Shopsnith Tuneup

[dmginc1313]

I recently purchased a used Shopsmith, and looking up the serial number found it to be made back in 1958. I am amazed how everything is still running. The only issue I am having is during lathe operations. I have read through and tried all the suggestions from the owner's manual but can not seem to get rid of the vibrations in the machine. No matter what speed or what size stock, it vibrates just enough to make turning extrememly difficult, especially any detailed work. I am looking for any thoughts on how to "tune up" my machine for smooth operation. Thanks.

[woodyvt]

My Mark V dates from 1954 and still works well. Vibration is almost unavoidable at the "roughing in" stage as the spinning wood is not in balance. Vibration ought to decrease once the piece has become symmetrical around the axis of rotation. If vibration continues, one must check whether the faceplate or chuck is ought of balance. Also, large diameter objects ought to turn more slowly than small diamter objects.

[philcollins]

As a retired :)machinist, I would reccomend that you check the bearings belts and bushings without any accessory attached. This will help define the problem. If all is OK add one accessory (faceplate etc.) at a time until you isolate the culprit.

[volkesw]

:cool: I would agree with Phil that old of a machine probaly has a few flat spots on the belt.

[sjaqua]

My shop smith was made in 1957, I think. Everything was still working on it as well.

I replaced the quill on mine and got rid of the vibration problem. And the quill upgrade is pretty easy to do.

Scott B. Jaqua
Hagerson Forge