Abstract: A control system for a hydro-mechanically stroked gear shaper provides control and diagnostic functions. The control system includes a video display and a microprocessor. The microprocessor is programmed to monitor load force imparted by a cutting tool over its lifetime. The microprocessor also monitors the number of times a cutting tool is used. By monitoring these parameters, the system provides a indication of when the cutting tool has exceeded its useful life. The control sysem also provides a graphical representation of the gear shaper. When an operational problem is sensed by sensors in the gear shaper, the graphical representation indicates where the problem has arisen.