I took my TS3650 back to Home Depot today to have the arbor swapped out and the manager just gave me a brand-spanking new one in exchange. Imagine that! It’s sitting in the box in my trailer — took me a day to assemble last time. The thought occurred to me that I could sell the dang thing and get most of what I paid for it if I sell it still in the box.
Casting my eyes around I found that I can get a used General 350 for about $1200. I haven’t put my hands on the 350 yet — the seller is out of town until next Wednesday. Don’t know if its a right or left tilt, 3hp or 5, what year it was made, etc. The seller is very confident that the saw is in excellent condition. He’s a retiree who has created a sideline for himself of buying used power equipment and reselling it. The saw came from an estate sale — 1 prior owner. Shipping and tax a non-issue as this would be a private sale and I would be picking up the saw locally.
This is a big leap for me — I started out with a Delta table top saw 10 yrs ago and bought the contractor saw little over a year ago. I’m unhappy with the accuracy of the TS3650’s fence. My other gripe is that when I work with sheet goods, 36″ to the right of the saw is limiting. I’ve generally liked my saw however as it was a big improvement from what I had in the past.
Question is, is it worth shelling out $700 more? I’ve been bitten with this woodworking bug and can easily see myself using my table saw for many years to come. I don’t make a living from what I produce in the shop. This ia a hobby for me. BTW, I’m already wired for 220v single phase. I can’t imagine ever buying another saw if I do get the 350.
The other question on my mind is what I should look for to evaluate the overall condition of the saw.
Any help greatly appreciated. From what I can gather, the 350 is a pretty common choice around here.
Sorry for the long, rambling post — it’s late (or very early).
Steve
Edited 2/19/2005 4:35 am ET by Steve
Replies
Steve,
Assuming the condition is fine, this is an excellent buy, and one you will not be disappointed in. The General 350 is a classic table saw, and a very good choice. Don't be afraid of the 3hp, it is plenty. See if you can run it a bit to be sure, but I would be surprised if there is anything wrong with it.
Alan
http://www.alanturnerfurnituremaker.com
Go for it. The Generals coming from Canada are great machines. The 350 is a right-tilt saw._________________________________
Michael in San Jose
"In all affairs it's a healthy thing now and then to hang a question mark on the things you have long taken for granted." Bertrand Russell
Not only will you love the upgrade, but your grandchildren will thank you when they inherit it. If it's in good condition, you can't loose.
Purchased the 350 yesterday with Vega 50" fence thrown in. Man is it heavy. I've added an extension table. The prior owner built a dust port that comes out under the unit; the cabinet is on an oak platform that raises it about 4 inches and gives room for the dust chute.
I'm inclined to cut a hole in the back for the dust chute and lower the table saw down the 4 inches -- just too high.
Meanwhile, selling my Ridgid TS3650 -- I've placed an ad in the classifieds here
Steve
It's a good buy if in good shape. I just went from a contractors saw to a cabinet saw. You'll appreciate the greater precision and power.
Take care to check it out carefully though. A friend had a General with a top that was horribly out of flat. Not common, I'm sure, but it can happen. Don't just say hi, stroke a check, and toss it in the pickup. Best of luck!
Thanks y'all. I did my first cuts today on the saw -- works like a charm. Steve
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