I really like my Noden kit I bought. I based my bench design from an old magazine but I can’t remember which one. The “base” is a beefy cabinet on a frame and the top is a torsion box. I could see if I can find the article if you’re interested.
I really like my Noden kit I bought. I based my bench design from an old magazine but I can’t remember which one. The “base” is a beefy cabinet on a frame and the top is a torsion box. I could see if I can find the article if you’re interested.
My woodworking theory: Measure with a micrometer, Mark with chalk, Cut with an ax.
The top of the cabinet is 2 2/4” plywood with dados cut to make a bore for the threaded rod. The threaded rod goes through the lower base.
My woodworking theory: Measure with a micrometer, Mark with chalk, Cut with an ax.
You don't have to use the threaded rod in stretchers if you have a solid cabinet, but I"ve seen it done both ways. Although I originally intended to put a cabinet under my main bench (original all-metal Noden Adjust-A-Bench) I abandoned that for some reason. For the "Craftsman Hardware Kit" version I use for my aux bench (down-draft/pocket screw/assembly/material transport) I also did not do a cabinet. But given that the threaded rod would complicate the build, I'd seriously consider not using them and make sure that the fixed portion of the Noden end panels were solidly anchored to the cabinet carcass so there would be no racking.
--
The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...
Check auctions for used scissor lift tables. I see pneumatic and electric lift tables (lots of Southworth) go for pretty cheap routinely and are usually rated for 1000lbs and up. I picked one up years ago for under $200 and built a 4x8 work surface for it and can sit or stand on either end with virtually no deflection.
My boss picked up a Presto scissor lift table for like $100. It was extremely heavy, but rock solid. They're great if you need one. We didn't. He has a habit of buying anything that's "a good deal", and then throwing it out or giving it away a couple of years later because we need the space more than a tool that never gets used.