Review on 1/2 HP Single Phase Oscillating Spindle Sander By Shop Fox W1831 by Abhinav Drury

The packaging and design is great. The weight and balance would make for a good stable working surface. The only problem so far is that it didn't turn on out of the box. The shaft moves by hand, the wiring connections were solid and cleanly routed, but not even a hum when it's powered up. The design led me to request a replacement, not just refund. I will hope that the new one works and that the delivery is faster than quoted. The first one was a couple of days, the second is going to be a week? Maybe they keep the working units at a location farther from my house.I received the replacement sander and have used it for the intended project. As I anticipated, a working unit did a great job. I was sanding layered oak (two 3/4" boards tacked together) and it performed well. Tightening the nut holding the sanding cylinder to the drum was a mystery until I noticed the squared off top of the spindle required a back up wrench. Once in place, the unit did the job. It's not too loud, and would work even better with smaller stock. In spite of the false start with the non-functioning first unit, I am pleased with the purchase. I operated it on top of a cast iron table saw, there was no vibration drift and it was a solid work surface without clamping the unit down. If you don't have a vacuum, remember a mask. The sawdust was fine and powdery.