Going to evaluate a table saw for the theater group tomorrow.  What things would you check out before plunking down the money?  I plan to power it on, make a few cuts, check runout on the blade (bent arbor), make sure there's no burning smell from the motor, and give it a visual check inside.  Probably won't do a formal nickel test, but will check for vibration.

 

We are behind on the next set build and it will be a couple more weeks before we get the lease on the site, materials and the boss back in town. 

Sounds like you have it pretty well covered. I'd check the locks on the rip fence and make sure you have all of the accessories (blade wrench, miter gauge).

assume those are "standard" size miter slots?   how square is blade to slot?   do you have a blank (sanding disc) to check instead of the blade that's on it?   how clean did they keep it inside? 

Check the top for damage. Check the fence for stability and adjustability.Also Might want to check reviews on the saw........in other words is it worth buying from the standpoint of owners reviews of this brand / model.

Edited July 23, 20196 yr by Gerald

From the photos the saw appears to be in good shape. It was (apparently) owned by a contractor (heavy use) and the checks you mention should do just fine. I'd bet the gaurd and splitter are missing.....something I'd think a theater group would need.

2 hours ago, Fred W. Hargis Jr said:

From the photos the saw appears to be in good shape. It was (apparently) owned by a contractor (heavy use) and the checks you mention should do just fine. I'd bet the gaurd and splitter are missing.....something I'd think a theater group would need.

No, the theater group sends shivers down my spine.   Sometimes I just have to go to the other room.   It's not uncommon to free-hand cut a 4x4 or 4x8 sheet of plywood or OSB.  They look at me funny when I just pull out the circular saw to do the same thing.

Nice thing is that it has a 52" fence, the old one had about 30", which led to above.

Good to hear from you, Fred, hope the pond hasn't flooded over.

Another thing to check - if you have a meter and knowhow...   see what the starting current is when it's turned on as well as regular running current.   If you can put a load on it; even better.

Edited July 25, 20196 yr by p_toad