Purchasing a used planer can be a cost-effective way to add a valuable tool to your woodworking arsenal, especially if you’re on a budget or enjoy refurbishing older equipment. However, to ensure you’re getting a good deal and a machine that will serve you well, it’s important to be informed about what to look for. Here are key considerations and steps to take when shopping for a used planer.

Evaluating the Condition of Blades

• Sharpness and Signs of Wear: Begin your inspection by closely examining the blades for their sharpness. Blades that are dull or display nicks can compromise the smoothness and finish of the wood being planed. It’s crucial to assess whether these blades require sharpening or if they are beyond salvage and need replacement.
• Cost and Availability of Replacements: Conduct thorough research on how readily available replacement blades are for the specific model of the planer you are considering. Additionally, verify the cost of new blades to ensure they are economically feasible and not disproportionately expensive. Also, confirm that the blades for your model haven’t been phased out, as using discontinued blades can pose significant challenges in maintenance.

Inspecting the Bed and Rollers

• Assessing Bed Flatness: The bed, or surface on which the wood passes through the planer, must be perfectly flat. Even minor warping in the bed can lead to inaccuracies in planing, resulting in an uneven surface on the finished product. Use a reliable straightedge tool to check for any deviations in flatness across the bed’s surface.
• Cleanliness and Functionality of Rollers: Ensure that the rollers, which help feed the wood through the planer, are not only clean but also operate smoothly. Rollers that are sticky or show signs of rust can impede the wood’s movement through the planer, affecting both the speed of work and the quality of output. If the rollers are dirty or slightly rusty, assess whether a simple cleaning or a more involved maintenance procedure would restore their functionality.

Assessing the Motor and Belts

• Power Output Evaluation: It’s crucial to evaluate whether the motor provides sufficient power for the tasks you intend to perform. A motor with inadequate power output may not only struggle with denser woods or thicker cuts but could also lead to inconsistent results and increased wear on the machine. Ensure that the motor’s specifications align with your requirements and that it operates at full capacity during a test run.
• Inspecting Belt Condition: The belts are vital for transferring power from the motor to the planer’s moving parts. Examine each belt closely for any signs of deterioration such as cracks, fraying, or any other damage. Since compromised belts can affect the planer’s efficiency and are a potential failure point, consider their immediate replacement if there’s significant wear.

Examining the Depth Adjustment Mechanism

• Testing the Ease of Adjustment: The mechanism that adjusts the depth of the cut plays a critical role in the planer’s operation. Test this feature to make sure it moves smoothly and can be easily adjusted. Stiffness or resistance in the adjustment mechanism often indicates underlying issues such as worn gears, inadequate lubrication, or general neglect.
• Verifying Depth Setting Accuracy: Check how accurately the planer maintains the set depth. This can be done by planing a test piece and measuring the finished thickness. Inaccuracy in this setting can result in uneven surfaces and varied thickness across your material, which can compromise the quality of your projects. Any deviation might require calibration or servicing of the mechanism.

Identifying Signs of General Wear and Tear

• Evaluating Overall Condition: A thorough examination of the planer’s exterior and interior can reveal much about its past use and maintenance. Look for rust, which can compromise the structural integrity and smooth operation of the machine. Excessive dust accumulation inside the planer might suggest poor upkeep, potentially leading to overheating or mechanical failures. Additionally, visible signs of repairs, such as patches or non-standard components, may point to previous operational issues.
• Checking Stability: It is essential for the planer to have a stable base to ensure precision in planing. Check the planer on a level surface to see if there is any wobble. Any movement or instability could indicate that the base is misaligned, the feet are damaged, or other structural issues are present, which could affect the machine’s accuracy and safety during operation.

Conducting a Test of the Planer

• Performing In-Person Testing: If feasible, conduct a practical test by running a piece of wood through the planer. This test allows you to observe firsthand any operational irregularities such as inconsistent planing or difficulties in feeding the wood through the machine. Pay attention to how the wood exits the planer; it should come out smoothly with a uniform finish.
• Listening for Noise and Vibration: During operation, listen carefully to the sounds emanating from the planer. Unusual noises, such as grinding, knocking, or whining, can indicate problems with internal components like bearings, belts, or the motor itself. Excessive vibration is not only a sign of potential mechanical issues but also can make precise planing difficult, potentially affecting the quality of your work.

Researching the Brand and Model

• Ensuring Availability of Parts: Before finalizing your purchase, verify the availability of replacement parts for the specific planer model you are considering. Check with manufacturers, local dealers, and online parts suppliers to confirm that you can easily obtain necessary components like blades, belts, and motors. This step is critical, as it impacts the ease and cost of future repairs and maintenance, ensuring the planer remains operational for a longer period.
• Analyzing User Reviews: Spend time researching what other users have said about the planer model. Online forums, product review sites, and woodworking community discussions can provide valuable insights into the planer’s performance, durability, and any prevalent issues. User experiences can highlight potential defects or operational challenges not apparent during a short test or initial inspection.

Considering the Price

• Comparing New vs. Used Prices: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of buying the planer used versus new. Consider not only the first purchase price but also factor in the potential costs for any necessary repairs, upgrades, or parts replacements. Ensure the price difference justifies the purchase, especially considering that a used planer might come without a warranty, potentially increasing your financial risk if issues arise soon after purchase.
• Negotiating Based on Findings: Armed with detailed information about the planer’s condition, potential repair needs, and the cost of comparable new models, you are in a strong position to negotiate the price. Use any identified issues or imminent maintenance needs as leverage to possibly lower the price further. Remember, effective negotiation can significantly affect the overall value and satisfaction of your investment.

Inquire About Previous Use

• Understanding Usage History: It’s essential to have a clear understanding of how the planer was previously used. Ask the seller detailed questions about the context in which the planer operated. Was it used in a commercial, high-volume woodworking shop or was it part of a hobbyist’s occasional project toolkit? Commercially used planers often endure more rigorous and frequent use, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear compared to those used lightly in personal projects. Understanding the intensity and nature of its use can help you gauge potential future issues or the remaining lifespan of the machine.

Warranty and Return Policy

• Evaluating Seller’s Policy: When purchasing a used planer, one of the safety nets you can have is a warranty or a return policy offered by the seller. Inquire if the seller, especially if they are a business, provides any form of warranty or a period within which you can return the machine if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Some sellers might offer a limited warranty that covers certain parts or potential issues for a few months. Also, check if there is a return policy that allows you to return the planer within a specified period if it fails to operate as expected. These policies can provide a layer of security and reassurance in your investment.

Conclusion: Making a Wise Investment in a Used Planer

Investing in a used planer can be a highly beneficial move for your woodworking pursuits, especially when budget constraints are a consideration. However, the decision to buy used machinery should always be accompanied by meticulous inspection and thoughtful inquiry. By diligently assessing each aspect of the planer—from the sharpness and condition of the blades, the smoothness of the bed and rollers, to the motor’s power and the machine’s overall stability—you ensure that you are not compromising on quality.

Key Takeaways

1. Thorough Inspection Is Crucial: Carefully inspect all parts of the planer, including blades, bed, rollers, and motor, to ensure they are in good working condition.
2. Test Before Buying: If possible, perform a test run with the planer to check for any operational issues like noise, vibration, or irregular planing.
3. Check for Parts Availability: Ensure that replacement parts for the specific model are readily available and affordable.
4. Assess Usage History: Inquire about the previous usage of the planer to gauge its condition better. Planers used in commercial settings typically exhibit more wear than those used in hobbyist settings.
5. Negotiate Based on Findings: Use your findings from the inspection as leverage in negotiations to get a fair price.
6. Warranty and Return Policies: Check if the seller offers any warranty or return policy, which can provide additional security for your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I check the sharpness of the blades in a used planer?

A: You can visually inspect the blades for any nicks or dullness. If allowed, conducting a test run by planing a piece of wood will also help determine if the blades need sharpening or replacing.

Q: What are the signs of a well-maintained planer?

A: A well-maintained planer will have a rust-free bed and blades, clean and smooth rollers, a stable base, and a motor that operates smoothly without unusual noises or vibrations.

Q: How can I verify the accuracy of the depth adjustment on a used planer?

A: Test the depth adjustment by setting a specific depth and planing a piece of wood to measure if the thickness matches the set depth. Repeat at different settings to check for consistency and accuracy.

Q: What should I do if the planer shows signs of excessive wear?

A: If the planer shows significant wear, consider the cost of necessary repairs and replacements. Use this information to negotiate a lower price or decide if it’s better to look for another planer in better condition.

Q: Is it worth buying a used planer that needs new parts?

A: It depends on the cost of the new parts and the price of the planer. Calculate if the total investment (purchase price plus parts) is less than buying a new planer. Also, consider the availability of these parts and whether the planer will meet your needs after repairs.