Replies

1. 
   Dustmight | Jan 05, 2005 05:04am | #1

   That Delta sounds like the old 37-190...now the JT360 that sells for ~ $350 new.  I know some people "overpaid" a bit on the 37-190 by today's price standards (upwards of $450 new), but that doesn't mean you need to.  IMO $200-$250 is reasonable if it's in good shape. 

   For ~ $300 or a bit above you can get a new 6" machine with a closed base and a 1hp motor from Craftsman.  For a ~$350 you can get a Ridgid.  Yorkcraft and Grizzly have nice machines in that price range, plus s/h if necessary.

1. 
   Fitzer | Jan 06, 2005 04:15am | #2

   Thanks for your advice! Fitzer

1. 
   DarrylM | Jan 06, 2005 07:04am | #3

   I've had the Rigid 6" Jointer/Planer for close to a year now and have been quite happy with it.

   my 2 cents...

2. 
   TPZ | Jan 06, 2005 09:48am | #4

   I had the Delta jointer you mention for about 3 days because the fence was sloppy and the beds weren't aligned. Maybe it was just a lemon - can't say for sure because I immediately purchased Jet's 6" jointer (closed stand) to replace it.

   I kept the Jet for about 8 years and was very happy with it's performance. I just bought the Delta DJ20 8" jointer because I wanted greater capcity to flatten wider boards.

   Although it's more expensive, my only regret now is that I didn't save up and buy it in the first place. Not only is the capacity greater, but everything's better (and this is coming from a guy who loved his 6" jointer.) The biggest difference is the long infeed table. It really helps to getting a long board trued up on one side or one edge.

   I guess that my point is that maybe you should give some consideration to getting an 8" jointer from the get go. Even if it means waiting little to gather the bucks (which was my constraint). It's cheaper in the end (versus upgrading) and I think you'll be happier. A lot of people upgrade like I did, but if you're thinking that all you get is two more inches of capacity like I did, well take a closer look before taking the plunge.

   P.S. I haven't used Powermatic's new 6" jointer, but it looks to have a very long set of tables. Maybe another one to consider.

   Best of luch whichever way you go!!!

   Tony Z

1. 
   Fitzer | Jan 06, 2005 10:34pm | #5

   Thanks, Tony - very helpful. Fitzer

3. 
   firemansteve | Jan 08, 2005 01:46am | #6

   I own the Delta that you are thinking about. I regret ever buying it. Nothing against Delta (I am considering the DJ-20 8" Jointer), but the tables are not aligned, and they never can be. I phoned Delta customer service only to hear that the machine is within the allowable tolerance. What good is the machine if it is not accurate? In my opinion, "Not much." I basically wasted money. Go with an 8" if you can. Get a good one with a flat and accurately aligned table. I hope this helps in your decision.

   Steve B

1. 
   Fitzer | Jan 08, 2005 05:46am | #7

   This does help, Steve, thanks. Fitzer

2. 
   kenshep | Mar 17, 2005 01:49am | #9

   Hi Steve,

     I've seen that same line from other guys.  A woodcraft employee who'll never buy delta (lathe) again.  A few posts on another forum.  I am looking for a portable/benchtop planer.  Thanks for helping me decide to take Delta off the list.

   I had it down to Jet, Delta and Dewalt.  Now its between the Jet and the Dewalt.  This month's Woodworkers Journal has an article on 10 different planers.  Though they don't rank the best machine or the best value.  It's like running a beauty contest and saying at the end.  Yes, ladies you are all beautiful.  It does list the specs though, so that helps. 

   Regards,

   Ken

   "Do as you would be done by." C.S. Lewis

4. 
   reeferman | Jan 08, 2005 06:47pm | #8

   I have the Yorkwood 6" jointer from Wilke Machinery and I real happy with it.