Shopsmith Forums

Intro - I'm Paul and I've been woodworking over 40 years. I expect to inherit a Shopsmith Mark V 500 very soon (unfortunately) from my father. It's sat for at least 5 years due to his health issues and it's a low hours unit since he bought it new in the 80's.

I'm going to have to bring it back in an enclosed pickup and that's the first question - other than removing the legs, anything else to check or watch out for? Unless there's something special, I'll take off the legs and strap it down for the trip (under 300 miles)
Because the unit has been inactive for so many years, anything other than general lubrication to do or watch out for? I'm sure Dad did normal maintenance on it but it hasn't been touched for at least 5 years that I know of.

Other than this being his pride and joy, he isn't able to talk about much now and I want to keep his machine in the family and make sure it works as he remembers it today. He may not see it again but I'm sure he'll know it's being taken care of.

Thanks in advance for any info or suggestions.

Paul

First off, I am sorry about your father.

Several people have suggested to me that I watch the "sawdust sessions" videos at Sawdust Sessions .

I think they are incredibly helpful in terms of understanding what to look for, how to disassemble and reassemble the machine, how it is supposed to work, possible problem areas, and how to fix whatever is wrong.

Aside from that, there are incredibly helpful and knowledgable people on this forum who can help with anything you find. Be ready to supply them with pictures though. They like to see the pics around here!

Good luck,

Andy

Welcome to the forum Paul,

I recommend you go to http://www.shopsmithacademy.com to look at sawdust sessions to see maintenance videos so you can see the proper way to maintain your machine. Hopefully some of the more experienced Shopsmith owners will hop in to give you more (better) advise than mine. As you know the machine is very heavy so you will probably need help to get it in and out of your vehicle. Hopefully one of the other form members can tell you a quick way of tearing the machine down for the trip. As I found out from refurbishing my machine, as long as there is not much mechanically missing/broken/ wrong with the machine, you should be able to repair it relatively cheap. You should be able to make many great wood projects with this machine. good luck.

-Robert-

Just in case you are not aware, "Do NOT Turn the Speed Control Knob unless either it is running, or you are rotating the output shaft(s) by hand."

Sounds like you have thought out the move logistics well. The legs are easily removed(5 bolts each). That will both reduce both the height and center of gravity.

Assuming you are correct re it having proper lubrication prior to the 5 yr 'rest' period, very little will be needed. However do as Beeg has suggested before powering it up.

Good Luck and enjoy the 'family jewel'!