New User in Atlanta

[fquail]

I have inherited a Mark V unit with a number of attachments from my father. It has not been used in approximately ten years. I have all the documentation on the unit, and have ordered the “Restoring the Mark V” DVD from Shopsmith. However, I’d really like to make connections with one or more Shopsmith users in the Atlanta area to get a primer on using the system and, perhaps, for an experienced user to take a look at what I have and advise how best to get it in condition to be used properly and safely. If you are (or know of) such a user, please contact me at fredkoehl at gmail dot com! Thanks. Fred

[garys]

If I were you, I would plug it in and turn on the power switch. If it runs, carefully turn the speed knob through the different speeds. If that works, start using it. Sitting unused for a little while doesn't make a Shopsmith need a rebuild.

[ERLover]

If I were you, I would plug it in and turn on the power switch. If it runs, carefully turn the speed knob through the different speeds. If that works, start using it. Sitting unused for a little while doesn't make a Shopsmith need a rebuild.

I agree, but lube it up at the lubrication points after running it through the speeds, also always best when running it at the higher speeds to run it down to below mid point or lower b4 shutting it off. The band saw is not to friendly being started up at a higher speed then it should be run at.

[dusty]

I have inherited a Mark V unit with a number of attachments from my father. It has not been used in approximately ten years. I have all the documentation on the unit, and have ordered the “Restoring the Mark V” DVD from Shopsmith. However, I’d really like to make connections with one or more Shopsmith users in the Atlanta area to get a primer on using the system and, perhaps, for an experienced user to take a look at what I have and advise how best to get it in condition to be used properly and safely. If you are (or know of) such a user, please contact me at fredkoehl at gmail dot com! Thanks. Fred

Except as others have already said, it needs to be put through the paces. Do a thorough clean and lubrication and then begins testing (using) it. Make some saw dust. Treat it like you would a new machine that you have absolutely no experience using. Go slow. Read the instructions. DSO NOT skip over the safety notes and cautions. Avoid using the "hign end" of the speed dial until you have clocked a couple hours of operation at lower, more controllable speeds.

After those few hours of operation, go back and do another clean and lubrication. Especially the lubrication. The way the sheaves (variable speed mechanism) work, you cannot over lubricate.

NOTE: Though not obvious, lubrication should be read to mean wax as well. You can overwax. Wax the table tops and all of those legs that run up and down (main table, extension tables, the like). I clean and wax my Main Table legs at least once a month.

[Asbrand]

Am in Atlanta here also (well, technically Marietta).

Just picked up a 2nd Shopsmith Mk. V today.

[everettdavis]

After assessment and lubrication, I would go through the alignment process to make sure you receive the accuracy designed into the machine(s).

It will be safer, produce the best results, and make you even more proud of the decision you made to become one of us, multiple machine owners!

Everett