Posted: Thu Oct 08, 2009 12:11 am
Barb,barbandrob wrote:Hello lovely forum folks -
....
So, my questions are thus:
1. Since I have no CLUE what I'll actually need, do any of you more experienced folks see where I missed something crucial in the way of accessories? (I have a great scroll saw, so I don't need the SS one)
2. Are any of the accessories that I've mentioned less than worthwhile?
3. What can I expect to pay for this puppy used?
All comments are hugely appreciated! Thanks!
....
I'm not sure I have a full understanding of the project(s) you hope to undertake. However, I've got about 30 years with a Shopsmith which I recently upgraded to the 520, own most of Shopsmith's accessories, and live in Chantilly, VA. If an hour or two in the shop could help you out I'd be glad to give you the tour and answer any questions. I noted you also have questions about the over-arm pin router versus a router mounted under a table. I have both. I don't know how far you have progressed down the path towards your new hobby but you are talking a fairly substantial financial undertaking and you should be sure of the route you wish to pursue.
I don't think you can go wrong with a Shopsmith. However, you might find that you can start smaller and let your equipment grow with your experience (i.e., start with a used Mark V and progress to upgrade to a 510 & then 520). I also suggest that while you want to make sawdust almost immediately that there is tremendous value in field-stripping a used Shopsmith down to the very last nut and bolt, thoroughly cleaning and waxing all parts, and replace anything that is worn. It takes about a 3-day weekend to do that for my Shopsmith equipment including a Mark V, thickness planner, jointer, belt sander, strip sander, band saw, scroll saw, overarm pin router, and a couple of variable speed accessory stands.
cheers,
Jim
jmongold@gmail.com