510 vs the 520

[dusty]

In 1980 I purchased a Mark V model 500 and have used it regularly over the years. I recently bought a 1984 Mark V model 510 with some accessories for $375. It was rough looking but it cleaned up well. After doing all the routine maintenance, cleaning it thoroughly, and aligning the machine, my best guess is it saw almost no use over the ensuing 28 years.

I've been debating about doing the upgrade to the model 520. A buddy of mine with a 510 and a 520 says the difference isn't worth the cost. I'm not so sure and now they just put that upgrade on sale.

I'm curious what opinions I might get here as to whether the upgrade is worth it or not. The fence looks nicer and the ability to measure directly on the machine (if it's accurate) seems really nice. What say ye? Upgrade or put my money into wood?

Thanks,

Don

In reality, this is a discussion about two different "rip fences". They both do the same thing in essentially the same way.

One is a bit heavier than the other. They both lock in position essentially the same way. One has the ability to host a "built in ruler" and the other does not. Beyond those generalizations, there are no other significant differences.

I have both a 510 and a 520 and while I prefer the 520, I will not argue that it is better than a well maintained 510.

I will not pay the price to upgrade my 510 to 520 status.

In fact, I enjoy having both in the shop so that I can evaluate some of the forum comments on both.

[dan1999]

I upgraded my original 510 to a 520 about 4 years ago and at the time thought it was the right choice and I still think it was. Since then I have picked up 2 more 510's along the way and to be perfectly frank I just don't see the point in upgrading either of those machines, they both perform adequately for the tasks that I assign them. Even thought the 520 does most of the cutting but not by a big margin.
One of those 510 machines is currently in the process of being turned over to my son I don't want him to wait til I croak before he gets woodworking bug, I want to be able to give him some instruction will I am still here, keep the next generation interested. Instead of him asking me to do his cabinetry, I can instruct him how to do his own.
So this shopsmith owner is not about to make another 520 machine from a 510 model.

[woodburner]

I like this comparison thread, but no one has mentioned upgrading with the Incra fence like I have done with one of my 510s.

I have used both types of Mark V's, and they both work very well. I thought about upgrading my own to a 520, but instead wanted the capabilities of what the Incra system offers after using one at a Traveling Academy class, so I went that route. I keep my Incra system set-up on one of my 510's, and use my other one for everything else.

I use the Incra system for all cutting, as I have a Incra miter gauge also. I also use the system with the SS router table that is always mounted so it can double as an extension table when needed. I find that with this system I have no need to upgrade to a 520.

For those thinking about upgrading a 510, don't forget about taking a look at the Incra fence before making your decision.

[easterngray]

I have used both types of Mark V's...

Gee Whiz! Don't forget us Luddites that are perfectly happy with the 500!! Alec

[dusty]

Gee Whiz! Don't forget us Luddites that are perfectly happy with the 500!! Alec

We are not forgetting you at all. The original question simply did not include the 500.

We all know that the 500 is the foundation upon which this marvelous machine we all have was built.