I have my own machine shop, and this helps with repairs because I can make bushings, plane worn surfaces, and make special screws or fittings to adapt modern tooling to old machines. I have restored dozens of antique machines, especially lathes-some for myself, and some for friends, and even for the American Precision Museum in Windsor, VT. The people who made these machines would not be the least surprised to learn that 100 years later, we are still using them every day-because that is what they intended when they designed and built them. Although lacking some modern conveniences and safety features, they are built better than most machines manufactured today and are simply a joy to use. These are the machines I rely on for my work. Jon Siegel replies: Many of the machines in my shop are over 100 years old. Most older machines will need bearings and belts as a minimum. There are videos and Wiki articles on many machines. If you feel that you are up to doing some work, but need guidance, the OWWM site will help. Paying one of the few vendors in used machines to work on a machine in your shop will quickly eat up any savings over buying a new machine with a warranty.
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If you are not mechanically inclined and really want to get involved in used industrial quality woodworking machines, I would suggest that you make friends with someone who is. Older machines that have had industrial use may have wear that is not present in a machine that has only had hobby use. Woodworking machines, either new or old require tuning and maintenance to get the best results. Click on the “BOYD” (Bring Out Your Dead) at the top of the page. If you visit the site you can check out the member’s addresses and contact some of those that are local.
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The URLs are and Several members of the Guild are active on the forums. Peter James replies: If you are interested in older heavy machines, one of the best places to get lots of good information and also purchase machines is the Old Woodworking Machines web site. How good a deal is that! Hands down over a cheap imported 14˝ saw if you have the room. These days a good 36˝ bandsaw can be had for $400–$500. Ask questions and also bring straight edges to check flatness of table tops before plunking down the cash. These older/larger machines are three phase and sometimes 440 volts. Don’t forget to be aware of the motor and its electrical requirements.
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If its cheap enough, a couple hundred bucks can get you some solid iron that you can invest a few more into and still have gotten the machine at a reasonable price. Seeing is always the best for buying and spending a few thousand $$ on a good machine. These can result in good opportunities, but can be subject to hidden problems. Buying for price is always iffy if you have little experience in buying these items.įor cheap, go to liquidation sales, auctions at factories, or try Craigslist, and other online sales locations. These sources are not the cheapest, but at least you’d have someone to go back to if there is a problem. It is best if it was in use and sounds good.ĭavid Lamb replies: The “best source” on old machines is to use a reputable dealer of quality machines such as Boshco or Brentwood. Don’t buy “as is” unless you like working on machinery. On older machinery especially, check for bearing play. I believe Brentwood Machine is handling such machinery again-80. Dave Emerson replies: Most of my used heavy-duty machinery I’ve bought from Bob Rougvie of Woodshop Machines in Bow-60.