Keith Rucker - VintageMachinery.org Courses

Machine Shop Basics - Tramming a Vertical Milling Machine

Learn to precisely align a vertical milling machine using efficient techniques and verify accuracy with a test indicator. Gain practical skills for improving machining precision and quality.

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

Installing and Setting New Knives in a Crescent Machine Co. Jointer

Learn precise techniques for installing and aligning jointer knives using a dial indicator, ensuring optimal performance and safety in woodworking machinery.

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

New Tools for the Machinist Tool Box

Explore new machinist tools acquired at a collectors' meet, including tap wrenches, gauges, scrapers, and more. Learn about their uses and unique features for enhancing your machining toolkit.

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

Indicating an Inside Hole and Boring on a Metal Lathe

Detailed guide on using a four-jaw chuck and dial indicator to accurately re-bore holes for new bronze bearings on a metal lathe, with step-by-step instructions and practical tips.

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

1890s Era Metal Planer - Setting Up and Testing Cutters on a Flat Belt Powered Machine

Explore the setup and testing of cutters on a 19th-century metal planer, powered by flat belts. Gain insights into vintage machinery operation and restoration techniques.

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

Failed Project: Machining Brake Drum Castings for an Antique American Underslung Automobile

Explore a failed machining project for antique brake drum castings, learning valuable lessons in precision engineering and problem-solving for vintage automobile restoration.

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

Monster Cane Mill Restoration - Brazing Broken Nickel Welds on Cast Iron Mill Base

Restore a monster cane mill by brazing broken nickel welds on the main cast iron base. Learn techniques for repairing vintage machinery and preserving industrial heritage.

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

Monster Cane Mill Restoration - Turning Roller Journals, Pressing Gears and Evaluating Castings

Detailed restoration process of a vintage cane mill, including turning roller journals, pressing gears, and evaluating castings. Learn hands-on techniques for preserving industrial machinery.

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

Fixing up an Old Worn Out Four Jaw Chuck - Turning and Grinding to Get it True Again

Restore precision to a worn four-jaw chuck through expert turning and grinding techniques, reviving its accuracy for machining projects.

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

Refurbishing a Skinner Four-Jaw Chuck with Independent and Scroll Adjustments

Learn to refurbish a unique Skinner Four-Jaw Chuck, featuring both independent and scroll adjustments. Gain insights into vintage machinery restoration and lathe chuck maintenance.

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

Fabricating a Mobile Cast Iron Surface Plate Workstation

Learn to fabricate a mobile workstation for a cast iron surface plate, enhancing precision and versatility in your workshop setup.

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

Skid Steer Hydraulic Cylinder Repair - Installing a New Seal Kit

Learn to repair hydraulic cylinders by installing a new seal kit, with step-by-step guidance for skid steer maintenance and restoration of hydraulic functionality.

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

Steam Locomotive Connecting Rod Bearings - Finishing Right Side Rod and Bearings

Detailed walkthrough of finishing connecting rod bearings for a steam locomotive, focusing on the right side rod and bearings assembly process.

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

Steam Locomotive Connecting Rod Bearings - Making New Tapered Strap Pin/Bolts

Learn to fabricate tapered strap pin/bolts for steam locomotive connecting rod bearings, enhancing your machining skills and knowledge of vintage locomotive maintenance.

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

Steam Locomotive Connecting Rod Bearings: Shimming, Tramming, and Reaming for Tapered Bolts

Learn essential techniques for maintaining steam locomotive connecting rod bearings, including shimming, tramming, and reaming for tapered bolts in this detailed video tutorial.

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