Another 10+ year old thread resurrected! No problem with that as much useful info is brought back to life.
Just curious, as a totally satisfied G490x owner...
Fit and finish doesn't compare? Maybe so, but I can see my hand reflected in my tables, but I could not shave using the tables as a mirror. Are the tables on your old delta so much better? Maybe so, but I find mine more than satisfactory.
My tables seem to be true and the fence seems to be straight. I did check the tables with a Starret 4' straight edge upon delivery. Do not remember having any dissatisfaction.
The base on my G0490 is pretty good. I find the mobility function invaluable when I need to move the jointer to cut large sheet goods on my table saw. I did modify the base to make adjustment of belt tension easier. Other than that, the base is more than satisfactory for me. What makes the old DJ20 base superior?
I am wondering how much of your feeling is subjective as compared to objective. Have you measured the truness of the tables in order to make a valid comparison? Would be curious to know how much they differ and how.
You don't mention which Grizzly 8" jointer you have. Be curious to know.
Your opinion is valuable and if you can add further specific details I am sure they would be helpful to others in the future...perhaps in 2027...Ha, ha, just joking...
Bill
Too much to do...Not enough time...life is too short!
In something like 2005 or so Fine woodworking did a test and found the Grizzly to ahve the flattest and straightest beds and most true fence. I would buy a Grizzly jointer in a moment if I was unable to find a used Northfield for a reasonable price and if I had to replace my Powermatic 8 inch.
That being said, I know of some excellent 12 and 16 inch jointers in excellent condition for not much more coin. A certain nice Neuman 12 inch would seriously tempt me were I not trying to upgrade my thickness planer.
I think you have to be careful making too many judgements on the lower priced machinery without seeing several. The variation in each machine is great enough to make comparisons difficult. You can have a great example, and one not so great. Both within manufacturers specs. The risk you take is which one you are getting. I'll take a jointer I can measure over one unseen. Dave
There's nothing inherently bad about it, it falls squarely in the does what it should do category. I can't find anything mystical about it and got a good deal from a local guy while Grizzly has had the 490s on back order for the last few months. Ultimately I'll get out of it what I paid due to its legendary status and that makes me happy.
I have a Hammer A3-31 on order that will replace it.
No way would I pay anything over $800 for a dj-20 when a new grizzly g0490x with spiral cutter is $1400 shipped. I got
One used for $700 but it took months of Craigslist waiting.
Sellers don't look at new prices with warranties when listing their stuff for sale.