There have been some uncomplimentary postings about Craftsman tools and Sears recently, many of them well deserved. I have a tale to tell that is complimentary.
I was inspecting my 50 year old Craftsman lathe yesterday in an attempt to determine why the tool rest was unstable. I discovered that the holder had a large crack in it. I was certain that was the end of the lathe, since I thought it unlikely I could buy parts for a machine that was so old.
However, I went to Sears.com, clicked on parts, was asked if I knew the part number or would I like to see a diagram of my lathe. I clicked on diagram, and lo and behold there was an exploded view of my old lathe. I checked part 55 on the parts list, learned that it was $16.95 plus tax and shipping. Today I received the order acknowledgement.
This wasn’t an outstanding product 50 years ago, and it hasn’t improved with age, but I was astounded that I could still buy parts for it. Cheers for Sears!!!
Edited 7/24/2004 9:24 am ET by Bob Powers
Replies
One of the reasons I like Sears equipment is the parts availability. I am repairing and old compressor for a friend and needed a couple of parts. I went to http://www3.sears.com/ ordered the parts and will have the compressor fixed soon. I have a 30+ year old lawn tractor/mower that I have used for close to 30 years and most parts are still available. The parts are not cheap but still available. Order some Delta parts and you will find that the Sears parts are a bargain. I needed some parts for a Powermatic 50 jointer and they were not available, I will not be buying any more Powermatic tools.
Life is what happens to you when you're making other plans .
As you've discovered, many old Sears/Craftsman tools are of high quality. It's when they shifted production overseas that quality dropped.
As always, their hand tools have always been top quality, and have a lifetime warranty.
There are many things I don't like about Sears tools, but I have discovered a Sears cordless drill on sale, usually cost less than a replacement battery for a Makita or Milwaukee. So when the drill quits, just throw it away and get a new one. That way, you keep getting the latest product. Now don't tell me a Makita or PC drills a better hole than a Sears! Also they have a no hassle return policy. When it comes to stationary machines and compressors, I stay away from them. I go with Jet or Delta.
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