Still looking for a big jointer... anyone know this model (pics)

[skip gleichman]

I am looking far and wide for a big jointer... I have considered new, (the new oliver) and used machines. I want 16"+ and would not mind doing some work to make one whole again. I found this machine and could buy it for a decent price ($1,500) and know it obviously needs work. I don't want to buy a reconditioned machine for absolute top dollar but would rather bring a great model back or buy new for the satisfaction of a warrantee. Is this a great model? Too much work? can I find a fence?

Any thoughts on this model and vintage? I only know it is a 20" model so far... waiting for a serial number but figured there may be a few knowledgable folks out there... (Dev)?

Thanks in advance.

[martyphee]

Oliver 166 I believe. Look here http://www.owwm.com/PhotoIndex/ByMfg.asp?MfgID=609.

I wouldn't pay more than a few hundred at most for it. The original fence is missing and it has a clam shell head. Potentially very dangerous if you don't know what your doing.

If you couldn't find a newer style head that can be modified to fit a new one from the likes of byrd will run you $2500.

You should be able to find one for that kind of money pretty easily if you are willing to either drive or ship it.

I bought a 16" Porter for about $900 and put another $500-$600 in it getting a 4 knife gib style head machined. That was too much money though I had a complete fence.

[martyphee]

I know this guy. I bought my shaper from him.
http://www.woodweb.com/exchanges/machinery/posts/404703.html

Ben's shop isn't far from me. Good guy.
http://www.woodweb.com/exchanges/machinery/posts/404502.html

Simliar to the one you posted, but pretty pricey.
http://www.woodweb.com/exchanges/machinery/posts/404392.html

[Alan Turner]

Skip,
That looks like my "new to me" jointer, a 166dd by Oliver. Mine is from the early 1960's. As Marty points out, my fence is quite different. Dev has one also, but I think his is a 24".

I paid 4k, and it was dead nuts on with only light patternshop usage and quite clean. I hired my used equip. dealer to help with the move as he is an excellent rigger with a big truck, and he offered me $6500 for it, just to give you a sense of price.
I can't comment on your proposed rennovation or its cost.

[Bill Simmeth]

I agree with what Marty and Alan have posted so far, but wanted to stress what Marty has said about the head. The clamshell heads have a potential danger due to their clamping design. If not properly torqued (too little or too much) a blade can slip and be thrown. Same thing if there is any distortion to the blade or such. For this reason, most operators have replaced their clamshells with straight knife or other type heads. With a 20" jointer this of course becomes a considerable expense...