A few kapex questions, inc motor issues.

[carlb40]

Ok guys just a couple of questions on the kapex. I am a site carpenter and i currently use a Hitachi 8fs i think.  [embarassed]. As we all know anything other than a kapex is crap with dust collection.
So i'm looking into a kapex for next year. Now my work can involve a bit of everything, from  stud work (framing) to architraves/ skirting (trim work).

So the 1st question  Is how do you use yours? I'm not in a position to own 2 saws or be able to carry both if i did have space to own 2.
Do any of you use the kapex for stud work/ framing or just for 2nd fix/ trim work? Is the saw too posh for rougher work?  [scared]

2nd question - I have seen a few topics on the motor issue  [eek]
So i'm wondering how far spread it is or does it affect a minority? If any members who have had motor problems could post a +1 to keep it clean looking on here.
I would also like to hear from peeps who have had one say 8 yrs and nothing ever broke  [big grin] LOL

TIA

 

[jonny round boy]

I got what I think was the second Kapex that came into the UK (except the demo models, of course!), so I think that's pretty much 8* years or so. I pre-ordered it before it was released.

I've never had a single issue with the motor, though it has been back to Festool UK for other issues (once because the top section of the fence locked in position & wouldn't move; The second time was when I was rushing (I wasn't taking care) & a big piece of timber got pulled into the back of the saw & smashed part of the housing [embarassed]. When it went back for the fence it didn't need to, Festool UK was going to just send me the new fence but I could do without it for a few days & took the opportunity to get a free service instead!  [wink]

I don't do much studwork, but I use the kapex for it when I do. And decking. And, a few weeks back, my first roof, too. It's definitely not 'too posh for rougher work'.  [big grin]

*Edit: I've just checked, and it was August 2007, so it was just over 7 years ago when they came out.

 

[joiner1970]

I recently bought one but have kept my big Makita for rough stuff. I might even buy the small Makita chop saw as it's much easier to carry round for everyday work

 

[promhandicam]

The only problem I've had with mine - and I've used it for quite a few things, was that one of the lasers became dislodged and had to go back for repair. No problems since, but I do try and take care moving it around if I take it on site. I do also have my old metabo which is still good for the odd small job when I can't be bothered to take the wings off the kapex which usually stays set up in the workshop.

 

[Holzhacker]

Had mine for 4-5 years I think, not sure. No issues
Mine gets used for both framing and trim work but probably more trim and misc
As a rehabber I'm still too comfortable with a speed square and favorite circ saw (old PC) over a bucket or my knee (I know pathetic)
I have no issues using the kapex for rough work. I won't use it for porch work though. Not that it won't handle it just that porch work tends to be dangerous for any tool. Whacking my crappy old Hitachi chopsaw with a 12' 6x6 doesn't really bother me. Dropping one on my kapex ... [crying]
Its not about if the saw can handle it, its more about setting standards for preserving your investment. I drive my truck in crappy weather but the CBX stays in the garage warm and dry. Would you drive your Porsche in lousy weather or take the toyota?

 

[peter halle]

I hav had mine since mid 2010.  I use it for everything from framing to decking to trim.  Never had an issue with mine.

Peter

 

[carlb40]

Thank's guys, good to know some of the motors are still alive and kicking after 2 years.  ;D

On this job the largest timbers to be cut on my mitre saw was 9x3 tanalised i think.
I guess once i have one next year i can decide from there how best to use it.  [smile]

 

[ifit]

Your wasting your time for site work - the kapex will not run off a portable generator

 

[carlb40]

Your wasting your time for site work - the kapex will not run off a portable generator

Yes i saw your earlier thread. All the sites i have been on so far have supplied transformers from the huge direct wired type to the 5kva on the present site. If i have to supply my own then i will take my 2 3kva trannies in and use one for the kapex and one for the midi etc  [wink]

 

[ifit]

That solves that then  [tongue]

I've been using my dewalt for the last month or so due to there being no power on site - its bloody frustrating!

 

[carlb40]

No power on site?  [eek]  I would just go elsewhere  [cool]

 

[ifit]

I generally work on new buildings and they never seem to get power until they are finished