Ts 55 track saw

Donnie

Member
Joined
Jun 8, 2013
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I have an Opportunity to get this track saw for $425. I have looked at these several times. My main  reason for wanting one is to straight line rough lumber. I have several festool tools, so I know they are very good tools. It's a demo at a local store. It has been used only a couple of times. There is no warranty with this saw and it concerns me. Are there any known issues with saw that would warrant me to pay the extra and get a new saw with a warranty? Or, do I pull the trigger and get this one?
 
Firstly,  [welcome] to the FOG!

It's been confirmed by Festool USA that warranties are transferable, so it certainly shouldn't be sold without the benefit of one unless it is over three years old.  [scratch chin] Unless there are specific rules relating to ex-demo items?

Is it a TS 55 or a TS 55 R; the latter being the newer model launched this year?

Either way, I'm not aware of any common issues with either saw.

If it's mainly for rough lumber, just be aware of the 55mm maximum depth. Depending on the wood you are working with, the TS 75 might be more appropriate.
 
It's the older model saw. I am aware of the cutting depth of the saw and that was another issue too.
 
Donnie said:
It's the older model saw. I am aware of the cutting depth of the saw and that was another issue too.

Let me also  [welcome] you to The FOG!

The TS55 is a marvelous saw. The current model, the TS55R has some great added features, but from what you say you do not need those extra features.

Normally a new TS55 includes a 55" (1400mm) guide rail. A track saw without a track is not much of a deal, so consider that and also how long a cut you want to make when straight-lining that lumber.

At the very least when ripping lumber, you will not want to use the 48 tooth fine blade supplied with a TS55. You will need to also buy the Panther ripping blade. Using a Panther blade the TS55 is powerful enough to rip lumber up to 50mm thick using the guide rail. Should the rough lumber you want to straight-line be longer than 48" you will need a longer rail, such as the 118" (3000mm) rail and always for straight-lining you will need a pair of Festool clamps. So remember to allow budget to buy those items in addition to the demo saw.

Many people will say buy the TS75 for straight-lining lumber, because it has more power and 20mm more cutting capacity. If your lumber is no thicker than 50mm the TS55 will be swell for you, so long as you use the Panther blade.
 
I agree about the Panther blade. In the last couple of weeks I straight lined about 60' of 8/4 QS white oak. The 55 did not have and issue doing it. Before I got the Panther blade I would make the same rip in 3 passes. That worked well also, just took longer.

Tom
 
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