| 744.1 | |
| Okay, Another one. Well not quite. I want a new bandsaw. I’ve looked at several small shop saws. I also am looking at some used ones. I would love a nice 18″-20″ Delta/Powermatic wood/metal saw. But… I can’t afford one. I’ve been finding some 14″ deltas, old walker-turner 16″ and recently some parks 16″ bandsaws in my price range. Should I take on the old machine, do a little resto and have a nice vintage saw with a wierd blade size. Or should I run out the Griz and buy the Ultimate 14″ saw and call it a day. Before I get the list of it’s up to you, can you reair a broken saw etc. Yes, I am better than average with mechanical things, I do like old tools, but new ones are good too. Thanks for the help. Ty Yost |
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Replies
Hey Try,
It really depends on the type of woodworker you are. There are folks that swear by old iron, and part of the joy is pouring molten babbet bearings. Others want top performance and customer service.
Myself, I'm torn both ways. I grew up with a 16" Walker Turner, the kind with the worm screw table tilt, and I have a great affection for it. But my old man bought it, as a bargin, after it fell off of a truck. It shook like a steamship, and as far as I know, it still does. Dad still uses it, but I bought a MiniMax.
Modern guide systems can make most of the old iron perform up to modern standards, so it really depends on your needs and preferences.
Tom
You should get a copy of Louis Inturra's catalogue. He has done comparisons between Jet and Delta and old versus new machines and has some very good articles on the bandsaw.
babbet bearings ..........
DAMN! I worked with a REALLY OLD GUY doing that LONG AGO.. Electric Generator flywheel shaft.. I think it was about 6 foot in Circumference.. He used ALOT of 'Blueing' and a draw knife.. Took about a month to do..
I was part of the team that 'JACKED' up and down the flywheel shaft! We took most of the time!
Check out http://www.owwm.com. Lots of information on refurbishing old woodworking machines. The Delta 14" is probably the easiest to get parts for. The existing guides have served woodworkers well for years, and cool blocks are readily available for this machine if you prefer.
Pete
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