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I have the opportunity to buy a used Crafstman 18/36 drum sander (model 31-250) for $600.

Assuming it is in good shape, is this a good sander and is this a fair price?

Thanks for any info you can share

Dave

I would look for a machine of better quality and spend more $$$. Can you find reviews for this craftsman sander??

I'd wait and keep checking Craigslist. I picked up a used delta 18-36 in June for $250. The delta can be tricky to set up, but it does the job.

I am suspecting that the Sears model is the same delta. Not sure though.


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600 would be a decent price for a known reliable Sander. jet, Delta. Craftsman?.........hmmmmmm

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Pat

You should never pay more than about 60% for used equipment. Thickness sanders are very useful for lutherie -- I would suggest going to an industrial auction site and spending around $1500 for a machine that is much more capable and reliable.

Performax, Jet. If you watch posts here, you will notice when it comes to drum sanders, they are preferred. Delta once in a while, if u like adjustable bed sanders. That price u mentioned is too high. Google comparable new jets and performax.

I don't know for sure, but I've read that these are re-badged Grizzly sanders, which tend to receive generally positive reviews. However, the $600 price seems high to me as well. Like the cat, I agree with the 60% ceiling for used. The drum sander, bandsaw and dust collector out in my workshop support this theory.

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George :-)

I just researched many brands and models, and bought a Powermax 19/38. Did find a little on Craftsman, which was neutral. Given that, not sure I'd spring 600, even for a NIB used. FWIW, the powermax came out of the box sanding so even, my thickness caliper can't detect a difference across the entire surface. Bad news, is I haven't had to make any adjustments yet, so I don't know how easy/difficult that will be!

Spent a little time on Craigslist searching the midwest for drum sanders.
There are about five Craftsman, all for about $600.
Not much else out there for less than that out there right now.

I do agree that it is priced high. If I NEEDED one I would jump on it. But I built one that works and can wait.
If I could just figure out a way to make a conveyor, I would be in business.

It seems like someone rigged up a second hand treadmill for a conveyor..... But my memory is not the best.

Dave,
I don't know where in the midwest you are, but I bough a grizzly wide belt at the scratch and dent sale this past summer and if you are close, it might be worth the trip next year. The prices vary depending on the damage, but I saw some for around what you are talking about for a craftsman drum sander. I got mine for a silly price... and it works great!

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