Replies

1. 
   mike_b | Jun 09, 2006 07:58pm | #1

   This from the Delta web site (visit http://www.owwm.com for more on just about any manufacturer):

   Delta, The Rockwell Years
   The Rockwell Manufacturing Company made a bold move by purchasing Delta in1945. The company was renamed "The Delta Power Tool Division of Rockwell Manufacturing Company." Delta continued to manufacture its products out of Milwaukee until its new plant was completed in Tupelo, Miss., in 1952. The Tupelo plant still remains in production today as Delta's primary manufacturing facility.

   In 1948, Delta entered the radial saw market by acquiring Red Star Products of Norwalk, Ohio. A string of acquisitions followed with the purchase of the Ohlen Bishop Company and a 7" shaper design from AMMCO Tools of North Chicago. This broadened the company's product offering, thereby strengthening its position in the accessories market.

   As Rockwell relocated its Delta-Milwaukee operations to Bellafontaine, Ohio, in 1952, the acquisitions continued. Rockwell entered the Canadian Market in 1953 by purchasing Beaver Tools of Canada. The 1956 purchase of the Walker-Turner division of the Kearney and Trecker Corporation added 20" drill presses and radial-type drill presses to the line.

   By the mid-1960s, the name Rockwell had become synonymous with top-quality stationary power tools and equipment. This was largely due to a complete line of products that had proven itself through years of reliable performance. As sales continued to grow, Rockwell demanded a larger, more centralized distribution center. As a result, a 230,000-square foot distribution center/service branch was opened in 1966. The facility maintained an inventory of over 15,000 machinery parts.

   The world of power tools was changed forever in 1966 when Rockwell invented the world's first motorized miter saw. This introduction offered a more compact & portable solution (not to mention added precision) to the task of making crosscuts at the jobsite and other remote locations.

   A New Era
   Rockwell sought suitors for its power tool division in the early 1980s. As a result, Pentair acquired the company in 1981 with one goal in mind-reviving a once strong brand name. Pentair wasted no time investing in the business. Appreciating its heritage, Pentair made a good move by renaming the company with its original moniker, "Delta."

   for the whole Delta Rockwell history.

1. 
   cadman2211 | Jun 09, 2006 08:26pm | #2

   I would be wary of any Rockwell tools that have the stylized "Peace Sign" logo.  These tools were made in the early to late 70's and the quality was not very consistent from one saw to the next.   After Pentair Corporation bought out the Rockwell power tool division in the early to mid 80's the quality did improve considerably.  If I was looking for a used Unisaw, I would probably try to find one from the 40's, 50's or 60's. 

   The later Unisaws also had a problem with the front trunnion bracket breaking at the point where it mounts onto the saw cabinet flange.  The earlier versions don't seem to have as much of a problem because the casting is heavier in the area around the mounting ears.

2. 
   sapwood | Jun 10, 2006 05:59am | #3

   I have a 1980 vintage Rockwell Unisaw. I know of no problems with it. It's been used a great deal.