Quill: 1981 Single Bearing Upgrade

[gac5ss]

I purchased a 1981 Shopsmith Serial #101940 this past weekend for $350. The seller thought the motor was bad so I bought it at a good price. Included was the bandsaw, jointer, belt sander, jig saw, and many extras. I thought an excellent buy even if the motor had to be repaired. The good news is there is nothing wrong with the motor except a loose wire from the switch.

As I continued to break down the headstock, I discovered the drive sleeve bearings are wore out, and that the porkchop has been damaged by the control sheeve button, which is also wore out. No problem as I have the items on order. I will replace the belts as well.

My question concerns the single bearing quill. The bearing does appear to be ok, but until I run it, I am unsure if it has any runout. I know opinions vary, but if you had a choice, would you replace the single bearing quill with a two bearing quill? Is there $180 difference? (current SS new price). Or would you replace the bearing? I know replacing the drive sleeve bearings has an impact on quill performance.

Can a single bearing quill have a second bearing installed? If machining is required, is there a position on the splined shaft that works best?

Thanks

[CPB]

I'm looking for a used Shopsmith myself, and just assumed that if I got an older model the 2 bearing quill was a no-brainer.... until I saw this guy's YouTube channel. Apparently he has 50+ years of experience with Shopsmiths. He has several videos about quills, and seems to prefer the ones with a single bearing. He also sells single bearing quills.

https://www.youtube.com/@shopsmithrepai ... WKG/videos

This is his website: https://shopsmithrepair.com/

[gac5ss]

Thanks CPB. I will book mark his site.

Just keep checking Facebook Marketplace daily for Shopsmiths. One will appear that you want to buy. The 520 with multiple SPT's will be harder to find and you may have to drive a few hours to pick it up. I see many listings that are obviously inherited and the seller checks the Shopsmith web site and discovers the new pricing. Thinking it is worth 75% of that number usually means it is going to stay with them a while. Be patient. I would at least try to get a 510. It costs much less to upgrade to a 520. Some will argue a 510 is better, but not for me.

I would bring a checklist of original parts and if they are missing on the unit you are buying, try to undercut the price. A missing saw guard, table fence, or miter gauge can get expensive on eBay or the SS web site.

Good Luck