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Old 08-23-2021, 03:28 PM   #1
midgetracer
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Default Need KR Wilson help

I purchased a KR Wilson machine to undercut the commutator on a Model A generator. AM I missing something or can someone tell me how to attach the armature to this unit? I also purchased a compressometer from KR Wilson and am unsure of its use. It appears to use air compression for reading . Thanks for any help you can provide.
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File Type: jpg Undercutter for commutator.jpg (47.0 KB, 214 views)
File Type: jpg Compessometer.jpg (67.9 KB, 202 views)
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Old 08-23-2021, 04:01 PM   #2
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Post the KRW model no. and I can look it up in the original catalog. The compression checker is a standard unit normally kept with the KRW tuneup machine cabinet. You put the correct rubber bushing for what spark plugs you are using so it fits the hole, pull the handle down and crank the engine over when you are done, press the valve core and it lets the pressure off. That tool was used most commonly with Ev8s.
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Old 08-23-2021, 04:18 PM   #3
Bob C
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

There is a picture at the link that says powerhouse lathe.
http://krwilsontools.com/pages/for_sale.html
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Old 08-23-2021, 04:53 PM   #4
midgetracer
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Quote:
Originally Posted by jimTN View Post
Post the KRW model no. and I can look it up in the original catalog. The compression checker is a standard unit normally kept with the KRW tuneup machine cabinet. You put the correct rubber bushing for what spark plugs you are using so it fits the hole, pull the handle down and crank the engine over when you are done, press the valve core and it lets the pressure off. That tool was used most commonly with Ev8s.
Are the rubber bushings available yet, or are they something I could make?

I see no part number on the commutator lathe. Is it only for the powerhouse generator??
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Old 08-24-2021, 09:27 PM   #5
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Has anyone used these tools? I could use some answers.
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Old 09-21-2021, 10:17 PM   #6
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

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The generator armature cutter shown is only for then powerhouse generator and clamps on the backside of the case. They really don’t work well but the powerhouse armature is difficult to deal with anyway. I’m a KR Wilson tool junkie and have done several of the seminars in them at a couple of the national meets. Wish there was more interest and tools coming out .
I use many of them all the time doing Model A work.
Larry Shepard

Last edited by larrys40; 09-22-2021 at 08:51 PM.
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Old 09-22-2021, 12:31 PM   #7
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Reprints of the original KR Wilson tool catalog are readily available online. This one covers Model A
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Old 09-22-2021, 12:33 PM   #8
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Picture
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Old 09-23-2021, 12:29 PM   #9
midgetracer
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Thanks Larry... I thought that it would only fit the powerhouse generator. Perhaps someone will want this tool since all my Model A vehicles do not have a powerhouse generator.
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Old 08-04-2025, 03:29 PM   #10
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson commutator lathe help

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Originally Posted by midgetracer View Post
Thanks Larry... I thought that it would only fit the powerhouse generator. Perhaps someone will want this tool since all my Model A vehicles do not have a powerhouse generator.

Resurrecting an old discussion.

Did you ever get the KRW aemature lathe working? I ask because I'm restoring one. While I understand how the lathe part works. I'm not clear how the mica undercutter works.

I have other armature lathes and undercutters, but for fun I'd like to put this one back in service.
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File Type: jpg 20250803_143454_copy_907x1612.jpg (39.5 KB, 30 views)
File Type: jpg 20250803_143446_copy_907x1612.jpg (41.2 KB, 31 views)
File Type: jpg 20250804_162615_copy_1391x907.jpg (58.4 KB, 30 views)
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Old 08-05-2025, 09:48 AM   #11
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

No, I never got it figured out. i gave it to my son who has a powerhouse generator on his Model A. I think he just put it in his collection.
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Old 08-05-2025, 10:31 AM   #12
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Ok, no worries. I just finished restoring mine and have it figured out now.
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Old 08-06-2025, 05:29 AM   #13
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

If anyone is interested in seeing this KRW commutator lathe in action, I made a short video about it.

https://youtu.be/qMRXwjrjvg0?si=12AqDvsTap-zMxVf
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Old 08-06-2025, 09:22 AM   #14
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help

Thanks for taking the time to make that video!!!
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Old 08-07-2025, 01:54 AM   #15
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Default Re: Need KR Wilson help





Finished Restoring -
KR Wilson machine to undercut the commutator on a Model A generator - ndnchf
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