So, for the past 4-1/2 years, I’ve had this Delta 1/2 HP mortiser that has given fairly reliable service, even though my use is fairly infrequent. I think I’ve cut maybe 5 or 6 dozen mortises of various sizes with it, the whole time I’ve owned. Anyway, I’m working on a pair of Stickley round taborets in black walnut—not exactly the hardest hardwood. I shut off the mortiser to clear the chips, and it wouldn’t go back on. Since the motor wasn’t even humming I assumed I’d fried a fuse or something, but actually, the pushbutton switch had failed.
In doing some web research, I find that others have complained about this problem, and sure enough—after spending $29 for a new switch from an online replacement parts company (eReplacements—pretty fast service, too) I popped the new switch in and it worked like a champ again. I’m thinking that this DPST pushbutton switch is pretty unreliable. Anyone know how to get in touch with Delta? I’d like to send them the old switch and recommend they consider replacing it with a more rugged version. If mine fails again, I’ll be sure to swap it out for a beefier switch—probably with a key and a easy off paddle.