Underpinner question

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Tommy P

Tommy P

MGF, Master Grumble Framer
Joined
Nov 16, 2003
Posts
870
Loc
Mid North Indiana
Okay, I've decided to go with a ITW AMP VN42 V-Nailer. (although the right deal on a Fletcher 5700 could sway me)

My question is this. Does it matter how old the machine is? I mean is one that is ten years old as good as one made two years ago? New features that I should look for or have these machines remained the same for a number of years? Should I stay away from anything older than.....?

And what options/accessories are important?

Not sure if this should have been posted in Comm Posts.

Thanks
Tom
 
The VN42 has some options but not a lot. The tilting fence is not on all of them and can be seen by the 3 knobs vs 1 knob on machines without. Older models were available without a stand but I believe they all have the stand now. Other than that are the nail heads which run about $65 each. Most commonly used heads and v-nail sizes are 7, 10, 12, 15. The fixed 90 degree hold down clamp is the best in my opinion.

A 10 year old machine wouldn't bother me if it was not in storage for an extended number of years and used on an occasional basis. If it was in regular use as long as it wasn't rode hard and out up wet during that time it should still be in good condition. Not a lot of items that can wear out and parts are inexpensive.
 
No matter what brand of pneumatic underpinner you use, the life of the machine will be determined by the quality of the air that drives it. If you keep the air clean, dry, and lubricated, the machine wll last indefinitely.

Lack of lubrication would quickly cause friction wear. You could lubricate manually by squirting a few drops of pneumatic oil into the air input port, but most people would not do it often enough. But beyond lubrication, you must also deal with misture and debris in the supply air, which can ruin the seals in your machine's cylinders over time.

Make sure your machine has an air filter/lubricator to keep the supply air clean dry, and lubricated. If it does not come with the machine, then buy one and place it in the supply air line very near the machine.
 
Tom,

Ours was used when I bought the shop 14 years ago and works great. We've alway maintained it. Stop by if you are in town and take a look. Dave will be out of town next week, and he would be able to demonstrate better than me. I can operate it, but he does all of the maintenance.

Hope all is well with you!
 
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