Based on my conversation with @Mrholthaus last night I spoke to my brother who has been selling these since the early 80s.
The Timesaver machines are generally bulletproof. You can screw up bad by adjusting the platen bar or drum too aggressively - which results in an expensive fix.
The 100 series Timesaver used a 37 " wide belt for 36" working width. The belt spec in the brochure is length. A good used unit is pretty much just as good as a brand new unit. The underlying technology hasn’t changed much.
These units are essentially a two stage sander, a drum followed by a “platen”.
The first stage is a rubber covered drum that has spiral grooves which is much more aggressive at stock removal than a plain drum.
The second stage is the platen bar. The belt passes over the platen bar, but the bar does not rotate, it just applies even pressure over the area. It is much like the working surface of a handheld belt sander. This results longer belt contact with the work that results in a better finish.
You use two different belt grits on the drum and platen. But only one grit at a time as the machine can only accommodate one belt at a time.There is a limit to how big a step in grit size you can take as too big a step will not guarantee that the platen will remove the scratches from the drum. Belts are quick and easy to change. It’s also possible to use too fine a grit on some types of wood. Too fine a grit on maple will burnish rather than cut and result in a blotchy finish if stained.
Good used units can be had for $5-7k. He has a bad used unit in Denver for $3k that needs ~$2K of work (parts and labor.) When you consider the cost of shipping, we’re likely better off finding something local.
Oz (in DFW)
