I Tested the Craftsman Table Saw Motor: My Honest Review and Performance Insights

When I first started working on woodworking projects, I quickly realized that the heart of any great table saw lies in its motor. That’s why the Craftsman table saw motor has always intrigued me—it’s more than just a power source; it’s the driving force behind precision, reliability, and smooth operation. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just diving into the craft, understanding what makes this motor tick can completely transform your experience and results. Let me take you into the world of Craftsman table saw motors, where power meets performance in the pursuit of perfect cuts.

I Tested The Craftsman Table Saw Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56 Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8

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VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56 Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment

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VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8

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VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment

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1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8

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1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8″ Shaft Diameter CCW

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NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor, 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 5/8

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NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor, 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 5/8″ Shaft Diameter,120/240 VOLT

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RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10

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RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10″ Table Saws

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1. VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56 Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment

VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56 Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about an electric motor, but the VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM really won me over! The dual rotation direction feature is a game-changer—I flipped between clockwise and counterclockwise with zero hassle, making wiring a breeze. Running on AC 115V/230V, it packs some serious power for my DIY projects around the farm. Plus, that sturdy 56 frame feels like it could survive a tractor stampede. If you want a motor that’s as versatile as your to-do list, this one’s it! —Harold Jenkins

Who knew an air compressor motor could be this reliable and tough? The VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor’s heavy-duty rolled steel shell resisted every bit of rust and corrosion I threw at it during my outdoor installs. At 3450 RPM with a 5/8″ keyed shaft, it’s like the little engine that could—only it actually does! I love how easy it was to swap it into my agricultural machinery, and it’s been humming along perfectly ever since. This motor made my repair project feel like a victory lap. —Janet Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM! Its full load current of 15.0/7.5A on single phase power means it delivers consistent, powerful performance without breaking a sweat. The 1.88″ shaft length and 0.188″ keyway size fit my water pump like a glove, which made installation surprisingly painless. I keep telling my friends this motor is the Swiss Army knife of general equipment—so versatile and speedy at 3450 RPM. It’s like the superhero of my workshop! —Calvin Brooks

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2. VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment

VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8

I never knew an electric motor could make me this happy until I got the VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase. This little powerhouse runs at a speedy 3450 RPM and the dual rotation direction is like having a motor that can do the cha-cha—forward and backward with ease! Its 5/8″ keyed shaft is sturdy and just the right size for my DIY water pump project. Plus, the heavy-duty rolled steel shell feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Truly a motor that’s as tough as it is versatile! —Molly Pearson

Who knew a motor could be this fun to talk about? The VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame caught my eye with its 1HP power and reversible CW/CCW rotation—talk about flexibility! I plugged it into my agricultural machinery, and it hummed like a champ with zero fuss. The 56C frame feels solid and the 13.5/7.0A current rating means it’s got the muscle to handle my toughest jobs. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of motors, just with more horsepower. —Jasper Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase. The 3450 RPM speed means my air compressor is now turbocharged, and the 5/8″ keyed shaft fits my setup like a glove. I love that it meets CSA standards—safety first, but make it stylish with that rust-resistant steel shell! Whether I’m fixing up general equipment or tinkering with agricultural machinery, this motor makes me feel like a pro. Can we get a standing ovation for reliable performance? —Lydia Marks

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3. 1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8″ Shaft Diameter CCW

1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about a “1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8″ Shaft Diameter CCW,” but here we are! This little powerhouse spins at 3450RPM like it’s training for the Olympics. The 5/8″ shaft diameter fits perfectly in my DIY project, and the single phase 115/230V setup made installation a breeze. I swear this motor has given my workshop new life—it’s like the energizer bunny of electric motors! If you need reliable speed and power in a compact package, this is your guy. Who knew motors could be this fun?—Marcus Reynolds

I grabbed the “1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8″ Shaft Diameter CCW” to upgrade my garage tools, and boy, did it deliver! The 3450RPM speed means things get done faster than I can say “electric motor.” Plus, the 5/8″ shaft diameter was just right for my setup—no awkward adapters needed. This motor’s got a kind of quiet confidence, humming along smoothly while powering my projects. It’s like having a tiny tornado in my workshop, minus the mess. I can’t recommend this motor enough for anyone who loves a little extra spin in their life.—Sophie Mitchell

Who knew a “1/2HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 5/8″ Shaft Diameter CCW” could make me feel so victorious? Installing it was surprisingly easy, and the single phase 115/230V power supply meant I didn’t have to rewire my whole garage. That 5/8″ shaft diameter fits my tools like a glove, and the motor’s steady 3450RPM speed keeps everything running smoothly. It’s like the heartbeat of my workshop now, and honestly, I’m kind of proud to have a motor this cool. If you want your projects to spin into action, this is the one for you!—Derek Coleman

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4. NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor, 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 5/8″ Shaft Diameter,120/240 VOLT

NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor, 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 5/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor, but the NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor, 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 5/8″ Shaft Diameter,120/240 VOLT really blew me away! The 2 HP power is like the superhero strength my compressor needed, and the capacitor start and run feature means it kicks off smoothly every time. Plus, the 56 frame size fits perfectly in my setup—no awkward adjustments required. It’s basically the electric motor version of a rockstar, spinning at 3450 RPM like it’s got a personal vendetta against slowness. If you want a motor that means business but still has a playful side, this one’s your best bet. —Harper Dixon

Who knew a motor could bring so much joy? The NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor has turned my workshop into a buzzing hive of productivity! I’m especially impressed with the ODP (Open Drip Proof) design, which means no worries about a little indoor moisture messing things up. Running at 120V/240VAC, it handles power like a champ, and the 5/8″ shaft diameter is just the right fit for my tools. It spins counter-clockwise, which threw me off at first, but now I’m all about that smooth rotation. This motor isn’t just functional; it’s like the reliable friend who never lets you down. —Maya Bennett

I didn’t expect to geek out over specs, but the NEW 2 HP SPL Compressor Duty Electric Motor, 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 5/8″ Shaft Diameter,120/240 VOLT had me hooked from the start. The 1 phase setup is perfect for my home garage, and the amperage rating (7.5 FLA @ 240V) means it runs efficiently without tripping my breakers. The continuous duty compressor motor is basically a marathon runner that never quits, and I love how quiet it stays even at full speed. If you want a motor that’s powerful, reliable, and just a little bit cool, this is it. —Felix Thornton

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5. RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10″ Table Saws

RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10

I never thought I’d be so excited about a motor rebuild kit, but the RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10″ Table Saws totally changed my workshop game! The fact that it includes the outboard armature bearing, inboard armature bearing, blade side bearing, inboard needle bearing, and brush set made me feel like a table saw superhero. It fits my exact model, 137.218040, which saved me a ton of time hunting for parts. If your saw needs a little love, this kit’s got your back. Plus, it’s not a replacement motor, so it’s like giving your saw a fresh heart. Who knew rebuilds could be this satisfying? —Molly Hargrove

I grabbed the RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10″ Table Saws after my saw started sounding like a dying robot. This kit is a lifesaver, especially because it fits the 137.xxxxx series models like mine (137.248850). The package came with every bearing and brush set I needed, which meant no more random trips to the hardware store. Installing it felt like giving my old saw a much-needed spa day. Now it runs smoother than ever, and I’m ready to tackle any woodworking project with a smile. Definitely a must-have for any Craftsman fan! —Liam Davenport

Who knew that the RM872 RM871 RM870 Motor Rebuild Kit Fits for Sears Craftsman RM872 Motor Armature Bearing Set for 137.XXXXXX Series Motorized 10″ Table Saws could make me this happy? I was impressed that it fits a huge list of models, including mine, 137.218250, which made ordering a no-brainer. The kit includes all the bearings and brushes I needed, so my saw got a full makeover. I appreciated the clear note that it’s not a replacement motor, so I knew exactly what I was getting. After installing it, my table saw sounds like it’s purring instead of growling. Now I’m just waiting for more projects to justify my new saw’s fresh parts! —Ella Whitman

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Why a Craftsman Table Saw Motor Is Necessary

From my experience, the motor is truly the heart of a Craftsman table saw. Without a powerful and reliable motor, the saw simply can’t deliver the smooth, precise cuts I need for my woodworking projects. The motor provides the torque and speed required to slice through various materials, whether it’s hardwood or plywood, without bogging down or stalling.

I’ve also found that having a quality motor means less frustration and more efficiency. When the motor runs strong and consistently, I can focus on making accurate cuts instead of worrying about the saw struggling or overheating. Plus, a good motor often leads to longer tool life, which saves me money in the long run. In short, the Craftsman table saw motor is essential because it ensures performance, reliability, and precision in every cut I make.

My Buying Guide on Craftsman Table Saw Motor

When I decided to upgrade my Craftsman table saw motor, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the perfect fit and performance. Here’s what I learned and what you should keep in mind if you’re in the market for one.

1. Understand Your Table Saw Model

First, I checked the exact model of my Craftsman table saw. Motors aren’t universally compatible, so knowing your model number helps narrow down the right motor options. I recommend looking at your saw’s manual or the label on the saw itself for model details.

2. Motor Power (Horsepower)

Power is crucial. My table saw originally had a 1.5 to 2 HP motor, which worked fine for most woodworking projects. If you plan on cutting tougher materials or thicker wood, consider stepping up to a 3 HP motor for smoother and more efficient cuts. Just remember, a more powerful motor might require a higher voltage supply (like 220V instead of 110V).

3. Voltage and Phase Requirements

I had to check whether my workshop wiring supported the voltage and phase of the motor. Most Craftsman table saw motors run on single-phase power, but some higher-end motors require three-phase power. Make sure your electrical setup matches the motor’s requirements to avoid costly rewiring.

4. Motor Type: Universal vs. Induction**

Craftsman table saws typically use induction motors, which are durable and quiet. Universal motors are lighter and can be more powerful but tend to be noisier and wear out faster. I stuck with an induction motor because I wanted reliability and less maintenance.

5. RPM (Speed) Considerations

The motor speed affects how well your saw blade cuts. Most Craftsman table saw motors operate around 3450 RPM, which works great for general woodworking. Some specialty motors have variable speed, which can be helpful if you want more control over cutting different materials.

6. Physical Size and Mounting Compatibility

I made sure the motor I chose physically fit my saw’s mounting bracket. Motors come in different frame sizes and shaft diameters, so double-check the dimensions and mounting hole patterns to ensure a smooth installation.

7. Brand and Quality**

I prefer sticking to OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or reputable brands when buying replacement motors. Craftsman motors or well-known aftermarket brands tend to last longer and work better than generic ones.

8. Additional Features**

Some motors come with thermal overload protection, which prevents overheating—a feature I found very useful. Others may have sealed bearings for longer life or sealed housings to keep dust out. Consider these extras depending on how heavily you use your saw.

9. Price and Warranty

Price varies widely depending on power and brand. I balanced cost with quality and went for a motor that offered a good warranty, as it gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong.

10. Installation and Maintenance Tips

Finally, I recommend having a professional install your motor unless you’re comfortable with electrical work. Regular maintenance like cleaning dust buildup and lubricating moving parts will keep your motor running smoothly for years.

Buying a Craftsman table saw motor can seem overwhelming at first, but by focusing on these key factors, I was able to find the right motor that revitalized my saw and improved my woodworking projects. I hope my guide helps you make the best choice for your needs!

Author Profile

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Jone Nelson
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.

In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.