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The Performax Surface Sander 16-32 open-ended drum sander UP TO 32" - $800 (Bench)
Canal near Federal Way
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Retails for $1,600 New
$800 cash takes it
The Performax 16-32 is a widely recognized, open-ended drum sander designed for sanding boards up to 32 inches wide (in two passes) and up to 16 inches wide in a single pass. Originally produced by Performax Products Corp., the line was acquired by JET (part of WMH Tool Group) in 1999. These machines are highly regarded in hobbyist and professional shops for dimensioning lumber and sanding figured wood, acting more as a precision thicknesser than a final finishing machine.
Key Features and Specs
Capacity: 16" width (32" in two passes), with a maximum thickness of 3" and minimum of 1/32".
Motor: Early models typically used a 1 HP motor, while newer JET-branded models often feature 1.5 HP.
Design: Open-ended design allows for wider, uneven, or long workpieces.
Conveyor: Variable-speed feed conveyor.
Dust Port: Older models feature a 2.5" port, while newer models have a 4" port for improved dust collection.
Optional Features: "SandSmart" control (on newer models) manages conveyor speed to prevent overloading.
Sawmill Creek Woodworking Community
Sawmill Creek Woodworking Community
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Performance and Maintenance Issues
Tracking Issues: The conveyor belt is known to track inwards or to one side, requiring periodic adjustments to the tensioning nuts.
Snipe: Users sometimes experience "snipe" (gouging at the ends of boards), which can often be mitigated by adjusting the pressure rollers.
Abrasive Installation: Sandpaper can be tricky to install; pre-cut or rolls from third-party suppliers like Klingspor are often used.
Drum Alignment: The drum must be kept parallel to the conveyor bed for accurate sanding.
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YouTube
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Market Standing & Price
Value: Used models are often found for $400-$600 depending on condition, age, and motor size, with some older models selling for as low as $150-$250.
Upgrades: An "Alignment Kit" (ceramic tracking blocks) is available to fix persistent tracking issues on older units.
Parts: Replacement parts, including conveyor belts and sandpaper, are readily available through eBay and tool retailers.
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For the best results, it is highly recommended to use a high-powered dust collection system with this machine.