Shopsmith Forums

I'm going between two used shopsmiths for sale locally. The first one is a 1987 Mach V 510 in good shape with band saw (cast iron table), jointer, and all accessories including manual, etc for $675. The other one is the 50th anniversary mach V model 505. I assume from around 2004 or so as the seller hasn't given me the serial number yet. This one also includes a band saw only (aluminium table). he appears to have all of the accessories. This one sells for $800. both prices are firm. My question is generally what kind of shape should I expect a 1987 Shopsmith to be in. The seller says it runs well. Should I just get the newer one based on its age alone? How important are the upgrades from the 505 to the 510 such as the floating extension tables.

This website explains the major differences between the 505 and 510 are just the floating extension tables. That upgrade alone costs a few hundred dollars new.

dblakel wrote:I'm going between two used shopsmiths for sale locally. The first one is a 1987 Mach V 510 in good shape with band saw (cast iron table), jointer, and all accessories including manual, etc for $675. The other one is the 50th anniversary mach V model 505. I assume from around 2004 or so as the seller hasn't given me the serial number yet. This one also includes a band saw only (aluminium table). he appears to have all of the accessories. This one sells for $800. both prices are firm. My question is generally what kind of shape should I expect a 1987 Shopsmith to be in. The seller says it runs well. Should I just get the newer one based on its age alone? How important are the upgrades from the 505 to the 510 such as the floating extension tables.

This website explains the major differences between the 505 and 510 are just the floating extension tables. That upgrade alone costs a few hundred dollars new.

It is very difficult for me to make a recommendation. The condition that the machines are in is too important. The age itself is almost a null factor; Shopsmiths that are well cared for show very little sign of age.

For me, the accessories probably carry more weight. I would normally lean toward the bandsaw with the aluminum table while not wanting to walk away without the jointer. The number/condition of extension and floating tables would also be a factor. At least one extension table and two floating tables are almost a necessity for me.

The difference in prices ($125) does not make the decision.

I guess I have been NO HELP AT ALL. Either one by itself could be a good deal. It does depend on condition. I'm a NO VOTE. SORRY

Look a little closer on the serial numbers and the dates. MY 50th anniversary SS is a 520. The difference to me is a lot from the 500 to the 510 on table and fence. Then the difference between the 510 and the 520 is mainly fence. I like both the 510 and 520. I used my 500 for drill press and lathe and it worked fine. But for small detail sawing it wasn't up to par. As most feel the table saw is the weakest part. But I do not do a lot of large projects and the table saw with the SawTrain attachment and router table on my 520 are great. I use my 510 for the bandsaw and sanding mainly.
Good luck

I agree with Rob on this one! They are close to equal, and what's in the box is probably the deal clincher. If anything I lean towards the 510 with jointer in spite of the bandsaw being cast iron table. The condition of the way tubes can alter the balance. I would not be concerned re headstock condition as long as the motor is good(and it ain't cracked).

I also would buy the one with the jointer... Once you have one you will wonder how you ever got along without it. I have never used the aluminum table on a SS bandsaw, but I am very pleased with my cast iron table.

Additionally, whenever I invest in a mechanical device I always check out two additional things:
1. The environment where the object is kept - exceptionally clean eat off the garage floor type and organized indicates care, and
2. If it's an item I am not already somewhat familliar with I prefer to have documentation and owners manuals for reference. The manuals for SS are a great start and then any additional info needed is available through the expertise in this forum.

The shopsmith jointer, IMHO makes the deal. As I have said here before and as all true wood workers know, all woodworking starts on the jointer. With the bandsaws ability to re-saw stock and the jointer to true the stock add the shopsmith and you have one very good set up. All you need to add is a planer and you will be good to go.

I would try to talk them down on price and just buy both!;)