Delta Router / Shaper

[Bill Julson]

Local guy is selling a Delta 43-505 router/shaper that he says has not been used much. It uses 1/4" & 1/2" bits and he has some bits for it. Asking $175.00, but have not gone to see it yet. In checking online, the reviews on it have not been good, especially the 2 piece fence, rough work surface, etc; Price also seems high but he probably would come down. Anybody have any experience with this machine. I don't have a router table or a large router as have been saving for a good setup, so am looking for comments. Thanks

 

[FIVEBYFIVE]

Sorry I havent used that tool. I cant help with reviews on it, but just wait I am sure that someone on this site has either owned one or used one. :icon_thum

 

[Monty]

I think that's a lot like my old benchtop shaper - it worked fine but I sold when I upgraded to a router table. Take a look at this thread.

 

[NZAPP1]

I have that one and I have used it too make raised panel doors with a speed control. I have made some new fences to use with it. It works ok just take stepped cuts it works fine.

 

[toolferone]

I do not like split fences in general, they can be fickle to adjust. I also think the price is high. Does it come with any shaper cutters or the 1/2" shaper spindle. It is a induction motor instead of a universal motor, which I think is good.(quiter and smoother) I personally am not a big fan of the grooved cast aluminum top on any tool.

Well my .02 cents worth anyway.

P.s. I do not own one, but I play a Woodcraft manager during the day!!

 

[McRabbet]

Bill,

IMHO it is underpowered and the table is too small for any serious work. I got lucky early this summer and bought an old Rockwell/Delta shaper on a stand with a 2 HP reversible induction motor. It has a 3/4" spindle and I got it with 18 HSS cutters for $100. It does a good job on most stock, but still doesn't have enough power for large raised panel cutters. My 3-1/2 HP Milwaukee router in my router table is better suited for that operation.

Rob

 

[Bill Julson]

Thanks to everyone....I appreciate the input. I am a real novice so I hope you all don't mind my asking questions. I think I am going to pass on this as I would rather wait and get a a table and router. The table is small, & my eyes are not what they used to be, so probably would have problems with the split fence. Thanks again for jumping in.

 

[Monty]

Asking questions is what a forum like this is all about. I can't say I don't recommend that tool, because mine served me well while I had it. It's just not as good (nor as expensive ) as a router table/lift, which in turn is not as good as a real floor model shaper. It just depends on where you are in your woodworking, that's all. But IMO that asking price is way too high!