Thread: 2hp DC-3 ( modded) vs 3hp DC-7

I've read through a lot of posts on this forum, but not all of them, so perhaps this question has already been answered.

I currently have a Hare and Forbes DC3 Dust collector and the CDS 2/3 cyclone. After reading here I am no longer using the cyclone and am using a 5in hose as far as possible. On the to do list are opening up tool ports to 6in and building an air tight cupboard for the DC and venting outside.

As I am about to build a cupboard I was wondering about making it big enough to house the 3hp four-bag DC 7 dust collector. It already has a 6in inlet and acceptable outlet so would save having to modify my 2hp unit, but I'm wondering if it would work any better than a modded DC3 because from what I can figure from the info available online, it looks like it probably has the same 305mm diameter impeller, so presumably same max airflow?

For reference I am using a garage that is part of the house, total 70m2 area (not all available for workshop). I currently have a cabinet table saw, jointer, thickness planer, router (1 in table and 1 handheld), and a small lathe. Planning on adding a bandsaw, mitre saw and sander in future. I have a 25A circuit with 2 x 15A outlets (1 used by table saw and jointer) and another 25A circuit with 4 x 10A outlets for other stuff. According to website the 3hp DC7 comes with a 10 plug? I currently use a Jaycar remote controlled outlet thing rated at 10A but not sure if it will handle 3hp.

Im thinking of mounting the DC upside down in the cupboard so I can suspend 6in PVC overhead with branches and drops to each tool, but there is no way I can keep the runs shorter than 3m.

So long story short, does the DC7 have any advantage over a modified DC3?

If the DC7 is worth getting, would it help to put pleated filters on it (to maximise airflow)? I have a pleated filter on my DC3 so would only need to buy one more.