RIP ShopVac

[ironhat]

LinuxRandal wrote: "For hand tools, the switch should be fine. For larger items (like the BT), there are remotes that can be used, or you could wire it to be on with a light switch. Depends on the type of tools the original poster wants to use with it".

I tried the switched outlet and it just got to be too much of an in convenience. I ended up buying a remote on sale - they do this about three times a year - and taped it to a central location. Keeping price point and handiness in mind I'd guess that you would be happier with a shop vac on a combo switch. The HF DC is nice for the price but it is nearly 6' tall so stuffing it under a bench is out of the question. I still use my Ridgid vac for my Ridgid 3650 table saw but I did spring for the one micron bag. Good luck with your decision!

[asdf]

I've got a Craftsman shop vac and have been very happy with it. I added a HEPA filter (mandatory for any kind of fine dust collection, since it's just spewed out without it) and a silencer. I think I spent a little over $100 and then some accessories. I use it now for my router table, ROS, and general cleanup. Before I had a Delta DC I used it with my 12.5" planer and my 6" jointer but it could barely handle it. It surely can't handle my 8" jointer.

[ksum]

For hand tools, the switch should be fine. For larger items (like the BT), there are remotes that can be used, or you could wire it to be on with a light switch. Depends on the type of tools the original poster wants to use with it.

I have a 220v dust collector, and wanted to use switches to turn it on from multiple locations, much like a 3-way for a light, but I had more than 2 locations. In order to wire receptacle properly, I would have needed a relay which proved to be a bit expensive. I ended up getting one of the units that works with your blast gates. Open a gate and the DC turns on, all closed turns it off. Instead of wiring it to the gates, I wired it to the 3 and 4 way switches. Now I just flip a switch at the table saw and the DC comes on. If I have to move over to another part of the room, I can turn it off from there. No remote to loose, no battteries to replace, and with 5 switches in a 1 car garage, I have easy access to powering the DC on or off.

Karl

[DustyandLefty]

set for life

Yes, the boxes for Ridgid vacs says Lifetime warranty. You might want to hang on to your receipt and that part of the box.

Still Dusty and Lefty though

[Bob Bassett]

ShopVAV Motor

Yesterday I was happily woodworking away when my 4.5 hp ShopVac/dust collector squealed and belched out the magic smoke.

Looks like I'm in the market for a new vac/dust collector. I used my old one attached to a chip separator and periodically changed the bag and cleaned/changed the filter. I realize a real dust collector would be best, but funds don't allow it right now.

Any suggestions on a replacement for around $150 that I can use as a vac and also my dust collector? My last one lived for three years--any that will last longer for the money?

Inquiring mind wants to know...

g.

Call ShopSmith and tell them what happened. They sent me a new motor assy. when the VAC impeller bearings started squealing.