MArk V power swithc replacement problem

[dusty]

Someone on this forum made a "U" shaped flat metal jig that mashed the top and bottom tooth release arms in to remove the later rocker type switch. I remove the quill housing so I am able to get my fingers on the upper release arms and mash the top arms in and tilt the top of the switch out. Then mash the bottom arms in and remove the switch. This design is a standard rocker switch design made by most electrical companies, not a Shopsmith designed switch like the belts.

I am finding different versions of the rocker switch that Shopsmith used. Today the rocker switch I removed had 2 black leads about 4" long with male ends. No terminals on the switch. I have removed both 2 and 4 terminal rocker switches rated at either 15 or 20 amp.

A switch with the embedded wires is what was originally in my 510 which dates it to the early 90's.

[damagi]

Is it possible to upgrade the switch on an older Mark V to the newer style? Alternatively, has anyone upgraded their switch to something with a larger "Off" pad? I saw the thread on a remote switch, which sounds like an interesting option.

Thanks

[dusty]

I have not looked inside the headstock of an older unit to see if there is room for the new switch but if there is - making the round hole square would be the only issue.

But why in the world would you want to do that? The switch is just that - a switch and the old one works fine as a switch. I see no real advantage to making such a change.

Now for the issue of a "safety switch" like the paddle switch you mention.

Good idea and if I could find one that fit in place of the existing switch I would have already changed.

If you are hard pressed for a safety switch, why don't you just install one in line with your existing switch and mount the switch box in a convenient location.