Photo Index - Delta Specialty/Delta Mfg. Co./Delta-Rockwell/Rockwell Intl. - Unisaw

Machinery Photo Index

Manufactured/Badged by:
Delta Specialty/Delta Mfg. Co./Delta-Rockwell/Rockwell Intl.
Milwaukee, WI; Jackson, TN; Tupelo, MS

Machine Specifications
Machine Class:	Wood Working Machinery
Machine Type:	Table Saw
Machine Size:	10"
Submitted By:	John Perronne

Machine Specifications
Description/Model:	Unisaw
Date of Manufacturer:	1970
Serial Number:	EM-9262 (View SN Registry Entry)
Last Updated	3/15/2021 7:43:29 PM

Comments:

1970 Delta/Rockwell Unisaw, model 34-450, serial number EM-9262 purchased in Feb 2021 for $500 from a vintage machinery dealer. Date on bottom of the wing castings is 05/29/1970. I learned this saw came from a high school wood shop. The motor is a 3 HP Rockwell 3 phase. The saw was complete including a Uniguard blade guard.

For 50 years old, the saw was in remarkably good condition. There was no rust really anywhere. The top and wings were smooth with no rust at all. The cabinet cleaned up well using degreaser, WD-40 and scotch brite pads. The plinth, fence, wings/top edges and the underside of the top needed painting. I got perfectly matched oil base enamel at Sherwin Williams. A wire wheel on my drill press worked well to clean up many parts, fasteners and the fence rails.

Only maintenance on trunnion was lubricating tilt and elevation shaft bushings. Arbor and motor bearings were quiet and solid. Belts looked good as well.

Working on the saw, I quickly came to appreciate the quality of construction. The extensive use of castings and heavy gauge sheet metal speaks to the reputation for quality and longevity these saws have earned. 1970 was before the United States had any political or economic relations with China. Many parts were stamped “Made in the USA”.

I wanted to keep the 3 phase motor because it’s a tank, so I worked with my local motor shop for a phase conversion solution. I’m using a 3 HP static phase converter wired immediately before the motor itself. I used the existing magnetic starter/heater, wiring it for single phase. I learned the difference in switches. I needed a momentary normally open/normally closed switch. I ended up keeping the original switch.

I modified the switch mounting adding a deep box and extension in an effort to bring out the switch from the cabinet making it more accessible. The saw already had a 4” hole in the left rear for dust collection so I used that. I made a two piece dust pan for the cabinet out of ¼” plywood. I also will be making a motor cover.

This saw replaces a Jet contractor saw I bought new in 1995 and served me well. It’s virtually identical to the Delta contractor saw that was widely sold for decades with an excellent reputation. I wanted a cabinet saw for some time and the notion of buying a vintage Unisaw appealed to me. Although I liked my Jet, the Unisaw is a different saw in so many ways. It’s unfair to compare performance between the two saws. I feel fortunate to have found a vintage Unisaw that has been taken care of so well for what I think was a bargain price. I hope you have enjoyed my story.

Photo 1:

Comments: Condition as purchased
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Photo 2:

Comments: Original condition. Caked on saw dust on motor and interior cabinet.
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Photo 3:

Comments: Another original condition photo
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Photo 4:

Comments: Static phase converter. NOTE: original magnetic starter is immediately below in recessed box.
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Photo 5:

Comments: Assembly in process
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Photo 6:

Comments: Finished product
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