Category: Workshop

Toolbox Upgrades

I purchased a Workmate Dropleaf (#79-021) at a flea market three years ago, I thought it was pretty cool, but did not have an immediate need for it. Until now… Since I no longer have a large bench to work…

Collapsible Workbench

This is a collapsible workbench that is useful for light assemble work and cutting sheet goods.  The supporting structure is two workmates.  When not in use, it can be taken apart and stored on the foundation ledge. Free plans available…

Desk Lamp Base Modification

An additional desk lamp was added to the workbench, this one was purchased at Meijer and is similar to the existing IKEA Tertial already in use.  And like the Ikea version, the base is cheap plastic and is not really…

Jet Drill Press Restore Model JDP-17MF

Picked up a very used (and abused) Jet JDP-17MF drill press for cheap.  The advantage of this over the Walker-Turner (restoration details here and here) is the height and the smaller footprint. After getting it home, the first task was…

Oneida Dust Deputy Review

Manufacturer: Oneida Air Systems Model: Dust Deputy Deluxe Cyclone Separator Kit Cost: $80 (on sale at Menards) In theory, the Dust Deputy Deluxe Cyclone Separator Kit includes everything needed to connect a shop vacuum.  Of course it all depends on the vacuum,…

Under-cabinet Shelf and Hinge

I wanted to have a space in the garage shop to keep my pencils and paper for woodworking, stuff needed when working on projects.  The items were kept in a cabinet which works of course, but is not too convenient,…

Floor Fan Repair

An old floor fan that had a cheap plastic base finally broke at the pivot point.  Clearly not designed to last forever, but it live on in the garage with a simple fix.  Replaced the plastic joints with two pieces…

Review: RapidAir – Shop Air in the Garage

Manufacturer: RapidAir Products Website: RapidAir Model: 90500 Cost: $77 Now that the shop has the power upgraded with multiple outlets, mostly eliminating the need for extension cords, the next order of business is to eliminate the need for air hoses to be…

Power Upgrade for the Garage

The recently purchased Grizzly bandsaw arrived pre-wired for 220v, and is rated 10A at 220v.  To use it initially I had to rewire it for 110v, but at 20A, it’s just too inefficient to use on a regular basis. The long put…