What’s a pre-rehab Rockwell Unisaw worth
PeteBradley
| Posted in Power Tools and Machinery on
Looks like a 1950, heavily used, but not abused. Nothing obviously missing. Gotta check the motor not sure if it’s 220 or 3 phase (was too dark, motor is a monster whatever it is). I’m assuming some new bearings and a few parts will be needed. Whaddaya think?
Pete
Replies
If it was local to me, I would pay about $800. Not matter what you say, you will need to tune up the saw, calibrate it, switch the motor over to 220 for better service, change the fence, add an outfeet table, and a mobile base.
Boris
"Sir, I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow" -- WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1934
just pick up a used one. had to get the model # from delta cause the only #s on the saw were the ser #. i think the saw is 45 yrs old. just clean it up adjusted the blade to the miter slot purchased a new fence and the saw is running great. this saw was beat on the outside but clean and tight on the inside.lots of luck with yours you will love it
Bearings are probably good and there isn't much else to wear out, but the belts may need replacing, which isn't a big deal if you use link belts.
John W.
Took another look at it with a little more time. The motor was replaced at some time with a motor that looks like it would drive a train. It's very large, a problem which was solved by cutting a hole that runs almost the width of the base, then bolting on a homebrew welded sheetmetal cover. I'm guessing 3-phase since there are no capacitors on the motor. The saw has a 1950 serial number. Lotsa history, not sure if I'm gonna take it on...
Pete
There is NO WAY I would pay more than 400. $800 will get you a perfectly functional old Unisaw, or a newer Jet or other brand. I got a late 90's Unisaw with 50" fence, side table, Unigaurd (350 new), and all the accessories for $1,100. The saw was in showroom floor condition, not even a scratch on the throat plates. And I really don't even consider that a great deal.
If it runs on 220 1 phase and the fence is complete I would say it is worth 600 to 800. If you have to change the motor, bearings, belts, and fence!! Forget it, maybe $200
Mikeplease excuse my spelling.
The saw sounds like it has been butchered, I'd suggest walking away from it. Unisaws in good condition, and at a fairly reasonable price, are commonly available, don't waste your time trying to salavage one that has been wrecked.
John W.
I bought one that ran fine, had a rusty table (surface), sagging wings and a replacement Marathon 1 1/2HP motor set for 220v. Had the original rip fence; miter gage and motor cover were both MIA. It was made the same month/year I was born (July 1950) so I decided to keep it instead of cleaning up for resale. Like yours; well used but no obvious battle damage. Paid $225 but IMHO, that was a mega-steal. Hope this helps!
Regards,
Mack
"WISH IN ONE HAND, #### IN THE OTHER AND SEE WHICH FILLS UP FIRST"
I purchased a 1964 Rockwell/Unisaw; came with a 1 1/2hp 240 volt single phase motor, original rip fence and no motor cover. I paid $525 for the machine, and did the following upgrades:
1. Sand, prime and paint the cabinet. The top was in good shape, only needing some elbow grease and wax.
2.Replaced the fence with a Unifence. Bolted up easily and has been the best upgrade for any tool in my shop.
3.New magnetic switch from Woodworkers Supply.
If the machine is single phase and in good shape, start in the $400 range and work from there. Just check the catalogs for the price of new machines, and you will get a good idea of a starting point. You have to look at the cost of this machine and any upgrades you may need, and the cost of a new machine. Good luck.
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