people are afraid to work on them for fear of making scratches or getting paint on them. Same for the Workmate. Mine has paint on it, gouges in it from where a grinder or saw went a bit too far past the project I was working on, or the random holes in the top from where a drill bit had a mind of it's own.

Nice Workmate, with the optimal word being "work"!

Jim

 

[Outlawmws]

Cool story and nice original aluminum WM!

 

[elguappo]

Thats a great story Bunk, thanks for sharing.

 

[bagged89s10]

I love these workmates. I have two and I use them all the time when working outside. Helps me keep the dust down in the shop when grinding or sanding. I even threw a piece of plywood across two of them to make a table if we're having an outdoor party.

 

[Outlawmws]

I love these workmates. I have two and I use them all the time when working outside. Helps me keep the dust down in the shop when grinding or sanding. I even threw a piece of plywood across two of them to make a table if we're having an outdoor party.

I've made tables using the WM as a base a number of items and ways. I have an old SS commercial kitchen bunch top about 5 ft long that has cleats on it for this, a large oak "step" from my mom's living room I re purposed, and plywood sheets a number of times. the SS top is my butchering table when I get a deer.

I'm about to dive into an old aluminum frame that the base has rust and needs de-rusted and repainted, as I recently sold my three 200's, so i'm down to "only" 4 full sized WM's... two are aluminum, (one near perfect) the beater above, an second gen non-aluminum with the old style marine ply jaws that is in very good condition and my old 400 i bought new with the swinging jaw.

 

[Vintage Veloce]

Just scored these new-in-box/unused gripmate clamps!

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[elguappo]

Niiiice.

 

[Bunk]

Such an acquisition is deserving of a "You ****" I believe.

 

[Dennis Cavallino]

I got a WM825 for my birthday last saturday. I just unpacked it and one of the table tops is in a very bad shape. I just registered this 'purchase' at blackanddecker.com and I guess they'll will sent me a new one when I show it at a local B&D dealer (it was bought online). But I'm not very happy with this build quality.

As you can see the top coating is damaged. It has got lot's of bubbles. The wood was scratched underneath the coating. There are some chips, so the coating is not fully covering the wood. If this would have happened in my factory it wouldn't have shipped! But as I said, I'm confident that B&D will solve this.















Can't wait to use this WM825.

One other thing to nag about. The instruction manual is also very bad, but the installation tutorial at the B&D website is perfect.