Delta 28-276:
This saw is at Lowes right now for $399. But I am finding conflicting info on the web. The saw on the floor at Lowes has the motor mounted behind. But I am finding some on the web where it shows it mounted underneath. How exactly can you tell the difference if the Delta 28-276 is either the USA or Overseas version?
The one at Lowes has a good size sticker that says "Made in USA" on the top cover. As well as Made in USA under the model number (i think).
Are their different versions of this saw? I did a search on Google of rec.woodworking and you guys posted some good word for this saw (for it's price anyway). On Google a few of you guys comment on the "excellent Delta
14" upper and lower blade guide assembly"One post I found seemed very informative (But is it accurate): "28-203 is the U.S. made model single speed model, which is used as the core of the 28-293 (1 hp closed stand), and the 28-299A (1.5 hp closed stand). Some dealers still have the 28-275 and 28-278, the US-made 3/4 hp open stand saw, and the 28-299 US-made 1 hp closed stand saw. The 28-306E is the core 28-303 metal-cutting geared saw on a 1 hp closed stand. The 28-206 and 28-276 are the overseas saws that line up with the US-made 28-293 and the older 28-275/278. In terms of materials and component design, the overseas saws have slightly larger tables (16" x 16"), a 4" cast-in-place dust port, two speed pulley (Hardwoods and softwoods are best sawn at different speeds) and a Carter-like quick tension release. They are designed to compete with the Jet at the $500 and $600 price point. Both still use the excellent Delta 14" upper and lower blade guide assembly designs and 9 spoke wheel. Having looked at both models SBS with the US versions, they are pretty much a toss-up. In terms of bang for buck, both the 206 and 276 saws match up favorably with the Jet products on price as well as features, with larger tables, quick-release tensioner, functional dust collection, better guides, cast iron trunnion, and multi-speed capability. Also - Delta has changed the tensioner spring to a die spring, a move that Jet made a while ago, and makes the purchase of an Iturra tensioner spring an option rather than a requirement for resawing. From what I can see between the Canadian and US factory sites, the overseas saws were introduced in Canada a few years ago, alongside the US made tools in Canadian packaging (English/French instruction set, warning labels, etc.). Not sure what prompted the decision to compete on price; however, given the US made saws are still there for the folks that prefer them, I don't see much of an issue. Now if they could just go back to cast iron wheels..."