universal table saw fence for vintage craftsman models

[gunsling]

Alright woodworkers and DIYers, let's talk about finding the perfect universal table saw fence. I've got two old Craftsman table saws, one from the 50s or 60s and another from the 80s or 90s. Neither has a fence, and back when they did, those fences were about as reliable as a wobbly chair. Now I'm on the hunt for a good, stable fence that won't break the bank.
I've considered making my own, but my current tool setup makes that a bit of a challenge. If there's a straightforward plan out there, I might give it a shot. Otherwise, I'm looking for recommendations on a universal fence that's accurate, stable, and easy to install. Bonus points if it works well with vintage Craftsman models.
Also, I'd love to add a riving knife or splitter to these saws to reduce kick-back. Any advice on how to retrofit these features would be a huge help. Have you tackled a similar project or found a fence that works like a charm? Share your tips, tricks, or even your DIY disasters.

 

[KnockKnock]

the biesemeyer or delta t2 are both good options for vintage models. They're stable, accurate, and easy to install. for the riving knife, aftermarket kits like sawstop's can be retrofitted to older saws with some custom work.

 

[thekidisnotmyson]

Alright woodworkers and DIYers, let's talk about finding the perfect universal table saw fence. I've got two old Craftsman table saws, one from the 50s or 60s and another from the 80s or 90s. Neither has a fence, and back when they did, those fences were about as reliable as a wobbly chair. Now I'm on the hunt for a good, stable fence that won't break the bank.
I've considered making my own, but my current tool setup makes that a bit of a challenge. If there's a straightforward plan out there, I might give it a shot. Otherwise, I'm looking for recommendations on a universal fence that's accurate, stable, and easy to install. Bonus points if it works well with vintage Craftsman models.
Also, I'd love to add a riving knife or splitter to these saws to reduce kick-back. Any advice on how to retrofit these features would be a huge help. Have you tackled a similar project or found a fence that works like a charm? Share your tips, tricks, or even your DIY disasters.

I'd refer the Delta T3 instead of the T2. Anyway, you can also check out Vega. It's very easy to install, too, and you'll find that it's quite IDK how to say... gorgeous? Anyway Shop Fox W1716 also has some. Not sure which one is the cheapest because fences are quite expensive at this time...

 

[cilantro89]

the biesemeyer or delta t2 are both good options for vintage models. They're stable, accurate, and easy to install. for the riving knife, aftermarket kits like sawstop's can be retrofitted to older saws with some custom work.

Thanks for this. Are you using one these models? How was it?

 

[goodideas85]

the biesemeyer or delta t2 are both good options for vintage models. They're stable, accurate, and easy to install. for the riving knife, aftermarket kits like sawstop's can be retrofitted to older saws with some custom work.

Did you get to use both of these machines? which one is better?

 

[American0]

@gunsling from my experience, the Delta T2 is probably the best budget bet, it’s the modern classic workhorse.
While the Biesemeyer is the gold standard, the T2 gives you 90% of the accuracy and stability for way less money, and it adapts to those old Craftsman rails pretty smoothly. Just measure your rail length carefully before ordering!