Trying to determine the age of my 510

[pat]

I was wondering if someone could tell me when my 510 was made. Try to use the serial number chart on the SS site but it was not too clear. I have a 510 with a 1 1/8 HP motor and two bearing quill. The serial number 013870 was stamped on the metal plate (with a 51. painted before it). Is it from 1985, 1986, 1987 or earlier? Thanks

[dusty]

Here is a link that will help you:

http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/serialnumber.htm

This one might be of interest:

http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/toolhistory.htm

[cincinnati]

I have a 510 that the serial number is the date of manufacture. 082989. Aug 29th 1989. Is it possible you have a much older unit that has been upgraded?

[dusty]

According to the serial number chart, your machine was built sometime in 1973-1978. During this period Shopsmith built 1001-20359. Based on the serial number and interpolation I would place it in 1975-1976. These machines would be 500s.

SN 013870 = 13870

However, I can see why you might believe either 1985 (000016) or 1986 (213306)

Notice that in 1985, 1986 and 1987 there are two different starting serial #'s. I believe these are 500s and 510s which were built during that time period under two different serial number sequences. The 510s first went into production in 1985.

I didn't know that there was a 500 with a 2 bearing quill but the chart now leads me to believe there was. Serial Number 190000, built in 1984, had a two bearing quill. The 510s began in 1985

Yup, I see why you are a little confused. So am I. So is this chart.

[SDSSmith]

I was wondering if someone could tell me when my 510 was made. Try to use the serial number chart on the SS site but it was not too clear. I have a 510 with a 1 1/8 HP motor and two bearing quill. The serial number 013870 was stamped on the metal plate (with a 51. painted before it). Is it from 1985, 1986, 1987 or earlier? Thanks

Based on this serial number and the following page.......
http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/faq/markv.htm

I would say your 510 was built in August of 1987.

[pat]

Thanks for the quick response. I guess it is older then I originally thought. Bought it used and it needed a little TLC at first but it is in great shape now. What a great piece of equipment! And to think...you can still get parts. I'm really enjoying working with a quality machine.

[bobgroh]

I have two Mark V's from 1984 - one I purchased new in January 1984, the other is from an estate sale and history is unknown (has been converted to 510 by previous owner). To my surprise and delight, both have dual bearing quill's! The 510 could have been converted by the previous owner but my original 500 came that way. So at least some 500's built in early 1984 had dual bearing quill's installed. Happiness for me!

Bob Groh, Kansas City area.

[wood4me]

so does... 51-009104 date mine about Feb 1987