Contemplating the Mark 7 Shopsmith

[Texas511]

Good evening Gents, I have been contemplating buying the Mark 7. Almost ready to pull the yellow handle. However, I am seeking wisdom from Senior Experience wood workers.
1.) Is the Mark 7 a better piece of equipment than the Mark V...if so why? (side note: My Father had an old Mark V back around 1970 when I was a young kid (but it was stolen from his house).
2.) I am wiring my barn and read the Mark 7 is available in 110v and 220v. What is the difference in output I read the 110v develops 1.75 hp verses the 220v develops 2 hp. For any of you that has tried both versions...I would be grateful for your input/wisdom.
I await your reply

very respectfully
Ed

[br549]

Hello,
I just saw your post, and while I can offer no real answers to your questions, I am sure someone here can. I notice your post has been viewed over 160 times, and I am surprised that no one has replied. Hopefully my replying will bring your thread back to the top of the list where it will receive more notice and get more response.

I can offer this: There have been numerous threads about 120v vs 220v, so you may want to try using the search feature to find some of those (such as this one: https://www.shopsmith.com/ss_forum/gene ... 21183.html). The general feeling I got regarding those discussions was that if you have 220v readily or easily available, and/or need it for other tools, it may make sense. The slight increase in power may not be that noticeable for a typical user, but if you push the machine to its limits, and the monetary cost is not an issue, then 220v may be right for you.

As far whether a Mark 7 is better than a Mark V, everyone will have their own opinion. I have been happy with my Mark V and doubt if I will ever need a Mark 7 or it's capabilities.

[benmcn]

I don’t have a Mark 7 / Power Pro so I can’t say if it is better than the Mark V. That being said I can service my Mark V in my shop and parts are available both used and new from the mothership, . I am sure that those with the new Power Pro love all the extra bells and whistles that comes with the added electronics, but I can’t help wondering if we will see the same longevity and durability that we have come to appreciate in the earlier models.

[chapmanruss]

Hi Ed,
I have a Mark V 520 that I have completely upgraded to a Mark 7. That includes the Power Pro DVR Motor upgrade and the Double Tilt upgrade. I added the Rip Scale upgrade to the fence rails which my Mark V 520 did not have since it was made before these were available. I am happy with my changes to my Mark V. The main differences between the Mark V 520 and the Mark 7 is the motor and the double tilt feature which you probably already know so I will not go on about that. I have, so far, only used mine in 110 volt but can switch to 220 if I wish. I haven't found the need for the extra "kick" using 220 volts gives yet. Having the double tilt is nice for under table routing and shaping along with the 10,000 RPM speed the Power Pro motor can get up to. If you are going to buy a new Mark 7 or Mark V go ahead and spend the extra $350 the Mark 7 costs over buying a Mark V 520. With the Mark 7 you will get accessories that do not come with the Mark V that if needed later will cost you some of the $350 savings to buy. These include the Under and Over Table Shaper/Router guards, Shaper Spindle, Router Chuck and Shaper/Router Table Insert. Also the Under Table Shaper/Router Guard is not available separately and only comes with the Mark 7 or the Speed Increaser. The rest of the items will cost about $130. If you are planning on doing shaping or routing this is a consideration that should way in on which to purchase.

[bobc4383]

I inherited a 1984 Model V 510 from my father in 2002. In the next 17 years, I have upgraded it to a 520, PowerPro, Double Tilt, and better casters. He had also bought a bandsaw, belt sander, planer and joiner so well supplied with goodies. (My wife calls it my Barbie Doll). Since I retired in 2008, I am getting more enjoyment out of it and comfortable with it (when I die, I want to still be able to count to 10 on my fingers).

The down side is I'll never get back the money I have invested in it, but one can't put a price on the fun it is to use. It will never wear out if properly maintained - how many other products can make that claim? - and my son-in-law will get it when I can no longer safely operate it.

Bottom line - buy a Model 7 if you want or buy a lesser version and upgrade it as necessary. Up to you, but you will really enjoy it. Bob

[sehast]

If you have the budget to afford the Mark 7 and limited workspace I think it is hard to beat. I have had a Shopsmith for which paid I $300 (used) over 30 years ago. I have upgraded it many times and now it is a full fledged Mark 7. Limited space is what initially drove me to a Shopsmith and that still holds true for me. If I had more dedicated space for a shop I think buying standalone machines would get me better overall performance and increased efficiency. That $4000 plus price tag could go a long way to buying some very fine machines. A Mark 5 gets the job done and I used it for many years but just like most things, its nicer to have more power and greater flexibility if you can afford it and will use it. Shopsmith puts on demos at Lowes stores across the nation. If I were you I would go to one and see first hand how it works. Also they offer some pretty good discounts if you buy through Lowes immediately after the demo.

[RFGuy]

Limited space is what initially drove me to a Shopsmith and that still holds true for me. If I had more dedicated space for a shop I think buying standalone machines would get me better overall performance and increased efficiency. That $4000 plus price tag could go a long way to buying some very fine machines.

+10

[sehast]

Just realized the initial post was from over a year ago so am sure Texas511 has already made his decision.