I was about ready to order the Grizzly G1023SLW for $1050 +freight when I found a Powermatic Model 66 probably from the seventies for sale for $800.
When I called, it turns out it belonged to a man that taught shop at a state school for mentally challenged people, and his widow thinks he got it at a surplus sale through the school back in the mid-seventies. She said he used it from time to time and doesn't remember what he paid for it. Her son in law is the one who set the price. He told me it took about 5 guys to move it, and that the extension is all cast iron. The fence is original, but the miter is not.
The serial # is 766020 and it says Powermatic Houdaille on the tag. The motor is a Baldor, looks like it is a different color than the saw. It runs smooth. After all my due dilligence in getting ready to buy my TS, I was convinced that the Grizzly was the best deal "for the money". But now I need some opinions.
Is $800 too much for a saw this old?
Does anyone know how old it is from the serial number?
What do all you more experienced guys reccomend? The Grizzly or this PM66?
I have learned so much from reading from this forum!
Thanks!