I am going to start a thread in the "rebuild" section, but I thought I would update this a little. What an amazing machine the little old girl is ....
I am amazed at it's simplicity and function. I completely dissassembled the quill today (took me most of the afternoon with the quill return spring repair. Both bearings were fine, I want to take a HD video of it running to see what you guys think, more on that later.
Like I had mentioned, the quill return spring was non functional. The top of the "keyhole" where the pin on the quill shaft fits into was ripped on one side and it wouldn't stay on the pin. I used a drill press ... OK, shopsmith, heal thyself

... I slid the quill back in the machine, set it up as a drill press (with the pinion shaft loose) even though I have a drill press LOL, secured the end of the spring to a sacrifice board on the table and slowly drilled another keyhole for the pin. Reassembled and it works perfectly. Then took the rack (quill) back out did some cleaning on it, and put it all back together. I will start the cleanup and rust removal tomorrow or so (but to be honest there is not alot to do), and try to get this thing in paint (Mickyd's Verde Green and Silver which came in today from Amazon). If Micky doesn't mind, I am going to copy his color scheme, it truly is stunning! I got my 2x6's almost ready for replacing the "shelf" or whatever you call it, so that will stabilize the feet.
Question: Can I chain onto each end of the unit at the head rest and base (SS OM exploded view terminology) with a front loader long enough to get the old wood removed and the new "deck" in place? Sure would make it easy.
Anyway, just thought I would update. The motor works perfectly, the quill is in good shape, etc, and this forum is amazing. I love the "adult" attitude and approach. I have moderated 100000 plus forums before (car sites), but never with such a calm, knowledgeable and agreeable group of people.
Thanks!
PS, JPEG, the jointer works just like you said ....
