Powermatic 1791291K Model 31A 6 Inch/12 Inch 1 1/2 Horsepower Belt/Disc Sander, 115/230 Volt 1 Phase

Customer Reviews

Pleasantly surprised

2008-04-06
We run several 6x48 sanders commercially and have always favored Powermatic models, having ones from 70's, 80's and 90's. We have a couple from the 80's that were finally wearing out and were concerned about what to replace them with. The ownership of the Powermatic company has bounced around many times, landing last with Jet. Given its connection to Jet and with production taken overseas (after this model evidently being discontinued for a while), we were not confident we were going to get the same quality machine we were used to.

However, so far we are happy with the machine. It runs smooth and the fit and finish is very good. Some details, such as the size of the table are better than the one we have from 1998. Why not 5 stars? The last star will only be earned if the sander gives us at least ten years of good service. Our others have usually given us 20 years of service, than again they used to cost $1400! I wouldn't mind paying that again if they still made them in the USA.

Great Addition To Our Shop!

2005-12-27
What a nice machine! We purchased this sander for our commercial operation, and have not been disappointed. The fit and weight of this machine are excellent. I especially like the cast iron tables. Assembly and adjustment were a breeze. One area of disappointment was that the base was shipped wrapped in a box (no packing) and arrived with some damage, this wasn't an issue, since we purchased the machine to perform and that it has done. The head of the unit which arrived separate was packed very well. One other point that someone else mentioned, this unit can make some dust, some type of dust collection should be used.

Good Tool but you need a dust collector

2004-06-21
Our shop purchased this tool about 18 months ago. It is well made and has been a great addition to our inventory. It is one of those tools that once it has been in your shop for a while you can't remember how you ever got by without it. If you are going to buy this tool I recommend that you get a dust collector. Sanding with this tool produces large amounts of very fine dust that will cover everything in your shop. The sander is only second to our table saw in dust production. A bargain for the money.

A very nice, well made machine!!

2004-04-03
I bought my machine from a local merchant and I am very impressed. Fit and finish are excellent, the sander is heavy and there is almost no vibration. The tables are cast iron and their mounting is rock solid, the belt table can be easily removed or positioned parallel to the belt for many different applications. The dust collection works extremely well also but Powermatic recommends a dust collector with at least 400 cfm. Fortunately mine is much bigger than that. I also like the capability to sand metal with the machine. The machine sands extremely well, smooth and there is no lack of power. The belt tracks well (after a little fussing at first). ... I think this is a good machine and I am sad to hear that Powermatic is difficult to deal with. I have other Powermatic machines and so far they have all worked very well. ... The Powermatic is heavier, has larger tables ... I would definitely buy this machine again!!

Form over Fuction - The Powematic 31A Belt/Disc Sander

2003-08-20
The Powermatic 31A Belt/Disc sander makes an impressive addition to any shop that already has a working machine. The unit is sturdy and good looking. The two heavy tables are esily adjusted and the T-miter slots were a nice surprise. It even comes with a small gauge, belt and disc. The belt moves smooth and easily when propelled by hand, and the disc appears true. The belt tension mechanism is quick and accessible. Despite being in the shop for over a month, an assessment of finishing quality has yet to be made. Upon initial start-up, noise and vibration were excessive. The motor overheated, tripping 20 amp breaker. Confirmed the motor was factory wired for 115V. The motor subsequently fails to wind up and cannot drive the belt/disc shaft.
Powermatic was contacted about the defective motor. The Customer Service Representative was polite, but advised that it was Amazon.com's problem, warranted or not. Amazon.com has made a good faith effort to provide a functioning tool. But a new motor was incompatible with the tool power drive and new drive component, likewise, incompatible with said motor. Offered to return everything. Still waiting for instruction on return, repairing original motor or obtaining correct drive components for new motor that will not void warantee. The good folk at Amazon.com appear ill equipped to deal with Powermatic, and Powermatic doesn't want to deal with end user.
Summary: Nice looking tool, doesn't work. Buy a Delta from different source.