LumberJocks Woodworking Forum banner
83K views 177 replies 79 participants last post by  sludge2 
#1 ·
The Plan!

The beautiful Seattle Gloom has returned early this year, so it is finally time to get my Work Shop(Garage) up and running. I am going to try and document this as I go. It will be good for me to see how far I end up from my "plan". In my experience plans are like a guide that points me in a direction.

This first Post is actually made up of some "After" shots. When I started it was a total disaster that I couldn't safely walk across. These pictures are after spending about 2 hours cleaning and doing enough organizing to start. Because of the lack of storage & my inability to do much bending over I have had to recruit the family once a week to help me clean up a garage that had become completely trashed. It has made it nearly impossible to get anything done. Besides not being able to find anything, I get completely paralyzed by clutter. Funny when I was younger I lived in clutter and chaos but now that I have lived in an organized clutter free home I just can't handle it anymore. So the real end goal is to create a workshop with plenty of space and storage, with maximized mobility.

I am kind of torn as to what to do first. I need to either build my Monster Router Table or tear down the existing crap shelving that came with the house. Man I have no clue how that shelving hasn't collapsed. Although one of the doors did fall off a few weeks ago and just barely missed my head. I guess even the ugliest joint will stay together if you put 50 or so nails in it.

Once those two tasks are complete the plan is to build the Amazing Wall O' Cabinets. I am going to use the "One Wall Workshop" from ShopNotes issue 92 as a guide. I am going to use the Shop Utility Cabinets from Workbench, Vol. 53, No. 2.

I already have a couple pieces ready to go. I was able to buy a couple of 25" cabinets at an auction last week for $10 each. Quite a score that day as I also got a nice big Oak Library Table for 5 bucks! I also have a most of a Universal Tool Stand Built. Just need to finish up the Add Ons.

So that is the plan! Where I actually end up is anyones guess.

Inherited Shelving









Photobucket

Photobucket
 
See less See more
7
#2 ·
I also have a one wall workshop which I found very useful when building small projects, However when I began to build the table that is in my projects folder I found I needed more space. I wanted an assembly table but did not have the room so I build one from a plan in workbench that was moblil. It works great In fact you can see it on my home page. Consider a good place to build the project. This is very improtant in a small shop.
Walt
 
#4 ·
It reminds me of my garage 2 years ago.

I would say do not bring down those shelves yet. Cleanup some more to make room.
Maybe put move some stuff to outside shed/storage if you have any.

Once you have enough space build your router tabe. Then start on those cabinets.
I think the router table will be needed for this project.

Good luck. We certainly will befollowing.
 
#5 ·
Nice Shopsmith. I've never used one but they look like a real nice piece of equipment.

I found out that you can turn a little corner that your wife allows you to use as a shop in HER garage into a whole garage workshop if you do it in stages. Start by calling it "the workshop" instead of the garage, then make her a nice piece of furniture that requires extra space so the car will have to be moved out for a little while. Then comment on how your workshop is capable of more nice things for her and suddenly she's ASKING if she can park in the "workshop" and you're saying "sorry, I can't spare my workshop space for a car. Wish we had a garage.."

It works!
 
#6 ·
Next up Air Filtration

As winter comes up on the horizon I will be doing most of my work with the garage closed. That will make my dust problems even worse.

I have had Asthma all of my life. It improved as I reached adulthood but probably not as much as it would have if I had not been smoking a pack a day for 15 years. Hey if you drank a fifth or two of Vodka a day you would smoke too! LOL All I can say for that is my 7 year old son got me to stop smoking last Christmas by telling me not to bother coming back in when I said I was going out for a smoke after Christmas dinner. I say this for background not as an opportunity to talk about the evils of inhaling burning objects.

So now I have not to good breathing but not don't have COPD or emphysema yet…

I purchased a Jet DC-1200 about 2 months ago. It is way more that I need for my little shop but what the heck I got a steal of a deal on it used. It does a pretty good job sucking up the dust and chips. I have a shopsmith which doesn't really have the best dust collection connections but it is workable. At that there is only so much the DC-1200 can do. I am more concerned with the shortcomings of the DC-1200. The main one being the 30 micron bag. In my mind that is completely unacceptable. It turns a Bad Ass dust collector into a poor excuse for vacuum cleaner. I have looked high and low on the internet for a more efficient filer bag that would work with the DC-1200 but have come up with nothing. Does anyone know of a third party company that makes bags that will work with the Jet DC-1200?

The second part of my plan to clean up the air in my shop is a shop built second stage dust collection add-on. The main purpose of which will be to lengthen the life of my DC-1200 by reducing the size of objects hurtling at the fan blades. I cringe every time I hear something PING of of one of the blades. I am going to start with the simple garbage can setup using the Rockler components since I already have the Rockler Dust Right hose components. The question is, can I improve my small particle dust collection using the second stage setup. I have seen "Cyclone" setups with HEPA filters inside them but I am on a super tight budget. Cleaning the air is a top priority but I can only spend what I can spend so I have to find the best possible solution withing my budget. I am open to any ideas on this one

Finally is installing a big central Air Filtration unit. I have plenty of ceiling room available for installing a mounted air filtration unit. The problem is I can't even come close to affording a decent unit, even one Craigslist. The ones I can afford aren't with the discounted amount they are being sold at. So I am left to over engineer my own solution. But alas I need to do even more research. I have read a couple of great articles here on LJ's but I am looking for a good 3rd party information source. Anyone know a decent website with honest information on it?

My thoughts for a design are similar to what I have seen on LJ's a box with a blower in the middle and filters on each end. Only I am thinking of pumping that up a notch or two. I am definitely going to add a high end HEPA filter on the exhaust end of the box. I think the ones you can get for $50-$70 at the Box store should work but I know nothing about that stuff. On the inflow side of the box I thought I would use cheap furnace filters to "pre-filter" the air. But I am thinking I could add some baffling between the blower and the pre-filters. On that I am wondering what the best material might be. Perhaps a washable type cloth? Or some disposable cheese cloth like paper material. Of course the key is balancing filtering with Air Flow and ease of cleaning. Have to have enough air flow to circulate the air in the shop. Have to have very small particle dust filtration. I plan on using some form of weather stripping to create gaskets around each filter. But the real key is making it easy to clean, otherwise I will never clean the dang thing. I know myself. Or rather I know my wife. I won't be able to clean it without making myself sick so I will likely ask her to do it and she will gladly clean it for me because she knows it will make me sick cleaning it. She is one hell of a woman! But I also know that she will make me pay for her cleaning it so I have to make it easy to do.

So I am open to any advice or comments. If you have built a similar unit what would you have done differently? Know a good resource, I would love more information. Dang this little hobby has me more busy learning and researching that making dust! Oh well that is what happens trying to build a workshop from nothing on a shoestring budget. But hey at least I am learning all kinds of stuff that will help me later on, hopefully!

Thanks in advance for any assistance!!!!

-Chris
 
#10 ·
A Nice, but difficult Dilemma

So after months of being flat ass broke we have finally resolved and outstanding issue which has resulted in a cash settlement. After meeting our savings goals and other critical items I have a little bit to spend on my workshop. So my dilemma is what to do with it.

I originally had been set selling the old Incra Ultra I bought and replacing it with the LS Super System. I like the new design and the Wonder Fence is exactly what I need, oh ok exactly what I want. I don't have a jointer so I would really benefit from the shaper type features in the Wonder Fence.

I have spent the past two weeks laid up with a sinus infection. That gave me a chance to learn Sketch up and fully design my Bad Ass Monster Router Table. It is a monster too, L44"xW30"xH44" with all kinds of storage, a down draft box, a bit drawer, the works. It's originally based on the table Blake, SWM, & PurpLev, but of course I had to super-size it! So yeah it is the Barry Bonds version of Norm's Router Table, allegedly.

Now of course if I am going to build a new table I have to add some little things. For one I need a router plate, for that I decided on the Incra aluminum. But hey if I am going to be doing Dovetails I need to be able to easily change the bit height so really I need a router lift. Thus I had resigned myself to spending $300 on the Woodpeck/Incra Router Lift. I almost convinced myself to buy the table top but talked myself out of it.

All total the router table was going to set me back about 800 or so.

Right now I am using a Shopsmith Mark V 510 for my tablesaw needs. It words good and I love having a Lathe, Drill Press, Disc Sander, really all that is the Shopsmith package. Really the Table saw part works pretty good. Some of it annoys me like having to move the table to adjust the blade height & angle. But the real problem is Table Saws scare the beejesus out of me. I don't like them, I never have. I have the ultimate respect for them and am cautious about them with my every use. It is really to the point where I sometime avoid using the most used tool in Woodworking. I have no problem using other tools. Even my chop saw doesn't bother me and my uncle lost 2 fingers on one of those things. My favorite tool to use is the Bandsaw and those don't really have much safety guards built into them.

This is where the Sawstop comes in. Since the day I first saw that damn thing I have wanted one! But it has been severely out of reach. I mean not even close to achievable. I mean maybe I could have strung things together saved up for a year and bought the contractor version. But now I can go right out and buy the Pro Series, their hybrid cabinet saw. The only problem is, if I do that then that is it, No Incra, No Bandsaw Risor, No Bench Top Lathe, No buying 100 bf of Hondo, zero zilch zip, it's my xmas, fathers day, bday, valentines day, arbor day present for years to come.

So yes the Sawstap is worth every penny to me. My wifes grandfather lost 3 fingers to a table saw so it's worth it to her. The question is, is it worth replacing a tool I already have and losing out on other tools that would really be nice in the shop. So yeah sure I know "Aww I should be so lucky to have your dilemma" but man it is going to be a tough one. I spend hours researching a table saw blade that costs $42. I don't want to think about how long it's goiing to take me for this $2,500 purchase! YIKES!!!

I thought writing this would help me with the decision but nope….......
 
#18 ·
So it's Decided

Well I slept on it and talked about it with some friends. I am going to go with a Sawstop!

Thanks to everyone who took a minute to add some insight.

So now I get to start selling stuff on eBay and saving up for the big purchase.

Only decision left is which model to go with. I have narrowed it down the the 1.75 HP Cabinet or the 3.0 HP cabinet. There is about a $600 difference between the two. Just not convinced I need a 3 HP saw. While I do bog down at times when using my Shopsmith, it is usually a power consumption issue more than anything else though. I am upgrading my shop power so that won't be an issue any longer. That and the Shopsmith "Develops" up to 2 HP of power" which is sketchy at best. But then again I would hate to buy a saw for the next 30 years and have it be underpowered, that would kind of suck.

Well off to do some more research, should be fun!
 
#30 ·
The First Rule of Assembling a Project

Caleb is only 8 but he has caught on quick to the woodworking.

If you ask him what you need to build a woodshop he will say

#1 Buy more Clamps
#2 Buy more Clamps
#3 if you think you have enough clamps you probably need to buy more clamps!

So I have a few clamps, obviously no where near as many as I might need. Before I started re designing my shop I stores my clamps on and around a exterior door that isn't used. Now they are stored where ever there is space. Obviously this isn't a viable long term solution. I am thinking a mobile clamp cart would be the best solution for me.

I gotta get something going on it tomorrow I think. Right now the garage looks like a tornado hit it. Since I tore down all the storage I just have piles of tools and accessories everywhere. I get lost in the clutter all the time and just freeze up and end up walking out and doing something else. I am gonna start with the clamp cart then build three upper cabinets. Not necessarily in that order ;)

Probably going to use a variation of Norm's design. I like the one I have seen with drawers coming out of the side. So I am off to Sketch Up my own design.

Love to see what everyone else has put together!!
 
#31 ·
I'll watch with great interest.
I saw the Rockler cart for clamps, I just don't even have space for that.
I think I may have the worlds untidiest shop.
I look at other shop and admire not the tools but the neatness.
Jamie
 
#35 ·
Clamp Rack Sketch Up Design

Got a very late start to the day so ended up taking up most of my time with the Clamp Rack Sketch Up Design. Tomorrow I will brave the rain to go out to the lumber pile outside and see how many 1×6's I have out there.

The design is basically to hold everything I might need for assembly: Clamps of all sorts, Glue, Tape, fasteners. I designed for use with Fir 1×3 & Birch Plywood, however any 1×3 and 3/4" & 5/8" sheet stock will work. I will be using MDF & fir for mine because I have ample amounts on hand.

With the design I was torn between footprint size and functional design. I ended up making it taller than it really needed to be so I could store more clamps on it without taking up anymore floor space. Fortunately I am 6' tall so I will be able to see whats on the top shelf fairly easily.

Here is the side view of the Cart

SU Clamp Rack

The Top View

SU Clamp Rack Above View

I may end up fiddling with it a bit more tonight but I like it pretty much as it is. If you want a copy of the Sketch Up file feel free to PM me with your e-mail address.
 
#40 ·
CL Wood & Tool Gloat!!

As with all things in life plans for building a wood shop are subject to change at any moment. I have been longing for a few shop additions in the short term, a Router Table, a Clamp Rack, & some sort of Lumber Storage. The plan was to build them all until I ran into a screamer deal on CL last Thursday.

The major item in the listing was a nice jet tablesaw which is liikely what most people thought was the bulk of the ad. But I read a couple line down and saw a Lumber cart for sale. Further down was the picture of an amazingly versatile Lumber Cart measuring 8 ft long x 62" high x 32 inches wide. room for nice long boards, medium cutoffs, and sheet goods. All this for only 100 bucks! I studied the picture and quickly realized there was at least $200 worth of materials in the cart. But WAIT, there's more! The listing said that the buyer could take all the wood on the cart if they wanted it.

I stopped by yesterday morning to pick up the cart and about fell over when I took a peak at what kind of wood he had on the cart. I had to work pretty hard to stay calm when I spied 5 1"x6"x8' pieces of Padauk and twice that amount of similar Oak and a few Purple Heart Boards. At that point I handed him the $100 rather quickly ;) The cart was too big to fit in my van but the guy was super nice and loaded it in his truck and delivered it to me. Only a 15 min drive but still very nice guy. All in all I estimate I got about 5-6 hundred worth of cart and lumber for a bargain and a half. I don't feel too bad though, the guy just got a big promotion and is moving cross country. He didn't want to deal with the hassle of the movers breaking his tools so he is just buying all new stuff when he gets to his new home.

While picking up the cart I noticed a nice full size Rockler Router table. The full on table with the metal legs, top, & plate. I asked how much and he gave it to me for $100. Another steal of a deal as the thing looks like it has hardly been used and the whole shebang would cost $300 at Rockler.

So yep I am no longer going to build my Monster Router table. Although I will be modifying the Rockler table. It's easy to do as it has holes pre drilled for making it into a router Cabinet. I will add sides, a dust box, and doors to get some storage out of it. Then I am thinking I will put a collapsible top on the back side so I can use my Incra ultra Jig with it. I am most of the way done building my clamp cart. Had to modify it a bit because it was bigger than I needed but overall it is going well.

So there we go, my occasional browsing of Craiglist paid off again. Picked up to much wanted items for less than what it would have cost for me to build them. Plus I get to use my time on building gifts and projects instead of building tools!

Here are a few pictures of the Lumber Cart. About half the wood is mine as I didn't take any pics before I started loading it up.

Photobucket

Photobucket

Lumber Rack 4

And some pics of the Router Table!

Photobucket

Photobucket
 
#47 ·
Belsaw Molder Planer or Another Craigslist Bargain

As some of you may know I like to browse craigslist from time to time. Mostly in the morning during the two or three hours it takes to get my body to the point where I can walk without too much pain. Well while browsing for Planers I happened upon a 5 HP single phase Belsaw Molder Planer. The add said it was in working condition but needed some work, the guy was moving shops and didn't want to move it so it could be had for $300. Now that got me curious about what kind of work it needed so I sent the guy a quick e-mail asked him what was going on with it. I included that I had rebuilt a 30 year old Jet Bandsaw & Shopsmith so I was serious about it at the right price.

Boom an hour later he calls. Tells me that some idiot in his shop started it up without securing the blades and the inside got trashed. Hearing that I started to fade out but then he said "But I fixed all of that so there are all new gears rollers and guts, the only thing that needs fixing is the kickback guard and the hinges on the top" I brightened up significantly!! But that's not all, what he said next floored me "Really I just want to get this out of here, I'd take a hundred bucks for it really" BOING!!!!!!!!!!

What's your address I will be by in an hour! LOL

Yep so that is the story about how I got a Powermatic/Belsaw Molder 12" Planer Molder for $100. True I will likely be sinking some more money into it for molder blades but hell man ya just can't beat that deal.

Not knowing exactly what this machine was the wife was upset about me spending $100 today. So I had to appease She Who Shall Be Obeyed, I sold my Shopsmith Telescoping extension legs that I have never used for 70 bucks. LOL I didn't mention that I was already planning on selling them ;)

I would be GREATLY interested in hearing from anyone who knows anything about the capabilities of this machine. I bought it because my Harbor Freight Thickness Planer Sucks. But browsing the owners manual I see that it is a bit more than your standard planer. But really I am such a novice I don't even know what I don't know! LOL We have all been there at one time haven't we. ;)
 
#58 ·
The Dangerous Side of Cheap Power Tools

Font Wood Tints and shades Space Metal


Plant Wood Branch Twig Office ruler


Wood Floor Material property Flooring Gas


When I started building my workshop I was on the tightest of tight budgets. So where do someone on a tight budget go for tools, yep Harbor Freight. While for the most part their products are ok if not cheaply built. I mean a cheap screwdriver may break but likely won't cause serious injury(now some moron is going to post about how they lost their right ball due to a defective screwdriver). But man did I make a mistake buying power tools from them! Eeegad man!

The biggest mistake of all was to use my Father's day gift card to buy a open box Thickness Planer. Within days of purchase I had destroyed the blade and the gib that holds it in place. I figured that was my mistake for attempting to make a cut 1/32" deep. So I replaced the gib got a new set of knives and was on my way.

Over the following months I would have kickbacks on occasion and tons of pull out but overall it did the job for my meager needs. Then today I finally got the brunt of it. Again I got all out of control and turned the hand by 1/4 of a revolution. A full revolution is 1/16" so what is that 1/64" cut? So I start slowly feeding it and BOOOM GOES THE DYNAMITE! Luckily I do know better than to stand behind any wood I am feeding into any machine. But it did catch the heel of my hand and that stung a bit. As for the rest you can see it pretty clearly. Blade Shattered, both gibs are destroyed. My one last Christmas present I was making for my brother, who surprised me with a present, Destroyed! It snapped that 6/4 thick board like dry spaghetti.

The guys at HF have been really cool to work with. So I am hoping when I take it in tomorrow I can get a refund or store credit for this piece of crap. For all the crap products they sell there their customer service is fantastic.

But really I am just glad I wasn't hurt and my kids were inside.

Merry Christmas!!!!! (Yes I said Christmas cause that is what I celebrate. If you don't that's YOUR problem!)
 

Attachments

#59 ·
The Dangerous Side of Cheap Power Tools

Font Wood Tints and shades Space Metal


Plant Wood Branch Twig Office ruler


Wood Floor Material property Flooring Gas


When I started building my workshop I was on the tightest of tight budgets. So where do someone on a tight budget go for tools, yep Harbor Freight. While for the most part their products are ok if not cheaply built. I mean a cheap screwdriver may break but likely won't cause serious injury(now some moron is going to post about how they lost their right ball due to a defective screwdriver). But man did I make a mistake buying power tools from them! Eeegad man!

The biggest mistake of all was to use my Father's day gift card to buy a open box Thickness Planer. Within days of purchase I had destroyed the blade and the gib that holds it in place. I figured that was my mistake for attempting to make a cut 1/32" deep. So I replaced the gib got a new set of knives and was on my way.

Over the following months I would have kickbacks on occasion and tons of pull out but overall it did the job for my meager needs. Then today I finally got the brunt of it. Again I got all out of control and turned the hand by 1/4 of a revolution. A full revolution is 1/16" so what is that 1/64" cut? So I start slowly feeding it and BOOOM GOES THE DYNAMITE! Luckily I do know better than to stand behind any wood I am feeding into any machine. But it did catch the heel of my hand and that stung a bit. As for the rest you can see it pretty clearly. Blade Shattered, both gibs are destroyed. My one last Christmas present I was making for my brother, who surprised me with a present, Destroyed! It snapped that 6/4 thick board like dry spaghetti.

The guys at HF have been really cool to work with. So I am hoping when I take it in tomorrow I can get a refund or store credit for this piece of crap. For all the crap products they sell there their customer service is fantastic.

But really I am just glad I wasn't hurt and my kids were inside.

Merry Christmas!!!!! (Yes I said Christmas cause that is what I celebrate. If you don't that's YOUR problem!)
At least you got away with only minor damage to yourself. I never buy power tools from HF, just can't bring myself to do it. I would go without if I couldn't afford it.
 

Attachments

#81 ·
Slotted T Crank Handle for Powermatic Belsaw 12" Molder Planer Drum Sander

I am almost done refurbishing my MONSTER 5 HP Powermatic Molder/Planer/Drum Sander. Of all the things to be missing I can't find the seemingly simplest item. The slotted "T' crank handle for adjusting the cut thickness. Basically a 5/8" socket with a 1/4" slot through the sides connected to a crank handle. Now I could just take a 5/8" socket and grind a slot in it but that is super chintzy for what is an amazing piece of American built quality product. I have spoken directly with the "Belsaw" and they don't have anything for it, neither down Powermatic. I have searched the internet with now luck. So now I reach out to the LJ's for help. Please let me know if you can any ideas on where I can pick up something that will work.

Thanks!

Merry Christmas!!!
 
#82 ·
Sorry my friend but I don't have anything like this, But… I am a retired tool maker, do you know anyone in this field? If so I bet they would be more then happy to assist you by fabricating something that would work just fine.

Don't know if this helps but it was just a thought..
 
#85 ·
Powermatic 66 vs The Rest

I have finally decided to make the big move to a real Table Saw. Ditching the Shopsmith and getting individual tools instead. Picked to a nice Drill Press yesterday, getting a Delta Disc/Belt Sander today, already have a Lathe, Bandsaw, and others.

Browsing my favorite local Shopping Mall (Craigslist) I come across some nice looking hybrid & Cabinet saws priced all over the map. For the most part there are some amazing old Table Saws that would be very nice. The Grizzly 3HP saws are around $300, a couple older Unisaws are $450 and 3 beautiful amazing drool inducing Powermatic 66's are all listed at $1,500. I know these are nice saws and all but are they really $1,200 better than the Grizzly? Are they really $1,000 plus better than the Unisaw? I mean thats a lotta Cheddar for a Gold Colored Saw!

Oh and I really don't need to hear responses from people who don't own a Table Saw or haven't posted any projects. Looking for responses from people who have actually used these machines!

For those of you into Classic Woodworking Machines, take a look at this classic "20 Delta Milwaukee Bandsaw I am helping a friend sell. Built in 1953 it looks like it was built last week, but they don't build them like this anymore. It has Cast Iron throughout. If I had a bigger shop I could buy it myself!
 
#86 ·
My Woodbridge (similar to a Grizzly) has served me well.

Granted, it's a little under powered but that's never really been a problem and new it only cost around $500. My only real complaint has been that, when I tilt the blade, it (the blade) has a tendency to no longer be exactly parallel to the fence. It is my understanding this is a trait of most of the contractor saws that have the motor hanging on the back side of the saw.

Don't know if this helps.

Lew
 
#95 ·
It was a VERY Merry Christmas! (Mega Tool Gloat!)

Wow what a great year 2010 was! Had a fantastic year getting involved in woodworking.

As the year came to a close I discovered some absolutely amazing prices on some tools I really wanted for my shop. from late November to today I have added some very useful tools that should help me get quite a bit of sawdust made in 2011.

For the most part the items came from CL and folks that were in need of some extra Christmas money. It ended up being a win win for me and them.

First purchase was a 2 micron top filter for my Jet DC-1200. I really like my DC1200 but the amount of dust that came our of that 30 micron cloth top was awful on my lungs and the cleanliness of the house. Came across a guy selling one on CL for $100 bucks and jumped on it. The filter has made a huge difference in the amount of dust in the air, and on every surface in the shop.

Fixture Cylinder Nickel Gas Composite material


Next I found a Jet 6" Jointer on CL for $200! It was a bit of a drive to get it but man it will make a big difference on all the non dimensioned wood I buy. Love the mobile base of course. Even came with 3 sets of extra blades.

Automotive exterior Bumper Gas Engineering Machine


Next up was the big sale at Rockler! $25 gift card with purchase of great Bessey Clamps. Picked up two sets and used the gift cards towards the purchase of a Jet AFS-1000. What a great purchase this has been. Along with the new DC filter I have almost no dust in the garage or the house (when I remember to close the door). It was a real pain in the butt to put up but I eventually rigged a system together to hoist it up onto eye bolts. The remote is an absolute must for this item.

Electricity Gas Ceiling Building Metal


Wood Shelving Hardwood Machine Engineering


Suddenly Christmas was upon us and Christmas morning I was suprised by the gift I had really wanted. A Dewalt 18v lithium 1/2" drill/driver, that I had purchased a week earlier from Tooliday.com. My wife is a great lady know that she should grab it before I could use it, wrap it up, and slip it under the tree ;)

Motor vehicle Automotive exterior Bumper Automotive tire Gas


Now as some of you may know I had a little issue with my portable planer exploding. Luckily the only thing damaged was the Planer. I was done playing with the damn thing as it has broken numerous times. I decided to take it back to Harbor Freight, where I got store credit. Their products may not be the best but they are really good when it comes to service. After doing quite a bit of research I decided on a Lathe which I picked up on New years day using the 25% off coupon. I ended up getting the Central Machinery 34706 12" x 33" reversible head Lathe. By researching I found out it is a knock off of the Jet 1236 Lathe with a couple major but easy to fix issues.

I have had the lathe for 14 days now and everything I read would go wrong has. First I eliminated the weak base issues by mounting it directly to my Universal Tool Stand, that has given me a nice solid base without vibration. Next up are the clamp handles which stripped within 2 days of use. Found good quality replacement clamps at Grainger for $20. They worked great but a secure tool rest caused the next known issue of the Banjo coming loose. Figured out that this is caused by the nut on the bottom of the banjo coming loose. I picked up some Locktite which secured the nut and took care of that. Finally two days ago the last known issue raised it's ugly head, the crappy drive belt started slipping. That will be an easy replacement this afternoon when I go up to Napa after my Seahawks make The Greatest Comeback in NFL History!! Ok maybe not but hey I can dream!

All told the fixes cost me $35 and an hour of my time. Not bad way to get a decent Lathe. Instead of paying $700+ for the Jet 1236 I get the same exact Lathe for a broken crappy planer and a little time and effort. Plus it kicks but over my Shopsmith Lathe which vibrated violently when doing anything more than a 2" spindle. If I hadn't done the research I would have been pissed but being fully informed I was able to make a decision and deal with the shortcomings.

Wood Gas Machine tool Machine Engineering


Milling Wood Gas Machine tool Tool


So got my standalone Lathe which made it a must to get some new Lathe Tools!!!

2 sets from PSI and a couple of nice Sorby Bowls Gouges.

Wood Air gun Gun accessory Gas Metal


Wood Cuisine Gun accessory Kitchen utensil Metal


Then I needed to Sharpen those Lathe Tools with a Wolverine Sharpening Jig!

Saw Kitchen appliance Tool Power tool Gas


Of course a Pen Press/Drilling Jig for my Pen & Projects

Bumper Gas Automotive exterior Machine Plastic


Oh and some Bowl Blanks to get started on!

Wood Gas Cylinder Natural material Composite material


And a Large Sycamore Tree for Bowl Blanks later this year!

Wood Food Plant Gas Cooking


Having fitted the shop with all of these great tools I still had one BIG problem. That damn Shopsmith made it a pain in the butt to do anything quickly. No quick drill press use or quick rip cuts. So made the big decision this week to scrap the dang thing and get dedicated machines.

First off is the Drill Press, picked up a nice Delta on stand for $100!

Shelf Gas Machine tool Milling Machine


Well that's all for now! I am picking up a little Delta Bandsaw later today and in the next few weeks will be getting either a Powermatic or Sawstop Table Saw.

Hope you all have a fantastic 2011 making loads of Sawdust!
 

Attachments

#96 ·
It was a VERY Merry Christmas! (Mega Tool Gloat!)

Wow what a great year 2010 was! Had a fantastic year getting involved in woodworking.

As the year came to a close I discovered some absolutely amazing prices on some tools I really wanted for my shop. from late November to today I have added some very useful tools that should help me get quite a bit of sawdust made in 2011.

For the most part the items came from CL and folks that were in need of some extra Christmas money. It ended up being a win win for me and them.

First purchase was a 2 micron top filter for my Jet DC-1200. I really like my DC1200 but the amount of dust that came our of that 30 micron cloth top was awful on my lungs and the cleanliness of the house. Came across a guy selling one on CL for $100 bucks and jumped on it. The filter has made a huge difference in the amount of dust in the air, and on every surface in the shop.



Next I found a Jet 6" Jointer on CL for $200! It was a bit of a drive to get it but man it will make a big difference on all the non dimensioned wood I buy. Love the mobile base of course. Even came with 3 sets of extra blades.



Next up was the big sale at Rockler! $25 gift card with purchase of great Bessey Clamps. Picked up two sets and used the gift cards towards the purchase of a Jet AFS-1000. What a great purchase this has been. Along with the new DC filter I have almost no dust in the garage or the house (when I remember to close the door). It was a real pain in the butt to put up but I eventually rigged a system together to hoist it up onto eye bolts. The remote is an absolute must for this item.





Suddenly Christmas was upon us and Christmas morning I was suprised by the gift I had really wanted. A Dewalt 18v lithium 1/2" drill/driver, that I had purchased a week earlier from Tooliday.com. My wife is a great lady know that she should grab it before I could use it, wrap it up, and slip it under the tree ;)



Now as some of you may know I had a little issue with my portable planer exploding. Luckily the only thing damaged was the Planer. I was done playing with the damn thing as it has broken numerous times. I decided to take it back to Harbor Freight, where I got store credit. Their products may not be the best but they are really good when it comes to service. After doing quite a bit of research I decided on a Lathe which I picked up on New years day using the 25% off coupon. I ended up getting the Central Machinery 34706 12" x 33" reversible head Lathe. By researching I found out it is a knock off of the Jet 1236 Lathe with a couple major but easy to fix issues.

I have had the lathe for 14 days now and everything I read would go wrong has. First I eliminated the weak base issues by mounting it directly to my Universal Tool Stand, that has given me a nice solid base without vibration. Next up are the clamp handles which stripped within 2 days of use. Found good quality replacement clamps at Grainger for $20. They worked great but a secure tool rest caused the next known issue of the Banjo coming loose. Figured out that this is caused by the nut on the bottom of the banjo coming loose. I picked up some Locktite which secured the nut and took care of that. Finally two days ago the last known issue raised it's ugly head, the crappy drive belt started slipping. That will be an easy replacement this afternoon when I go up to Napa after my Seahawks make The Greatest Comeback in NFL History!! Ok maybe not but hey I can dream!

All told the fixes cost me $35 and an hour of my time. Not bad way to get a decent Lathe. Instead of paying $700+ for the Jet 1236 I get the same exact Lathe for a broken crappy planer and a little time and effort. Plus it kicks but over my Shopsmith Lathe which vibrated violently when doing anything more than a 2" spindle. If I hadn't done the research I would have been pissed but being fully informed I was able to make a decision and deal with the shortcomings.





So got my standalone Lathe which made it a must to get some new Lathe Tools!!!

2 sets from PSI and a couple of nice Sorby Bowls Gouges.





Then I needed to Sharpen those Lathe Tools with a Wolverine Sharpening Jig!



Of course a Pen Press/Drilling Jig for my Pen & Projects



Oh and some Bowl Blanks to get started on!



And a Large Sycamore Tree for Bowl Blanks later this year!



Having fitted the shop with all of these great tools I still had one BIG problem. That damn Shopsmith made it a pain in the butt to do anything quickly. No quick drill press use or quick rip cuts. So made the big decision this week to scrap the dang thing and get dedicated machines.

First off is the Drill Press, picked up a nice Delta on stand for $100!



Well that's all for now! I am picking up a little Delta Bandsaw later today and in the next few weeks will be getting either a Powermatic or Sawstop Table Saw.

Hope you all have a fantastic 2011 making loads of Sawdust!
You're on a roll! Have fun and be safe.
 

Attachments

#104 ·
Powermatic PM2000

Love to hear feedback from owners of the Powermatic PM2000 or Jet JTSA 10XL in regards to what you like and what you don't. As it now looks like these are going to be my choices for my new TS. I really had my heart set on a Sawstop PCS 3HP but I am just can't justify $3,000 for it when I can get a new Powermatic PM2000 with 52" fence & router lift for $1,800. The Jet is about $300 less than that.

Oh & please no stupid comments about the political issues surrounding Sawstop. Nor about how you feel like a real man using a saw that is more dangerous. Those guys are the same guys that have never satisfied a woman so they go out and get big huge trucks to make up for their little tiny weenies. Real men don't need to feel daring by using a table saw, we prove our manhood without thought or effort.

By the way Sawstop is now the only Table Saw made in America by and American owned company.
 
#117 ·
My Latest Resurection Projects

My regular browsing of Craigslist has paid off again with a couple more diamonds in the rough.

First one is a Grizzly G1023 Cabinet Saw. Saw the listing last night and called 30 minutes after it was posted. I ended up being the 2nd inquiry but the first non bozo. The saw is in fantastic shape except for a minor rust issue. It looks bad but it's really just some superficial rust. The inside of the cabinet has absolutely no rust and neighter do the sides. So a little elbow grease and I I should have a very very nice 3 hp cabinet saw. For the grand total of $275!!!! Ok so I will have to fork over $75 for a table insert, longer extension rails, and the above table guard/splitter.

From everything I have read it's actually a really nice saw. Maybe not a PM2000 but hey for $1,500 plus less I am thinking I can make it work, I guess ;)

Wood Tool Machine tool Gas Thickness planer


Wood Machine tool Gas Thickness planer Motor vehicle


Gas Machine tool Machine Cylinder Metal


Automotive lighting Automotive exterior Tints and shades Fender Auto part


My next little gem is an old Craftsman 6" Jointer, circa 1930ish

It was a refurbish project that had been laying around a guys garage. But it is in great shape, motor works, everything is clean and nice, even has a newly built stand for it with mounting holes already drilled. Guess he just got bored of it, well it will keep me busy and is worth much more than the $55 I paid for it! I don't know much about it yet but from everything I can tell it should be a real winner. Once I get it all setup I will run it head to head against my 6" Jet jointer and keep the one that works best.

Motor vehicle Hood Automotive lighting Automotive tire Grille


Table Wood Machine tool Gas Machine


My final grab of the day is a WHOLE big old bunch of Wood!

This cost the most of all my transactions but I got quite a bit for $300.

Here is what I got:

40 bf of 4/4 Khaya

50 bf of 4/4 Hickory

25 bf of 6/4 QSWO

3/4 of a sheet of 3/4" Walnut Plywood

Oh and all of this was done after my Dr's appt this morning. The appt was to get a second opinion on the second opinion I got! Yep Surgeon 1 "You aren't having any pain" Surgeon 2 "Wow you hip is really causing you pain but the typical solution (Slicing the ITB) won't work so maybe you should do some PT. 6 months and no improvement later Surgeon 3 "Oh that's easy we just slice your IT Band". Uhm Yikes! Surgeon 4 "I wouldn't want to see your ITB cut, it could criple you for life" Yep so my hip hurts and there doesn't look like any kind of magic bullet. Driving around all day really didn't do my hip any good either. A little reminder why I don't drive more than 30 mins per day.
 

Attachments

#118 ·
My Latest Resurection Projects

My regular browsing of Craigslist has paid off again with a couple more diamonds in the rough.

First one is a Grizzly G1023 Cabinet Saw. Saw the listing last night and called 30 minutes after it was posted. I ended up being the 2nd inquiry but the first non bozo. The saw is in fantastic shape except for a minor rust issue. It looks bad but it's really just some superficial rust. The inside of the cabinet has absolutely no rust and neighter do the sides. So a little elbow grease and I I should have a very very nice 3 hp cabinet saw. For the grand total of $275!!!! Ok so I will have to fork over $75 for a table insert, longer extension rails, and the above table guard/splitter.

From everything I have read it's actually a really nice saw. Maybe not a PM2000 but hey for $1,500 plus less I am thinking I can make it work, I guess ;)

Wood Tool Machine tool Gas Thickness planer


Wood Machine tool Gas Thickness planer Motor vehicle


Gas Machine tool Machine Cylinder Metal


Automotive lighting Automotive exterior Tints and shades Fender Auto part


My next little gem is an old Craftsman 6" Jointer, circa 1930ish

It was a refurbish project that had been laying around a guys garage. But it is in great shape, motor works, everything is clean and nice, even has a newly built stand for it with mounting holes already drilled. Guess he just got bored of it, well it will keep me busy and is worth much more than the $55 I paid for it! I don't know much about it yet but from everything I can tell it should be a real winner. Once I get it all setup I will run it head to head against my 6" Jet jointer and keep the one that works best.

Motor vehicle Hood Automotive lighting Automotive tire Grille


Table Wood Machine tool Gas Machine


My final grab of the day is a WHOLE big old bunch of Wood!

This cost the most of all my transactions but I got quite a bit for $300.

Here is what I got:

40 bf of 4/4 Khaya

50 bf of 4/4 Hickory

25 bf of 6/4 QSWO

3/4 of a sheet of 3/4" Walnut Plywood

Oh and all of this was done after my Dr's appt this morning. The appt was to get a second opinion on the second opinion I got! Yep Surgeon 1 "You aren't having any pain" Surgeon 2 "Wow you hip is really causing you pain but the typical solution (Slicing the ITB) won't work so maybe you should do some PT. 6 months and no improvement later Surgeon 3 "Oh that's easy we just slice your IT Band". Uhm Yikes! Surgeon 4 "I wouldn't want to see your ITB cut, it could criple you for life" Yep so my hip hurts and there doesn't look like any kind of magic bullet. Driving around all day really didn't do my hip any good either. A little reminder why I don't drive more than 30 mins per day.
Got a similar problem with the hip, affects my back too because i walk off kilter to "protect" the hip which has resulted in knocking my pelvis out of line with my spine, causing pinching of the nerve…..arghhh!

However, at least you can console yourself with the goodies you bought. The saw looks good, somtimes a little rust can put people off from buying because they think it is junk. If you can see past the superfiscial stuff you can and it would appear you have got yourself a real bargain there. I don't know why the seller didn't spend a couple of hours removing the gunk? He/she could have made another couple of hundred on the sale if the saw looked the part. I guess you just have to be grateful some people are lazy. Their loss, your gain my friend.

Good luck with it all, I know you'll have fun making it all shiny and new.

David
 

Attachments

#122 ·
Grizzly TS Repost & Updates

Well one of the bitter angry little minds here at LJ's reported me to The MAN fo posting my Grizzly resurrection story under the wrong section. So here we go again now in the proper area. It all just confirms my thoughts that the people on my banned aren't worth my time. So sad that someone would have such a great amount of low self esteem. We can all just pray that one day that guys like Bently move out of their moms basement and maybe date a real flesh and blood woman.

LOL that should get somebody all sideways ;)

Ok so I got a heckuva a deal on the old CL for an old Grizzly 3HP Cabinet style TS, a G1023 to be exact. Now the poor machine had been relegated to being stored in a steel shed and a few months ago the temps around here plummeted overnight and the evil Condensation hit!

Here is what I purchased

Table Wood Wood stain Tool Art


After less than 2 hours of work the rust was gone.

Here is what I did to get rid of it.

First I sprayed it down with the last little bit of Top Saver I had in a bottle, maybe about just under a quarter of a bottle. Then I went to work with a power drill and a wire brush attachment for it I had on hand. It made quite the mess and about a roll of Paper Towels to wipe it all off but man did it work quickly. When I was done with all the rust it was a pretty ugly mess on the top so I took my bowl sanding kit to it and power sanded it with 80 grit, then 100, 120, 150, 180, 220, 320, 420, 600, & 800. That gave me a pretty good finish on the top. It didn't take much with each grit just enough to flatten and even it out. I then took a new bottle of Top Save and sprayed it all over the top, I let it soak in for about a minute then took a piece of 1000 grit wet dry and "massaged" it in creating a dark mud like goop of liquid and metal dust. I wiped it all off with paper towels then hit is with more Top Saver and some 1200 grit Wet Dry. Wiped it all off again and once it was all dry I buffed it with a cloth bonnet I use for buffing bowls and such.

This is what appeared:
Hood Motor vehicle Bumper Automotive exterior Gas


I thought that was it. I wired it up with a nice new plug stuck it in my 220V outlet and ….... well it made a buzzing noise then cut out :(

Luckily Grizzly has a top notch tech support. I call them up and let them listen and the guy says it's the whatchamacallits or the other deals. Transistors or the pins. I'm gonna open it up later tonight and figure out what's going in. The tech guy made it sound pretty simple so I am guessing it won't take me more than 8 or 9 hours to fix it. ;)

I'll check in later. Ok first step to repair is too plug to tool in, right?? bbbzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz IT
 

Attachments

#123 ·
Grizzly TS Repost & Updates

Well one of the bitter angry little minds here at LJ's reported me to The MAN fo posting my Grizzly resurrection story under the wrong section. So here we go again now in the proper area. It all just confirms my thoughts that the people on my banned aren't worth my time. So sad that someone would have such a great amount of low self esteem. We can all just pray that one day that guys like Bently move out of their moms basement and maybe date a real flesh and blood woman.

LOL that should get somebody all sideways ;)

Ok so I got a heckuva a deal on the old CL for an old Grizzly 3HP Cabinet style TS, a G1023 to be exact. Now the poor machine had been relegated to being stored in a steel shed and a few months ago the temps around here plummeted overnight and the evil Condensation hit!

Here is what I purchased

Table Wood Wood stain Tool Art


After less than 2 hours of work the rust was gone.

Here is what I did to get rid of it.

First I sprayed it down with the last little bit of Top Saver I had in a bottle, maybe about just under a quarter of a bottle. Then I went to work with a power drill and a wire brush attachment for it I had on hand. It made quite the mess and about a roll of Paper Towels to wipe it all off but man did it work quickly. When I was done with all the rust it was a pretty ugly mess on the top so I took my bowl sanding kit to it and power sanded it with 80 grit, then 100, 120, 150, 180, 220, 320, 420, 600, & 800. That gave me a pretty good finish on the top. It didn't take much with each grit just enough to flatten and even it out. I then took a new bottle of Top Save and sprayed it all over the top, I let it soak in for about a minute then took a piece of 1000 grit wet dry and "massaged" it in creating a dark mud like goop of liquid and metal dust. I wiped it all off with paper towels then hit is with more Top Saver and some 1200 grit Wet Dry. Wiped it all off again and once it was all dry I buffed it with a cloth bonnet I use for buffing bowls and such.

This is what appeared:
Hood Motor vehicle Bumper Automotive exterior Gas


I thought that was it. I wired it up with a nice new plug stuck it in my 220V outlet and ….... well it made a buzzing noise then cut out :(

Luckily Grizzly has a top notch tech support. I call them up and let them listen and the guy says it's the whatchamacallits or the other deals. Transistors or the pins. I'm gonna open it up later tonight and figure out what's going in. The tech guy made it sound pretty simple so I am guessing it won't take me more than 8 or 9 hours to fix it. ;)

I'll check in later. Ok first step to repair is too plug to tool in, right?? bbbzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz IT
Don't cha just hate rust? Then again looks like you scored a decent saw… How good of a deal did you nab it for?
 

Attachments

#129 ·
A Little Elbow Grease, Fin!!!!!!

Excuse the multi posts but I am just so fracking ECSTATIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The Grizzly Table Saw is Working!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wooo Hooo Oh yeah do a little dance shake that rump yeah!!!!!

Amazing how easy things are to fix. I swear a year ago I would have looked at my Grizzly Table Saw for $275 and said "Oh my god what a piece of junk! No Way I would even take it for free!". My goodness how things can change in a year.

Beat up Broken Grizzly 3HP Cabinet Saw= $275

Removing the rust and buffing the top = 90 minutes and a bunch of Elbow Grease

Cleaning out the points by the fan= a little compressed air and 10 minutes of elbow grease

A Fully functioning beautiful Grizzly G1023 Cabinet Saw that you restored with your own two hands= Priceless!!!

Wooo Hooo Hoooo Hoooo!!!!!!! Here are scenes from my first cuts!!!! Bolt balanced on end while it is started, wood is cut, then stopped!

Wood Road surface Flooring Automotive exterior Asphalt


Tool Wood Bumper Gas Automotive exterior


Wood Tool Automotive exterior Bumper Composite material


Wood Yellow Gas Flooring Composite material


Wood Flooring Composite material Hardwood Wood stain
 

Attachments

#130 ·
A Little Elbow Grease, Fin!!!!!!

Excuse the multi posts but I am just so fracking ECSTATIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The Grizzly Table Saw is Working!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wooo Hooo Oh yeah do a little dance shake that rump yeah!!!!!

Amazing how easy things are to fix. I swear a year ago I would have looked at my Grizzly Table Saw for $275 and said "Oh my god what a piece of junk! No Way I would even take it for free!". My goodness how things can change in a year.

Beat up Broken Grizzly 3HP Cabinet Saw= $275

Removing the rust and buffing the top = 90 minutes and a bunch of Elbow Grease

Cleaning out the points by the fan= a little compressed air and 10 minutes of elbow grease

A Fully functioning beautiful Grizzly G1023 Cabinet Saw that you restored with your own two hands= Priceless!!!

Wooo Hooo Hoooo Hoooo!!!!!!! Here are scenes from my first cuts!!!! Bolt balanced on end while it is started, wood is cut, then stopped!

Wood Road surface Flooring Automotive exterior Asphalt


Tool Wood Bumper Gas Automotive exterior


Wood Tool Automotive exterior Bumper Composite material


Wood Yellow Gas Flooring Composite material


Wood Flooring Composite material Hardwood Wood stain
Looks like a bargin to me!! Thanks for sharing your progress, I have enjoyed following your blog!

The SedcoKid!
 

Attachments

#133 ·
He He He He I am SOOOOO Giddy!!!

Wow I got myself a BIG HUGE PRESENT Today!!!!!!!

1- PM2800

Camera accessory Cameras & optics Machine Wood Tool


1- PWBS-14CS

Toy Machine Camera accessory Font Art


1-Oliver 4230

Computer monitor accessory Machine Wood Rectangle Metal


When I am not trying to clear out space for them I am giggling to myself.

Oh yeah and the best part is the prices I got on thems thar tools.

The Brand Spanking new Powermatic PM2800 Drill Press cost me $500

The Brand Spanking new Powermatic PMBS-14CS Bandsaw with riser block installed cost me $680

The Brand Spanking new Oliver 4230 8" Jointer cost me $500

Geez at those prices I could re-sell them on Craigslist at a profit!

So Where may you ask did I get these bargains????

Equipment Sales & Surplus in Auburn, WA

They have a retail shop but sell nationally by phone or via eBay

They have more down there and a whole bunch of bargains on stuff from Jet, Powermatic, Oliver, & Wilton. So if you are looking for something specific call down there and ask for Neil. He runs the place and is one hell of a great guy to work with. They get all kinds of surplus items in down there. They had something like 25 PM2000's last fall that they sold for about $1,300 a piece. They auction items on eBay as well, a PM2800 was just up there, with nationwide shipping.
 

Attachments

#134 ·
He He He He I am SOOOOO Giddy!!!

Wow I got myself a BIG HUGE PRESENT Today!!!!!!!

1- PM2800

Camera accessory Cameras & optics Machine Wood Tool


1- PWBS-14CS

Toy Machine Camera accessory Font Art


1-Oliver 4230

Computer monitor accessory Machine Wood Rectangle Metal


When I am not trying to clear out space for them I am giggling to myself.

Oh yeah and the best part is the prices I got on thems thar tools.

The Brand Spanking new Powermatic PM2800 Drill Press cost me $500

The Brand Spanking new Powermatic PMBS-14CS Bandsaw with riser block installed cost me $680

The Brand Spanking new Oliver 4230 8" Jointer cost me $500

Geez at those prices I could re-sell them on Craigslist at a profit!

So Where may you ask did I get these bargains????

Equipment Sales & Surplus in Auburn, WA

They have a retail shop but sell nationally by phone or via eBay

They have more down there and a whole bunch of bargains on stuff from Jet, Powermatic, Oliver, & Wilton. So if you are looking for something specific call down there and ask for Neil. He runs the place and is one hell of a great guy to work with. They get all kinds of surplus items in down there. They had something like 25 PM2000's last fall that they sold for about $1,300 a piece. They auction items on eBay as well, a PM2800 was just up there, with nationwide shipping.
Looks like you were a mile from my house ;-)) Nice haul!!
 

Attachments

#146 ·
At Last a Woodworking Shop to be Proud Of! (Long Version)

It has taken me about 8 months but I finally have my Workshop setup with all the large machines I need, or wanted! The best part is I was able to pull it off while putting some extra cash in my pocket. You see this past November I thought I had everything necessary for the projects I wanted to do.

It was pretty simple I wanted to make some small projects like cutting baords and some bigger projects like a Sofa Table or Greene & Greene Blanket Chest. What I quickly found out was my Shopsmith was a total and complete pain in the butt. I ended up not wanting to go into the shop because it would take 10-15 minutes every time I wanted to use the table saw. The Shopsmith 510 is a huge Table Saw system but it is a whole bunch to take apart when you need to drill a quick hole. It is also a whole bunch to take apart and put together when in Lathe mode and you want to use the Table Saw. So I made a decision to get stand alone machines instead.

There was a small problem with this little idea. I went on disability last August & the wife is going to college so I don't have much extra cash to speak of. Luckily I had some cash flow I could take advantage. So I started wheeling and dealing buying restoring then re-selling all kinds of machines on Craigslist. I also bought a whole bunch of plywood and other sheet goods at auction then sold those on Craigslist. When all the dust had cleared I had a really nice woodshop full of nice tools and enough lumber to build a mansion full of furniture. And I did it all for Net Nothing! Yep I used my 20 years of sales experience and a bunch of elbow grease to buy myself some top of the line machines and I actually ended up with a handful of extra C notes!

But now it is time to shut the door on that and get started making some Sawdust!!!!!!

Mind you I still want a Top of the Line Lathe but they do not exist for under $2k, at least the form I want.

Until I get my big fancy Lathe I am going to use a hidden gem of a Lathe. The Shopsmith Mark V. I have gotten very well educated in the field of Woodworking Lathes and I can honestly say that with a couple of tweaks there isn't a better lathe out there for under $2,000. After selling my original Mark V in December I decided I needed a new one. So in my daily CL browsing I found a "Broken" Mark V. All I had to do to fix it was solder the wires back to the motor. So hey I got to learn to solder. It wasn't all that difficult and I have used the new found skill quite a bit since then.

If ain't pretty and all the table and stuff are going on eBay but it is going to be a great Lathe!

Wood Gas Tool Machine Machine tool


Next Up is the main tool in every good woodworking Shop. Those of you who have followed have been witness to what a screaming deal I got on my Grizzly G1023 3HP Cabinet Saw. I added on the longer rails today then went at it with some Oven Cleaner so I could get the last bits of rust and dirt off of it. I have adopted Oven Cleaner as my Go to Shop cleaner after finding out it was what they used to use in the Delta Repair Shop. I really like it because it isn't as harsh as some other stuff I have used and it won't peel the paint. It worked really well taking the packing grease off my new Jointer, which is what we will see next.

In the meantime here is my beautiful Grizzly G1023 TS!! My first project is to build a Router Table to fit into the extension wing.

Motor vehicle Gas Machine Bumper Automotive exterior


Up next is the MONSTER of the shop. My Oliver 8 inch Jointer. I picked it up last Friday brand new still in the box for just an amazing deal. I honestly am having a hard time not selling it for a large profit and going back to get another one at the same price, which I could….. Ok so this is the first brand new in the box piece of machinery I have purchased and it was quite the undertaking. Getting the motor wired up and attached to the base was not pleasant for a novice. Lifting the Jointer onto the stand took a herculean effort by myself and my 63 year old father. First time in 38 years I have ever seen him visibly falter when lifting something. But we got it on and our reward was a serving of my wifes Super Duper Yummy Chicken Pot Pie!

My goodness this thing is a beast at 537 lbs with 65" tables it is massive. It is actually a Powermatic Jointer painted Blue. I used the Powermatic 60C manual to put it together. I doubt that anyone could find a difference in the two outside of color. I got the straight knife version but will upgrade to the Helical head just as soon as I have an extra $350 laying around.

Bumper Automotive exterior Gas Machine Motor vehicle


Next up is my big secret I haven't posted about yet. I happened upon this little gem oneday last month and as soon as I got it home I had to shove in the back of the garage to make room for 28 sheets of quartered white Oak Plywood. But now that the wood is out of the way I can finally show off my new to me Delta X5 16/32 Drum Sander!!! Yep after blowin up my Planer I decided I should get one of these bad boys for making cutting boards and flattening laminations. Got it for half the price of new and I was lucky to get it as they hardly ever end up on CL.

The guy even threw in 12 boxes full of rolls of sandpaper for it!

Wood Gas Engineering Machine Machine tool


Next up is what started my run of new machines last week. I saw that the guys down at the local Powermatic/Jet Shop were auctioning off a PM2800 Drill Press. So I sent an e-mail to Niell down at EQSS and inquired if they had anymore of them in stock. Since the one being auctioned was up to $700 I figured I wouldn't get that great of a deal. I flipped when he replied back that they had one I could have for $500! I drove right down to buy it, and ended up with a truckload of tools.

I really like this drill press. It is hefty strong and easy to use. Not having to change the belts to change the speed is just a really cool feature to have.

Jig grinder Machine tool Gas Engineering Scientific instrument


Next up is the big impulse purchase. I saw they had a Powermatic 14" Bandsaw on special for $635 and I just couldn't resist. I have rebuilt 5 Bandsaws over the past few months and in that time I got to know what the best features were and what I wanted in a Bandsaw. I had no doubt I wanted that PMBS-14 but I couldn't justify spending $900 plus on it. I got a resaw block added on for another $60 and am just amazed I have it in my shop.

I was just flipping through the Iturra Catalog and the only thing I could find to add to it were blades. So I'll be calling up Louis sometime soon and get some of those nice HSS Blades.

Gas Machine Machine tool Service Cylinder


The last couple pics are of items I don't have setup quite yet. A 3HP Porter Cable Production Router in a Woodpecker Quick Lift Router Lift. Lastly I finally stepped up to a sliding Miter Saw with a Dewalt DW-708. Not the top of the line but it will do. Honestly I end up using my chopsaw more than anything else in the shop outside of the lathe. It's just so much quicker and easier than the TS.

Gadget Electrical wiring Audio equipment Cable Gas


Automotive tire Bumper Motor vehicle Automotive exterior Gas
 

Attachments

#147 ·
At Last a Woodworking Shop to be Proud Of! (Long Version)

It has taken me about 8 months but I finally have my Workshop setup with all the large machines I need, or wanted! The best part is I was able to pull it off while putting some extra cash in my pocket. You see this past November I thought I had everything necessary for the projects I wanted to do.

It was pretty simple I wanted to make some small projects like cutting baords and some bigger projects like a Sofa Table or Greene & Greene Blanket Chest. What I quickly found out was my Shopsmith was a total and complete pain in the butt. I ended up not wanting to go into the shop because it would take 10-15 minutes every time I wanted to use the table saw. The Shopsmith 510 is a huge Table Saw system but it is a whole bunch to take apart when you need to drill a quick hole. It is also a whole bunch to take apart and put together when in Lathe mode and you want to use the Table Saw. So I made a decision to get stand alone machines instead.

There was a small problem with this little idea. I went on disability last August & the wife is going to college so I don't have much extra cash to speak of. Luckily I had some cash flow I could take advantage. So I started wheeling and dealing buying restoring then re-selling all kinds of machines on Craigslist. I also bought a whole bunch of plywood and other sheet goods at auction then sold those on Craigslist. When all the dust had cleared I had a really nice woodshop full of nice tools and enough lumber to build a mansion full of furniture. And I did it all for Net Nothing! Yep I used my 20 years of sales experience and a bunch of elbow grease to buy myself some top of the line machines and I actually ended up with a handful of extra C notes!

But now it is time to shut the door on that and get started making some Sawdust!!!!!!

Mind you I still want a Top of the Line Lathe but they do not exist for under $2k, at least the form I want.

Until I get my big fancy Lathe I am going to use a hidden gem of a Lathe. The Shopsmith Mark V. I have gotten very well educated in the field of Woodworking Lathes and I can honestly say that with a couple of tweaks there isn't a better lathe out there for under $2,000. After selling my original Mark V in December I decided I needed a new one. So in my daily CL browsing I found a "Broken" Mark V. All I had to do to fix it was solder the wires back to the motor. So hey I got to learn to solder. It wasn't all that difficult and I have used the new found skill quite a bit since then.

If ain't pretty and all the table and stuff are going on eBay but it is going to be a great Lathe!

Wood Gas Tool Machine Machine tool


Next Up is the main tool in every good woodworking Shop. Those of you who have followed have been witness to what a screaming deal I got on my Grizzly G1023 3HP Cabinet Saw. I added on the longer rails today then went at it with some Oven Cleaner so I could get the last bits of rust and dirt off of it. I have adopted Oven Cleaner as my Go to Shop cleaner after finding out it was what they used to use in the Delta Repair Shop. I really like it because it isn't as harsh as some other stuff I have used and it won't peel the paint. It worked really well taking the packing grease off my new Jointer, which is what we will see next.

In the meantime here is my beautiful Grizzly G1023 TS!! My first project is to build a Router Table to fit into the extension wing.

Motor vehicle Gas Machine Bumper Automotive exterior


Up next is the MONSTER of the shop. My Oliver 8 inch Jointer. I picked it up last Friday brand new still in the box for just an amazing deal. I honestly am having a hard time not selling it for a large profit and going back to get another one at the same price, which I could….. Ok so this is the first brand new in the box piece of machinery I have purchased and it was quite the undertaking. Getting the motor wired up and attached to the base was not pleasant for a novice. Lifting the Jointer onto the stand took a herculean effort by myself and my 63 year old father. First time in 38 years I have ever seen him visibly falter when lifting something. But we got it on and our reward was a serving of my wifes Super Duper Yummy Chicken Pot Pie!

My goodness this thing is a beast at 537 lbs with 65" tables it is massive. It is actually a Powermatic Jointer painted Blue. I used the Powermatic 60C manual to put it together. I doubt that anyone could find a difference in the two outside of color. I got the straight knife version but will upgrade to the Helical head just as soon as I have an extra $350 laying around.

Bumper Automotive exterior Gas Machine Motor vehicle


Next up is my big secret I haven't posted about yet. I happened upon this little gem oneday last month and as soon as I got it home I had to shove in the back of the garage to make room for 28 sheets of quartered white Oak Plywood. But now that the wood is out of the way I can finally show off my new to me Delta X5 16/32 Drum Sander!!! Yep after blowin up my Planer I decided I should get one of these bad boys for making cutting boards and flattening laminations. Got it for half the price of new and I was lucky to get it as they hardly ever end up on CL.

The guy even threw in 12 boxes full of rolls of sandpaper for it!

Wood Gas Engineering Machine Machine tool


Next up is what started my run of new machines last week. I saw that the guys down at the local Powermatic/Jet Shop were auctioning off a PM2800 Drill Press. So I sent an e-mail to Niell down at EQSS and inquired if they had anymore of them in stock. Since the one being auctioned was up to $700 I figured I wouldn't get that great of a deal. I flipped when he replied back that they had one I could have for $500! I drove right down to buy it, and ended up with a truckload of tools.

I really like this drill press. It is hefty strong and easy to use. Not having to change the belts to change the speed is just a really cool feature to have.

Jig grinder Machine tool Gas Engineering Scientific instrument


Next up is the big impulse purchase. I saw they had a Powermatic 14" Bandsaw on special for $635 and I just couldn't resist. I have rebuilt 5 Bandsaws over the past few months and in that time I got to know what the best features were and what I wanted in a Bandsaw. I had no doubt I wanted that PMBS-14 but I couldn't justify spending $900 plus on it. I got a resaw block added on for another $60 and am just amazed I have it in my shop.

I was just flipping through the Iturra Catalog and the only thing I could find to add to it were blades. So I'll be calling up Louis sometime soon and get some of those nice HSS Blades.

Gas Machine Machine tool Service Cylinder


The last couple pics are of items I don't have setup quite yet. A 3HP Porter Cable Production Router in a Woodpecker Quick Lift Router Lift. Lastly I finally stepped up to a sliding Miter Saw with a Dewalt DW-708. Not the top of the line but it will do. Honestly I end up using my chopsaw more than anything else in the shop outside of the lathe. It's just so much quicker and easier than the TS.

Gadget Electrical wiring Audio equipment Cable Gas


Automotive tire Bumper Motor vehicle Automotive exterior Gas
Great Projects ahead.

jamie
 

Attachments

#157 ·
How did I live without it?!?!

I have spent the past week going crazy on my new Oliver 8" Jointer. I can honestly say I don't know how I ever got by without one. Or better yet why the hell I thought it was a good idea to use wood that wasn't square. LOL Oh well…

In other news I put a deposit down to take Darrell Peart's Blanket Chest class at Woodcraft in late April. It's been a dream of mine to take that class and it looks like it's going to be a reality. Gosh one day I may be a real honest to goodness furniture maker!

I will be honest about the Jointer though. It is a little underpowered. First chance I get to pick up a 3HP motor I am going to take it. Sucks because I just sold a 3HP 60C motor last month that would be perfect for it. I am going to upgrade to the Helical head but I don't know if that is going to keep it from bogging down.

Floor Flooring Gas Composite material Wood


Bumper Automotive exterior Gas Machine Motor vehicle
 

Attachments

#158 ·
How did I live without it?!?!

I have spent the past week going crazy on my new Oliver 8" Jointer. I can honestly say I don't know how I ever got by without one. Or better yet why the hell I thought it was a good idea to use wood that wasn't square. LOL Oh well…

In other news I put a deposit down to take Darrell Peart's Blanket Chest class at Woodcraft in late April. It's been a dream of mine to take that class and it looks like it's going to be a reality. Gosh one day I may be a real honest to goodness furniture maker!

I will be honest about the Jointer though. It is a little underpowered. First chance I get to pick up a 3HP motor I am going to take it. Sucks because I just sold a 3HP 60C motor last month that would be perfect for it. I am going to upgrade to the Helical head but I don't know if that is going to keep it from bogging down.

Floor Flooring Gas Composite material Wood


Bumper Automotive exterior Gas Machine Motor vehicle
Looks like a nice machiine!! How big is the motor now? Where does oliver come from? I have never heard of them B4.
 

Attachments

#166 ·
I Got IT I Got IT I Got IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just got back from my most favoritist Jet Dealer in the Whole Wild World, Equipment Sales & Surplus in Auburn Washington. I picked an almost new Jet JWL-1642EVS-2 the UBEBABLE Price of One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars! Yep $1,250 for one of the best Lathes on the market! For less than half of retail.

True I had to sell my Festool Domino to get it but I made a quick $300 profit on that deal. So it was very much worth it. Now I just need to sell the Craftsman Lathe I just bought and get rid of the extra cabinets in my garage and I will be ready to go a turning.

I just bought a cool spindle adapter so I can use all my 1"x8 attachments on the 1 1/4"x8 spindle on the 1642.
 
#171 ·
Cryo or PM Turning Tools???

Fellow turners,

I am shopping for a 1/4" bowl gouge and am trying to choose between a "cryogenic" or a "Powdered Metallurgy" gouge. They are in the same price range and both say they last "up to 3 times longer than HSS". Do any of you have any experience using the two of them? Is one really any better than the other?

Oh & I am sure there is some sort of crazy controversial issue surrounding these materials and can't wait to read about it. So please feel free to Rant away about how cryogenic is really alien material or PM is a FDA conspiracy. I love that kind of stuff!!!
 
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top