Porter Cable Scroll Saw

[mmiller3506]

Hello,

 I just picked up a used Porter Cable PCB370ss yesterday on Facebook Marketplace for $50. The owner said he purchased it new several years ago, used it a few times but it wasn't what he needed for his business at the time so it sat in the corner since then. After bringing it home I gave it a good cleaning and installing a blade from a pack he had lying around it runs smooth with little vibration. I went to try to square the blade with the table and the front knob used to tighten the table down had instantly cracked and came off. I also noticed the blade does not line up in the center of the throat plate a s well. I have attached a photo to this post to show. 

 When I contacted the owner he said he was willing to give me my money back if I brought the saw back to him. Is this saw worth keeping? I can get a replacement knob for $15 but I don't know about the blade being centered in the throat plate. Is this not a big deal or is it an indication something else is wrong with the saw? 

 

Thank you

[FrankEV]

Not sure if it was the same model number, but I had a PC 16" saw.  Ran well, but on startup the blade jumped around for a second or so untill it smooth out.  It was very aggravating when I was trying to start a cut.   I sold mine for $50 also, came with a stand and it was in like new condition.

Unless you have a reason for your purchase we don't know about, If this is going to be your primary saw, I woud not keep it.  For that matter, even if just for a back up saw, I'm not sure I would keep it.  It will probably wind up in the corner of your shop taking up space and collecting dust.   

Just my opinion. 

Edited October 11, 2021 by FrankEV

[preprius]

i too had this saw.  I started this group in Dec. less than a year ago.

I replaced the plastic plate with a metal one. Made it cut so much better.  The plastic flexes on the downstroke.  Thus giving not 90 degree cuts.   I used this for about 3 months then gave it away.  That was Feb this year.  The table tilt worked but i had to keep it really clean. It would stick.  

Mine did not hold high tension on the blades. Even after I replaced the clamps.  

Find a good one on craigs list.

[mmiller3506]

On 10/11/2021 at 9:27 AM, FrankEV said:

Not sure if it was the same model number, but I had a PC 16" saw.  Ran well, but on startup the blade jumped around for a second or so untill it smooth out.  It was very aggravating when I was trying to start a cut.   I sold mine for $50 also, came with a stand and it was in like new condition.

Unless you have a reason for your purchase we don't know about, If this is going to be your primary saw, I woud not keep it.  For that matter, even if just for a back up saw, I'm not sure I would keep it.  It will probably wind up in the corner of your shop taking up space and collecting dust.   

Just my opinion. 

Thanks for the help. I decided to return it and I'll wait until I can get something nicer.

[OCtoolguy]

Try to find a good used mid-range saw like a Dewalt or the Delta clone. They can be found for $175 on up. Not knowing where you live, I will say I have a good Hegner that I'm selling for $450. Great saw that will last a lifetime. I'm in So. Cal.