Planer Thicknesser buying advice

[EBH1]

New forum user here looking for some advice from some learned heads.

Apologies as this has probably been asked a million times already, however I'm in the market to buy a planer thicknesser. I've been looking in all the usual places and seem to be struggling to make up my mind on what to buy!

As my budget is not huge (up to £1100) I've been looking at used machines and have been to see a couple such as a Wilson, which was an awesome machine, but too large for my workshop compared to a Wadkin BOAS. I really liked a reconditioned Wadkin, but it was way over my budget! the build quality was like no other machine I've used.

I've got quite a bit of experience using one of the modern Sedgwicks with the longer beds, but was a little put of the older ones as the beds seem a little shorter.

In short, I was hoping someone may help put me out of my misery and let me know their experience of some of these older machines. Perhaps even a newer machine with good reputation for build quality and accuracy. I've always been put off the lift up bed machines as they seem a hassle to switch and wonder if the go back in the same position twice! Happy to be told otherwise though!

I should add that I'm keen to machine timber up to 2100mm long and up to 300mm wide. I also have 3phase.

Many thanks,
Euan

 

[RobinBHM]

I see there is a Wadkin BAOS on ebay at the moment for £1350 incl vat, so you may get one within your budget if you're patient. This isnt braked though so would depend on whether you employ anybody.

Ive had a 16" Wadkin surfacer for 15 years, basic but extremely well engineered, front bed winds up and down like silk.

 

[EBH1]

I've seen that one and watched it for about 3 weeks now, sadly with no price reduction yet! It's in great condition, but sold by a dealer who probably has some time invested. As the machine is just for me I'm less concerned by a power brake, just a reliable, accurate machine.

 

[EBH1]

Another quick question if I may,
I'm looking at a single phase planer (Sedgwick PT 255), but I'm a little concerned that I'll find the planer a little under powered. I've only ever used 3 phase machinery and no experience with a single phase planer. Will I notice a big difference in performance and would I be best holding out for a 3 phase machine?

Thanks in advance.

 

[heimlaga]

A single phase motor has a lot less torque than a three phase motor. Just like you I have always used three phase stationary machinery and when I occasionally come across a single phase machine it usually frustrates me with it's lack of torque.
If you have access to three phase power in your shop I would recommend that you wait until you can find a three phase machine or you could shift out the motor and put in the motor you want. Some motors can actually be revired for either three phase or single phase.