Hobart N50 Used Question
I'm relatively new to higher end mixers. I usually hand knead my dough (challah, neopolitan pizza) or stretch my dough (french baguettes) so I'm not really one for using mixers for dough.
Someone near me has a Hobart N50 used. It appears to be a 1940s~ era model with a completely corroded 5 quart bowl. This is aluminum? or tin lined?
It only comes with a bread hook, so I would have to find attachments for it.
I could probably get it for around $150-$200.
It's in rough shape, and will need restoration, but I restore vises and such all the time and that doesn't concern me. I can prime, wet sand, and paint it any color I like (and handle the mechanicals internal).
It's the 1/8th motor model.
Does this sound like it would be worthwhile, or should I wait to find one a little newer? or am I completely out of my mind for even bothering, when I mostly use a hand mixer for 95% of the stuff I don't want to do by hand with a whisk (egg whites, etc).
To be fair, I cook/bake every single day but I can't justify spending almost $4,000 on a new hobart. I see used Kitchenaid 600's around me all the time in the $150 range that look brand new. Aren't they metal gears too?
Great to have you aboard. I've been here since late 2019.
You're in luck. There are a few posts documenting Hobart restorations, including a handful of N50's. So I'd recommend perusing those posts for help in your decision-making, and for ideas/resources if you decide to do it.
https://www.thefreshloaf.com/search/node/hobart%20restoration
I've actually read through most of those. I am just not sure about this particular one because of the extreme age (I'm thinking 70+ years of use already), and the fact that it's the older style motor.
I wasn't sure if anyone here had experience with that, or could recommend steering me clear of it if they're problematic.
You might try and call the company to see if parts are still available (though hobart parts are pricey). Just give them the serial #. If you can fix it yourself, I think it would be a worth while purchase and will last for years. I dont hink changing out the motor is hard either and anyone with ample power would do. I believe after market accessories exist for hobart if you wanted to change out the bowl. I think its steel but might be wrong. Might just need some polishing. Worth a try.
That said, I had a hobart from the 30's that worked like a charm. It was a gear mixer, no belt. I was told, repairing was simple as if the motor went I'd just need to replace it and motors arent expensive just need to find one that has the right power and fits in the casing.
In fact if I can ever find another one, I'll get it as they look super cool and work great.
Best of luck.
Peter
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