Delta 40-694 Scroll saw

[tdub4ever]

Have any of you scrollers used the Delta 40-694 scroll saw? They have one for $399 on Amazon and I've read most reveiws and it seems like a very good saw. I know it's Delta's version of the 788. Any pro's and con's would be helpful. I want to order it today, but don't want to rush into anything. I might have to put my 788 in the shop and I need a good saw to finish my Christmas orders with.

[jscott2]

I have the 40-690 which is essentially a direct copy of the DW788.  I believe the 40-694 is essentially the same as to 40-690 except that it has a gizmo to hold the arm up for blade changes, etc.

Assuming it is the otherwise the same, I have a few comments.

Like the Type 2 DW788, I had to make some changes to the bottom arm to reduce back-and-forth movement of the blade. I also have not been able to eliminate the vibration I get a certain speeds but find I can usually select a speed that works without too much vibration.

All in all, it's a good saw for it's price.  One thing to consider is maintenance and repairs.  For a while, Dewalt was doing the repairs and maintenance.  By now, Delta may have established their own network but it's something to consider.

Hope this helps a bit.
Jim

[tdub4ever]

Thanks for the reply Jim. What modification did you make on the bottom are to reduce the front/back movement on the blade? It has got so bad on my saw that the wood shakes way too much.

[pddesertrat]

There may be something at this sight that would help.  He has articles on tuning up the DeWalt

http://www.scrollsaws.com/

[jscott2]

tdub, I used the technique described on the web site pddesertrat mentioned.  Click the "Dewalt tunreup" on the left, then scroll way, way, down to "Front to back blade movement fix; DW 788 blade forward travel".  That's the procedure I followed. 

Before enlarging the holes, I would try cleaning paint out of the holes, you might get enough movement to solve your problem.

Good luck and let us know what you did and how it worked out.
Jim

[tdub4ever]

Thanks for the replies gentlemen. I ordered the Delta 40-694 scroll saw yesterday from Amazon. Should get it Thursday and I will try your suggestions on my788 next weekend and let you know what happens.

[jimr1cos]

I ordered the Delta 40694 on Amazon for $399 less 15% on a Delta Promotion; with free shipping it is coming to my door for $339. Same saw as the yellow one for
$160 less. My 16 in. Craftsman has been a great starter saw and I am ready for an upgrade.
Jim

[julief]

Congratulations on the new saw.  Happy sawdust.