Gilfillan 6in grinder

[darreneskew]

Looking for information and value of vintage Gilfillan bench grinder
Model number 12381
Works great
Going to restore and use in garage
Thanks

 

[Oldtuleguy]

Never seen one but that is cool!

 

[RTM]

This might get you started

Gilfillan Brothers, Inc. - History | VintageMachinery.org

 

[Private Lugnutz]

Never seen one....

Maybe not, but I KNOW you've seen their coolass t-handle socket wrenches!

(Long GJ four_cycle thread filled with info and period trade mag references and photos linked here, including Otg's special socket wrenches kit.)

 

[thehorse13]

I didn't know that Gilfillan made 6 inch grinders but I've also never heard of anyone searching for one either. Knowing that Gilfillan made quality tools, I'd compare it to any other quality manufacturer like Baldor. You can find Baldor grinders for sale online for around 50-75 bucks around here. Note that I'm in an area where vintage tools are plentiful. Your area may not be and prices will reflect that.

Having 1/4 of a picture makes it really tough to give you a value. If you post some decent pictures we can give you a far better assessment.

As for the era, the brass tag tells me it's likely late 30s very early 40s.

Welcome.

 

[humber2]

Interesting that the nameplate omits speed or frequency.

LA was converted from 50 to 60 Hz shortly after WWII.

 

[darreneskew]

Thanks all for the input
I couldn’t find anything online either regarding Gilfillan grinders.
This thing is super heavy and well built for a 6in grinder.
Here are some more pics.
I will post more pics throughout the restoration.
Thanks

 

[Oldtuleguy]

That things a tank

 

[humber2]

Different and quite unexpected to see slip rings on a single phase induction motor.

Seems to be built inside out electrically.

 

[four.cycle]

^ Interesting find.
If you read through the material I posted in the other "Gilfillan" thread - particularly the Los Angeles Times interview with Sennet Gilfillan, it becomes apparent they made a practice making products as best as they could make them.
I would guess that unit is on a par level with early Baldor or Porter-Cable.
Gilfillan was one of the earliest makers of hand-held power tools.