Yesterday on CL I picked up this woodmaster 408, $50. The gentleman I got it from had been using it for planing, I would like to use it as a molder and I need some info about using it as a molder. I googled and googled and I did not find much, I need SMCers input.
It has a 1hp motor but I will switching it out with a 2hp 3 phase motor. It runs well but needs a litttle tuning, it vibrates a bit and the chain that raises and lowers the table could be tightened. It has 2 molding heads that hold 1" molding knives, they are identical to the knives that come with the old craftsman molding cutters, fortunately I have a set. I would like to run wider knives, 2"-3". I am wondering what knives I can use, jet, grizzly, etc? Can I use the molding heads side by side to hold a large knife or should use the planers cutter head, or do I need a retro fit head like grizzly holding cutter?
Also I am wondering what this machine is compatible with. It looks like there are craftsman, belsaw, RBIs, and woodmasters that are the same or similiar.
I would like to use make door and window casing, base cap, chair rail, and maybe crown molding, but primarily in pine. Any info would be greatly appreciated.IMG_20110206_103633.jpgIMG_20110206_103933.jpgIMG_20110206_104349.jpg