Some tools are just not worthile to repare. I ,too, have a Crapsman contractor table saw. Motor burnt out, and Sears charges $350 for the motor -- Much more than the table saw worth now, and probably more than what I paid brand new. I went to the recycle tool center (a real dumpy place) and got a Mongomery fan motor for $15. But the most inexcusable design flaw doommed it. The whole tilting arbor gissmo was back by the housing (a thin gauge sheet metal) itself. The housing buckled and throw the saw blade out of line -- it can never cut at right angle to the table surface ( the most used angle for any cutting. )and there is no cure to this.
That is why I'm using a Dewalt, now. The Sears just sit in the garage. The cast iron table makes it too heavy to toss into the dumpster.

: My thanks to all who have expressed their opinions on tools. I'll be buying
: tomorrow. I expect to take the buy it once route and keep one of the big
: contract tool companies in business.

: Like Russ, the table saw I use is an old craftsman. We just replaced the
: motor last spring. I've also had to clean out the bushings once replace
: the power switch multiple times and put a new stand under it, not bad for
: an antique. It serves well. Now if I can just get a jigsaw to last 50
: years...

: I expect this saw to get used a lot. When it is not at my house it will be at
: my dads house. He will find some way to abuse it. Probably cutting 1"
: marble or something. It needs to be solid for our family.

: I also appreciate the comments on the Yare. I've been our in my brothers
: white water kayak enough to know how to handle a tippy boat. I want this
: one to be a challenge to built and fast to paddle. I think the Yare will
: fit the bill.

: Speaking of tippy, has anyone else found themselves upsidedown after leaning
: over the side of their kayakgetting to get their arm wet . I've done that,
: but only once!

: Thanks again,

: Foster