Question about an old Mark V

[ZLRider]

Hello everyone - my name is Dave and I'm starting to get into woodworking to give me something to do now that I've basically retired. I've been looking at different tools and already have some like a chop saw and small table saw. I have an opportunity to get a Mark V Shop Smith that is at least 35 years old and been stored in a basement workshop. It appears to be in good shape and has a table saw, lathe and drill press according to the seller. Since I don't know anything about the Shop Smith units except that they are well known and liked, I'm asking for a little help on what to look for and/or be wary of when going over this machine. The price is under $500 so I'm fairly sure as long as it works I'm getting a good deal. Any help is appreciated and I'm looking forward to learning more from everyone in the future.

Edit: Based on a YouTube video I watched the unit I'm looking at buying is a "Greenie" so is 50-60 years old. I do not know the last time it was run at this point though I have that question in to the owner.

[BuckeyeDennis]

Welcome Dave!

Forum member Everett Davis has created an illustrated version of a document published by Shopsmith entitled "Buying a Used Shopsmith Mark V". It should answer your question pretty thoroughly. You'll can download the illustrated version using the first link in the following thread:

http://www.shopsmith.com/ss_forum/viewt ... 90#p185690

Folks here will be happy to clarify, or answer any question that document doesn't cover.

[john_001]

Welcome to the forum.

It says this in "Buying a Used Shopsmith Mark V", but it bears emphasizing if you're going to look at a Mark V and you're not familiar with it: don't be tempted to move the speed control unless either the machine is running or you're turning the quill (output shaft) by hand. You'll damage it.

[ZLRider]

Thank you for the quick response. Based on the information in the link you posted, it appears the SS I'm looking at was built prior to 1960 and therefore has all of the faults of the first models. I know it at least runs though I haven't seen it yet. I'm thinking that given the age it may be more than I want to tangle with for a first machine. However, apparently I'm the only one looking at it and the owner is motivated to get it gone so I may be able to get it very cheap. I guess my question becomes whether this makes sense for someone new to the Shop Smith. I am mechanically inclined but no Mr. Fixit by any stretch.

Making the assumption (which I will have to validate when I look at it) that it is in running condition and no major, obvious issues is this a project suitable for a relative beginner?

[ZLRider]

I saw that and will be careful to follow that rule of thumb. I hope to find out more about it in the near future and get to look it over as well. Thank you for the reminder.

[BuckeyeDennis]

Where are you located, Dave? Used Shopsmith prices vary considerably by region. Here in Ohio, prices are low. A "greenie" in running condition can be had for maybe $200, and a good 510 model for around $500.

As for tackling a fixer-upper, I'd say go for it if you enjoy mechanical work, and don't if you don't. Everything is fairly easily repairable, and some of the mechanical gurus on this forum can guide you through most any repair.

As for me, I bought a 2005 model 520 used, and have never had to do anything except lubricate it. I also bought a couple of 10E/R's from the 1950's, and they are still waiting on me to find time to restore them.

[JPG]

Not sure I would say a " 50's " shopsmith has 'faults'.

Less desirable than a later model perhaps.

[ZLRider]

You've got me there. How about none of the improvements over later models? :-)

[ZLRider]

I am in central Illinois and since I've just really started looking I don't have a feel for the pricing in this area. I did find another Mark V from the late 60's with accessories and manuals for about $500 as well. I may shoot a low offer on the older model to see what his response is then consider looking further if I think it is not reasonable. Thanks for the insight on prices in your area - gives me sense of where I might start.

[bobgroh]

I have owned SS's Mark V's since 1986 and my recommendation would be, on the older unit (if it works) to not pay more than $150 or so. The later model 510s and 520s are appreciably better. Of course the older units are almost completely upgradable to the later one's - one of the many virtues of the SS Mark V's. The SS are accurate and easy to work on. Getting the manual set is a very good thing. Getting a SS with the wheels is also a good thing.

SS Mark V's are not a terribly good table saw - there are accurate and solid but having the adjust the table for different cutting depths is a PITA (just my opinion). One of the most valuable accessories you could have for your SS is the bandsaw - I use mine all the time. It is a nice drill press and a pretty decent lathe.