OK, so the story goes like this . . . I own a Performax 16-32, and I hate it. It has seen very little use since I owned it. Not that I haven’t ewanted to use it, but I could NEVER get it aligned to the point that I was happy with it. It sits and collects dust. (Saw dust that is)
So I decided two weeks ago, that I was NOT going to be beaten by a tool. Time to refurbish, and align it . . . AGAIN! I ordered a new conveyor belt and new ceramic guide blocks. I read EVERYTHING on the net in regards to aligning the drum parallel to the table. Away we go . . . . almost six hours later . . . I’m beaten. The Performax is going up for sale on Craigslist tomorrow, and I am going to start researching manufacturers for a NEW DRUM SANDER.
So, lots of reading on the net. I discover Woodmaster. Lots more research, and I am liking what I am reading about the company and the machine. I am looking at their 38” single drum unit. So, I go to order their free DVD when I look at the address of the company and discover that they are in Kansas City, about an hour from me . . . well . . . FIELD TRIP!!!!
I just got back from touring the manufacturing plant. The tour was given by the President of the company. Now thats costumer service. I couldn’t believe that short of the screw rods, the machine is completly bulit here in Kansas City. I was able to watch them being buit. Tried one out in the showroom as well. AND, they offered me a great deal on a unit.
I am loking forward to buying one in a few weeks. It was a blast to see the machnes made, and great to know that IF I need service, they are just down the road. I will post a review once I make the purchase, and add another 30 AMP 220 to the shop. Good thing I installed a 200 amp service. My 220V machines are growing quickly. Blesings!!!
-- Anchul - Warrensburg, MO: As a Pastor, I am just trying to get closer to Jesus. He was a woodworker too.
That’s what I call a field trip, So what was the problem with the 16/32? I hear a few problems here and there but nothing as to the machines performance. I know of a guy that tried to feed a 1 1/2” X 30” glued up table top through it 6’ long and bent the top drum but he was some how able to get it back in shape and love the machine…
Good luck with your new machine. I can’t say anything but good for my Performax 22/44. Took me only about 15 minutes to tune up and hasn’t needed adjustment in over 4 years. Oh, well.
-- Gary - Never pass up the opportunity to make a mistake look like you planned it that way - Tyler, TX
I just don’t seem to be able to get the drum parallel to the table. I get it there, and then tighten the four bolts, and it is out again. I just don’t like a tool I have to fuss with. Woodmaster said that if their machine wasn’t accurate to .005 out of the crate, they would take it back, or come out and calibrate it.
I am glad you like yours Gary. I know MANY people do. I guess I am one of the weird ones.
-- Anchul - Warrensburg, MO: As a Pastor, I am just trying to get closer to Jesus. He was a woodworker too.
Sorry about your experience with the drum sander. I don’t have one but I have been looking at either this one or the 22/44 (provided my wife will give me an advance on my allowance). I will be interested in seeing your review of the Woodmaster.
-- Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful- Joshua Marine
Againstthegrain, You must have a defective one in some way although .005 is close it sounds like yours is out more then that. What plane is it out on? have you tried shims?
I have one of those 37” woodmaster sanders. I absolutely love it. Bought it on Craigs list. Mine is older (around 10 yrs old but runs like a charm. The customer service at woodmaster is remarkable. Before I had the 37”, I had a 12” woodmaster I bought used for 100 bucks. It was an old one. I called Woodmaster and they sent me the original owners manual at no cost. They also hooked me up with any parts that I needed for that old machine. Not sure if the variable feed/reversable rate is an option or standard on the new sander you are looking at but I would reccommend getting it. good luck…............
-- I want to know Gods thoughts....rest are details "A. Einstein"
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