Keith Rucker - VintageMachinery.org Courses

Surface Plates - Granite vs Cast Iron

Explore the evolution of surface plates, comparing granite and cast iron options. Learn about their historical development, advantages, and practical applications in precision engineering.

• YouTube
• 20 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Heat Treat Oven Basics, Tips and Tricks

Essential guide to heat treat ovens: setup, operation, and best practices for beginners. Covers location, electrical needs, controllers, programs, oxidation prevention, and quenching techniques.

• YouTube
• 27 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

1928 Austin Timing Helical Gear - Turning the Gear Blank from a Cast Iron Casting

Learn to machine a cast iron gear blank for a 1928 Austin car engine, including taper setup, drilling, and boring. Gain insights into vintage machinery restoration and precision metalworking techniques.

• YouTube
• 32 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Using a Variable Frequency Drive for Motor Control on an Antique Metal Planer

Learn to modernize antique metal planers with variable frequency drives for precise motor control, enhancing efficiency and functionality in vintage machinery restoration.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Lucas Horizontal Boring Mill - Installing Belts and Getting Under Power

Learn to install belts and power up a Lucas Horizontal Boring Mill in this detailed tutorial, covering key steps from pulley installation to motor testing.

• YouTube
• 24 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Grinding Two Surfaces Square on the Surface Grinder

Learn precision surface grinding techniques to achieve perfectly square surfaces on metal objects using specialized equipment and methods.

• YouTube
• 33 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Marvel Band Saw - Replacing Worn Out Feed Worm Gears

Learn to replace worn-out feed worm gears on a Marvel Band Saw, covering disassembly, installation of new parts, and reassembly. Gain practical skills for maintaining and repairing vintage machinery.

• YouTube
• 25 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Pouring Babbitt Bearings for a Goldens' Three Roller Cane Mill

Learn the process of pouring Babbitt bearings for a vintage cane mill, including melting, cleaning, and pouring techniques. Gain practical skills in restoring and maintaining antique machinery.

• YouTube
• 29 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Motor Starter On-Off Push Button Station Circuit Explained

Comprehensive tutorial on three-wire motor starter circuits, covering wiring diagrams, push button switches, and troubleshooting techniques for better understanding and practical application.

• YouTube
• 27 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Norton Multi-Oilstone Restoration - Follow Up and Use

Learn to restore and use a Norton Multi-Oilstone for effective tool sharpening. Covers reconditioning, restoration, and practical application techniques for chisels and other tools.

• YouTube
• 24 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Restoring a Wilton 800S 8-in Bullet Machinist Vise

Comprehensive guide to restoring a Wilton 800S 8-in Bullet Machinist Vise, covering disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly with detailed steps and expert tips for optimal functionality.

• YouTube
• 27 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Pattern Making for the Foundry - The Basics You Need to Know

Learn essential foundry pattern-making techniques: draft, smooth corners, scaling for shrinkage, and surface finish. Explore examples from personal and professional collections, with insights on various pattern types.

• YouTube
• 41 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Repairing and Machining Parts for a Steam Locomotive Brake Valve

Detailed repair process for a steam locomotive brake valve, including disassembly, machining a new brass stem, and reassembly to restore functionality.

• YouTube
• 33 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Turning Bronze Bushings and Pressing Them in Place - Casting Repair for Leo at Sampson Boat Company

Learn to turn bronze bushings on a metal lathe and press them into place using an arbor press. Discover techniques for casting repair in this detailed tutorial on machining and fitting custom parts.

• YouTube
• 29 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Rebuilding a Brass Steam Whistle Valve

Detailed restoration of a brass steam whistle valve, including machining, polishing, and reassembly, for a museum's steam-powered cotton gin.

• YouTube
• 20 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video