A3-31 mobile base/casters

[John Sayen]

Hi all,

I tried searching for recommendations for a3-31 mobile bases but would like to ask a specific question about them.

Is there a brand / style that is "easiest" to install? Meaning, is there a preferred set?

I don't plan on moving it a lot but it would be nice to be able to do so when re-arranging the shop.

My new a3-31 is sitting on the pallet until I get this figured out.

Thank you.

[Sean Troy]

Are you asking for a recommendation for one other than the Hammer designed one?

[John Sayen]

I'm not sure actually, I had read that the hammer designed ones do not work that well.

Anyone with first hand experience with them?

[Rod Sheridan]

Hi, here's the one I made for my J/P.

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?88687-Hammer-A3-31-Mobile-Base

The Hammer mobile base works great, all my shop machines use a semi-live skid design because they're so maneuverable, inexpensive and the machine doesn't move in use.

My only problem with the Hammer base for the A3 was that my planing area is a hallway, and the machine moved in the wrong plane, so I built a base that moved in the other plane.

You wouldn't actually need to build a base, just drill the axle holes in the machine in the correct area...........These bases are much better than casters.

Normally I use 6 inch wheels as they roll over anything, however 4 inch steel wheels do as well............Regards, Rod.

[Jamie Buxton]

I have the Hammer mobility kit on my first-generation A3-31, including the Johnson bar they supply. It works fine.

[Stan Powers]

I have a new A3-31 with the mobility kit. It was easy to install and adjust. Not a lot of use yet, but it appears to work well and is easy to maneuver.

[Gary Chester]

I bought the Portamate Pm-3500 for mine. It rolls on the long axis of the planer where the Hammer rolls on the short axis. Getting thru a doorway with the Hammer version might be tougher. That worked better for me in my smallish shop. I was able to assemble the base onto the JP while it was on the pallet and with a small ramp just roll it right off... no need for lifting. I didn't go for castors because I didn't want to raise the JP 3 or 4 inches.

[John Sayen]

Thanks. I ordered the hammer base and lifting bar today.

[Michael Sapper]

Skip their mobile base and get these for easy movement.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I2JH81U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

You will need to enlarge two existing holes in the base and drill two new ones, but I can spin my machine on a dime and ratchet it quickly down for full stability.

Michael