let's see your craftsman block grinders

[drivesitfar]

TM: I bet Jake or Outlaw or maybe even Nines or some of our other blockheads has those Craftsman catalogs. there was also a member selling a DVD with all the catalogs that i think a few members bought.

i can just hear my Dad yelling from downstairs now for me to please turn down the stereo. why did we need it so dang loud and funny his hearing is totally gone and i still have mine, but its fading fast.

Nines: very cool way to get some music in your home.

 

[logical]

The following post has been approved by Mrs. Torqueman.

I made a successful trip to the nearby city of Redford.

I knew when they didn't answer my Email that you got to them first. Good score.

I see in the picture that the proper way to orient the pedestal base is 90 degrees off the way most are set..... interesting.

 

[Outlawmws]

I sold or gave away all my records when CDs got popular, then late last year I saw a cl ad in the free section for 100s of records. I could not believe it but the guy just wanted them to go to a good home. I got almost 300 albums for free, after picking trough them and keeping what my girl and I wanted, we ended up with well over 100 great albums. I didn't have a player so I shopped the garage sales for a couple months before my step dad mentioned he had some things for me to keep/sell whatever I wanted to do with. Turned out to be another couple hundred albums and two record players. SCORE !

Funny you mention the Advents too, my neighbor gave me a set of Advents that needed new surrounds on the 10" woofers, I ordered a set and now have a jamming system and huge library for less than $20. If you factor in the excess records we sold for $1ea, I'm actually up almost $200

My comments are in Blue - The Advents were heaven sent when I was in school. I saved for months to buy the vinyl wrapped pair.
Then to hear the congas in Black Magic Woman! Oh, man!
I was so lucky, my upstairs landlord worked nights. .

I never got rid of my vinyl, although SWMBO thinned hers out some... When I got back into vintage stereo systems, I acquired records for free (along with selected albums from yard sales and second hand music stores...) and I now have approximately 1500 albums in Ikea Expedite cases (we have 2 of the 5 X 5...)

I still have my original Marantz 6100 TT (and I've since picked up a spare). Also have a Daul 1019 for the 78's and such... I've gone though around 60 pairs of speaker s in the house since getting the bug, and my primary set is now Snell Type EIII's (with Type E II's used as the rears in the home theater system).

All three kids have vintage systems (and appreciate them). I really need to spend some time and a little $$ recapping my tube amps and my old Sansui, 919 amp... (I have a goal, a 5 or 6.2 surround, all tube amps, driven by an Outlaw Pre I have...)

 

[nine4gmc]

That's awesome Outlaw!

 

[bluebolt]

No! Don't start talking about old records! I have too many collecting vice's as it is!

 

[alpinewhite]

Without the motor plate or label, how can I confirm what the HP rating is for a unit that's been repainted? Thanks.

 

[bluebolt]

Without the motor plate or label, how can I confirm what the HP rating is for a unit that's been repainted? Thanks.

Weigh it maybe? And post a picture. I have 1/4, 1/3 and 1/2 grinders I could weigh for comparism.

 

[alpinewhite]

Weigh it maybe? And post a picture. I have 1/4, 1/3 and 1/2 grinders I could weigh for comparism.

Here's the picture. I was told that it's a 3/4 HP

 

[drivesitfar]

AP: it probably is a 3/4 HP with that huge water tray base and the big tool rests. i'm sure one of the pros on here will give you a way to measure the amps or other way to know for sure in case the tray was an add on.

 

[jakemac]

If it takes 8" wheels, then it can only be a 1hp or 3/4hp grinder. If it takes smaller wheels then it would be a 1/4hp, 1/3hp. or 1/2hp.

 

[torqueman2002]

Here's the picture. I was told that it's a 3/4 HP

Check the winding resistance and current draw, as shown in the 1 HP restore thread.
http://tinyurl.com/Go-Blue-Block-Grinder

 

[alpinewhite]

Do the 1/4, 1/3, and 1/2 HP models support 220v? The schematic shows that it's switchable to 220v. I was hoping that it's also an indicator that it's at least 3/4HP.

Per Jakemac's suggestion, I will also try an 8-inch stone to see if it fits.

 

[drivesitfar]

AP: my 1/2 HP commercial can be rewired for 220, but pretty sure the regular 1/2's can't.

 

[jakemac]

I think the Commercial and Industrial rated blocks can be wired for 220, but the regular rated blocks are 120 only.

 

[Outlawmws]

No! Don't start talking about old records! I have too many collecting vice's as it is!

Heck I didn't even bring up the Victrolas!

 

[jakemac]

What about Edison's with the wax cartridges ?

 

[nine4gmc]

I think the Commercial and Industrial rated blocks can be wired for 220, but the regular rated blocks are 120 only.

Aren't the commercial and industrial the only ones with that style end caps? maybe measure the opening, I think 1/2hp is 7" wheels and it's already been mentioned 8" for 3/4 and 1hp. Are there any 1/4 or 1/3 with that style end caps?

 

[firemanast]

A few of the pre block restoration .

 

[torqueman2002]

A few of the pre block restoration .

Mmmmmm, I like that Brown. RustOleum? Which one?

Also, is that a C4 under the car cover?

 

[McBrownie]

Wow, I miss one evening and I can't keep up. I'll need to do a Drives-style post:

Drives, I agree on the multitool stand - it's a bit steep and I think I could do better myself. There is a little welding shop about 20 minutes from me and I need to go talk to them about fabbing something up. They probably even have some scrap laying around. How much tonnage are you planning on moving into your shop(s)? Sounds like some serious iron.

TM, Thanks for the the info on the stands. The fact that you "found a document on your computer" about proper grinder mounting specs has me even more intrigued as to what goes on in in the TM lair. What, no torque specs? Also, the lamp on my grinder is not original, but I have seen the diamond Vimco logo on the lamp shades of other old Blocks.

Jake, Agree that only the Commercial and Industrial rated are dual voltage. The split-phases are 110 only. But, it might be fun to try one at 220.

Fire, Can't wait to see that restored pre-block. Looking good.

 

[torqueman2002]

Here's a Drives-style reply to a Drives-style reply, in Blue.

... The fact that you "found a document on your computer" about proper grinder mounting specs has me even more intrigued as to what goes on in in the TM lair. What, no torque specs?
I know, I should be better organisized.
....

Jake, Agree that only the Commercial and Industrial rated are dual voltage. The split-phases are 110 only. But, it might be fun to try one at 220.
Hmmmm, maybe Sad Sack, .....!!

Fire, Can't wait to see that restored pre-block. Looking good.
x2

 

[firemanast]

Mmmmmm, I like that Brown. RustOleum? Which one?

Also, is that a C4 under the car cover?

The paint is Rustoleum Pro Dark Brown 7548 Satin.

Yes that is my baby under the cover.

 

[nine4gmc]

And a Callaway twin turbo at that... nice!!!

 

[Outlawmws]

What about Edison's with the wax cartridges ?

Nah, Ain't got any wax cylinders, so no need for an Edison.. How many have the 12" laserdisc movies?

 

[Drslmr]

After a six week search, I acquired a 1/2 hp block grinder. I overpaid, but I am happy with the purchase. (It was the only one I was able to locate)

I also found a stand on casters at a local thrift shop that I paid $7 for. I removed the casters, painted the base and post and polished the stainless accents?

While visiting the surplus area at a local University today, I found another block grinder that will soon be available. There was no label and it looked pretty rough, but I plan to try and rescue it nonetheless.

I hope to locate the missing bits and give it a proper "mild" restoration.

 

[drivesitfar]

Dr: so if you paid too much and there wasn't another block around do tell how much you paid? the one you posted is missing a few parts, but a lot of guys have either bought those parts new or made some so you should have a great grinder. already looking for your second one too? you are officially a Block head so welcome and also a new member so hope you stick around.

if you need anything for the block and can't find it by reading some of this great thread just ask.

McB: i like the way you made your post today.

 

[SS8UUP]

Here's my submission, I was given this grinder several years ago by an older coworker/friend. He told me his dad bought it new when he was younger. The plate is kind of scratched up but maybe you guys can decipher exactly what it is.

The thing has better bearings then any grinder I've ever used, it continues to spin smoothly for a LONG time after being powered down. I'm 31 and feel it'll easily serve me for the rest of my years!

 

[firemanast]

Here's my submission, I was given this grinder several years ago by an older coworker/friend. He told me his dad bought it new when he was younger. The plate is kind of scratched up but maybe you guys can decipher exactly what it is.

The thing has better bearings then any grinder I've ever used, it continues to spin smoothly for a LONG time after being powered down. I'm 31 and feel it'll easily serve me for the rest of my years!

It is a 1/3 H.P. pre block made in April 1953. It is a nice one looks to be in good condition. Got to love those pre blocks !

 

[drivesitfar]

Fireman: nice call on the Block "hieroglyphics" SS's block tag has left.

SS: not quite a block, but we'll let you join our Block group if you would like to with that one. nice to hear it works great as is and if you need any help on a fix or restore the information is here and if you can't find it after a search just ask. by the way you have the "cool" Craftsman block original stand so it has a place to sit for another 50 years.

 

[torqueman2002]

The paint is Rustoleum Pro Dark Brown 7548 Satin.

Yes that is my baby under the cover.

Thanks for the paint info.

C4 in RED, looks grrrrreat! Callaway TT!

 

[torqueman2002]

Here's my submission, I was given this grinder several years ago by an older coworker/friend. He told me his dad bought it new when he was younger. The plate is kind of scratched up but maybe you guys can decipher exactly what it is.

The thing has better bearings then any grinder I've ever used, it continues to spin smoothly for a LONG time after being powered down. I'm 31 and feel it'll easily serve me for the rest of my years!

That is like my first CM grinder. It is a pre-Block style grinder. The tag/label is like this one.

Yours is 6 years older - 'M 53' from what I can make out.

You have a nice piece of history there, family to boot.

Funny, yesterday I received the last piece, LH wheel guard cover, for my 1st restore I started in 2009.

If you decide to work on it, feel free to refer to this link, with a step-by-step.
http://tinyurl.com/CM-GG-Lil-Brownie-115-7566

 

[torqueman2002]

My comments are in Blue.

After a six week search, I acquired a 1/2 hp block grinder. I overpaid, but I am happy with the purchase. (It was the only one I was able to locate)
Location, location, condition! Welcome to the forum and Block grinder ownership/thread.

I also found a stand on casters at a local thrift shop that I paid $7 for. I removed the casters, painted the base and post and polished the stainless accents?
Is it a Craftsman grinder pedestal stand, by chance?

While visiting the surplus area at a local University today, I found another block grinder that will soon be available. There was no label and it looked pretty rough, but I plan to try and rescue it nonetheless.
OK, this is your warning (it maybe too late). The Block grinder owners tend to want more than 1. Personally, that 1/3-HP was just the beginning for me. I won't spare you the fun of finding out just what I mean.

I hope to locate the missing bits and give it a proper "mild" restoration.

See the links in my sig. line for videos on dry, noisy vs. fresh, new bearings.

 

[txusa03]

torqueman, I really like your video on the bearings. Hope to see more video of your work.

 

[pendragon1998]

Need to save money up for your next pre-block (mailbox) grinder? I found the perfect way to do it! $75 on etsy.

 

[Pupuhd]

Need to save money up for your next pre-block (mailbox) grinder? I found the perfect way to do it! $75 on etsy.

That is way too cool...........

"oh honey, I know what I want now for my birthday"

I "see" said the blind man to the deaf man as he picked up his hammer and saw.

 

[torqueman2002]

torqueman, I really like your video on the bearings. Hope to see more video of your work.

TX, you are welcome. Now that I've learned how to post to YouTube, I'm fairly sure there will be other videos. Any requests?

 

[Pupuhd]

OK, I've gone and done it. Tonight I decided to rebuild my 1/3hp block grinder. I recently got delivery of two wheel guards, one to replace the bent and damaged left one (post #4120). So I decided to take the whole thing apart and give it a nice cleanup. I decided I might not repaint it since the condition is fine, a few scratches here and there but it gives it character. I may only remake the center name plate.


Few issues:
A) Noticed left bearing was dirtier and noisier than right. Right one ran smooth and quiet. Tomorrow I'll pick up new bearings locally. By the way, fyi, no c-clip on this model since the bearing sits up against a shoulder on the shaft. Messing around with my Starrett setup before dis-assembly, right shaft had 1/10th of a thousand radial runout, left about 1/1000. Not bad for 50 years old. Wish my shaft ran that true.


B) Going to modify the light so it has a on/off push-thru style switch lamp holder. I have one sourced out through Ebay for about $6 shipped in nickle plated. Got that idea from one of you guys here, thanks.


C) As mentioned above, I'll need to rewire the existing lamp inside the grinder. I'm just going to reverse the connections on the power switch so I'll have a second male connection for the lamp on the hot side.

D) I noticed one of the Wheel Flanges had a real bad lateral runout. Don't have my lathe up and running yet so I'll try to shim the wheel flange to get it close to true so I won't have to dress the grinding wheel that much.

Tomorrow I'll throw the parts in the parts washer for cleaning, spray the motor assembly with electric motor cleaner and lightly sand the inside of the Stator clean. Anything I should be aware or missing here during cleaning up and re-assembly? I thought about documenting and video for this but don't know. Does anyone care for this Craftsman Block Grinder model?

 

[Pupuhd]

TX, you are welcome. Now that I've learned how to post to YouTube, I'm fairly sure there will be other videos. Any requests?

TM: Saw your vids, real nice. For others than us here doing a search on Youtube regarding this you may want to take all four of those vids and edit them into one in sequence. Maybe get rid of the second one since it has no information other that you forgot to insert the c-clip. You could insert text in part 3 explaining this for any newbies. Would make a excellent reference vid on this subject.

By the way, is that Rotor Assembly stand official Craftsman Block Grinder licensed. What are the tolerances on it, +- a foot? Which reminds me, need to put coffee warmer on wish list for cold coffee in shop, thanks. I saw this same idea, however the guy used a high wattage standard bulb on rested the bearing on top of it to heat it up.

 

[pendragon1998]

B) Going to modify the light so it has a on/off push-thru style switch lamp holder. I have one sourced out through Ebay for about $6 shipped in nickle plated. Got that idea from one of you guys here, thanks.

I think I mentioned getting a nice solid brass (nickel plated) fixture on ebay. Yes, it is a very nice touch. Much nicer than the thin cheap version.

 

[torqueman2002]

TM: Saw your vids, real nice. For others than us here doing a search on Youtube regarding this you may want to take all four of those vids and edit them into one in sequence. Maybe get rid of the second one since it has no information other that you forgot to insert the c-clip. You could insert text in part 3 explaining this for any newbies. Would make a excellent reference vid on this subject.

By the way, is that Rotor Assembly stand official Craftsman Block Grinder licensed. What are the tolerances on it, +- a foot? Which reminds me, need to put coffee warmer on wish list for cold coffee in shop, thanks. I saw this same idea, however the guy used a high wattage standard bulb on rested the bearing on top of it to heat it up.

I knew it, I knew it! Now I have to learn to be a video editor, will it never end?

OK - what editing (free) software can do that?