let's see your craftsman block grinders

[torqueman2002]

Do this from the ""advanced posting"" menus; and at step 5 copy it into the URL field after hitting the ""postcard"" button:

Outlawmws - thank you!

Step 5 did the trick.

 

[cajunfirehawk]

Hi fellow Block Heads.
Just getting caught up on eMails, GJ and GG threads, and YouTube videos, after spending some time in the Twin Cities with family.

Welcome back Mike, Merry Christmas to you and yours!

 

[torqueman2002]

cajun and fellow GJ members and Block heads.

Thank you and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!

 

[bubinga]

Merry Christmas

 

[RunningSnail]

Thanks for this great thread and info.

Some time ago I came across a 115.7575, pre-block with a badge showing 1/2 HP, 115 volts, 7.0 amps. I bought it, put on new bearings and electrical but still ugly (no paint).

Recently I drove a few hours to pick up an auction winner, a 397.19670 Craftsman Commercial 3/4 HP. This one was in great shape, and came with a original cast stand. But here’s my question: the badge is showing 115/230 volts, 5.0/2.5 amps. So is this roughly the equivalent of a Packard 1/3 HP grinder?

I know most manufacturers went through a horsepower inflated sales pitch. Is my quest for a Delco 1 h.p. 8” grinder going to give me the equivalent power of my Packard 1/2 hp already in hand?

 

[trijeff]

Remember somebody recently asking if a homemade extension would work for buffing, not sure if it was answered. I had this 1/2hp squaretop and decided to give it a go. I took of all the covers and then cut some pipe to length, threw on some washers to back up against the arbor stop and went for it. Can't say it's OSHA approved but it did get an additional 1-1/4", which doesn't sound like much but does help out quite a bit. Very quick trial run on the Wilton bits, the base is setup for Workmate use.

Then again, I don't have vises I don't use. Doing otherwise would be like dating Jessica Alba and sleeping on the couch.

 

[cheechi]

I know most manufacturers went through a horsepower inflated sales pitch. Is my quest for a Delco 1 h.p. 8” grinder going to give me the equivalent power of my Packard 1/2 hp already in hand?

I don't think these HP ratings are inflated. Possibly deflated. I'm skeptical of most things, but not of my 1HP 8" block for sure. Have yet to see it slow down while in use let alone find something that could stall it, even with a wire wheel.

Remember somebody recently asking if a homemade extension would work for buffing, not sure if it was answered.

Thanks that's exactly what I'm planning, just with wire wheels. Next time I head down to the shop I'm digging out the portaband and going to make some pipe spacers.

 

[exmaxima1]

I don't think these HP ratings are inflated. Possibly deflated. I'm skeptical of most things, but not of my 1HP 8" block for sure. Have yet to see it slow down while in use let alone find something that could stall it, even with a wire wheel.

QUOTE]

I would argue that they are far from deflated. The 1hp block draws only slightly more amperage than the commercial 1/2 model, and the math indicates it is only 1 hp based on simple watts---no consideration for losses or power factor. The 1/2hp models are much more accurately rated.

A true 1hp grinder will be considerably larger, and draw the appropriate high amperage like my Dayton 10".

 

[tool_scrounge]

Recently I picked up a Craftsman Industrial Rated 1/3 HP grinder with the integral brake (397.19410). Kind of a spur of the moment purchase, as I am set with the vintage grinders I need. Probably it will end up as trading material.

It has a 1968 manufacturing date on the bottom. How long did they make this model with the integral brake? Was the brake only on the 1/3 HP version? I do not see much information on them so I suspect the additional $8 cost ($58 in today's dollars) over the non-brake version was more than folks wanted to pay?

There is some corrosion as shown, but it works well. The previous owner notched the tool rests. I presume that was done as a precaution to prevent your work from being jammed between the grinding wheel and the tool rest if you are grinding at shallow angles.

 

[cajunfirehawk]

tool_scrounge; they made a limited amount of grinders with brakes so in essence they are kind of rare, good find and please post pics if you re do it! Dr Block may chime in with specific #'s...

 

[torqueman2002]

You may find what years that model appears in the Sears Tool Catalogues, listed on the Vintage Machinery website, under Manufacturers Index, in the Publications' Reprints tab.
http://vintagemachinery.org/mfgindex/pubs.aspx

I have seen/owned 3 of the 1/3-HP m-397.19410 rtop Block grinder, with Brake feature.

That model is the only 1/3-HP that has the larger 5/8" dia. arbor, BTW.

The 'mfg' dates on the bottom covers were:
<table width="96" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0"><colgroup><col style="mso-width-source:userset;mso-width-alt:3510;width:72pt" width="96"> </colgroup><tbody><tr style="mso-height-source:userset;height:14.25pt" height="19"> <td class="xl65" style="height:14.25pt;width:72pt" width="96" height="19">Feb 09 1966</td> </tr> <tr style="mso-height-source:userset;height:14.25pt" height="19"> <td class="xl65" style="height:14.25pt;border-top:none" height="19">May 20 1968</td> </tr> <tr style="mso-height-source:userset;height:14.25pt" height="19"> <td class="xl65" style="height:14.25pt;border-top:none" height="19">OCT 13 1966</td> </tr> </tbody></table>

 

[McBrownie]

You may find what years that model appears in the Sears Tool Catalogues, listed on the Vintage Machinery website, under Manufacturers Index, in the Publications' Reprints tab.
http://vintagemachinery.org/mfgindex/pubs.aspx

I have seen/owned 3 of the 1/3-HP m-397.19410 rtop Block grinder, with Brake feature.

Good Doctor, your modesty must have prevented you from posting the link to one of my favorite block grinder threads:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=244561

 

[torqueman2002]

Good Doctor, your modesty must have prevented you from posting the link to one of my favorite block grinder threads:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=244561

Thank you McB. That is high praise.

I had a bit of fun with it.

 

[torqueman2002]

I'm through downloading my 7400 PB pictures.

I used Google Chrome and a $2.00 extension - Photobucket Album Downloader (Unlimit).

https://chrome.google.com/webstore/...ownloa/jmpbbfglflhdhbmimlcacoojpkeopelc?hl=en

I have 99% of the pics. on my computer already, but I've posted a lot in forums and it is just easier to save the PB organization I've created there.

It will help if/when I re-post the pictures, should I ever get motivated or a request from a subscriber.

Good riddance PB!

Huh - 4,145 posts and over 8 years here and that ^ is the 1st time I used that emoji.

 

[cajunfirehawk]

Thank you McB. That is high praise.

I had a bit of fun with it.

Was there ever an end to that particular project it just kind of ended in 2014 with no formal ending, did you finish it and if so lets see some pics!

 

[chrisnazzy]

Was there ever an end to that particular project it just kind of ended in 2014 with no formal ending, did you finish it and if so lets see some pics! [emoji481]

I second this.

Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk

 

[torqueman2002]

Sorry to say, it has been moved to the basement workshop and it is still in parts.

I began a schematic drawing of the electronic brake board, but alas my meager comprehension of the diodes, rectifiers (?), and such just made my head hurt.

When I pick it back up, I will post it.


I will say, having 'tested' the Brake feature on more than 1 of this model Block, I see little usefulness in my grinding tasks.

There may be industrial applications, where a motor brake is needed, but home grinding is not one of them.

I suspect this is why Sears offered it for a brief time in the 60's.

It seems useless as a safety feature, by the time you reach for the brake switch, you've already ground a hole in your skin!!

 

[vertguy]

After watching this one on CL for about a month, I decided to make the 2 hour round trip drive yesterday to drag it home. Not a smoking deal ($95), but the stand alone is worth more than that and getting one with the heavier cast iron deluxe tool rest base was another deciding factor. It is a little rough and unfortunately is missing the eye shields and one of the tool rests, but it runs surprisingly smooth.
I cannot believe how much these early grinders weigh!

 

[smalltown]

vertguy love that stand ! Wish I could locate one reasonable.

 

[drivesitfar]

VERT: I'm pretty sure that is a PRE BLOCK, but it's one of my favorites with that styling, the huge tool rests and water tray, that cool light and stand. that said i know a lot of the original owners didn't take safety too seriously so the guy you bought it from might have removed the eye shields and tool rests so did you ask if they were maybe in a drawer or on a bench? or maybe it might be worth a trip back to check even if it's with the guy's widow or kids?

nice find

DOC: i also wondered if that BRAKE was really worth having and your explanation and the lack of SEARS making more of them sounds about right.

i'm lucky i dropped my Photobucket account (or at least quit using it) when i joined GJ and congrats on getting all your pictures back.

ALL: HAPPY NEW YEARS and hope all of you have a great 2018.

 

[exmaxima1]

VERT: I'm pretty sure that is a PRE BLOCK, but it's one of my favorites with that styling, the huge tool rests and water tray, that cool light and stand. that said i know a lot of the original owners didn't take safety too seriously so the guy you bought it from might have removed the eye shields and tool rests so did you ask if they were maybe in a drawer or on a bench? or maybe it might be worth a trip back to check even if it's with the guy's widow or kids?

I'd been watching that Pre-Block as well since Manteno IL was only 15 mins from my work, but kept waiting for it to go lower in price (was originally $125). It's still posted on CL in fact---and listed as a BALDOR---but clearly should go away soon. I was interested cuz I actually have a single tool rest for that deluxe base, and a pair of metal-framed eyeshields that would fit (though from an early Block). BTW, has anyone ever noticed that those deluxe base rests come in different sizes?

Vertguy: Post your new treasure on the Pre-Block thread as well.

 

[torqueman2002]

After watching this one on CL for about a month, I decided to make the 2 hour round trip drive yesterday to drag it home. Not a smoking deal ($95), but the stand alone is worth more than that and getting one with the heavier cast iron deluxe tool rest base was another deciding factor. It is a little rough and unfortunately is missing the eye shields and one of the tool rests, but it runs surprisingly smooth.
I cannot believe how much these early grinders weigh!

You ****!
That's a great pre-Block HD grinder with base.

If I'm not wrong, those bases go on eBay for what you paid for everything.

So, you can say (I would) the grinder was free!

I really like the center band w/ the stripping.

I'd think finding someone willing to sell a pair of large metal framed eye shields on eBay, etc ..., is reasonable. The cast iron tool rest is another thing. And both -- well, that's like finding a white flea!

Despite that, I'd have gladly paid that price and driven that far; but, well ... I'm a bit nutz for these things.

Oh, there are 2 styles to the HD tool rests - CI and stamped steel. Yours has the kind I like.

 

[vertguy]

BTW, has anyone ever noticed that those deluxe base rests come in different sizes?

Vertguy: Post your new treasure on the Pre-Block thread as well.

I thought this was considered a pre-block, so I will post future updates on this one in that thread. For giggles I checked the tool rest on my 3/4 hp block and they are the same length as this one.

Back to block talk... anyone have a good source for the cord strain relief as my 1hp needs one and I am having a tough time finding the right one locally? Looks like they come up as available at Sears Parts Direct, but $12 shipped seems a bit steep.

 

[JZiggy]

A 3/4HP with deluxe base was spotted in a nearby blacksmith's shop. It has been earning an honest living since 1972 when it was purchased for $99.

 

[ProGun3400]

After watching this one on CL for about a month, I decided to make the 2 hour round trip drive yesterday to drag it home. Not a smoking deal ($95), but the stand alone is worth more than that and getting one with the heavier cast iron deluxe tool rest base was another deciding factor. It is a little rough and unfortunately is missing the eye shields and one of the tool rests, but it runs surprisingly smooth. I cannot believe how much these early grinders weigh!

Nice ...... I've been watching that one (in Marengo?) as well. If it were still available on my next trip to Dubuque, I would've purchased it on my way through. Unless the seller has an identical twin, it's still listed for sale on Chicago's Craigslist.....

 

[jonshonda]

What does everyone think of this setup? Price seems high to me.

https://eauclaire.craigslist.org/atq/d/vintage-craftsman-grinder/6400406818.html

 

[EOC_Jason]

Missing a side cover, I do not think that is a CMan stand... Only 1/3HP...

Personally I wouldn't pay that much, but if you *needed* one, then if there is some wiggle room in price maybe...

What does everyone think of this setup? Price seems high to me.

https://eauclaire.craigslist.org/atq/d/vintage-craftsman-grinder/6400406818.html

 

[drivesitfar]

Jon: Jason is correct it's not an original Craftsman block stand, but i think it IS A BALDOR GRINDER STAND which is cast and more spendy and in my opinion WAAAY better and probably worth the asking price so you'd get a FREE GRINDER. if it's not a Baldor it's something that some furniture makers use to make their new COOL INDUSTRIAL LOOKING STUFF WITH so if you can't use it i'm sure there is a market for it.

the grinder has the metal framed sheilds but I like the round tops better if i had my choice. and it's missing a guard so maybe like was mentioned $100 or $120 might be better to offset some cleaning and replacement parts cause guessing you might want to change the bearings too.

good luck

 

[McBrownie]

Missing a side cover, I do not think that is a CMan stand... Only 1/3HP...

Personally I wouldn't pay that much, but if you *needed* one, then if there is some wiggle room in price maybe...

To me, $150 could be considered a fair price for a heavy duty stand like that and they’re growing in the grinder for free.

 

[jonshonda]

I see it is only 1/3hp but I don't use a grinder daily, and when I do use the cheap-o one I have I have learned to work with its power limitations. I also kinds want a grinder located away from my main bench to cut down on the mess.

I was thinking of offering $75 then maybe go $100 If everything checks out!

 

[EOC_Jason]

I was thinking of offering $75 then maybe go $100 If everything checks out!

That is what I would do, also one of those wheels is worn down so that will cost some money to replace too (to haggle down on price)... 3.5A is not a lot of grinding power...

 

[exmaxima1]

Jon: Jason is correct it's not an original Craftsman block stand, but i think it IS A BALDOR GRINDER STAND which is cast and more spendy and in my opinion WAAAY better and probably worth the asking price so you'd get a FREE GRINDER. if it's not a Baldor it's something that some furniture makers use to make their new COOL INDUSTRIAL LOOKING STUFF WITH so if you can't use it i'm sure there is a market for it.

I'm not feeling "Baldor" for the stand, but I agree it's worth at least $100. The top looks pretty wide, so good for a table; the base doesn't look as rounded as the nicer all-cast stands.

 

[softailgarage]

I came across this on another thread, thought it pertained to grinders. I'll let Torqueman move it to his thread if he see's fit - https://www.google.ca/search?q=spar...Mhb3YAhUO1GMKHXpuD9kQsAQIPg&biw=1418&bih=1068

 

[softailgarage]

So, I haven't visited this thread in quite some time. After doing oh, 9 or 10 grinders and 2 moves I stopped, been a good 2 years since I last did one. Getting ready to move out of state, I was going through boxes of parts and low and behold, found an un-restored grinder. Whoo hoo!!! I can't believe how excited I got. When I started these, I could find them on Craigslist for $25 - $45 average, not anymore, word musta got out, cause now everyone wants $125-up, same goes for old Craftsman Table saws and don't get me started on the Craftsman drill presses. Anyhoo, I had sold all of the completed grinders, including the last original craftsman pedestal I had 2 weeks ago (sold for $125) and was in need of a grinder when I found this, thus the excitement. I originally bought this for parts only cause its in really bad shape, however I've managed to stockpile a buttload of extra parts, including the rear exhaust type shells, so hopefully, if time permits, I'ma gonna build me a monster....grinder...pics to follow

 

[cajunfirehawk]

So, I haven't visited this thread in quite some time. After doing oh, 9 or 10 grinders and 2 moves I stopped, been a good 2 years since I last did one. Getting ready to move out of state, I was going through boxes of parts and low and behold, found an un-restored grinder. Whoo hoo!!! I can't believe how excited I got. When I started these, I could find them on Craigslist for $25 - $45 average, not anymore, word musta got out, cause now everyone wants $125-up, same goes for old Craftsman Table saws and don't get me started on the Craftsman drill presses. Anyhoo, I had sold all of the completed grinders, including the last original craftsman pedestal I had 2 weeks ago (sold for $125) and was in need of a grinder when I found this, thus the excitement. I originally bought this for parts only cause its in really bad shape, however I've managed to stockpile a buttload of extra parts, including the rear exhaust type shells, so hopefully, if time permits, I'ma gonna build me a monster....grinder...pics to follow

Man they got plenty of people in this thread that would love to buy them spare parts you got stockpiled, just saying!

 

[drivesitfar]

Softtail: i'm emptying one of my 20x20 storage units and like you i'm really enjoying PICKING my own stuff cause to me it's sort of FREE and a lot of stuff i forgot i own. sounds like you are smiling and have fun with that block.

Ex: after closer look i agree it's not a Baldor stand or i don't think it is, but it's a quality cast iron one that could be a great vise or grinder stand or make a great table or bench.

Jon: since McB posted about the same time as i did and posted the picture that doesn't get big i thought i'd post pictures so we can maybe help you if one of the guys sees anything else you should be aware of. of course if it's still available. it might not be the best grinder, but for 1/3 HP these old Blocks really do perform and they probably out perform the new 1/2 HP's and look a lot cooler. good luck.

McB: yep we both thought the same thing.

 

[McBrownie]

McB: yep we both thought the same thing.

Great minds!

This isn't technically from a block grinder, but it is the same age and size, so close enough. Was using my dad's old home owner grade radial arm saw from the late '60's and it started making some disturbing noises. I took the motor apart and found it uses the same bearing (yes only one) as block grinders - 6203. Popped it off and it felt like a ratchet wrench. Dry as a bone and crusty. Surprised it ran at all. A new one is on the way. Anyway, thought I would post it here as a reminder that these bearings don't last forever. Here is a look inside with the side cover removed.

View media item 79052

 

[bubinga]

So, I haven't visited this thread in quite some time. After doing oh, 9 or 10 grinders and 2 moves I stopped, been a good 2 years since I last did one. Getting ready to move out of state, I was going through boxes of parts and low and behold, found an un-restored grinder. Whoo hoo!!! I can't believe how excited I got. When I started these, I could find them on Craigslist for $25 - $45 average, not anymore, word musta got out, cause now everyone wants $125-up, same goes for old Craftsman Table saws and don't get me started on the Craftsman drill presses. Anyhoo, I had sold all of the completed grinders, including the last original craftsman pedestal I had 2 weeks ago (sold for $125) and was in need of a grinder when I found this, thus the excitement. I originally bought this for parts only cause its in really bad shape, however I've managed to stockpile a buttload of extra parts, including the rear exhaust type shells, so hopefully, if time permits, I'ma gonna build me a monster....grinder...pics to follow

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Right!!
GJ "Wised Up" everyone.llllllllllllllllllllll
Good Job finding the grinder............LOL
I "find"lots of things I forgot I had gotten, and it's like finding the good deal all over again!!

 

[bubinga]

Great minds!

This isn't technically from a block grinder, but it is the same age and size, so close enough. Was using my dad's old home owner grade radial arm saw from the late '60's and it started making some disturbing noises. I took the motor apart and found it uses the same bearing (yes only one) as block grinders - 6203. Popped it off and it felt like a ratchet wrench. Dry as a bone and crusty. Surprised it ran at all. A new one is on the way. Anyway, thought I would post it here as a reminder that these bearings don't last forever. Here is a look inside with the side cover removed.

Good Job!!!
Crazy only 1 bearing.
Where do you usually order your bearings from?
I always ordered from Lynn @ accurate, but we had a "falling out"
so I have been getting them from USA bearing, or USA bearing and belts, (something like that) on "the Bay"

 

[smalltown]

McBrownie That's great that you have you father's old saw. Nothing , but good memories I'll bet when you use it.