Powermatic 63 A - Woodworking Talk

Wnabsed8td · 02-06-2009, 07:47 PM

Hello All...Newbie to the forum. I am looking to upgrade my table saw from Skil to a Powermatic that I have the opportunity to buy. The saw was manufactured in 1989, yet it was not uncrated until last month. It looks to be in mint condition. The seller is asking $400 for this. Is this reasonable? I have heard that this particular model had some issues, hence the existence of the 64 A. I appreciate any feedback you could give me before I bargain with the seller. Thanks!

AZ Termite · 02-06-2009, 08:36 PM

If it is a like new saw $400 is probably a good price. The thing you want to find out is why a saw made in 1989 was just uncrated a month ago. I have that saw and have had no issues with it. It is a very nice saw IMO. Adjusted right and taken care of, it will last you for years. I have the 50" table for mine and it makes it real nice to be able to make cuts that big.

Wnabsed8td · 02-09-2009, 11:11 AM

The current owner shared with me that it was bought by his father in '89 at retirement, but then his father continued to work and never got the intended shop off the ground. Then his father was diagnosed with Alzheimers and the saw never saw use. Now, to make room he is selling his father's tools.

AZ Termite · 02-09-2009, 05:29 PM

Considering that is a $1000 saw new see if he will haggle with you. If you could get him a little lower you will be better off.

huntsman22 · 02-09-2009, 06:52 PM

Check the top for flatness. Mine had an 1/8th inch belly to it.........

Wnabsed8td · 02-10-2009, 09:27 AM

Thanks for the input guys! I am still waiting to hear back from the seller. I have a couple of other options on deck, so not rushing into this. Will keep you posted. Roy

Wnabsed8td · 02-10-2009, 09:46 AM

There is also a fella selling this: http://www.amazon.com/Delta-36-716-Horsepower-Intermediate-Extension/dp/B0007SXGIS for $450. Again, good value or haggle down? Obviously, I am looking to not have to buy another saw for awhile and a decent fence system is a must! Considering a used saw, can this be had for $200 or so?

knotscott · 02-10-2009, 09:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wnabsed8td

There is also a fella selling this: http://www.amazon.com/Delta-36-716-Horsepower-Intermediate-Extension/dp/B0007SXGIS for $450. Again, good value or haggle down? Obviously, I am looking to not have to buy another saw for awhile and a decent fence system is a must! Considering a used saw, can this be had for $200 or so?

If you can pick up a Delta 36-716 hybrid with a Unifence for $450, I'd definitely take that over a PM63 contractor saw with an outboard for $400. The hybrid design has several advantages (smaller footprint, better dust collection, shorter belt), and the Unifence is a pretty nice fence.