Shopsmith Forums

cllib wrote:Thanks JPG for your quick response.

But I am thinking of should I take the time to do it or should I buy a " newer" version of headstock which is at 1-1/8 HP and has an opening to lubricate.

Rather than spend your $$ on a "newer" headstock that will likely need a similar level of maintenance and repairs (and this cost even more $$), spend your $$ and time either maintaining/rebuilding your existing headstock or having someone do it for you. Once done, it will easily last another 50 years.

cllib wrote:My neighbor just gave me his Mark V Greenie, produced in March 1955.

No openning under the emblem either.

I started the headstock before I found this website. The headstock tripped my 15A breaker. I then decided to open the speed control when I tried to turn the dial without turning the motor on.

Many thing had gone wrong before I found this forum.

Done this myself, once I got it turning and let it run for a while it loosened up and starts now with no problems. Even at half of full speed it will start up.

No Grease opps well I can always clean it off later I guess and switch to graphite

Thanks for all the response

Even if you decide to purchase a newer (different) model, I think you should spend the time to service this unit completely and then evaluate exactly what you have.

Do not fear dismantling this unit so that you can thoroughly clean, lubricate and adjust it. It runs and doing these things will only make it better. Besides, it is a great learning experience and if you are going to own one you need to know all there is to know. There is no better way to learn. The Shopsmith is an excellent machine to maintain. Simple and reliable AND parts are available.

You can have a "like new" machine in an old shell in practically no time.

All of the help that you might need is right here at your finger tips.

dusty wrote:Even if you decide to purchase a newer (different) model, I think you should spend the time to service this unit completely and then evaluate exactly what you have.

Do not fear dismantling this unit so that you can thoroughly clean, lubricate and adjust it. It runs and doing these things will only make it better. Besides, it is a great learning experience and if you are going to own one you need to know all there is to know. There is no better way to learn. The Shopsmith is an excellent machine to maintain. Simple and reliable AND parts are available.

You can have a "like new" machine in an old shell in practically no time.

All of the help that you might need is right here at your finger tips.

All of what Dusty says is true. I was very intimidated to go through my headstock, but with the help here (and pics--a must for me) I learned so much and now feel alot more connected to the tool I'm using. Learning the parts and the terminology is essential in my opinion as well. ( before, I thought sheeves were just something you bring in when you rejoice )
If I had a simple table saw or drill dress for instance, I don't think I would take as much interest in the tool itself and there would be no "family" for support.
SS people are an odd and different breed, and I am proud to be one. And now you are too.

Dusty and mrhart,
You are right I was intimidated to dismantle the headstock.