Incra TS LS system

[masonsailor2]

I have a need to up grade the fence system on a 510. My choices are the 520 upgrade or the Incra TS LS system. Has anyone purchased the Incra ? I have used that system with a standard table saw and really liked it. The one thing I can't figure out from the pictures or literature is how the Incra fence locks down on the 510. On a standard table saw the Incra extruded rail is attached to the saw table and the fence is locked in position by tightening a threaded knob that locks it to the extruded rail which isn't there on the SS version.
Paul

[jsburger]

Don't they have a Shopsmith version?

[masonsailor2]

Yes it's listed on the website under sawing.
Paul

[reible]

Perhaps we are talking about this one?

http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/cata ... _fence.htm

I don't have it but I do have the LS positioner and the now defunct saw train system. Depending on what you are looking to do either or even both can be good additions.

Ed

[masonsailor2]

Yes that is the item Ed. I guess my issue is whether the fence has any way to lock down to the table after positioning. The standard ( non SS ) version uses extruded rails with a locking system to tighten it to the rail after being positioned. I can't tell if there is any such mechanism on the SS version. If it doesn't have that the fence's rigidity is totally reliant on the fastening point at the aux table which I am not sure is adequate.
Paul

[benush26]

Yes that is the item Ed. I guess my issue is whether the fence has any way to lock down to the table after positioning. The standard ( non SS ) version uses extruded rails with a locking system to tighten it to the rail after being positioned. I can't tell if there is any such mechanism on the SS version. If it doesn't have that the fence's rigidity is totally reliant on the fastening point at the aux table which I am not sure is adequate.
Paul

Hey Paul,
No, it does not lock down to the main table. It is very sturdy and solid, but as you have seen on a conventional table saw, the piece which the fence attaches to is fastened only to an aluminum extrusion which houses the threaded rod and clamping lever. When locked in place it has not moved that I could tell. How it might handle large sheets of 3/4" plywood, I cannot say, but for everything I tried, it works well.
I don't know the price difference between what Shopsmith and INCRA charge for the TS-LS, however with the 10% discount from INCRA through the end of the month, it would probably cover the shipping cost.
The biggest down side of the TS-LS is the time it takes to mount the aux or floating table (which ever has the holes bored to accept the attachment plate) and then adjust to the main table. Also, if you need to make a small height adjustment you have to do it to both tables with the TS-LS removed and then reinstalled.
The system is extremely useful for making accurate width of cut adjustments. I also have the wonder fence which allows VERY easy dovetail and finger joints once set up.
Quick install and removal is not a real hallmark off the system
If you have a use for the precision of the system I think it is a great product however I consider it a specific use relacementto the use of the Shopsmith fence, not an everyday replacement for the fence.

Just my 2 cents.

Be well,
Ben

[masonsailor2]

Thanks Ben. Those were definitely my concerns. I have a dedicated Rockwell TS with a unifence for general use and a dedicated router table. My intention was to set the Incra up on a SS that I leave set up for sawing small accurate pieces. That same SS also powers the jointer so that particular machine rarely gets broken down. The Incra sounds like it would work for what I would need. My other choice would be to upgrade that SS to the 520 fence system. They are about the same price but I think the Incra would be a better choice. That same machine is about to get the Power Pro upgrade also. Thanks for all the input.
Paul