Reply by NiteWalker

- I wouldn’t bother with machined pulleys. Just get the link belt and align the current pulleys if necessary.

- I’d choose shop-built extensions over cast iron. The main reasons are cost, options and no rust. Cast iron wings will be pretty expensive. A simple oak or maple frame under a sheet of 1/2” or 3/4” formica laminated baltic birch or other high quality plywood makes for a great extension. Hardwood braces underneath will keep it flat. Also, you can put a router in one (or both!) of the extensions. Basically, cast iron wings are nice, but not a necessity.

- Maybe PALS if you have trouble with alignment, but I’d use them as a last resort.
Other upgrades you should consider:
- Zero clearance inserts
- Crosscut sled
- Outfeed table
- Push shoes
All can be made pretty cheaply.
- Skip expensive tablesaw blades. I’ve been using these since I started woodworking. They cut close to a forrest blade supposedly (I’ve never used a forrest) at a fraction of the cost. No need to sharpen. When it gets dull, toss it. Or save it for cutting less blade friendly materials, like aluminum or pallet wood.

-- He who dies with the most tools... dies with the emptiest wallet.