WHERE IT ALL STARTED
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SHOPSMITH MARK HISTORY
Magna America put the MARK V (Model 500), American classic 5-in-1 tool, into production in 1953. Since its introduction, the MARK V has gone through a series of important upgrades to improve its performance, convenience, and safety. Today, any Shopsmith owner is able to add upgrades to their machines, to bring them up to the latest standards. No other power tool offers the same level of upgrade-ability.
MARK V “Greenies” produced during this period were painted green. These units had a Gilmer Drive System (the inside of the top belt is like a tank track). These units had a single bearing spindle with a standard 3/4 Hp motor.
1953 - 1958
The “Goldies” Anniversary Model machines were produced and painted tan/gold. They had a Gilmer Drive System, a single bearing spindle and standard 3/4 Hp motor. They were built as a "Transition Machine” to introduce a new drive system. 1960-1961: Poly-V Drive System (the inside of the top belt is a serpentine) were introduced, delivering improved belt durability and reduced machine maintenance.
1959 - 1961
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Gray Crinkle Texture were the next units to have the Poly V Drive System. The more powerful 1-1/8 HP motor was introduced.
1962 - 1964
1964
Magna America Corporation relocated and the MARK V went out of production.
1972
Shopsmith, Inc. is formed and the MARK V is Back! The MARK V remained gray but now has a smoother splatter finish.
1984
Two Bearing Quill. In 1984 (starting with serial number 190000), Shopsmith upgraded the drive system to the 2-Bearing Quill. Older Poly-V Drive System MARK Vs can be upgraded to the Two-Bearing Quill for greater stability with less runout and wobble.
1985
MARK V 510 was introduced with an improved, big 17-1/2″ x 22″ main table. The table system also includes two floating extension tables along with connecting tubes and telescoping legs to provide over 8 feet of table width. A new larger rip fence with t-tracks for mounting accessories and jigs. Other parts of the upgrade include a see-through upper saw guard (with riving knife and anti-kickback device), lower saw guard with 2-1/2″ dust port and more.
1991
Conventional headstock model "C" was introduced featuring a Red Safety Key Switch and larger service opening on the back of the headstock.
1999
MARK V 520 (with Pro Fence System) was introduced. The MARK 520 Pro Fence System features two interchangeable stainless steel scales for direct-reading of rip cut widths, plus twin locking levers, one for the infeed end of the fence and another for the outfeed end to ensure a positive, precise fence lock-down, even when working with large or heavy workpieces. An upgrade kit for the MARK V 500, and MARK 510, is available to give these advantages to older machines.
2010
The MARK 7 is powered by the revolutionary Shopsmith PowerPro Smart Motor. The PowerPro’s DVR (Digital Variable Reluctance) motor features:
• More Power (1-3/4 hp at 120V and 2 hp at 240V)
• 120V or 240V operation without any adjustments beyond switching the plug on the power cord
• Reduced energy usage and emissions over conventional motors
• Dual direction capability
• Easy-to-use touchpad controls
• Quieter operation
• Reduced maintenance and more!
Additionally, the MARK 7 adds Double-Tilt to bring an under-table option to its Shaping and Routing capabilities. An upgrade is available to bring tilt-both-ways convenience to older MARK Vs.
2021
Introduction of the Shopsmith MARK 520S plus MARK 4 with buy over time work packages! Customers have the options to buy the “All Inclusive” Model at a special “All Inclusive” price. Or you can purchase with a lower up-front cost by purchasing work packages over time. Buy the Base Model to get started, and then add additional work packages later.
Shopsmith MARK 4 (Shorty) rounds out the Shopsmith MARK Suite. Only 55″ Long but every bit as powerful as the big guys and fully upgradable. With a lower starting price point and smaller footprint, the MARK 4 is perfect for users who are tight on space and don’t have a need for the expanded capacities of other MARKS.
2023
The PowerPro Gen 2 Headstock has a computer driven motor that comes as part of the MARK 7 or becomes the ultimate upgrade for any of Shopsmith MARK Systems.
The PowerPro Gen 2 sets any Shopsmith machine apart from the competition by providing added power combined with pin-point accuracy while maintaining touch screen ease-of-use. Plus, the PowerPro Gen 2 not only enhances Shopsmith MARK's, but also enhances the performance of every Shopsmith accessory you own.