Shopsmith Forums

I have finished disassembly and cleaning of the speed changer I recently acquired. Upon inspection of the bushings and shaft, I noticed the wear pictured below. I know there are replacement bushings available on EBay from a person who I believe may be a member on this forum, but looking at the wear on the shaft, I’m not certain that the new bushings may take long to exhibit the same wear, as they are softer that the steel.

The shaft wear shows significant groves where the load was applied to the bushings on the front and rear. I don’t believe that I could smooth out the shaft without changing the diameter, causing greater problems.

What would you guys do? Replace bushings? Address the shaft in some way? Or run everything as it is once properly lubicated?

Thank you,

If it was mine (and has been on at least one of my restorations) I would smooth down any raised ridges on the shaft to lessen wear on the new bearings. In use make sure the brass bearings are properly lubricated at all times to prevent additional damage. The replacement Speed Changer Oilite Bearings available on ebay from HogWinslow 1960 are the ones I have used as replacements and yes, he is a forum member.

chapmanruss wrote: Mon May 20, 2024 2:10 pm If it was mine (and has been on at least one of my restorations) I would smooth down any raised ridges on the shaft to lessen wear on the new bearings. In use make sure the brass bearings are properly lubricated at all times to prevent additional damage. The replacement Speed Changer Oilite Bearings available on ebay from HogWinslow 1960 are the ones I have used as replacements and yes, he is a forum member.

I thank you for the information, and I believe I will go this route.