Thread: I bought a thicknesser-planer combo. (and I'm happy)

I recently took the plunge and bought a combination machine. I read the forum and searched the web. A frequent opinion offered is that it is better to buy two separate machines as the cost is the same or less and it prevents the frustration of wasting time to convert from one format to the other. I expected that converting the machine would take "ages"

Despite that I decided that I would save some space with one machine and I noticed that the planer width is greater (for the money) in the combination units. Since I need a flat side on the material before using the thicknesser I need a planer at least as wide as the material I would put through the thicknesser.

And so I decided on the WoodFast 12 inch combo from Carbatec. I have 15 amp power and a two HP dust extraction system. I also have a small crane to lift the 217kg crate off the ute and to get the machine into position.

It seems to me that I have made the right decision. The noise levels are easily tolerated. The dust extraction does not let anything escape. And it takes slightly less than 60 seconds to convert from thicknesser to planer or the other way.

The fence is aluminium yet it is a very stiff extrusion and the clamping mechanism is cast iron.

I have posted this to try and balance the argument with my (limited) experience and explain that some of us don't mind spending a minute to set up our equipment.