Need feedback on Delta 18/36 Drum Sander

I have one and really like it. Not that it is perfect but IMO does one excellent job.
It can and will do a ‘snipe like’ action most easily when feeding in a long piece when its protruding ends are not adequately supported. I say ‘snipe like’ because it can occur in the anywhere along the length of the piece if it is not smoothly fed into and/or out of the sander.
I keep multiple grits on hand from 36 to 220 for various uses. I actually prefer hand sanding before finishing but it will do a suitable job.
As with any sanding the quality of the job depends on many factors. Keeping the paper clean is particularly important as it is easy to burn the wood if paper is clogged. I have found it important to NOT try to take more than a minimum of ‘bite’ but maybe it goes without saying.

Yes I have one. When it is working, it is great. Snipe Yes on long boards if you don’t support the ends when feeding and removing them. Watch the conveyer as I have never gotten it adjusted so that it does not creep to the side. Only been fiddling with it for about 5 years but still have hopes of getting it adjusted. So far I have worked on it more than I have used it. I have replaced the miter gears 3 times now, they are made of plastic and are very easy to strip the teeth. If you get a chance to buy new ones take it. I had to wait 2 months to get the last ones. I finely got the elevation so that it does not jump cogs and strip teeth when adjusting the thickness, as long as I don’t get in a hurry. I found that using graphite on the lead screws helps a lot. Speaking of hurrying, don’t while sanding! Turn the speed down low and take small bites. Do Not try to sand glue joints down without scraping the excess glue off first. You will find black burned marks on your work if you don’t. Keep the drum clean and the sandpaper smooth and lined up so that it cannot overlap or you will get burned grooves in the work.

Would I buy another one, No!!! at least not a delta. I would have to look at any other brand very close before I would even consider buying it. Right now mine has worked for about a full month without any problems, except the conveyer, I can live with that if nothing else happens. I simply loosen the adjustment screws and slide the conveyer back to the proper position when it starts to reach it’s edge limits.

-- Measure twice, cut once, and hope for the best.

I also have one that I bought on Craigslist for 400.00. I make cutting boards and trays. I really like it as it does a great job.

-- Joe, Ga

Since your cutting boards are shorter stock, do you find any snipe on your edges Joe?

-- Drew -- "I cut it twice and it's still too short!"- Rock-n H Woodshop - Moore, OK