Shopsmith Forums

Recently purchased a Mark 5 SS from a junk dealer for $100.00. The data plate has a serial number 4599 and it has a 1 1/8 HP motor , spindle has 2 bearings and the unit appears to have smoothe grey paint. Motor does run good. Table is @ 19" x 14'. Would appreciate any info as to year built.

orphiekid wrote:Recently purchased a Mark 5 SS from a junk dealer for $100.00. The data plate has a serial number 4599 and it has a 1 1/8 HP motor , spindle has 2 bearings and the unit appears to have smoothe grey paint. Motor does run good. Table is @ 19" x 14'. Would appreciate any info as to year built.

2 bearing quill means its a newer unit most likely produced after 1984
http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/serialnumber.htm <- your serial number implies its ~1986, which co-incides with the quill.
19"x14" is a 500 style table. The newer larger table system has a main table that is 17 1/2"w x 22"d, with either round or extruded rails on the front and back.

So, sounds like you have a 1986 Mark V 500. If you post pictures we can probably give you more info. Also, if it came with any accessories then that would be good to know as well. Either way, at $100 its a good deal.

Do labels on it say Mark 5 or Mark V?

Does the vent plate say Magna American Inc. or Shopsmith, Inc.

Is there a 'ss' and or a '51' in front of the 4599?

My guess is SS inc, and the quill has been 'upgraded'(or it actually is a single bearing quill - how are you determining it is two bearing?).

Many people when looking at the splined end of the quill housing are seeing a spacer ring that looks like it is a bearing. If you are using the 5/32" allen wrench to check as instructed from Nick's video, then it is most likely a one bearing quill. Pictures always helps to answer Shopsmith questions. Since many Shopsmiths have been repainted, I find the serial number is as good a reference as anything else. I see that the Shopsmith site has finally added serial numbers for the 73-78 years. http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/serialnumber.htm