Replies

1. 
   mrbird90 | May 11, 2008 01:37am | #1

   I have had one for a couple of years now and don't know how I got along with out it. It  is not a thickness machine and when used as a finish sander you will not have a problem. I run all my stock that has been through the thickness planer to get out the planer marks. I remove about .015" per pass per side using 120 or 150 grit. Sanding woods with resin such as pine clogs up the paper pretty fast. I basically work with poplar, cherry, walnut and oaks, these cause no problems with loading up. I have had no mechanical problems with the machine and I have processed a couple of thousand feet of wood with one piece of sand paper. You will need a good dust collection system as it generates a lot of fine dust. I finally got an Onieda dust deputy cyclone and connected it to a 5hp vac. and virtually have no dust in the shop. I am very satisfied  with Powermatic 16/32 and would not hesitate to purchase it. Good luck

1. 
   alanplanesaw | May 11, 2008 02:38am | #2

   mrbird

   Thanks for the detail and recommendation.  A friend got one about 7 years, has only used it 7 or 8 times and said they just didn't see hanging on to it.  I am considering whether or not I want to buy it.

   Thanks,

   Alan - planesaw

    

2. 
   Cincinnati | May 11, 2008 03:24am | #3

   What are you planning on using it for? I have done a bit of research over the past few weeks on a drum sander for thickness sanding after re-sawing. You may find this thread of help:

   http://forums.taunton.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=fw-knots&msg=41574.1

   I have heard mixed reviews of this design (and the Performax) where the cantilever head is adjustable.

   In contrast, Delta claims the new 31-260X is designed as a thickness sander. It looks as if the head is fixed and the table is adjustable. This makes more sense as a stronger design less likely to flex under load.

   Greg

   •••••••

   Exo 35:30-35

1. 
   alanplanesaw | May 11, 2008 04:35am | #4

   Greg,

   Thanks for your thoughts and the link.  I know no tool is perfect, but it helps to learn the pros and cons before I buy (or don't).

   Alan - planesaw

3. 
   Sean2112 | May 11, 2008 04:40am | #5

   I love mine.
   Regards,Sean