From the pictures it looks like the Craftsman will need to have a new switch to be usable. Check the price before you decide, also unless they have changed they charge you extra for the safety key.
My heroes. I must say that I still watch Up In Smoke occasionally. Tommy just never got into mainstream media like Cheech did. Really wish they would do a reunion of some sorts.
Great Job on the project. Is the pattern available?
Yes I wax the work surfaces on all my equipment. Planer, Jointer, Scroll Saw, Table Saw or anything that the wood will slide on. I use a citrus wax that I found. Don't remember the name right now. It halps protect the metal and aslo makes the wood slide easier.
I like several different woods including Cedar, Oak, Walnut, Maple and Poplar. I have found that Mahogany does leave a lot of fuzzies. To me the trick is to use the smallest blade possible to do the job. 2/0 is my favorite go to blade.