Shopsmith Forums

baburao wrote:I just have the more seasoned cast iron table and I truly haven't utilized it enough to frame an assessment, yet I'd prefer to hear what others need to state. Apparently, overhauling from it to the aluminum table is as yet an open alternative.

This question is frequently asked. Each has some relative advantages and disadvantages. Aluminum larger and lighter but must remove to go vertical. Cast iron smaller and heavier but can be left in place to go vertical. You can add a rip fence to the aluminum table for $$$. Cast iron can use the miter gauge as a rip fence at no additional cost. On balance, I don't think it is worth upgrading.

I have two cast iron tabled bandsaws and for storage the limit of closeness is the table. If I had the larger aluminum tables I'd need more space on my SPT shelf.

I had the cast iron for years and have recently acquired another bandsaw with the aluminum table.
I use the the cast iron one with a 5/8" blade for resawing and use the aluminum with a 1/4" blade for curves and such.
I have no fence for my aluminum table.
I use a miter gauge and extension with a piece of straight composite flooring for a fence. It works great!
I still prefer the cast iron over the "upgrade".
Dan

Dan,

I notice you have an Irwin Quick Clamp holding the end of the Miter Gauge Bar. Do you have a problem with it trying to lift up out of the slot?

Rus:
no, not lifting out. I use the clamp to keep it from sliding forward or back.

AEA wrote:Rus:
no, not lifting out. I use the clamp to keep it from sliding forward or back.

The set screw in the middle of the miter bar is tapered, if you tighten it, it will make the bar wider and lock it in the slot.

edit, actually the setscrew is straight, the hole is tapered.

Russ,
Oh good grief, thanks. That will certainly help when I do wider stuff.
Of course I feel a bit silly, I guess I need another lesson in humility.
Thanks,
Dan

Dan,

Don't feel bad. We all have to learn these things somewhere. Thanks to Ron for this one. I still find things out about these tools that I have missed before or just plain forgot.

Thanks Ron,
I usually have a screwdriver with me (leatherman). I have to go get a squeeze clamp.
Much handier all the way around.