Hello all, I have been reading the archives researching a planer purchase that I would be interested in all of your input on. We own a small band mill and saw quite a bit of lumber. Mixed hardwoods and some sofwoods. We are finishing up a small (1500 bd') kiln and are going to have to deal with surfacing on a medium scale. What I am planning is a surfacing/edging station which will be trailer mounted. There will be times that I will want to presurface (before going to the kiln) or finish lumber right at the kiln/mill or on a job which is why I want the mobility. On rare occasions I will power the station from an 8kw genset. I have already built an edging station that will edge and joint 12' boards in one pass but now am looking to purchase a planer for this setup. 15" would be fine but what I am looking for is input on a planer which will handle slightly air dried but very green lumber (for presurfacing) as well as the finish planing to follow. Additionally I dont really need a stand as it will be sitting on the trailer. I had always planned on a powermatic but now I am wondering if I could get away with something less expensive? Is the spiral cutter a must? Green lumber? Was looking at the 16" Jet? Noise is not really a concern (spiral?). I would appreciate all of your input and foresight.
Thanks, Mark