Anvil Tools Series: "The Green Machine"

Our American Line Finisher is a prominent fixture in the shop, and one of the most awesome machines we work with on a daily basis. It's got a great history too.

Originally, this machine operated in a cobbler's shop on Time's Square in the 40s. At the time it was a top of the line, brand new machine.

After a lifetime, this machine found a second life finishing prosthetic limbs for a business in St. Louis. After a second lifetime Anvil Customs picked it up for a song, and it still runs like a champ. Yet more proof that they just don't make em' like they used to.

There are three 1/2 horsepower motors that power the central shaft, vacuum, and shaper wheel respectively. The one for the (modified) shaper wheel pictured is a 1725 rpm GE, but the main drive and vacuum are Landis Special Motors that spin 1750 rpm each. 

We have the machine fitted with 2 horsehair brushes for buffing/burnishing and 2 wax wheels for edging as well as a couple varieties of sandpaper to give every piece of leather work we make that fine cobbler's edge.

These encased support joints ensure that the main shaft remains lubricated as it rotates. 

The vacuum pulls most of the leather shavings and dust down into what is effectively a giant canvas sack.

And there you have it - our "Green Machine!"  It's a spectacular feat of manufacturing, and we absolutely depend on this beauty everyday in the shop!