Shopsmith Forums

How to hook-up and run SS Jointer?

I have received the Magna SS 1950's Jointer, and after I complete the teardown/re-assembly of the Headstock 1955 Vintage (missing the setscrews and keys - DUH) - I am going to fire that beast up. How do I hook up the jointer? I have scoured the Internet and have yet to find a video showing me how. I think I know, but need some real true world guidance here, folks. Thanks ahead of time for the great help you all have been.

And many KUDOS to the designers and builders of these fine piece of simple and durably engineered machines. I have been amazed at the utter bicycle-type simplicity that makes these tools so ever-lasting. This one's getting fixed up righteous and handed down to my little kids someday.
Mark in Franklin, TN

what speed should it be operated at?

This information was taken from the online Power Tool Woodworking For everyone and is for current machines. I am not sure if there was any difference on older machines. I have two older PTW books one dated 1955 and the other has no date but both look like it is the Magna Jointer in the pictures. Hope this information helps you.


Jointer Speeds

Before you begin any jointer operation turn on the Mark V, set the speed dial according to Table 6-1, and let the jointer come up to speed

The deeper the cut or the harder the wood, the slower you should run the jointer. If the jointer runs too slow, you may get a rough cut, so you'll want to experiment with scrap until you can select the proper speed for the stock you're jointing.
Table 6-1: Jointer Speed Chart
Operation Hardwood Softwood
Heavy Cuts M (3900 RPM) O (4550 RPM)
Finishing Cuts Q (5300 RPM) S (6200 RPM)
Note: These speeds are for 60 hz. operations. Because the Jointer mounts on the lower auxiliary spindle, the rpm is 1.6 times faster than for the upper auxiliary and main spindles.

rkh2: Thanks for the info. Are copies of that info sheet available so I can print and add to my manual? I am compiling the manual as I add more features and accessories, and all info is filed neatly in the original manual.

I see that you are in Lewisburg, I am up in Franklin, and would like to meet other woodworkers who use Shopsmiths. Email me if you'd be interested in getting together to compare notes. Thanks.