Delta Platinum Edition tools

[Johanna]

Can anyone tell me if the Platinum Edition tools are of lesser quality than the standard models? I am looking at the 5HP left tilt Unisaw with a 50" Biesmeyer fence for $1599 (new!). Before I spring for it, I want to be sure this is not a cheaper version of the standard Unisaw.

Johanna

[CatJammies]

I am not a Delta tool person but reguardless of brand names, the concerns you may wish to consider are as such:

The driving force of that 5 HP motor. 5 HP means nothing if you do not know the guage of wire used in the windings of the motor, the torque of the moter no-load and under-load (while cutting). also, the RPMs of the motor at all capable speeds (if variable speed). The larger the motor brushes equates to surface area touching the motor rotor which also equates to smoother running.
How many amps does this motor draw no-load and under-load. The more amps usually equates to better cutting strength without bogging down while cutting or in use. (note: keep each motor unit on separate breaker circuts for stationary shop tools).

Is this unit a direct drive motor or does it utilize a pulley and drive belt? Direct drive are better but more costly. For me, I do not concern myself, as much, with the metal guage of the machine with exception of the fence and fence guide rails (where applicable). Again, for me, I try to buy machines that have a little plastic on them as possible with exception of protective view shields.

[handi]

Joanna,

The Platinum Editions of Delta's tools (everything from TS to 690 Router) are the exact same tools with different paint and nameplates.

This entire campaign was designed to highlight and celebrate 50 or 75 years of Delta Tools, I can't remember which.

Bottom line, they are the same tools. The prices are dropping a bit because there is a lot more competition these days from Jet and General. 5 years ago niether was seriously challenging Delta's market share. Now they are, so Delta has become more agressive on pricing.

Hope this helps,

Ralph

[JohnP]

The Delta Uni Saw is one of the best on the market, it is the saw most of the competion copies. Regaurdless of the tag you can't go wrong.
My thoughts
JohnP

[Johanna]

Thanks, gang, for the responses. I plunked down the credit card this afternoon. They'll deliver it Wednesday. Ooooh, I'm so excited!

I have solicited the assistance of some of the AWA (Albuquerque Woodworkers Association) members to help me put the saw together when it comes. I put the contractor's saw together by myself, but this rascal will be much more of a challenge, not in difficulty, but in weight. It will be the "new saw" party!

This evening I got the shelves of my oak cabinet trued up and now they slide nicely into the dadoes. I would like to spray the shelves and the inside, but it's too cold. I'll work on the door and the drawers instead.

My SO bought me a Starrett combination square and the little Veritas pocket combination square for Christmas and I've already put them to good use. They are so fine! Clear, crisp, precise markings. I used the little square tonight to check for square edges after I planed the back edge of a shelf -- I have a hard time keeping the edge at 90 degrees. Maybe I'll learn to do that in the hand tools class this semester.

Boy, oh boy, I'm having so much fun!

Johanna

[barbsiddiqui]

Where? When? How many do you have room for?
Just kidding, Johanna; sounds like you are really excited and going to have a ball getting that beautiful new purchase up and running. I'm jealous! You might consider, if you don't already have it, getting Jim Tolpin's "Table Saw Magic" from Popular Woodworking Books, a treasure trove of jigs, accessories and instructions on how to most efficiently and safely use any saw. There is no end to the accouterments you can build! Have fun, and I wish I lived close enough to help on the 'new saw party!'
-Barb S.

[Jill (Guest)]

Hey a party. Darn wish I was there. See ya in Feb. for a demo! Stay true-
Jill

[irish prairie rooster]

hello everyone

i am just now coming back to check things out on my favorite forum.it sounds like you got a good deal on the saw!i am in the market for one.where did you buy yours?

thank you

ipr

[Johanna]

At Woodworkers Supply in Albuquerque. You may already get their catalog. The Unisaws are on sale through March 31. No charge for freight. The 3HP with a Unifence is $1449, with a Biesemeyer fence it's $1499. The 5HP with a Biesemeyer is $1599. A mobile base is $149. All in all it's just a fabulous price. If you do not get their catalog, their toll-free number is 1-800-645-9292.

Today I finally finished checking all the alignments and actually cut wood! Wow! Smooth as glass. I need to have my electrician change my circuit from 20 to 30 amps; in fact, I may have him just add another 220 circuit. Until he changes it, I suspect I should not try to cut anything really hard and thick, but it seems to do just fine on 4/4 oak.

Guess I had better do some significant production now that I have such professional tools!

Johanna