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LOCKDOWN LEISURE TOOL AND CUTTER GRINDER RESTORATION As for most Mechanical Engineers, I can’t help but love machines. Therefore it always makes me sad if I encounter a machine that is neglected. Since a few years, I took restoring (and using) these machines as a hobby. My latest restoration was a tool and cutter grinder which had been standing still for twenty years. Since CNC machines are vastly more versatile, these old purpose build machines are not used anymore in professional setting but are still very handy in the home shop. It seems like you would need a lot of specialized tools to be able to restore a machine. You can, however, already get started with basic tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, a wire brush, and a hammer for some percussive persuasion. A restoration always starts with taking the machine apart and cleaning all parts, while removing all rust with a wire brush. This time the paint wasn’t in bad shape but I just did not like the color so I chose to remove it anyway and apply an old school machinery green. Paint can be removed in a lot of ways; I chose to use an angle grinder with a wire wheel for convenience. When all grunt work was done, it was time to degrease and paint all parts. After drying, the machine can be assembled again with some new electric wires and fresh lubrication on the moving parts. The nice thing about a restoration project is that the result is not only pretty but also makes future projects easier. The only downside is that I probably have to sharpen all my dad’s tools from now on…
WRITTEN BY JASPER ROSITO
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