Shopsmith Forums

Well, the weather finally turned nice and I was able to work in the garage. So, I got the lift assist that I had just received out of the box and inventoried the parts. Everything was fine except they sent a 3/8" lock washer instead of the 5/16" lock washer that was supposed to have been in the package. No problem, I just went to my parts cabinet and pulled one out.

I took my laptop out with me and between Nick's video and the instructions sent in the lift assist package, I put it together in about 30 minutes. What a beautiful thing that lift assist is. Even with the head stock all the way over to the left, it practically lifted into the vertical by itself.

I'm not as old as Dusty and some of the other folks -- only almost 70 -- but if I live to 80 or more, this is the best thing I could have bought. If there are folks who don't have one, I strongly urge you to get one the next time they are on sale.

GeorgeM

They are great, you will love it. Do you have a Mark 7?

rjent wrote:They are great, you will love it. Do you have a Mark 7?

No, I bought a used 1973 Mark V.

GeorgeM

The older gentleman I bought a motor from today asked if I had the list assist for my PowerPro. I told him I did not but had heard good things. I think he really wanted to be talked into it. He actually contacted me again later to inquire if I had any SS parts to sell. If I see him again I will pass along this review.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with the lift assist. It does exactly what SS says it will do.

jsburger wrote:There is absolutely nothing wrong with the lift assist. It does exactly what SS says it will do.

I never said there was anything wrong with it. I implied that it was better than advertised.

GeorgeM

Took mine off for a period of time to make some 45 deg cuts. That function is lost when the lift assist is installed. Besides the PP is about 20 lbs heavier than the standard headstock and I am not getting any younger. ( I will be 76 in July) However, the lift assist is a great asset.
Bill V

I too am in my 70's and not getting any younger. I too appreciate the lift assist though right now I have it off (laying on my work bench in pieces).

However, I do not understand your declaration that you "took it off to facilitate 45° cuts" (not a quote). Please explain.

dusty wrote:I too am in my 70's and not getting any younger. I too appreciate the lift assist though right now I have it off (laying on my work bench in pieces).

However, I do not understand your declaration that you "took it off to facilitate 45° cuts" (not a quote). Please explain.

Remember Ed's thread?

Long pieces will not clear the base casting since the table carriage range is restricted.

Nice thread, and testimonial, George! When I lose more muscle mass will definitely buy one. Probably can't stay lucky forever.