Replies

1. 
   Clay | Mar 18, 2003 11:14am | #1

   I have a couple like it.  They cost about $1200.00 new plus shipping.  They do a good job once you learn how to use them and are pretty durable machines.  Your price sounds pretty reasonable ... the only caveat is what condition the machines are in.   You can fix almost anything that might be wrong with them ... but it costs time and the parts aren't cheap.  If the seller has knives for them try to get a deal on those too ... you can probably get a real bargain there.

2. 
   RoyinMD | Mar 19, 2003 01:13am | #2

   DIY,

   I bought my 684 new about 15 years ago for around $750. I didn't see as many machine choices back then as there are now, darn it. My primary limiting factor was not having 220V in my detached garage (still don't). Combo machine and money were my main concerns.

   Overall I'll give it a B maybe B-. I find the planer alittle weak on the feeding and the jointer alittle sloppy. I agree with the other poster, learn to adjust it properly and it will work ok. I had to tighten the drive belts and the tension on the feed rollers several times. WD40 on the 4 lift screws and chain was routine. Its' funny this post came up now, I spent about 3 hours cleaning and adjusting the jointer this Sunday, still have some readjusting after doing some testing. I hadn't used the machine in about 6 to 8 months. I've disconnected the drive belt to the feed rollers because I only plan to use it as a jointer from now on. I bought the DeWalt 733 12 1/2" portable planer in January.

   Lets see, 15 years old, still works, no major troubles, all original parts, only major wear is on the feed rollers. I was able to easily modify the dust chute for dust collection. $300 sounds reasonable.

   How old is the one your looking at?

   Feel free to ask more specific questions.

   Enjoy, Roy