Please help make a choice between two table saws

[mark kosse]

Here is my take. I had the same decision to make between a '54 and a '74.

here are the pluses to the '97.

higher hp
t miter slots
probably has a mag starter
square opening so any motor fits (with an adapter, ANY motor)
dust collection opening

the pluses for the '59.
cooler base, motor and handles (and motor cover if you can afford one)

Most of the pluses for the 97 are also negatives of the '59. what it came down to for me was I wanted a good user saw. I'm too nostalgic to screw or cut holes in a saw that's made it 60 years w/o someone screwing it up. I have no such reservations with the '74. Even restored I mounted peg board to it and will one day put a dc port in it.

Hope it helps.

[Rick Potter]

Ask your wife which one goes best with your shop shoes.

Actually, I think you need to get both saws running correctly, if only to sell. Once you do, you can make an informed decision, and keep the 3 HP one. I agree with keeping both if possible, it is very handy to have one with a dado blade.

Rick P