let's see your craftsman block grinders

[lafester]

That's a good one with the hd switch. Grab it or it will be gone.

 

[Cruzan80]

I would also take the sellers description with a grain of salt. More damage has been done to machines by well meaning DIY types who are "repairing" things that don't need it, than sometimes from parts famage. If it seems to spin true, without any real noise, it should be fine to start. I have seen some spin down in 10sec, up to 2 min, and all have continued to operate fine in a home environment. If it is production equipment, operating several hours each day, that is different.

 

[frichard]

Just picked up this Grinder for 40$. Good or Bad it looks like it would be a fun restoration for the Son and myself. Trying to teach him the value and history of USA made tools. Are the side shields original? They look different from most pictures I have seen. Figured a good tear down and paint was in order as well as sourcing missing parts.

 

[FrankLee]

Are the side shields original? They look different from most pictures I have seen.

Welcome!

Yes, those covers are original. Left and right guards and covers are the same and are interchangeable. Other models with rear exhaust chutes were different left and right.

 

[softailgarage]

Found this on marketplace, 6 minutes away...$20. Dude said it had been packed away for 25 years. Got it home, plugged it in and fired right up, 10 minutes later, nothing. Something in the switch crapped out, no problem, had one in stock.

 

[softailgarage]

Found this on marketplace, 6 minutes away...$20. Dude said it had been packed away for 25 years. Got it home, plugged it in and fired right up, 10 minutes later, nothing. Something in the switch crapped out, no problem, had one in stock.

Installed the spare switch and after 3 or 4 uses, that switch crapped out too. I've been checking Ebay for an original replacement and found nothing. Anyone know if there is a electric parts house that sells a replica?

 

[FrankLee]

Found this on marketplace, 6 minutes away...$20. Dude said it had been packed away for 25 years. Got it home, plugged it in and fired right up, 10 minutes later, nothing. Something in the switch crapped out, no problem, had one in stock.

Installed the spare switch and after 3 or 4 uses, that switch crapped out too. I've been checking Ebay for an original replacement and found nothing. Anyone know if there is a electric parts house that sells a replica?

Franklee, I'm not a big fan of the square-top grinders, but I do have one and use it often with wire wheels. I bought it and parted out everything except the running motor and housing. I have a '55 1/3hp cast iron grinder that I like much better and also use often.


Recently, someone on one of the Craftsman FB groups was looking for an oe switch for his square-top, so I sold him mine.

To re-add a switch, I enlarged the lamp mounting hole on the rear of the center band and installed an off-the-shelf toggle switch that is much better than the oe switch. I flipped the center band around so the new switch is in front and the old switch window and label are in the back.


I don't need a label showing in front, but @mattblast makes a very nice re-pop label if you need one.
Below, the crown logo is a magnet and the b&w label is a paper copy of some old label.


This new switch is in the same location as the cast iron grinders that I'm accustomed to and the ON/OFF positions are the same.

This is not for everybody, but it works great for me. I don't care for those quench trays either and I have a separate goose neck lamp.



11/29/2023

I finally got around to installing this snap-in outlet in the original switch opening. I nibbled the opening just enough to accept the outlet. I wired the outlet ahead of the switch so it's always hot. I can use any vintage lamp now. I didn't feel the need to patch the small remaining openings on either side.



I also carefully peeled off the original label using a heat gun from the back side. Then, with a double-sided adhesive sheet, I attached the label to a magnetic sheet and stuck it to the "new " front of the grinder above the new switch.

 

[softailgarage]

I'm not a big fan of the square-top grinders, but I do have one and use it often with wire wheels. I bought it and parted out everything except the running motor and housing. I have a '55 cast iron grinder that I like much better and also use often.


Recently, someone on one of the Craftsman FB groups was looking for an oe switch for his square-top, so I sold him mine.

To re-add a switch, I enlarged the lamp mounting hole on the rear of the center band and installed an off-the-shelf toggle switch that is much better than the oe switch. I flipped the center band around so the new switch is in front and the old switch window and label are in the back.


I don't need a label showing in front, but @mattblast makes a very nice re-pop label if you need one.
Below, the crown logo is a magnet and the b&w label is a paper copy of some old label.


This is not for everybody, but it works great for me. I don't care for those quench trays and I have a separate lamp. This switch is in the same location as the cast iron grinders.

Now why didn't I think of that? Great idea, I'm going to sell it anyway as I prefer the tombstone grinders. Crown logo is perfect also, thank you sir.

 

[emeraldcoupe]

this is what $25 gets you from a 3 day old craigslist ad with one fuzzy picture. it runs perfect.

 

[ratcheted]

Wow, 3/4hp, what a score

 

[torqueman2002]

this is what $25 gets you from a 3 day old craigslist ad with one fuzzy picture. it runs perfect.

 

[AntiqueBen]

Here's one I picked up from a gentleman that had a machine shop for many years. I really like the custom stand he built for it. It weighs a ton. It needs a cleaning but it runs like a dream. I think this one dates to 1948? Being from the 40's, I wander why the "A" in Craftsman is "not" pointed?

 

[FrankLee]

Here's one I picked up from a gentleman that had a machine shop for many years. I really like the custom stand he built for it. It weighs a ton. It needs a cleaning but it runs like a dream. I think this one dates to 1948? Being from the 40's, I wander why the "A" in Craftsman is "not" pointed?

Very nice!

Yes... E1 48 would be May 1948.

I am very partial to original paint and in my experience, I believe that would clean up beautifully!

Here's a before and after of that model I refurbed. Original paint.

It is VERY likely that the wiring to the lamps are fubar. That wiring is molded into the rubber(?) lamp socket housings. I was able to remove the threaded socket, de-solder the old wires and install new.

The oe sockets had short wire leads which were taped/soldered to wire which ran to the base. I chose to use single pieces from the lamps to the base which required a different assembly sequence.

The eye shields are cast alloy pieces, not pressed steel. They swivel down only so far and stop. Both of mine were bent at the mounting brackets because they were forced down too far. I was able to correct with gentle persuasion.

 

[JoCoSawdust]

Here's one I picked up from a gentleman

That's my favorite Craftsman grinder. Hard to find with the plastic quench tray intact.

 

[torqueman2002]

FYI - there's an interesting 'case study', as the Pine Hollow YouTuber likes to say, about a 3/4-HP m-397.19450 Block grinder in the following thread. https://www.garagejournal.com/forum...nder-not-reaching-speed.515509/#post-10108220

The symptoms:
1) hums on start
2) does not spin on start
3) does spin if helped with a hand-spin, will spin in either direction
These can be caused by a start-up circuit that is not energized
4) spins at 1/2 speed, if hand started

The Start-up windings do not appear 'fried', and the resistance is 10.9 Ohms. The Main 1 & 2 windings measure 3.4 and 3.5 Ohms respectively.

Any suggestions or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[softailgarage]

Is it Capacitor start? If so, check the Cap and if its wired correctly.

 

[torqueman2002]

Is it Capacitor start? If so, check the Cap and if its wired correctly.

New cap has been tried, w/o change. AFAIK - these caps are non-directional, I know some electrical applications they do have a + lead.

UPDATE: The relay had an open in the connection between the coil and terminal 1. The OP soldered it and it's working like new.

 

[demiandvm]

In the last 3 months I have been running into craftsman bench grinders on marketplace. I don't need three, but the prices were so good I couldn't turn them down. I ended up putting fiber wheels, buffer wheels, wire wheels and grind wheels on them and now I never have to switch wheels. All three came with all the guards, one had a water cup, and two of the three had lights. I guess I can sell one if I want, but I don't think so right now. Anyone visiting my shop thinks I have a problem. Maybe so? I have a total of $100 in all three, so the prices were too good to say no. Now I think I need a fourth.

 

[lafester]

Grinders tend to multiply quickly! I have 6 in use and a few more on the shelf, after selling off the ones I could part with.
I only have a 3/4 round top block and 1/2 hp pre block left from Sears though.

 

[drs3317]

I have been collecting block grinders a a few years now and recently had an issue with a 3/4 hp that @torqueman2002 was able to guide me through finding the issue. It is now running great and and I will soon be restoring it completely. Then just the other day I located I was able to pick up another 3/4hp that although dusty from years of setting just needs a good cleaning and new wheels. Both of them were dated 1974. One of them has the base with the built in quench tray and the cast iron tool rests but was missing one on the left side. I located a foundry who I now have them making a few sets of the rests. After I receive them they will require a little machining. If they turn out okay I will post the results later and if enough interest, I may order additional. I'm not yet sure of an exact price but I think they may be reasonable. Anyway, below are my collection of grinders.

 

[lafester]

The 3/4 with hd base is awesome. There is probably enough interest for recasts depending on how they turn out.

 

[torqueman2002]

In the last 3 months I have been running into craftsman bench grinders on marketplace. I don't need three,... Now I think I need a fourth.

May I kindly remind you of my motto: need has nothing to do with the saving of Block grinders. It is a calling.

And I recall thinking I need a fourth, and a fifth, and a sixth, and, and, and, ....

 

[lafester]

I just snagged a light duty 1/2 hp with pedestal for $40... probably my 10th or so block. I haven't seen any 3/4 for a long time.

 

[BTL-A4]

Just got this today for $85. They are either junk with missing pieces for $40 or nicer ones for $150. This was in the middle. I was told it was used by a DIY in his garage "seldomly" when he welded. It runs fine. 1/2 HP 397.19440 7".


I downloaded a manual for the 397.19441. It looks the same but is 2-phase.

 

[bubinga]

Just got this today for $85. They are either junk with missing pieces for $40 or nicer ones for $150. This was in the middle. I was told it was used by a DIY in his garage "seldomly" when he welded. It runs fine. 1/2 HP 397.19440 7".


I downloaded a manual for the 397.19441. It looks the same but is 2-phase.

What looks the same, the manual?
Did you mean three phase?

 

[torqueman2002]

.... 1/2 HP 397.19440 7".
I downloaded a manual for the 397.19441. It looks the same but is 2-phase.

Nice find.
I have PDF copies of both those models. PM me your eMail and I can send a copy of your model's owner manual.

I'm thinking by '2-phase' you are referring to the dual voltage capability of your model. I did note the relay part numbers are not the same between the 2 models. Probably as well as a number of other parts, like: power switch, arbor assembly, stator and coil assembly.

 

[BTL-A4]

What looks the same, the manual?
Did you mean three phase?

Sorry, than grinder looks the same. I just wanted to see the parts list.

 

[BTL-A4]

Nice find.
I have PDF copies of both those models. PM me your eMail and I can send a copy of your model's owner manual.

I'm thinking by '2-phase' you are referring to the dual voltage capability of your model. I did note the relay part numbers are not the same between the 2 models. Probably as well as a number of other parts, like: power switch, arbor assembly, stator and coil assembly.

Yes, that's what I meant. I shoulda checked. I'll send a PM, thanks!

 

[BTL-A4]

Just got this today for $85. They are either junk with missing pieces for $40 or nicer ones for $150. This was in the middle. I was told it was used by a DIY in his garage "seldomly" when he welded. It runs fine. 1/2 HP 397.19440 7".


I downloaded a manual for the 397.19441. It looks the same but is 2-phase.

Where would I post questions on restoring this? I'd like to use it next to my lathe to sharpen bits. I think I'll check the bearings and innards and see how they are and maybe clean it up a bit and start using it. Or, maybe a full restore is in order.

This thread: https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/craftsman-block-motor-bench-grinders-whats-the-fuss-with-resource-information.249539/page-30#post-10111002

Or, start a new one and just ask and see who replies?

 

[lafester]

Why not just ask here? Personally I would run it as is.

 

[torqueman2002]

I agree with lafester, this is the Main Block grinder thread, with a lot of excellent posts and very knowledgeable Block Heads.

 

[d42jeep]

I found this today at an estate sale. When do you experts think it was made. Seems to run fine and the light even worked, much to my surprise.
-Don

 

[Outlawmws]

check the bottom cover plate for a date stamp -it may be inside...

 

[kenc184]

Is it a worthwhile "upgrade" to pick up a tool rest and quench tray setup often fitted to the 1HP unit for fitment to a 1/2 or 3/4hp?
If so, what would be fair to pay?

 

[lafester]

Yes, $100 is probably fair.

 

[Mark914]

Saw this over the weekend. But I cant buy everything. Good deals are still out there.

 

[exmaxima1]

Saw this over the weekend. But I cant buy everything. Good deals are still out there.

Looks like a 1/4hp model with no wheel guard covers. Missing a rest, and the paint looks bad. $30 would be a typical price in the Chicago area.

 

[Rod N]

I'd be really annoyed that they wrote the price on it. If are selling a table do you write the price on it?

 

[ViceRoy2030]

Finally got her finished




Decal thanks to mattblast, great job!

 

[Rod N]

^^^ Amazing job!