Shopsmith Forums

I’m not a welder and think I might have to just find a new shell. Everything else works fine, and most replacements seem to cost around the same as an entire inexpensive used Craigslist system. Any thoughts or recommendations?

You could try a washer and nut on the back side of the broken hole. Use a screw long enough for the washer and nut but no longer. I do not believe that would interfere with any moving parts back there. If that works you can take your time finding a replacement headstock casting for a permanent fix.
Good luck

I agree with Russ. Use a fender washer on the back side (To spread out the load over a larger surface area) and use a nyloc nut (to prevent vibration loosening it) on the back of the threads after you have screwed it in place with the first two screws.

Should last as long as you need and work reliably without replacing the headstock housing.

Even though I have the ability to weld aluminum with a spool gun and could fabricate a patch, I would just use the washer and nut if it were mine.

Everett

Screw the screw into what threads remain in the casting til the speed control is tight against the casting, THEN attach the washer and nut from the inside and do not rotate the screw.

Great advice. Thanks all.