Thread: Fixing up a Delta TS

Thanks to a super generous friend of my folks I've been given a working 10" Delta table saw for nix. It looks like it's in pretty good nick but I'd like to give it a decent once over to make sure it's safe, clean and working properly before I start using it too much.

What do y'all think I should be paying particular attention to?

So far all I've got on my list is:
- Remove rust from the top and cleaning the mitre slots: How can I do this without mucking up the flat level too much? I'm guessing some sort of rust removal spray and a bit of rubbing, but with what? I'm only used to attacking things wildly with the angle grinder and wire brush wheels so something delicate is a tad out of my experience. Also, is there some kind of finish I should put on it to stop it coming back that won't taint my stock?
- Fix up the plug which is exposing the (still sheathed) wires a smidge.
- Replace the metal plate around the blade, which while still ok has more room around the blade than I'd like, and I want to do 45deg cuts as well without having to fiddle too much.
- Give the motor a bit of a spray with the air compressor just to clean it out of loose dust.
- Replacing the haggard old blade.
- Ditch or maybe replace the blade cover.

The height/angle wheels are moving pretty well but I can only tighten/lock them enough to require a bit of two handed force to turn them. Not being accustomed to having an apparently decent saw, is that normal? Is it worth greasing/RP7 the threaded rods a little for smoother movement or does it cause some nasty dust collection?

I haven't checked the fence and lock yet. Anything I should be careful of there to not put it out of whack?

I can't wait to get this puppy going so I can relegate my spawn of Satan Ryobi to other things...actually I'd like one setup for ripping and the other for crosscutting but I can't decide which would be better. Obviously the Delta has superior general construction and a better motor, but also has a much better fence and mitre slots. I may just have to suck it up and resign myself to changing blades from time to time.

Thanks in advance for any tips.