Yesterday I purchase a Powermatic 3520b, but without the motor and all electronics (switches, cables, control panels, etc), for $400. It’s got the headstock, bed, tailstock. The spindle turns smoothly and the pulleys look good. The electronics were damaged/destroyed from a fire in the other side of the guy’s shop. yea, I know, I could have been suckered, but anyway. The bed is flat, the spindle turns freely and smoothly.
I couldn’t find a discussion here regarding rebuilding a Powermatic, but if there is one could someone point me to it. Or, if any of you Powermatic folks have had to do so or know someone who has, I would love for you to contact me. If not, do any of you have recommendations for non-manufacturer parts and/or where I can get them? Or do any of you have 3520b parts that you’re willing to sell?
I’m okay with electrical, but no genius at it, though I can follow a wiring diagram and easily connect wires. I much prefer wood! I talked to Powermatic yesterday morning and the tech guy there thought I could probably replace all the “innards” (my term) for $1200-1500. Part of me says go all original manufacturer parts, but the other part says save $. Also, I’ve heard/read problems about the OEM Delta inverter—that it trips and/or fries rather easily.
If you weren't going to put in OEM parts, what would you recommend for motor and inverter? I've found Hitachi inverters for under $300--Powermatic wants over $600 and I've heard those Delta inverters have some problems. PM's website says something like $575 for motor but the tech guy I spoke with said under $500. I've got one guy willing to sell me a new motor, signal cord, safety on-off switch, and potentiometer for $500.
I’m open to any/all advice and suggestions. Feel free to contact me privately tedsherman@me.com.
Thanks,