: A few days ago I burned out the motor on my radial arm saw which I had been
: using to rip strips for my next boat. The saw was free, but old, and
: apparently it just couldn't take it anymore. This has put me in the market
: for a new saw.

If the rest of the saw is in workable shape, why not look for a rebuild job on the motor in your radial arm saw? It is usually cheapre than buying a new motor, and would give you another 10 years of service or more.

It might be that the only problem with your motor is something simple, like worn out brushes -- which are relatively cheap and easy to replace.

Check your local phone book for companies that deal in rebuilt motors, or rebuilding them. Sometimes when you open the radial arm saw you find that built inside is a rather standard motor that can just be swapped out -- and sometimes you need to get a special part that is only made by the original factory. The people who deal in rebuilt motors can let you know the story and can advise on whether a replacement motor is cost effective.

While you are checking with Sears parts dept. about the availability of parts for the table saw you are considering, take a look to see if they have parts for your radial arm saw.

As for old tablesaws: the cast iron ones were built to last. I think that 30 years ago they cost less than $200 new, though. while the extensions were additional, you might want to dicker a bit on that price. Are you getting any blades thrown in?

PGJ

PGJ