Is this large Thor die grinder worth it?

[Scimonetti]

I've been seriously considering getting an electric die grinder recently. Basically to use small wire wheels to get nooks and corners with the bench grinder couldn't reach. Also flap wheels, cratex and cut off wheels(with a face shield and ppe as they do not have guards) I don't really see myself using burrs really, I have a dremel for delicate work. I also have an angle grinder but want something a bit more maneuverable and with more reach.

I love full metal casing tools.

What do you think of this Thor? Its $70 shipped and the seller says 18-20 inches long. I am not bothered by the cosmetic condition one bit, I am just looking for a well built tool I can work on. It seems a new comparable model would be several hundred, but I don't know how the power and build compare. Also I can't read the amps, any idea? How much of a hindrance is the arbor vs mandrel? Thanks for any input!

 

[A_Pmech]

That's not a die grinder.

It's the predecessor of the modern-day angle grinder. It would be used with a standard 5 or 6 inch Type 1 grinding wheel.

 

[drivesitfar]

SC: Thor is a great name and they seem to run forever. i bet AP is right about that being one of the first angle grinders because those washers are pretty big.

i use a little brass plastic handled brush they use to clean the grass and dirt off of golf clubs and i have a few little dremels. a dremel or one of the many knock offs with all there little attachments work great for those nooks and crannys. or put a little cup wire brush on your 4.5 inch angle grinder if you have bigger stuff like a 100 pound vise.

 

[454ragtop]

If you do get it, do yourself a favor and convert it to a 3 wire cord. The thought of that metal case without a ground scares the **** out of me, and I'm the last guy to be a safety weenie.
Jim

 

[Ign]

If you like the full metal tools, so be it. I gave away what appeared to be a slightly newer (shinier) Thor just like that along w a 7" angle grinder. IME power tool design & functionality has come a long way since full metal cases. The Thors I had were overly heavy, low rpm compared to modern day equivalents, and bogged easily.

I wouldn't pay .01 for that and I wouldn't take it for free, but you may love it (shrug).

 

[Packard V8]

If you do get it, do yourself a favor and convert it to a 3 wire cord. The thought of that metal case without a ground scares the **** out of me, and I'm the last guy to be a safety weenie.
Jim

Yes, it's probably not a bad idea to use a three-wire cord and plug. Most older metal cased tools, if they have the original power cord, it's getting worn.

No, I never bother to change if the original two wire cord and plug is still in good condition. Some of the dozen or so metal case power tools I use are 50-70 years old and never have given any cause for concern.

Your opinions and results may vary.

jack vines

 

[zkling]

Pass especially at that price. The problem with old, obscure power tools is parts wear and then are difficult if not impossible to source. I'd put that money towards a new or nice used modern die grinder.

 

[woody 73]

Long after my body has turned to dust that thor will still be going strong, yes parts are getting harder to find; I have several old metal body type power tools yet to be shocked.

$70.00 seems a tad on the high side, op when your body has turned to dust that thor will still be going strong; I can not say that for todays overseas power tools only time will tell.