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So, what is the slot that is shown on the attached photo (inside the red oval), what is this slot for?

Is this table an upgrade table?

I have never seen this slot on any other Mark V machine, on youtube.

Please advise.

This document from January 1980 outlines the change.

I've got one of those on my 1978 model too. Only useful for dropping the screwdriver on the floor when you set it on the table.

I have that slot on both of the 500 that I have. When I used a 500 as my main machine prior to upgrading to a 520 I would often use the slot rather then reconfiguring the machine and found it very useful.

Given the option to have the slot or not I would go for the slotted table every time.

Ed

MikeG wrote:This document from January 1980 outlines the change.

second slot001.pdf

This is the first time that I have seen this as a published update. I knew that change had been made but it was unclear when, well now we have a year.

Interesting, thanks for sharing.

Ed

reible wrote:

MikeG wrote:This document from January 1980 outlines the change.

second slot001.pdf

This is the first time that I have seen this as a published update. I knew that change had been made but it was unclear when, well now we have a year.

Interesting, thanks for sharing.

Ed

Me Too. Add my thanks.

Now for the nit picking:(necessary for understanding (IMHO).

That announced the removal of a feature, not an upgrade.

The initial purpose in 53 was to allow rip widths that were not possible unless the rip fence was mounted bridging the main/aux table gap.

AIUI from previous comments, later SS Inc. produce was capable of accurate fence alignment while bridging that gap. Not so in 1953 nor on my 1963 goldie. Keep in mind the 53 vintage had cast fence rails cast into both the main and aux table fronts. The 63 added the extrusion to the main table, but the aux table retained the cast rail. I believe there was no attempt prior to SS Inc to make that gap bridgable.

Also Nick stated that the second slot was eliminated when the dies for the main table were needing to be replaced. As originally intended, the 53 and 63 versions were 9" table saws but as mentioned in the pdf, the second slot would only accomodate a 9" blade.

FWIW I think they made a correct decision considering the 9/10" issue and assuming they did correct the bridging problem. As for the slot weakening the table, guess how much stronger the table is after lowering the table down through the second slot too far and the blade nibbles on the underside. Carbide works well slicing soft aluminum.

As a related question, when was the 7" aux table with the extrusion rail 'released'. That was indeed an upgrade!!!!

Here is my table set up.

Sorry about the glare, fellows... that is my super bright LED lights

ExtraMile wrote:Here is my table set up.

Sorry about the glare, fellows... that is my super bright LED lights

The 7" is indeed an upgrade from the 4"(with cast in fence mounting rail).

The front miter slot extension was an accessory.

The fence rail extrusion screws to the table(it is a separate part from the table casting). The original 4" is cast as one part.

So what is this square hole for on my SS Scroll Saw? Please advise!

I don't think SS made that hole, but it may be for holding the blade holder as you tighten the blade to it.