Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 09, 2006 03:08pm | #1

   I have the 719 bench top model and it works quite well.  This one had a well done sliding table, but the table did not tilt, so it differs by more than the cabinet.  The only version shown on the Powermatic web pages is the 719 T which has both the tilting table and the cabinet.  There could still be a few of the older version hanging around at dealers I suppose. 

1. 
   ThreePuttJoe | Aug 10, 2006 04:53am | #2

   Thanks Steve. You sound like you are happy with yours. Do you wish you had the tilting feature? Would you have bought the cabinet model with the tilting feature for the extra cash now that you have had the machine?

2. 
   bartwood | Aug 10, 2006 04:35pm | #4

   I just bought the 719T and it seems pretty good. I was wondering if you had some thoughts on setting up the chisel and bit. I gleefully tried out the new machine on some butternut and almost started a fire with the shavings that got trapped in the bit. Are there some rules of thumb on how far below the chisel the bit should protrude?

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 10, 2006 04:47pm | #5

   I use a penny.  Put in the chisel with a penny between it and the holder.  Then secure the bit, with the bit firm up against the chisel.  Then go back and remove the coin moving the chisel up firm against the holder.  This gives a consistent distance between bit and chisel.  You can experiment with different coins. 

    

1. 
   bartwood | Aug 10, 2006 04:52pm | #6

   Thanks steve, I'll give that a try. What chisels do you use? I got some powermatic, jet actually, from my dealer. Are there better options?

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 10, 2006 05:05pm | #7

   I've got a couple of Clico that are excellent, albeit pricey. 

2. 
   KeithNewton | Aug 10, 2006 05:40am | #3

   TPJ I have the PM chain mortiser, that I really like. The bed slides with a rack and pinion / 3 arm lever, and tilting head. It will cut a 1/2 X 2" by ?-3" depth faster than you can get a hollow chisel half that depth.

   I don't know if they are still made, but I see them on the auctions every now and then. If you can get your hands on one, you ought to take it.

   If you can't find one of the PM's I have seen a portable Makita that looks like it may be pretty good. I would like to give one a test-drive, but I have never seen one in real life.

   Here is a link if you want to check that out.
   http://www.mytoolstore.com/makita/mak03-11.html