Author Topic: VAC SYS DISCONTINUED? (Read 117840 times)

Rollin22Petes · « **on:** December 03, 2021, 01:15 PM »

Does anybody know the official word on this, Toolnut says its permanently dicontinued as of December 1, others say its not orderable, and even others show a ship date of January or Feburary. I was finally going to purchase one and this happens just my luck. Does anyone know of a good alternative ? Thanks, Chris

Packard · « **Reply #1 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:28 PM »

I don't know this company, but they are still offering it.

https://www.woodworkingshop.com/product/FS203148/?dfw_tracker=111965-2694&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_Oiw4aDI9AIV2f_jBx05dAe7EAYYBCABEgKGWvD_BwE

DynaGlide · « **Reply #2 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:31 PM »

I'm pretty surprised by this - was there an announcement? This is their best tool as it is useful to any woodworker regardless of their Festool affiliation.

Packard · « **Reply #3 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:33 PM »

Rockler offers a vacuum clamping system: https://www.rockler.com/rockler-vacuum-clamp-pod-kit. The vacuum pump is sold separately.

This google search shows others including Lee Valley, Infinity Tools, etc. Surf:

https://www.google.com/search?q=vacuum+clamping+system&client=firefox-b-1-d&ei=XWGqYZvZEqGbptQPybSEuAs&ved=0ahUKEwjb-6fhoMj0AhWhjYkEHUkaAbcQ4dUDCA0&uact=5&oq=vacuum+clamping+system&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAMyBQgAEIAEMgUIABCABDIGCAAQFhAeMgkIABDJAxAWEB4yBggAEBYQHjIGCAAQFhAeMgYIABAWEB4yBggAEBYQHjIGCAAQFhAeMgYIABAWEB46BwgAEEcQsAM6EQgAEOoCELQCEIoDELcDEOUCOgQIABBDOgUIABCRAjoOCC4QgAQQsQMQxwEQowI6CwguEIAEEMcBEKMCOggILhCABBCxAzoOCC4QgAQQsQMQxwEQ0QM6DQguELEDEMcBEKMCEEM6BwgAELEDEEM6CAgAEIAEELEDOggIABDJAxCRAjoICAAQgAQQyQM6BwgAEIAEEAo6CAghEBYQHRAeOgUIIRCgAToECAAQDToGCAAQDRAeOgkIABDJAxANEB46CAgAEA0QBRAeSgQIQRgASgQIRhgAUMcDWMJGYM9JaAdwAngAgAGFAYgB9BCSAQQyNS4ymAEAoAEBsAEKyAEIwAEB&sclient=gws-wiz

DynaGlide · « **Reply #4 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:37 PM »

Yeah I know you can cobble something together with other company's products. I just like the robustness of the Vac Sys pivoting head.

Rollin22Petes · « **Reply #5 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:38 PM »

Yeah it kinda surprised me also, no announcement that know of. I've seen some of the systems Packard referred too but they just don't offer the versatility of the Vac sys especially the pivoting heads.

elfick · « **Reply #6 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:39 PM »

I suspect it's just an error as right underneath the discontinued notice is a notice that states: "Pre-Order - Ships on January 24, 2022 - Subject to Change"

It's still listed on the Festool USA site.

I'm sure @Shane Holland can clarify.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #7 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:40 PM »

Quote from: elfick on December 03, 2021, 01:39 PM

I suspect it's just an error

Here's hoping. I always tell people if I had to keep only one Festool, it'd be the vac sys. I use it on every project.

elfick · « **Reply #8 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:44 PM »

It may be that Festool is no longer including VAC SYS SE 2 in 203149. I see the VAC SYS SE 2 listed on the Toolnut site but not on the Festool site as being part of that SKU.

Rollin22Petes · « **Reply #9 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:52 PM »

It is a bit confusing hopefully Shane or somebody at Festool can shed some light on the situation. I order a lot of stuff from Highland woodworking as there so close it's only a one day ship, and they have taken the sets,the pumps,and the heads completely off there site.

Shane Holland · « **Reply #10 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:55 PM »

Some dealers may have inventory in stock or in transit, but we are sold out of the VAC-SYS with the exception of one of the head units.

The official word from FUSA is...

Quote

Due to continued supply chain pressure, Festool is permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production and final inventory is in transit to North America.

Rollin22Petes · « **Reply #11 on:** December 03, 2021, 01:59 PM »

Not what I wanted to hear, but Thanks for the clarification.

ChuckS · « **Reply #12 on:** December 03, 2021, 02:07 PM »

My local Lee Valley still has limited quantities of the system/set available. But their website is still taking US/Canadian orders for delivery expected in Dec. and Jan., apparently drawing from the inventory that's in transit to N.A.

I had been eyeing this sys for a while, but decided that it doesn't match the way I work.

squall_line · « **Reply #13 on:** December 03, 2021, 02:49 PM »

Another line item in the list of tools I'm glad I purchased this year, but also a bit worried because now it's a orphan/unicorn.

See also: CMS Router Table.

jonnyrocket · « **Reply #14 on:** December 03, 2021, 03:25 PM »

This is one of those tools that la hard to fully appreciate how great it is until you start using it. I picked up the basic version on the recon site 2 years ago and have been considering getting the second head for it.

fignewton · « **Reply #15 on:** December 03, 2021, 03:28 PM »

Quote from: Shane Holland on December 03, 2021, 01:55 PM

Some dealers may have inventory in stock or in transit, but we are sold out of the VAC-SYS with the exception of one of the head units.

The official word from FUSA is...

Quote
Due to continued supply chain pressure, Festool is permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production and final inventory is in transit to North America.

Holy crapola! I'd been waiting for them to come back in stock somewhere to order and now this.

I wanted one and the different head set to go with it.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #16 on:** December 03, 2021, 03:31 PM »

Quote from: jonnyrocket on December 03, 2021, 03:25 PM

This is one of those tools that la hard to fully appreciate how great it is until you start using it. I picked up the basic version on the recon site 2 years ago and have been considering getting the second head for it.

I've never found a need for the 2nd head. Now i'm considering one, just in case?

Gerald_D · « **Reply #17 on:** December 03, 2021, 03:40 PM »

Wow- this is surprising. This has become an invaluable tool in my shop. I have both heads and, while I don’t use the SE-2 often, it does get used.

Hope if you are looking that you are able to find before they are no longer available.

Regards,
Gerald

Cheese · « **Reply #18 on:** December 03, 2021, 04:46 PM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 03, 2021, 03:31 PM

I've never found a need for the 2nd head. Now i'm considering one, just in case?

Better sooner than later Matt...TN had 2 of them in stock, they now only have one left.

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #19 on:** December 03, 2021, 05:47 PM »

Wow...I agree, this tool is invaluable.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #20 on:** December 03, 2021, 06:07 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 03, 2021, 04:46 PM

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 03, 2021, 03:31 PM
I've never found a need for the 2nd head. Now i'm considering one, just in case?

Better sooner than later Matt...TN had 2 of them in stock, they now only have one left.

I'll hold out for the discontinued discount @Cheese

Cheese · « **Reply #21 on:** December 03, 2021, 10:29 PM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 03, 2021, 06:07 PM

I'll hold out for the discontinued discount @Cheese

Nicely played Matt..

Stan Tillinghast · « **Reply #22 on:** December 03, 2021, 11:13 PM »

Well, thanks again for the heads up, gentlemen.
I've ordered from Lee Valley, backordered but expected 12/13/21.
This was already on my next to buy list, thanks to the recommendations of all of you.

Bob D. · « **Reply #23 on:** December 04, 2021, 05:19 AM »

I was not in the market for the Vac-Sys but I am sad to see it disappear from the ranks of the exceptional Festool product line.

For those that have one or one on order from that last remaining stock, I wonder what the support situation is now. If they can't source enough parts to build new where will they get parts to maintain systems previously sold.

I don't know if there are any consumable items, but the seal around the perimeter seems like something that could be damaged during use or may require replacement from time to time. Hoses, O-rings, and that sort should be easy enough to find alternate sources for if need be.

If there are wear parts or consumables it might pay to assess future need and stock up if/while you still can.

Or maybe @Shane Holland can shed light on what the spare parts situation might be going forward.

Vondawg · « **Reply #24 on:** December 04, 2021, 07:09 AM »

I was thinking the same thing…how does one fix or get parts in the future

manuc · « **Reply #25 on:** December 04, 2021, 07:29 AM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 03, 2021, 10:29 PM

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 03, 2021, 06:07 PM
I'll hold out for the discontinued discount @Cheese

Nicely played Matt..

I’m not sure if these will be discounted given the limited stock. Similar to the router table. I ordered a second head unit since I wanted one but thought I would have more time…

jhall · « **Reply #26 on:** December 04, 2021, 08:08 AM »

I noticed the vac sys was mia at the festool live on Friday. I wonder if that means they have to go back to a time without. My understanding of discontinued tools is they keep a supply of parts for repair for some time.

Crazyraceguy · « **Reply #27 on:** December 04, 2021, 08:50 AM »

That's funny. Yesterday was the first time that I actually wished I had one in the shop. I was doing some edgebanding, by hand, on some fairly small parts that had curved edges. They were too small to clamp from the surface and the curve going around a 90 angle made it impossible to clamp from the edges.
I ended up making a fixture to hold a MFK700 upside-down and stationary. This way I could move the parts over the tool, instead of the usual.
There have been other times when it would have been handy, but a work-around wasn't so big of a deal either. This time, it took as long to build the fixture as I actually needed to use it, but I will have it for future use, so not a big loss either.
Still would be nice to have a Vac-Sys though.

afish · « **Reply #28 on:** December 04, 2021, 09:38 AM »

I agree, The vac sys looks really handy for doing hand applied edge banding. I built my own vac sys and rarely use it. Just goes to show everyone is different I guess. I have went back and forth on buying one many times just to have and a few things turn me off from it. Id like that super narrow pod but it looks like I have to buy a whole kit which is pricey and the rubber cups if or when the rubber dries, cracks etc. is like 70 bucks each and I could only find the part# for the main round pod. I didnt go into super sleuth mode but I did look for the others. Im not trying to get stuck with something that is unrepairable in the future. Im also not sold on the foot pedal. I know I could change that over to a switch like I use on my other stuff but... For now I just make my own simple vacuum pods that plug into the MFT holes if I need some vacuum clamping. They are easy to make and the rubber cord probably only cost 70 cents not 70 bucks. The vac sys is still a nice system though. I wouldnt buy the pump though. I know its quiet but I dont need or want some motor that is running continuously. My old senco air compressor is converted into a vacuum pump and sits there silently holding about 25" of mercury 24/7 and only cycles when needed. I would probably put the 700 towards a vacupress pump

ChuckS · « **Reply #29 on:** December 04, 2021, 10:05 AM »

Not that I want this product, but I find it hard to understand the given reason for the discontinuation of this product. Supply chain issues affect all kinds of products including automobiles, and I know of no other products going into retirement with supply chain difficulties, a temporary condition, being stated as the justification. There should be more behind the story, which, of course, we probably won't know in the end.

squall_line · « **Reply #30 on:** December 04, 2021, 10:15 AM »

Quote from: ChuckS on December 04, 2021, 10:05 AM

Not that I want this product, but I find it hard to understand the given reason for the discontinuation of this product. Supply chain issues affect all kinds of products including automobiles, and I know of no other products going into retirement with supply chain difficulties, a temporary condition, being stated as the justification. There should be more behind the story, which, of course, we probably won't know in the end.

I mean, they were still selling it in a Classic Systainer, so it's not like they've updated it for a long time. The owner's manual still shows the original Systainer-mounted pump rather than the stand-alone pump. I wouldn't be surprised if there was regulatory pressure that required a major re-design that they decided wasn't financially worth it, like the CMS system.

Crazyraceguy · « **Reply #31 on:** December 04, 2021, 10:19 AM »

I'm already in a big shop with plenty of random sound going on, so the quiet aspect means nothing to me. The ability to hold small parts, fully exposed on the edges, is attractive though.
Most of what I do is large or oddly shaped.
Edgebanding of typical parts gets done on a machine that costs more than my house. It does straight, simple stuff very quickly, but it cannot do angles or curves. That kind of stuff has to be done by hand.
I do have access to a Cantek portable unit, that can do radius edges, but even that can't do 45 degree clipped corners. However, it only applies the edging, you still have to flush trim it off.

afish · « **Reply #32 on:** December 04, 2021, 10:29 AM »

As with any large co. The real reason is the bottom line. I think the VAc sys while its really loved by some is a pretty slow seller. I remember reading here some people had bought a brand new unit and the mfr. date was already several years old. This tells me its been sitting on some shelf for years. The cost vs. reward for the tool is hard to justify for most. Coupled with increasing hard parts to source it was probably just decided to pull the plug and focus on other items. If it had been a top seller Im sure they would make every effort to continue.

Bob D. · « **Reply #33 on:** December 04, 2021, 10:31 AM »

Suspending production until parts are available would seem to be a more appropriate response, unless sales are so low they can't justify keeping it in the lineup and are taking advantage of the pandemic to sideline the item. Maybe there is an economic or tax-savings angle to doing that now vice keep it active with minimal sales numbers.

Either way if there is still a market for a tool like this someone will step up and fill the void with a similar product.

Cheese · « **Reply #34 on:** December 04, 2021, 10:41 AM »

Interestingly enough, it appears that TN knows what they'll be getting and when it will arrive.

203148 single head system.....OUT OF STOCK
203149 dual head system.....Pre-Order - Ships on January 24, 2022 - Subject to Change
201065 SE 1 head.....Pre-Order - Ships on February 25, 2022 - Subject to Change
580062 SE 2 head.....Pre-Order - Ships on January 01, 2022 - Subject to Change
201064 Vacuum pump.....Pre-Order - Ships on January 01, 2022 - Subject to Change

Rollin22Petes · « **Reply #35 on:** December 04, 2021, 11:02 AM »

So I've done a little research and think I found something similar that will work (at least for me) It's the Virutex multiple fastening system, it uses compressed air instead of a vacuum, but is a very simple and affordable design that tilts and swivels. You can also add multiple head units and get an option so you can vacuum it down to a work surface, it also uses a readily available rubber seal on the head.

Jeff Zanin · « **Reply #36 on:** December 04, 2021, 11:12 AM »

Unfortunate but serves as a reminder to get what you can while you can, even more so now with constant "supply chain" issues and businesses everywhere adapting / streamlining to survive and prosper as best they can.

I have the VacSys with two heads and the accessories, it was expensive but has been a very handy product and my only wish is that I had gotten it sooner. Hopefully support will be there at least for a while.

xedos · « **Reply #37 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:11 PM »

Quote

Festool is permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys

Interesting word choice, there. Perhaps the folks in Lebanon didn't translate the translation ?

Quote from: Cheese on December 03, 2021, 10:29 PM

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 03, 2021, 06:07 PM
I'll hold out for the discontinued discount @Cheese

Nicely played Matt..

If they actually are marked down. If not you might just miss the boat and have to buy one on the secondary market. For more $$$.

Quote

I wonder what the support situation is now. If they can't source enough parts to build new where will they get parts to maintain systems previously sold.

Very good question. They're required by german law to carry parts for a specified amt of time, but I'm not sure if a out clause exists. Even so, stocking up only works for some parts. Old rubber is still old and stiff even if it hasn't been used.

Quote

I noticed the vac sys was mia at the festool live on Friday. I wonder if that means they have to go back to a time without. My understanding of discontinued tools is they keep a supply of parts for repair for some time.

Not surprising. That's an advertisement. No sense pitching something you don't sell.

Quote

but I find it hard to understand the given reason for the discontinuation of this product. Supply chain issues affect all kinds of products including automobiles, and I know of no other products going into retirement with supply chain difficulties, a temporary condition, being stated as the justification. There should be more behind the story, which, of course, we probably won't know in the end

Between the lines it seems like "we don't sell enough of these to deal with the hassle and growth potential is practically nil. Just tell em it's Covid or Supply Chain issues - they won't argue or complain "

Does anyone know if they source this from an outside company like they do with the quick clamps and multi tool

I always assumed it all came from their sibling co. Festo, who's entire biz is pneumatics.

Quote

I mean, they were still selling it in a Classic Systainer,

The reason for this was discussed years ago and IIRC had to do with electrical regulations and certification. T-loc wasn't feasible for whatever reason.

presidentsdad · « **Reply #38 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:29 PM »

YIKES! I was already thinking about buying one. Better get on the stick and start calling!

Crazyraceguy · « **Reply #39 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:29 PM »

Quote from: afish on December 04, 2021, 10:29 AM

As with any large co. The real reason is the bottom line. I think the VAc sys while its really loved by some is a pretty slow seller. I remember reading here some people had bought a brand new unit and the mfr. date was already several years old. This tells me its been sitting on some shelf for years. The cost vs. reward for the tool is hard to justify for most. Coupled with increasing hard parts to source it was probably just decided to pull the plug and focus on other items. If it had been a top seller Im sure they would make every effort to continue.

I have found that to be true even in some of the more popular items too. Off of the top of my head, the only thing (date coded) tools that I have which were purchased it the year they were made, are my DF500 and the RO125. The RAS115 was already 3 years old when I bought it and the TS75 was 2, everything else was at least the previous year, and most of it was purchased in Sept of 19, so most of that year was gone. That is well before the supply chain issues came up.
I just figured that this was rather standard for a lower volume product/brand.

afish · « **Reply #40 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:30 PM »

Quote from: Rollin22Petes on December 04, 2021, 11:02 AM

So I've done a little research and think I found something similar that will work (at least for me) It's the Virutex multiple fastening system, it uses compressed air instead of a vacuum, but is a very simple and affordable design that tilts and swivels. You can also add multiple head units and get an option so you can vacuum it down to a work surface, it also uses a readily available rubber seal on the head.

It still uses vacuum it just uses compressed air through a venturi to create the vacuum. They work but from what I understand they need a good sized compressor. It is a viable option. Its also easy to convert an old compressor if you already have one. I had 3 compressors at one point. I sold one and was trying to sell the small emglo/senco compressor which is a good compressor but its not really worth much since everyone is going to cordless nail guns (which is why I had it and no longer needed it) then it dawned on me to turn it into a vacuum pump. Very happy it occurred to me before I gave it away. As far as being in a noisy environment so sound isnt an issue that may be true but if it was me I know I would end up leaving it running and forgetting to turn it off eventually shortening its life. I personally fail to see any situation where a motor running constantly is better than one that cycles on/off as needed. Unless it was something that was constantly cycling on and off but with something like a compressor or vacuum pump that only cycles occasionally its a no go. I use mine for vacuum pressing too so running a pump needlessly for hours on end isnt in the cards. While I understand that festool didnt intend for their pump to be used for anything other than clamping I dont need multiples of the same thing for dedicated tasks either. Space is a premium for me and the only thing stopping me from buying more tools is space so I need to be as streamlined as possible. The small pucks work just as well for work holding are simple to make and can be made in any shape or size, they do lack the full swivel capabilities of the vac sys but its not real hard to hit the lever and turn the part.

BarneyD · « **Reply #41 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:33 PM »

I ordered the complete set (pump and both heads) from TN a couple of weeks ago. Arrived a couple of days later. Glad I did. It's already seen a lot of use in my little shop. So far, I love it.

afish · « **Reply #42 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:37 PM »

Quote from: Crazyraceguy on December 04, 2021, 01:29 PM

Quote from: afish on December 04, 2021, 10:29 AM
As with any large co. The real reason is the bottom line. I think the VAc sys while its really loved by some is a pretty slow seller. I remember reading here some people had bought a brand new unit and the mfr. date was already several years old. This tells me its been sitting on some shelf for years. The cost vs. reward for the tool is hard to justify for most. Coupled with increasing hard parts to source it was probably just decided to pull the plug and focus on other items. If it had been a top seller Im sure they would make every effort to continue.

I have found that to be true even in some of the more popular items too. Off of the top of my head, the only thing (date coded) tools that I have which were purchased it the year they were made, are my DF500 and the RO125. The RAS115 was already 3 years old when I bought it and the TS75 was 2, everything else was at least the previous year, and most of it was purchased in Sept of 19, so most of that year was gone. That is well before the supply chain issues came up.
I just figured that this was rather standard for a lower volume product/brand.

Well, I dont think its a coincidence that the tool that had the longest interval (ras115) is also discontinued. Also while the 75 isa great saw the 55 is waaaay more popular and a better seller by far so while I would expect some extra shelf time with the 75 two years is a little surprising.

Crazyraceguy · « **Reply #43 on:** December 04, 2021, 01:55 PM »

The venturi-vac would definitely be the way to go for me. In the big shop there is an unlimited supply of air. Maybe I should just be looking into the module and heads? The long skinny one could be very useful at times.

squall_line · « **Reply #44 on:** December 04, 2021, 02:43 PM »

Quote from: xedos on December 04, 2021, 01:11 PM

Quote
I noticed the vac sys was mia at the festool live on Friday. I wonder if that means they have to go back to a time without. My understanding of discontinued tools is they keep a supply of parts for repair for some time.

Not surprising. That's an advertisement. No sense pitching something you don't sell.

They did an entire segment on polishing headlamps with polishing products that were already discontinued, so the idea of pitching something you don't sell maybe isn't in their vocabulary. Unless they learned from the commentary on that episode and its implications that maybe you don't do that again.

I can't imagine completely removing the Vac Sys from Festool Live episodes, even if it's discontinued, but I would understand removing it. I would love to see some of the past episodes re-shot without it just to see how the workflow changes.

afish · « **Reply #45 on:** December 04, 2021, 03:23 PM »

Quote from: Crazyraceguy on December 04, 2021, 01:55 PM

The venturi-vac would definitely be the way to go for me. In the big shop there is an unlimited supply of air. Maybe I should just be looking into the module and heads? The long skinny one could be very useful at times.

The long skinny one is what I was wanting too. I was just looking at this stuff probably monday or tuesday. From what I could find its only available in the kit. I could not find it individually. I had recently found out that the drawer back for the 89mm drawers I use are just a little narrower than the one I made. It just fits between the epdm cord. Here is a couple pics of the proto types I made. The only thing I changed was making the cup part out of plastic. The plywood works but you need to seal it up with some wood glue. I already had the plastic so I just remade them but its kind of pricy so If I didnt already have it I would have just kept the plywood.

Its not as robust as the vac sys since the frame work is plywood not metal. I wouldn't try to hand plane with it but it works fine for laminating, routing etc. The cup suction is probably stronger than the plywood. The heads are interchangeable by just pulling them off and tilts 180° and spins 360° I think I prefer the toggle switch to the foot pedal. One less thing on the floor and its always right there but to be fair I haven't tried the pedal but looked at them originally and decided on the lever. using the push to connect fittings makes it easy add or adapt. The push connect fittings do tend to leak a small amount so I ran 3/8 tubing with barb fittings. (These are much more leakproof) to several spots in the shop and terminate with a ball valve and push connect fitting. This way I can just plug into which ever is closest and keep the others closed. when done its easy to disconnect the the small 1/4" line from the push connect fitting and put it all away. The compressor you see in the one photo is the one that is switched to vacuum pump prior to finding its permanent home in the shed.

afish · « **Reply #46 on:** December 04, 2021, 03:55 PM »

Also HEREis a complete set of plans with a parts breakdown for building a auto cycling venturi style pump from veneersupplies.com they sell all the parts on their site. At least pre covid not sure if they have been impacted supply chain wise.

squall_line · « **Reply #47 on:** December 04, 2021, 04:09 PM »

Quote from: afish on December 04, 2021, 03:23 PM

Quote from: Crazyraceguy on December 04, 2021, 01:55 PM
The venturi-vac would definitely be the way to go for me. In the big shop there is an unlimited supply of air. Maybe I should just be looking into the module and heads? The long skinny one could be very useful at times.

The long skinny one is what I was wanting too. I was just looking at this stuff probably monday or tuesday. From what I could find its only available in the kit. I could not find it individually.

The cups are all available individually. The long skinny one is around $160, PN 580065 and the medium oval is $110, PN 580064. The larger oval that comes with the SE2 is $130, so the total for all 3 individually would be $400. The kit with all three of those pads plus the classic Systainer is only $380.

I already have two large ovals, so I've been debating the kit vs the individual skinny and medium cups for the last two weeks or so. I'm still on the fence, honestly, but since the prices go up at the first of the year, I'll pull the trigger one way or the other before then.

afish · « **Reply #48 on:** December 04, 2021, 04:12 PM »

Thanks for the PN's

squall_line · « **Reply #49 on:** December 04, 2021, 04:27 PM »

Quote from: afish on December 04, 2021, 03:23 PM

The heads are interchangeable by just pulling them off and tilts 180° and spins 360° I think I prefer the toggle switch to the foot pedal. One less thing on the floor and its always right there but to be fair I haven't tried the pedal but looked at them originally and decided on the lever. using the push to connect fittings makes it easy add or adapt. The push connect fittings do tend to leak a small amount so I ran 3/8 tubing with barb fittings. (These are much more leakproof) to several spots in the shop and terminate with a ball valve and push connect fitting. This way I can just plug into which ever is closest and keep the others closed. when done its easy to disconnect the the small 1/4" line from the push connect fitting and put it all away. The compressor you see in the one photo is the one that is switched to vacuum pump prior to finding its permanent home in the shed.

Very cool! If and when my pods break, I may look at this again and ask if there are any carving plans for the plywood pieces.

Funny thing about "foot pedal", the instructions for the Vac Sys MFT mount actually include mounting the "pedal" upside-down under the right hand side of the MFT and activated by pulling up with your hand rather than pressing down with a foot. The recommended spot is pretty much the same location as the switch gear on the CMS table.

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #50 on:** December 04, 2021, 04:42 PM »

Does the steel VAS SYS mounting plate that attaches to the frame of the MFT3 also fit the older MFT 1080?

rst · « **Reply #51 on:** December 04, 2021, 04:48 PM »

While I have two complete sets and heads, before Festool made them available, I had been using two Virutex units that I installed on bar swivels...which reminds me that I really should sell those.

Shane Holland · « **Reply #52 on:** December 04, 2021, 06:50 PM »

Quote from: Bob D. on December 04, 2021, 05:19 AM

If there are wear parts or consumables it might pay to assess future need and stock up if/while you still can.

Or maybe @Shane Holland can shed light on what the spare parts situation might be going forward.

Festool's general policy is to have spare parts available for many years after a tool is discontinued, I'm unsure if that policy may be impacted by supply chain issues outside of Festool's control. That would be a question for Festool to answer.

However, current indications are that accessories will continue to be available.

Shane

Jason Hagen · « **Reply #53 on:** December 04, 2021, 07:33 PM »

Quote from: afish on December 04, 2021, 03:23 PM

Quote from: Crazyraceguy on December 04, 2021, 01:55 PM
The venturi-vac would definitely be the way to go for me. In the big shop there is an unlimited supply of air. Maybe I should just be looking into the module and heads? The long skinny one could be very useful at times.

The long skinny one is what I was wanting too. I was just looking at this stuff probably monday or tuesday. From what I could find its only available in the kit. I could not find it individually. I had recently found out that the drawer back for the 89mm drawers I use are just a little narrower than the one I made. It just fits between the epdm cord. Here is a couple pics of the proto types I made. The only thing I changed was making the cup part out of plastic. The plywood works but you need to seal it up with some wood glue. I already had the plastic so I just remade them but its kind of pricy so If I didnt already have it I would have just kept the plywood.

Its not as robust as the vac sys since the frame work is plywood not metal. I wouldn't try to hand plane with it but it works fine for laminating, routing etc. The cup suction is probably stronger than the plywood. The heads are interchangeable by just pulling them off and tilts 180° and spins 360° I think I prefer the toggle switch to the foot pedal. One less thing on the floor and its always right there but to be fair I haven't tried the pedal but looked at them originally and decided on the lever. using the push to connect fittings makes it easy add or adapt. The push connect fittings do tend to leak a small amount so I ran 3/8 tubing with barb fittings. (These are much more leakproof) to several spots in the shop and terminate with a ball valve and push connect fitting. This way I can just plug into which ever is closest and keep the others closed. when done its easy to disconnect the the small 1/4" line from the push connect fitting and put it all away. The compressor you see in the one photo is the one that is switched to vacuum pump prior to finding its permanent home in the shed.

This is pretty sweet looking. I do like toggle switch idea!

Bob D. · « **Reply #54 on:** December 04, 2021, 08:03 PM »

"However, current indications are that accessories will continue to be available."

That's good to hear, thanks Shane.

afish · « **Reply #55 on:** December 04, 2021, 08:19 PM »

im pretty sure its a law that mfr. have to make parts for X amount of years. 7 years rings a bell but im not 100% on that. however this whole supply chain issue who knows. Im not sure why festool decided to make the cups the way they did. I much prefer the easily replaceable epdm cord that costs pennies to replace if needed. I dont want to call it an industry standard but its a very popular method for vacuum sealing.

me_two · « **Reply #56 on:** December 04, 2021, 11:53 PM »

Here in Australia Festool quote 10 years for parts.

Crazyraceguy · « **Reply #57 on:** December 05, 2021, 09:41 AM »

I think the parts availability thing is 10 years here in the US too, but I have no idea at what point that applies? Certainly that doesn't mean everything? There has to be some criteria, $$ amount or something?

Cheese · « **Reply #58 on:** December 05, 2021, 10:20 AM »

Quote from: Shane Holland on December 04, 2021, 06:50 PM

Festool's general policy is to have spare parts available for many years after a tool is discontinued, I'm unsure if that policy may be impacted by supply chain issues outside of Festool's control. That would be a question for Festool to answer.

However, current indications are that accessories will continue to be available.

I certainly hope you're right Shane...

However, 2 examples come to mind.

All Surfix products have been discontinued except Festool still offers the outdoor oil applicator 498062 and the 5 liter container of outdoor oil 498069. However, the applicator sponges 498070 are no longer available so once you burn through the single sponge that came with the applicator you're toast.

When Festool obsoleted the bench stand for the HL 850 they also quit supplying the scale ring 715167 which allows you to adjust the depth of cut when the HL 850 is mounted in the stand. Without the ring the bench stand is almost worthless. It took me almost 2 years to locate the scale ring because I had misplaced/lost the original one.

Vondawg · « **Reply #59 on:** December 05, 2021, 01:06 PM »

Sounds like if you own a vac sys and are looking to sell it…you’ll have no problem…like a good used truck or house these days….

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #60 on:** December 05, 2021, 01:20 PM »

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 04, 2021, 04:42 PM

Does the steel VAS SYS mounting plate that attaches to the frame of the MFT3 also fit the older MFT 1080?

Anyone know?

Coen · « **Reply #61 on:** December 05, 2021, 01:21 PM »

Didn't Festool make things in series? So they build up stock, then make stock of another machine, etc.? That would explain older manufacturing dates and things going out of stock.

The CTL'S definitely didn't have old manufacturing dates. But yeah, things like RAS, LS 130; they don't sell that much.

Coen · « **Reply #62 on:** December 05, 2021, 01:23 PM »

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 05, 2021, 01:20 PM

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 04, 2021, 04:42 PM
Does the steel VAS SYS mounting plate that attaches to the frame of the MFT3 also fit the older MFT 1080?

Anyone know?

It doesn't use the V-grove, right? I don't think the location of the side T-slot changed with the MFT/3? Not sure though.

squall_line · « **Reply #63 on:** December 05, 2021, 03:35 PM »

Quote from: Coen on December 05, 2021, 01:23 PM

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 05, 2021, 01:20 PM
Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 04, 2021, 04:42 PM
Does the steel VAS SYS mounting plate that attaches to the frame of the MFT3 also fit the older MFT 1080?

Anyone know?

It doesn't use the V-grove, right? I don't think the location of the side T-slot changed with the MFT/3? Not sure though.

Correct, it uses the T-slot.

Even if it didn't use the T-slot, you could use the plate by itself and clamp it to the table assuming the holes in the 1080 are spaced the same as on the MFT-3, and leave the hinged piece swinging in the breeze. The T-slot attachment is used to allow the whole thing to swivel out of the way and remain attached to the table, stowed underneath. I was tempted to mount mine to my MW1000 to make it super portable, but I'm worried about the working height being too tall. Also, even though it would be nice and compact, it seems like an awfully expensive way to make a portable Vac-Sys.

Quote from: Coen on December 05, 2021, 01:21 PM

Didn't Festool make things in series? So they build up stock, then make stock of another machine, etc.? That would explain older manufacturing dates and things going out of stock.

The CTL'S definitely didn't have old manufacturing dates. But yeah, things like RAS, LS 130; they don't sell that much.

The Vac Sys set that I got from Recon last month has a build date of 06/2021 on the SE1 module. The SE2 is buried and the pump is still in the box waiting for space to be cleared in the garage

, but I'd be surprised if they didn't have similar dates if they were sold as a set.

presidentsdad · « **Reply #64 on:** December 13, 2021, 12:06 AM »

Just got one from existing stock and all of the manufacture dates were in 2021. Odd thing though, the SE2 unit looks like it had a screw missed during assembly and the valve that controls the module sucking down to the surface won't work. I have a call into support to see if I can just drive a thread forming screw into that spot.

Tom Lykins · « **Reply #65 on:** December 13, 2021, 10:15 AM »

Wow, that's unfortunate. Was just about to pull the trigger on one... Anyone know of any alternative vacuum workholding systems out there? I have seen a few DIY, but nothing as slick as the VAC-SYS.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #66 on:** December 13, 2021, 11:19 AM »

Those of you with the 2nd Vac Head: How often are you using it, and for what? I've yet to come across a situation where I really needed it.

Matt

Stan Tillinghast · « **Reply #67 on:** December 13, 2021, 12:42 PM »

My Vac Sys System is supposed to arrive today at Lee Valley, per a customer service e-mail I just received. For current orders, the web page for that product is showing an estimated expected arrival January 30. So you may still be able to order one there.

denovo · « **Reply #68 on:** December 13, 2021, 12:58 PM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 13, 2021, 11:19 AM

Those of you with the 2nd Vac Head: How often are you using it, and for what? I've yet to come across a situation where I really needed it.

Matt

I use both heads all the time. They are essential for large closet or pantry panels but I also use two for smaller panels. Just as long as the panels are somewhat centered on the head you can release the vacuum with the foot pedal and replace one panel without the second panel falling off. Therefore I can process two small panels at the same time!

Stan Tillinghast · « **Reply #69 on:** December 13, 2021, 03:31 PM »

Good to know that! I ordered a second head just in case, you know....

fritter63 · « **Reply #70 on:** December 13, 2021, 09:21 PM »

Here is another source for a vacuum clamp that I have. I use this for holding acoustic guitar bodies while working on them. Not sure if it would be as good as the VAC-SYS.

https://www.lmii.com/clamps-vises/2595-vacuum-work-holder-wpanavise-mount.html

grbmds · « **Reply #71 on:** December 14, 2021, 02:00 AM »

Sure would be nice if Festool addressed this question directly rather than letting everyone speculate.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #72 on:** December 14, 2021, 07:41 AM »

It was addressed in Reply #10 @grbmds .

This is just a North America thing, yes? So for those of us already with a Vac Sys theoretically we could import components of the system (anything but the pump basically) moving forward.

squall_line · « **Reply #73 on:** December 14, 2021, 09:27 AM »

I dunno, Matt, "permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production" sounds like it's more than just a North America exit.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #74 on:** December 14, 2021, 09:37 AM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 14, 2021, 09:27 AM

I dunno, Matt, "permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production" sounds like it's more than just a North America exit.

That's a message from Festool USA. I see no indication from abroad that they're discontinuing it.

Cheese · « **Reply #75 on:** December 14, 2021, 09:53 AM »

Unfortunately, I'm reading that this item is toast...worldwide.

"Due to continued supply chain pressure, Festool is permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production and final inventory is in transit to North America."

SRSemenza · « **Reply #76 on:** December 14, 2021, 09:53 AM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 14, 2021, 09:37 AM

Quote from: squall_line on December 14, 2021, 09:27 AM
I dunno, Matt, "permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production" sounds like it's more than just a North America exit.

That's a message from Festool USA. I see no indication from abroad that they're discontinuing it.

If the statement is accurate, then it is not just North America. The Vac- Sys is not produced in North America.

I have no inside info ........... but the part in bold seems pretty definitive.

@DerickC

Seth

DynaGlide · « **Reply #77 on:** December 14, 2021, 09:57 AM »

Welp that's a real shame then.

Do I bite the bullet and get the 2nd head now even though I have no current use for it?

SRSemenza · « **Reply #78 on:** December 14, 2021, 09:58 AM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 14, 2021, 09:57 AM

Welp that's a real shame then.

Do I bite the bullet and get the 2nd head now even though I have no current use for it?

YES!

Seth

jobsworth · « **Reply #79 on:** December 14, 2021, 10:15 AM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 14, 2021, 09:57 AM

Welp that's a real shame then.

Do I bite the bullet and get the 2nd head now even though I have no current use for it?

Better to have it and not need it then to need it and not have it especially if it’s being discontinued. Other wise you’ll be posting in the classifieds like so many others WTB

Also as a suggestion didn’t read the entire thread
Get the kit w the different sized heads to you’ll need them

I have both heads and the kit, I don’t frequently use the 2nd head but it sure comes in handy when I need it.
The kit with the different side heads i use almost every project

DynaGlide · « **Reply #80 on:** December 14, 2021, 10:27 AM »

Quote from: jobsworth on December 14, 2021, 10:15 AM

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 14, 2021, 09:57 AM
Welp that's a real shame then.

Do I bite the bullet and get the 2nd head now even though I have no current use for it?

Better to have it and not need it then to need it and not have it especially if it’s being discontinued. Other wise you’ll be posting in the classifieds like so many others WTB

Also as a suggestion didn’t read the entire thread
Get the kit w the different sized heads to you’ll need them

I have both heads and the kit, I don’t frequently use the 2nd head but it sure comes in handy when I need it.
The kit with the different side heads i use almost every project

Yep I sourced the 3 heads from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.de separately a few years ago sans systainer and shaved off a good chunk of the cost.

m8 · « **Reply #81 on:** December 14, 2021, 12:13 PM »

Called US Tool and Fastener this morning and placed an order for one of the remaining ones they have estimated to arrive next month. If anyone is on the fence I suggest putting your order in ASAP.

Greg Powers · « **Reply #82 on:** December 14, 2021, 04:35 PM »

Ordered the mounting bracket to mount the Sys Vac to the MFT today. I kept putting it off because of the cost, BUT I guess now is the time. It is now or never...

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #83 on:** December 14, 2021, 04:43 PM »

Quote from: Greg Powers on December 14, 2021, 04:35 PM

Ordered the mounting bracket to mount the Sys Vac to the MFT today. I kept putting it off because of the cost, BUT I guess now is the time. It is now or never...

I had the same thought but I can’t get a definite answer whether or not it will fit my old 1080 MFT.

squall_line · « **Reply #84 on:** December 14, 2021, 04:51 PM »

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 04:43 PM

Quote from: Greg Powers on December 14, 2021, 04:35 PM
Ordered the mounting bracket to mount the Sys Vac to the MFT today. I kept putting it off because of the cost, BUT I guess now is the time. It is now or never...

I had the same thought but I can’t get a definite answer whether or not it will fit my old 1080 MFT.

Would measurements help? I have a bracket and can take some measurements and/or pictures.

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #85 on:** December 14, 2021, 05:28 PM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 14, 2021, 04:51 PM

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 04:43 PM
Quote from: Greg Powers on December 14, 2021, 04:35 PM
Ordered the mounting bracket to mount the Sys Vac to the MFT today. I kept putting it off because of the cost, BUT I guess now is the time. It is now or never...

I had the same thought but I can’t get a definite answer whether or not it will fit my old 1080 MFT.

Would measurements help? I have a bracket and can take some measurements and/or pictures.

Measurement should do it. Distance from bottom of plate to center of slot cleats?

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #86 on:** December 14, 2021, 07:25 PM »

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 05:28 PM

Quote from: squall_line on December 14, 2021, 04:51 PM
Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 04:43 PM
Quote from: Greg Powers on December 14, 2021, 04:35 PM
Ordered the mounting bracket to mount the Sys Vac to the MFT today. I kept putting it off because of the cost, BUT I guess now is the time. It is now or never...

I had the same thought but I can’t get a definite answer whether or not it will fit my old 1080 MFT.

Would measurements help? I have a bracket and can take some measurements and/or pictures.

Measurement should do it. Distance from bottom of plate to center of slot cleats?

50mm from the top of the MFT 1080 to the middle of the T slot in the frame.

squall_line · « **Reply #87 on:** December 14, 2021, 08:31 PM »

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 07:25 PM

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 05:28 PM
Quote from: squall_line on December 14, 2021, 04:51 PM
Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 14, 2021, 04:43 PM
I had the same thought but I can’t get a definite answer whether or not it will fit my old 1080 MFT.

Would measurements help? I have a bracket and can take some measurements and/or pictures.

Measurement should do it. Distance from bottom of plate to center of slot cleats?

50mm from the top of the MFT 1080 to the middle of the T slot in the frame.

I'm glad you added the MFT 1080 measurement to the mix.

The bottom of the plate to the center of the t-nut for the MFT/3 is ~64mm, give or take (it's a cheap plastic caliper, and parallax, and bad eyes...)

So I took off the screw to see if I could get a better angle and, lo and behold, a second set of holes (I obviously didn't remember this from setting it up two weeks ago). The primary set is still around 63 or 64 mm...

The "alternate" set is ~49.5mm, again accounting for poor measuring.

Enjoy!

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #88 on:** December 15, 2021, 09:12 PM »

@squall_line so it looks like the mount will fit both the MFT 1080/600 and the MFT 3 by using different set of holes?

squall_line · « **Reply #89 on:** December 15, 2021, 10:22 PM »

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 15, 2021, 09:12 PM

@squall_line so it looks like the mount will fit both the MFT 1080/600 and the MFT 3 by using different set of holes?

@Michael Kellough, yes, it looks like it should fit both, based on your measurements and the presence of the second set of holes.

I'm not saying I'll pay for your bracket if it doesn't happen to fit, but I'm 95% confident.

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #90 on:** December 15, 2021, 10:23 PM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 15, 2021, 10:22 PM

Quote from: Michael Kellough on December 15, 2021, 09:12 PM
@squall_line so it looks like the mount will fit both the MFT 1080/600 and the MFT 3 by using different set of holes?
@Michael Kellough, yes, it looks like it should fit both, based on your measurements and the presence of the second set of holes.

I'm not saying I'll pay for your bracket if it doesn't happen to fit, but I'm 95% confident.

Good enough! Thanks.

elfick · « **Reply #91 on:** December 16, 2021, 06:26 PM »

This has really been occupying more of my mind than it should have... I didn't plan on getting one and then I was wondering if I should get one before it was too late just in case I started doing enough work that would benefit from it. In the end I decided I wasn't going to get it, but as I poked around I noticed that the VAC SYS pump sold in the rest of the world is WAY different than the one sold here. Not just 240 vs. 120, but it's apparently built into a classic systainer.

https://www.festool.co.uk/products/workplace-organisation/vacuum-clamping-technology/580072---vac-sys-vp-gb-240v

So I'm thinking the reason we aren't hearing about this being discontinued in other countries is because they are only discontinuing the version sold in the US. Since it is a special complainer as far as their VAC SYS line goes, it wouldn't surprise me to find out it was just more effort than it was worth. I'd think that would mean that accessories would continue to be available, just maybe not easily attainable.

Cheese · « **Reply #92 on:** December 16, 2021, 06:45 PM »

Quote from: elfick on December 16, 2021, 06:26 PM

So I'm thinking the reason we aren't hearing about this being discontinued in other countries is because they are only discontinuing the version sold in the US. Since it is a special complainer as far as their VAC SYS line goes, it wouldn't surprise me to find out it was just more effort than it was worth. I'd think that would mean that accessories would continue to be available, just maybe not easily attainable.

Sorry it’s gone worldwide…see replies #2 & #4. Per Festool, all remaining units are currently being shipped to the States.

https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/festool-announcements/festool-main-catalogue-for-2022/msg657060/?topicseen#msg657060

Greg Powers · « **Reply #93 on:** December 16, 2021, 07:16 PM »

There are also less expensive vacuum pumps that you can use. I did not buy the Festool one as a non Festool brand one was less than half what the official Festool one cost. I did need to buy some Festool hose connectors. The non-festool one does not have the vacuum reservoir. The Festool unit uses the tub frame as a reservoir.

TinyShop · « **Reply #94 on:** December 16, 2021, 07:28 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 16, 2021, 06:45 PM

Quote from: elfick on December 16, 2021, 06:26 PM
So I'm thinking the reason we aren't hearing about this being discontinued in other countries is because they are only discontinuing the version sold in the US. Since it is a special complainer as far as their VAC SYS line goes, it wouldn't surprise me to find out it was just more effort than it was worth. I'd think that would mean that accessories would continue to be available, just maybe not easily attainable.

Sorry it’s gone worldwide…see replies #2 & #4. Per Festool, all remaining units are currently being shipped to the States.

https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/festool-announcements/festool-main-catalogue-for-2022/msg657060/?topicseen#msg657060

The 120V system is going away. Meanwhile, the 240V system, which has never been made available in North America, presumably soldiers on. Think about it: why would the 240V version be headed to our shores? Obviously, it's not. And so, also obviously, FUSA is only referring to the 120V version. That said, the fact that the Vac Sys is absent from the 2022 international catalog spells a similar doom for our friends on the other side of the pond.

elfick · « **Reply #95 on:** December 16, 2021, 07:36 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 16, 2021, 06:45 PM

Quote from: elfick on December 16, 2021, 06:26 PM
So I'm thinking the reason we aren't hearing about this being discontinued in other countries is because they are only discontinuing the version sold in the US. Since it is a special complainer as far as their VAC SYS line goes, it wouldn't surprise me to find out it was just more effort than it was worth. I'd think that would mean that accessories would continue to be available, just maybe not easily attainable.

Sorry it’s gone worldwide…see replies #2 & #4. Per Festool, all remaining units are currently being shipped to the States.

https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/festool-announcements/festool-main-catalogue-for-2022/msg657060/?topicseen#msg657060

That's a bummer. I may have eventually gotten one, just couldn't justify it at this point. Thanks for pointing me to that thread.

elfick · « **Reply #96 on:** December 16, 2021, 07:37 PM »

Quote from: Greg Powers on December 16, 2021, 07:16 PM

There are also less expensive vacuum pumps that you can use. I did not buy the Festool one as a non Festool brand one was less than half what the official Festool one cost. I did need to buy some Festool hose connectors. The non-festool one does not have the vacuum reservoir. The Festool unit uses the tub frame as a reservoir.

So you still used the Festool heads, just with a different pump? Mind sharing what you used? If it's already in a thread somewhere just point me in the right direction and I'll get to reading. Thanks!

Cheese · « **Reply #97 on:** December 16, 2021, 09:25 PM »

Quote from: TinyShop on December 16, 2021, 07:28 PM

The 120V system is going away.

Meanwhile, the 240V system, which has never been made available in North America, presumably soldiers on. Think about it: why would the 240V version be headed to our shores?

Obviously, it's not. And so, also obviously, FUSA is only referring to the 120V version.

That said, the fact that the Vac Sys is absent from the 2022 international catalog spells a similar doom for our friends on the other side of the pond.

It's difficult to know exactly where to start here. I never meant to suggest that the 240v vacuum pump was being sent to the US. That just doesn't make any sense, why would Festool send over that particular 240v item when they've never sent any other 240v item to the States?
I assumed that was quite obvious...if not, I apologize for leading others astray.

The poster elflick was just concerned/unsure of the current status of the Vac Sys and I was only trying to help him out with the facts.

Consider these statements...and spin it in any direction that you feel comfortable with.

https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/festool-tools-accessories/vac-sys-discontinued/60/

See reply #11
The official word from FUSA is...
Due to continued supply chain pressure, Festool is permanently phasing out our Vac-Sys Clamping Systems. All major Vac-Sys components have permanently ceased production and final inventory is in transit to North America.

See reply #77
If the statement is accurate, then it is not just North America. The Vac- Sys is not produced in North America.

I have no inside info ........... but the part in bold seems pretty definitive.

@DerickC

Seth

And finally, there's the missing Vac Sys items in the latest, just released Festool corporate tool catalog for 2022.

PaulMarcel · « **Reply #98 on:** December 16, 2021, 09:36 PM »

Just to add to the confusion... my 120V Sys-Vac pump is in a classic Systainer

hmm...

Cheese · « **Reply #99 on:** December 17, 2021, 08:23 AM »

Quote from: PaulMarcel on December 16, 2021, 09:36 PM

Just to add to the confusion... my 120V Sys-Vac pump is in a classic Systainer hmm...

Did you purchase your pump from the UK? I don't remember the Systainer based pumps being offered in the US.

cider · « **Reply #100 on:** December 17, 2021, 11:06 AM »

Quote from: elfick on December 16, 2021, 07:37 PM

So you still used the Festool heads, just with a different pump? Mind sharing what you used? If it's already in a thread somewhere just point me in the right direction and I'll get to reading. Thanks!

Different poster, but I had this in my bookmarks, cause I thought it was cool.

Ryan Murphy · « **Reply #101 on:** December 17, 2021, 11:51 AM »

Just to clear up some confusion, we wrote this quick blog on the information we received direct from Festool. Please feel free to reach out to us either on here or at 877-777-4717 with any questions. We do still have the full kit #203149 available on our website for our incoming inventory, while supplies last.

Festool Announces Phase-Out of Vac-Sys Clamping System

Hope you all have a very Happy Holiday Season with your family and friends and thank you to all of our loyal customers for your continued support, as a family owned small business it really means a the world to us!

elfick · « **Reply #102 on:** December 17, 2021, 12:51 PM »

Quote from: Ryan Murphy on December 17, 2021, 11:51 AM

Just to clear up some confusion, we wrote this quick blog on the information we received direct from Festool. Please feel free to reach out to us either on here or at 877-777-4717 with any questions. We do still have the full kit #203149 available on our website for our incoming inventory, while supplies last.

Festool Announces Phase-Out of Vac-Sys Clamping System

Hope you all have a very Happy Holiday Season with your family and friends and thank you to all of our loyal customers for your continued support, as a family owned small business it really means a the world to us!

Agh! Fine! I can't take it anymore! I placed an order. Since my birthday is in February I'm calling it a birthday present to myself.

Cheese · « **Reply #103 on:** December 17, 2021, 01:06 PM »

Quote from: elfick on December 17, 2021, 12:51 PM

Agh! Fine! I can't take it anymore! I placed an order. Since my birthday is in February I'm calling it a birthday present to myself.

Now that's the spirit we like to see...

usernumber1 · « **Reply #104 on:** December 17, 2021, 01:50 PM »

guys can we stop with the peer pressure this is too much i can't take it much longer

squall_line · « **Reply #105 on:** December 17, 2021, 02:10 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 17, 2021, 01:06 PM

Quote from: elfick on December 17, 2021, 12:51 PM
Agh! Fine! I can't take it anymore! I placed an order. Since my birthday is in February I'm calling it a birthday present to myself.

Now that's the spirit we like to see...

Just found out today what our end-of-year bonuses will be at work. I'm no longer feeling quite as guilty about my recent acquisitions. I think this is also the last year we get them, so I'll need to find a different excuse going forward. Or start making my tools "earn their keep"...

Greg Powers · « **Reply #106 on:** December 17, 2021, 05:45 PM »

Quote from: elfick on December 16, 2021, 07:37 PM

Quote from: Greg Powers on December 16, 2021, 07:16 PM
There are also less expensive vacuum pumps that you can use. I did not buy the Festool one as a non Festool brand one was less than half what the official Festool one cost. I did need to buy some Festool hose connectors. The non-festool one does not have the vacuum reservoir. The Festool unit uses the tub frame as a reservoir.
So you still used the Festool heads, just with a different pump? Mind sharing what you used? If it's already in a thread somewhere just point me in the right direction and I'll get to reading. Thanks!

There is a photo attached below showing the non-Festool vacuum pump. I switched out one of the standard quick connects for a Festool compatible quick connect. I purchased this from https://www.veneersupplies.com/. I think it was the Excel 3™ kit.

PaulMarcel · « **Reply #107 on:** December 17, 2021, 07:36 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 17, 2021, 08:23 AM

Quote from: PaulMarcel on December 16, 2021, 09:36 PM
Just to add to the confusion... my 120V Sys-Vac pump is in a classic Systainer hmm...

Did you purchase your pump from the UK? I don't remember the Systainer based pumps being offered in the US.

I bought mine off a local who was seeded with one of the first units sent to the US before they were made available. I think regulations made the Systainer version of the pump difficult for sale here, but am not certain. The older Systainer pump fits in my shop much better than the new one.

Peter Halle · « **Reply #108 on:** December 17, 2021, 07:45 PM »

Quote from: PaulMarcel on December 17, 2021, 07:36 PM

Quote from: Cheese on December 17, 2021, 08:23 AM
Quote from: PaulMarcel on December 16, 2021, 09:36 PM
Just to add to the confusion... my 120V Sys-Vac pump is in a classic Systainer hmm...

Did you purchase your pump from the UK? I don't remember the Systainer based pumps being offered in the US.

I bought mine off a local who was seeded with one of the first units sent to the US before they were made available. I think regulations made the Systainer version of the pump difficult for sale here, but am not certain. The older Systainer pump fits in my shop much better than the new one.

I saw your post and wondered. I suspect that if you look at your tool / Systainer etc. you might not find a label with UL type certifications. The Systainer style did not come over due to inability to get the certification.

You my old friend have a unicorn model.

Peter

Cheese · « **Reply #109 on:** December 17, 2021, 10:01 PM »

Quote from: Peter Halle on December 17, 2021, 07:45 PM

You my old friend have a unicorn model.

Peter

That was also my thought...I don't believe any vacuum pumps were commercially sold here that were inside Systainers...because of UL issues. However, that doesn't mean those items didn't make it into the states because they may have been in the Alpha...Beta...or prototype stage.

A unicorn indeed.

The benefits of being an early adopter.

SleepDoc · « **Reply #110 on:** December 18, 2021, 06:46 AM »

Has anyone found a set in stock anywhere online? I see places that say can preorder but if it is discontinued I assume the order would never be fulfilled?

Chainring · « **Reply #111 on:** December 18, 2021, 09:29 AM »

Quote from: SleepDoc on December 18, 2021, 06:46 AM

Has anyone found a set in stock anywhere online? I see places that say can preorder but if it is discontinued I assume the order would never be fulfilled?

US Tool & Fastener is taking pre orders for only what they'll be receiving. I was told by them, if you can pre order, you're in line for stock that will be arriving from the very last shipment.

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #112 on:** December 18, 2021, 10:11 AM »

Check Tool Nirvana too.

squall_line · « **Reply #113 on:** December 18, 2021, 10:32 AM »

This is another situation where "no discounts allowed" rule will leave some of the individual parts (pump, SE1, SE2) in stock in some retailers because people are looking only for the Set.

The Set discount is pretty substantial over individual pricing, so I definitely wouldn't advocate buying it all piece-by-piece, but I also wouldn't be surprised if there were retailers with stock of the constituent parts with build dates going back 3, 4, or 5 years.

Cheese · « **Reply #114 on:** December 18, 2021, 10:59 AM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 18, 2021, 10:32 AM

The Set discount is pretty substantial over individual pricing, so I definitely wouldn't advocate buying it all piece-by-piece, but I also wouldn't be surprised if there were retailers with stock of the constituent parts with build dates going back 3, 4, or 5 years.

I just received the SE2 yesterday...build date...

squall_line · « **Reply #115 on:** December 18, 2021, 01:27 PM »

The Set I got from Recon all had 2021 build dates as well.

The Acme Tools near me has a Festool area, but tools seem to go there to gather dust, rather than make dust. About the only thing I see them sell through is dust collectors. It's pretty sad, really.

Cheese · « **Reply #116 on:** December 19, 2021, 09:55 AM »

Quote from: elfick on December 16, 2021, 07:37 PM

So you still used the Festool heads, just with a different pump? Mind sharing what you used? If it's already in a thread somewhere just point me in the right direction and I'll get to reading. Thanks!

I use a Gast vacuum pump that I pulled off of my Milwaukee core drill rig.

I just changed out the standard NPT fittings that came with it for some Festool items.

rst · « **Reply #117 on:** December 19, 2021, 10:08 AM »

I also do not use Festools pump. I started making vac jigs 45 years ago using a Craftsman vac, the intake on my air compressor and for 30 years surplus HVAC pump I got for $15.00 because it was 220v. I recently bought a 120v pump off Amazon as I do not yet have 220 in my shop. Presently using 100 feet of 10 ga to power and Honda 2200 when drawing too many amps for the cord. It is real easy to over think what source of vacuum is necessary. If I was vac bagging I would need a pressure switch too cycle the pump but as yet haven't used that process.

JimH2 · « **Reply #118 on:** December 19, 2021, 12:28 PM »

Was on holiday last week and just read this and of course order placed for system and accessory set. Relieved the there are ones in the wild with recent manufacture dates. Was close on a refurb at one point and now glad I waited. Hopefully US Tool & Fastener can deliver.

Coen · « **Reply #119 on:** December 19, 2021, 01:47 PM »

Anyone know why exactly the 'pump in Systainer' couldn't get UL certification?

squall_line · « **Reply #120 on:** December 19, 2021, 02:15 PM »

Quote from: Coen on December 19, 2021, 01:47 PM

Anyone know why exactly the 'pump in Systainer' couldn't get UL certification?

Keep in mind that there's a difference between "couldn't obtain certification" and "weren't willing to go through what it would have taken to obtain certification".

This all occurred when Shane worked at Festool, and he mentioned that it "didn't pass UL Certification" and that a reason was provided but he wasn't aware of what it was at the time.

https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/ask-festool/vac-sys-in-north-america/msg116242/#msg116242
https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/ask-festool/vac-sys-in-north-america/msg116245/#msg116245

My guess is "didn't pass" became "yeah, we're not going to do that." The nice thing is, they still took the time to re-design it to have a different frame and tub and got UL certification with the new design instead.

elfick · « **Reply #121 on:** December 20, 2021, 10:55 AM »

Quote from: Coen on December 19, 2021, 01:47 PM

Anyone know why exactly the 'pump in Systainer' couldn't get UL certification?

Just wild speculation for the fun of it, but I'd guess it failed because the containing device could be easily opened while in use but couldn't be grounded.
Though that would make me wonder how the air compressors sold in systainers get certification... there must have been another piece to it.

Coen · « **Reply #122 on:** December 20, 2021, 11:01 AM »

Quote from: elfick on December 20, 2021, 10:55 AM

Just wild speculation for the fun of it, but I'd guess it failed because the containing device could be easily opened while in use but couldn't be grounded.

Well yeah, it should be class II even if you open the Systainer.

Quote from: elfick on December 20, 2021, 10:55 AM

Though that would make me wonder how the air compressors sold in systainers get certification... there must have been another piece to it.

They don't use the plug-it Cord but a 3-prong cable including ground.

MikeGE · « **Reply #123 on:** December 20, 2021, 01:17 PM »

Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 11:01 AM

They don't use the plug-it Cord but a 3-prong cable including ground.

My VAC SYS uses a plug-it cord. Are you referencing something different?

Coen · « **Reply #124 on:** December 20, 2021, 02:30 PM »

Quote from: MikeGE on December 20, 2021, 01:17 PM

Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 11:01 AM
They don't use the plug-it Cord but a 3-prong cable including ground.

My VAC SYS uses a plug-it cord. Are you referencing something different?

I was talking about the compressors in Systainer. But not sure on that one either now

elfick · « **Reply #125 on:** December 20, 2021, 02:39 PM »

Quote from: MikeGE on December 20, 2021, 01:17 PM

Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 11:01 AM
They don't use the plug-it Cord but a 3-prong cable including ground.

My VAC SYS uses a plug-it cord. Are you referencing something different?

Nope, that's exactly what he was referencing (though he was talking about the air compressors when he said they don't use them). It was the speculation that the ungrounded plug-it cord was the reason that model of vac sys didn't get approved in the US.

MikeGE · « **Reply #126 on:** December 20, 2021, 03:12 PM »

Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 02:30 PM

I was talking about the compressors in Systainer. But not sure on that one either now

I bought the VAC SYS last year and it came as shown in the photo, complete with the two-conductor Plug-it cord. It is the older Systainer and I had to use a different router template for the trays.

squall_line · « **Reply #127 on:** December 20, 2021, 05:26 PM »

Quote from: MikeGE on December 20, 2021, 03:12 PM

Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 02:30 PM
I was talking about the compressors in Systainer. But not sure on that one either now

I bought the VAC SYS compressor last year and it came as shown in the photo, complete with the two-conductor Plug-it cord. It is the older Systainer and I had to use a different router template for the trays.

Nomenclature about whether a vacuum pump is technically also a compressor aside, I believe @Coen is talking about the Rolair AIRSTAK and/or Senco Compressor Systainer, both of which use a grounded IEC 320 C13/C14 connection.

elfick · « **Reply #128 on:** December 20, 2021, 06:32 PM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 20, 2021, 05:26 PM

Quote from: MikeGE on December 20, 2021, 03:12 PM
Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 02:30 PM
I was talking about the compressors in Systainer. But not sure on that one either now

I bought the VAC SYS compressor last year and it came as shown in the photo, complete with the two-conductor Plug-it cord. It is the older Systainer and I had to use a different router template for the trays.

Nomenclature about whether a vacuum pump is technically also a compressor aside, I believe @Coen is talking about the Rolair AIRSTAK and/or Senco Compressor Systainer, both of which use a grounded IEC 320 C13/C14 connection.

Would it be a "decompressor"

Coen · « **Reply #129 on:** December 21, 2021, 12:02 PM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 20, 2021, 05:26 PM

Quote from: MikeGE on December 20, 2021, 03:12 PM
Quote from: Coen on December 20, 2021, 02:30 PM
I was talking about the compressors in Systainer. But not sure on that one either now

I bought the VAC SYS compressor last year and it came as shown in the photo, complete with the two-conductor Plug-it cord. It is the older Systainer and I had to use a different router template for the trays.

Nomenclature about whether a vacuum pump is technically also a compressor aside, I believe @Coen is talking about the Rolair AIRSTAK and/or Senco Compressor Systainer, both of which use a grounded IEC 320 C13/C14 connection.

Yeah, so no class II on those.

Runhard · « **Reply #130 on:** December 21, 2021, 03:35 PM »

Looks like I waited too long because I can’t find the set anywhere. I just got off the phone with shopfestool and they are out as well. Any suggestions?

Runhard · « **Reply #131 on:** December 21, 2021, 04:04 PM »

Quote from: Runhard on December 21, 2021, 03:35 PM

Looks like I waited too long because I can’t find the set anywhere. I just got off the phone with shopfestool and they are out as well. Any suggestions?

I was able to place an order with BIS Festools-Online in case anyone else wants to place an order. They said that they have a few unspoken for.

Darius · « **Reply #132 on:** December 21, 2021, 06:48 PM »

Just placed pre-order with them as well.

Quote from: Runhard on December 21, 2021, 04:04 PM

Quote from: Runhard on December 21, 2021, 03:35 PM
Looks like I waited too long because I can’t find the set anywhere. I just got off the phone with shopfestool and they are out as well. Any suggestions?
I was able to place an order with BIS Festool’s-Online in case anyone else wants to place an order. They said that they have a few unspoken for.

Runhard · « **Reply #133 on:** December 21, 2021, 07:36 PM »

Quote from: Darius on December 21, 2021, 06:48 PM

Just placed pre-order with them as well.

Quote from: Runhard on December 21, 2021, 04:04 PM
Quote from: Runhard on December 21, 2021, 03:35 PM
Looks like I waited too long because I can’t find the set anywhere. I just got off the phone with shopfestool and they are out as well. Any suggestions?
I was able to place an order with BIS Festool’s-Online in case anyone else wants to place an order. They said that they have a few unspoken for.

Great!

I also ordered the accessory kit and mounting plate for the MFT. I was thinking about an extra foot valve but didn’t know what all was needed to control the two modules independently, if that’s even possible.

Cheese · « **Reply #134 on:** December 22, 2021, 01:56 AM »

For independent control, you’ll need 2 foot valves.

Runhard · « **Reply #135 on:** December 22, 2021, 03:07 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 22, 2021, 01:56 AM

For independent control, you’ll need 2 foot valves.

Is that it, do I need more hose or fittings?

BarneyD · « **Reply #136 on:** December 22, 2021, 05:18 PM »

I bought the complete set a couple of months ago. The foot valve comes with one of the ports plugged. But included with the set is a short length of hose and a valve which can be attached to the foot valve. If using only one base, you can close off that valve. If you want to add a second foot valve, just mount that short piece of hose/valve on the second one and you're golden.

Cheese · « **Reply #137 on:** December 23, 2021, 12:27 AM »

Quote from: Runhard on December 22, 2021, 03:07 PM

Is that it, do I need more hose or fittings?

It all depends upon how Festool offers the foot valve when it's sold as a stand-alone item. When bundled with the SE1, its semi/tethered to the SE1 and has the second port plugged.

However when it's sold on it's own...who knows what's needed. My guess would be that both ports are plugged to prevent contamination. However, that could then become an issue because the face gaskets that are needed for the port plugs/connectors are not available for sale.

You'll need to talk with Festool customer service to ascertain exactly how the foot valve is leaving the service department.

squall_line · « **Reply #138 on:** December 23, 2021, 12:34 AM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 23, 2021, 12:27 AM

Quote from: Runhard on December 22, 2021, 03:07 PM
Is that it, do I need more hose or fittings?

It all depends upon how Festool offers the foot valve when it's sold as a stand-alone item. When bundled with the SE1, its semi/tethered to the SE1 and has the second port plugged.

However when it's sold on it's own...who knows what's needed. My guess would be that both ports are plugged to prevent contamination. However, that could then become an issue because the face gaskets that are needed for the port plugs/connectors are not available for sale.

You'll need to talk with Festool customer service to ascertain exactly how the foot valve is leaving the service department.

The standalone Foot Valve comes with one port plugged and the other with a length of hose attached. Basically the same way it comes with the SE1, just without the SE1 attached on the end of the hose. The setup sheet that comes with the foot valve shows that you plug the black plastic fitting on the end of the hose into the SE module and it clicks into place.

That's how mine came, at least. Sometimes these things change from one year to the next.

Cheese · « **Reply #139 on:** December 23, 2021, 10:03 AM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 23, 2021, 12:34 AM

The standalone Foot Valve comes with one port plugged and the other with a length of hose attached. Basically the same way it comes with the SE1, just without the SE1 attached on the end of the hose. The setup sheet that comes with the foot valve shows that you plug the black plastic fitting on the end of the hose into the SE module and it clicks into place.

That's how mine came, at least. Sometimes these things change from one year to the next.

That's good to know because Festool has never specified exactly what is included with the foot valve. Is there a quick disconnect on the end of the hose?

Early web page when it was first offered

Latest web page

zachjowi · « **Reply #140 on:** December 23, 2021, 10:05 AM »

How well would this pump work with the cups? I already have the pump from a really good deal I found but would like to use the Festool cups. Thinking of trying to find the combo set of pump with sys1 and sys2 then sell the pump.

https://www.rockler.com/rockler-vacuum-pump

squall_line · « **Reply #141 on:** December 23, 2021, 10:14 AM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 23, 2021, 10:03 AM

Quote from: squall_line on December 23, 2021, 12:34 AM
The standalone Foot Valve comes with one port plugged and the other with a length of hose attached. Basically the same way it comes with the SE1, just without the SE1 attached on the end of the hose. The setup sheet that comes with the foot valve shows that you plug the black plastic fitting on the end of the hose into the SE module and it clicks into place.

That's how mine came, at least. Sometimes these things change from one year to the next.

That's good to know because Festool has never specified exactly what is included with the foot valve. Is there a quick disconnect on the end of the hose?

I'll grab some pictures this evening and probably measure the hose as well. There's no gray quick-disconnect, just a black plastic bayonet fitting.

mike_aa · « **Reply #142 on:** December 23, 2021, 02:44 PM »

Quote from: zachjowi on December 23, 2021, 10:05 AM

How well would this pump work with the cups? I already have the pump from a really good deal I found but would like to use the Festool cups. Thinking of trying to find the combo set of pump with sys1 and sys2 then sell the pump.

https://www.rockler.com/rockler-vacuum-pump

I can't vouch for how well this pump might work, but Veneer Supplies has a similar one for less money. They also have higher capacity units and they are a great company to deal with.

Mike A.

denovo · « **Reply #143 on:** December 23, 2021, 07:29 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on December 23, 2021, 10:03 AM

That's good to know because Festool has never specified exactly what is included with the foot valve. Is there a quick disconnect on the end of the hose?

If I remember correctly it's not the large grey quick disconnect but there is something similar to the 1/4" water line quick disconnect on the back of the vacuum head. You push in the retaining ring and pull out the hose with the plastic adapter tube. To attach it you just push it in and it locks in place with a slight pull.

squall_line · « **Reply #144 on:** December 23, 2021, 09:15 PM »

Here's a picture of the way the foot valve arrives and a closeup of the directions on installing/using it.

I let the pedal sit on the ground and raised the hose up as high as it could go and it was a few inches taller than me. I'm 5'10" on a good day, so I'd guess the hose is an honest 2 meters.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #145 on:** December 24, 2021, 08:06 AM »

@squall_line Does that sheet with the foot valve have a parts breakdown with #'s? I'm interested in the little black plastic piece that goes into the tubing.

Edit nevermind it's 471568.

squall_line · « **Reply #146 on:** December 24, 2021, 12:05 PM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 24, 2021, 08:06 AM

@squall_line Does that sheet with the foot valve have a parts breakdown with #'s? I'm interested in the little black plastic piece that goes into the tubing.

Edit nevermind it's 471568.

Funnily enough, it only came with a diagram for hooking it to an SE1 or a diagram to use the short hose with the valve to hook it to both an SE1 and SE2. No exploded diagram or parts list like you would find with so many of their other products.

Glad you were able to find it!

Cheese · « **Reply #147 on:** December 25, 2021, 12:30 AM »

Quote from: squall_line on December 24, 2021, 12:05 PM

Funnily enough, it only came with a diagram for hooking it to an SE1 or a diagram to use the short hose with the valve to hook it to both an SE1 and SE2. No exploded diagram or parts list like you would find with so many of their other products.

Thanks for that @squall_line ...that reminded me of how how the vac units are connected. I completely forgot about the connection down, underneath the bowels of the ship. Unseen by most persons. The Festo push-in connectors are great but they don't allow a lot of room for finger movement and fitting disengagement.

rst · « **Reply #148 on:** December 25, 2021, 08:18 AM »

I modified my set so that I could disconnect the hoses, making storage easier. 8 mm tubing is cheap as are push/pull fittings. I buy part from Automation direct for my tinkering and creative engineering

guybo · « **Reply #149 on:** December 25, 2021, 08:47 AM »

Hi, they make a tool.guy

vkumar · « **Reply #150 on:** December 25, 2021, 12:07 PM »

Quote from: Rollin22Petes on December 04, 2021, 11:02 AM

So I've done a little research and think I found something similar that will work (at least for me) It's the Virutex multiple fastening system, it uses compressed air instead of a vacuum, but is a very simple and affordable design that tilts and swivels. You can also add multiple head units and get an option so you can vacuum it down to a work surface, it also uses a readily available rubber seal on the head.

Interesting. Do you have any links?

Samo · « **Reply #151 on:** December 25, 2021, 02:43 PM »

Merry Christmas

https://www.virutextools.com/multiple-fastening-fystem-tilting-swivelling-svn460-pid349

rst · « **Reply #152 on:** December 25, 2021, 05:46 PM »

I bought the basic units and mounted them on bar stool swivels

Rjk75 · « **Reply #153 on:** December 26, 2021, 09:08 PM »

Do we know what psi and cfm it requires?

HowardH · « **Reply #154 on:** December 27, 2021, 10:21 AM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on December 03, 2021, 01:37 PM

Yeah I know you can cobble something together with other company's products. I just like the robustness of the Vac Sys pivoting head.

I have the entire system. Don't know how I lived without it. However, I have both heads and have never even opened the box on one of them. I would be willing to part with one is someone needs/wants it.

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #155 on:** December 28, 2021, 11:53 PM »

I was hoping to grab one of these during the recon last year and missed out. I can't find anybody with the set ... anybody know where I can find one? It seems TN might have some for pre-order Jan 22' so I'll keep an eye out.

About the set, it seems many of you don't care for the pump and only the heads ... if I buy the set is there a reason to sell the pump and get something else?

Besides edge banding where you can't clamp the piece down are there any other really good uses for these?

Cheese · « **Reply #156 on:** December 29, 2021, 09:14 AM »

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on December 28, 2021, 11:53 PM

I was hoping to grab one of these during the recon last year and missed out. I can't find anybody with the set ... anybody know where I can find one? It seems TN might have some for pre-order Jan 22' so I'll keep an eye out.

Besides edge banding where you can't clamp the piece down are there any other really good uses for these?

Shane has already stated that all of the TN product, even the yet to arrive product, has been spoken for. He said the only exception would be if anyone cancelled their order. Maybe TN has a waitlist option?

US Tool & Fastener had some available...

I use mine for sanding and for Dominoing, I don't have to futz around with clamping boards down, it makes things a lot easier & faster.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #157 on:** December 29, 2021, 11:02 AM »

Vac Sys gets used on every project in the shop. I've cautioned before though, gotta have a dedicated setup or it won't get used enough to justify it. Starting out it was too much of a PITA to setup for some quick sanding or whatever. Faster to grab some clamps.

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #158 on:** December 29, 2021, 11:42 AM »

Thanks @Cheese … US Tool & Fastener are out of stock … I subscribed to TN back in stock alert … not sure if that’s enough or not. I’ve called around 20 or more dealers within an hour and nobody has one in stock as it seems a slow seller. Wondering if I should continue to extend the search and hope some local unknown to the internet dealer happens to have brought one in which didn’t sell and probably has older manufacture date?

DynaGlide · « **Reply #159 on:** December 30, 2021, 12:11 PM »

Does anyone have a slick design for their Vac Sys mount?

I know Sedge uses a drop in style that relies on the suction of the heads to secure it in place:

Mine is just bolted to 1.5" thick laminated plywood that secures to t-track:

With the 2nd head I'm starting to think about if I want to modify how I secure the units in some sort of height adjustable fashion. I guess I could put a second set of holes where the knobs go to drop it down giving me two height settings. Curious to see if anyone has done something with t-track to give variable height adjustment.

Matt

Chainring · « **Reply #160 on:** December 30, 2021, 02:35 PM »

I forget whose design it is, but here's a pic of an adjustable height VAC SYS mount.

rst · « **Reply #161 on:** December 30, 2021, 03:53 PM »

I used 8020 extrusions and posted pics years ago...have trouble attaching now

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #162 on:** December 30, 2021, 06:39 PM »

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on December 28, 2021, 11:53 PM

I was hoping to grab one of these during the recon last year and missed out. I can't find anybody with the set ... anybody know where I can find one? It seems TN might have some for pre-order Jan 22' so I'll keep an eye out.

About the set, it seems many of you don't care for the pump and only the heads ... if I buy the set is there a reason to sell the pump and get something else?

Besides edge banding where you can't clamp the piece down are there any other really good uses for these?

Tool Nirvana has the individual pieces, it looks like but I would confirm with Chip. The main head ships in March. They have the second one in stock and he pump in stock.

serge0n · « **Reply #163 on:** December 31, 2021, 12:32 PM »

Quote from: MrToolJunkie on December 30, 2021, 06:39 PM

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on December 28, 2021, 11:53 PM
I was hoping to grab one of these during the recon last year and missed out. I can't find anybody with the set ... anybody know where I can find one? It seems TN might have some for pre-order Jan 22' so I'll keep an eye out.

About the set, it seems many of you don't care for the pump and only the heads ... if I buy the set is there a reason to sell the pump and get something else?

Besides edge banding where you can't clamp the piece down are there any other really good uses for these?

Tool Nirvana has the individual pieces, it looks like but I would confirm with Chip. The main head ships in March. They have the second one in stock and he pump in stock.

I just spoke with Chip yesterday. The pumps are long gone and he doesn't expect to have any in the future. He has plenty of SE2 heads in stock and SE1s will be arriving in March.

Ace Tool is still taking orders for the SE1 + pump kit, but lady from customer service told me they don't guarantee a delivery and have no records of any backorders. They think a shipment is coming in sometime in February, but they have no idea how many units they will have.

Also spoke with Acme Tools, you can place an order for SE1 + pump, but also no guarantees. Their e-commerce platform is not sophisticated enough to disable the add to cart button when all backordered quantities are fulfilled. They can have 50 orders for the pump with only 10 units coming in and they will continue to take online orders even though they will never be fulfilled.
At least Acme doesn't charge your card until the order ships. Ace Tool places a hold.

I finally found a retailer who still has the kit - Lee Valley. Unfortunately the only one they have is the full system with 2 heads and a pump. It's on back order, expected to ship on 2/8. As the CS rep explained to me, their system is smart enough to disallow purchases once all backorder quantities are spoken for. I got my order in, keeping my fingers crossed.

Richard/RMW · « **Reply #164 on:** December 31, 2021, 02:01 PM »

Assuming Festool discontinued it due to slow sales, looks like all they really needed to do was announce it was discontinued to send sales thru the roof... FOMO

Kinda validates the Onetime Tool approach.

RMW

Cheese · « **Reply #165 on:** December 31, 2021, 02:43 PM »

Quote from: Richard/RMW on December 31, 2021, 02:01 PM

Assuming Festool discontinued it due to slow sales, looks like all they really needed to do was announce it was discontinued to send sales thru the roof... FOMO

Kinda validates the Onetime Tool approach.

Ya, that's been the case with the MFS...RAS 115...RS 2 and to a lesser degree the GMS Set.

I wonder what will happen when they officially announce the LS 130?

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #166 on:** January 01, 2022, 12:13 AM »

Have you heard that the LS130 is going to be discontinued?

Cheese · « **Reply #167 on:** January 01, 2022, 09:18 AM »

Quote from: MrToolJunkie on January 01, 2022, 12:13 AM

Have you heard that the LS130 is going to be discontinued?

Nothing's been said but it's no longer listed in the 2022 Euro or UK Catalog...that's not a good sign.

https://www.festool.co.uk/-/media/tts/fcp/festool-united-kingdom/downloads/downloads/festool-main-catalogue-2022-uk-en.pdf

BarneyD · « **Reply #168 on:** January 01, 2022, 03:19 PM »

I finally finished my rolling cart for the Vac Sys. It's not going to win any beauty contests. Made from whatever scraps I had on hand. Just had to buy the hardware. The fool valve, when not in use, gets stowed under the pump. I wish it could've been larger, but I am severely space-constrained. So this will have to do.

Richard/RMW · « **Reply #169 on:** January 01, 2022, 06:23 PM »

Quote from: Cheese on January 01, 2022, 09:18 AM

Quote from: MrToolJunkie on January 01, 2022, 12:13 AM
Have you heard that the LS130 is going to be discontinued?

Nothing's been said but it's no longer listed in the 2022 Euro or UK Catalog...that's not a good sign.

https://www.festool.co.uk/-/media/tts/fcp/festool-united-kingdom/downloads/downloads/festool-main-catalogue-2022-uk-en.pdf

Looks like you started a panic...

RMW

Ebuwan · « **Reply #170 on:** January 02, 2022, 12:54 AM »

Anyone hear if Schmalz?

Seems legit and vacuum clamping is their whole game.
https://www.schmalz.com/en/vacuum-clamping-technology/clamping-equipment-for-woodworking/clamping-equipment-for-manual-work/multi-clamp-system-vc-m-vc-m-v-309801/

NOT a bargain price replacement though

I am also in the category of just about to buy into vac sys, exactly what happened with the CMS too

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #171 on:** January 02, 2022, 01:23 AM »

Quote from: Ebuwan on January 02, 2022, 12:54 AM

Anyone hear if Schmalz?

Seems legit and vacuum clamping is their whole game.
https://www.schmalz.com/en/vacuum-clamping-technology/clamping-equipment-for-woodworking/clamping-equipment-for-manual-work/multi-clamp-system-vc-m-vc-m-v-309801/

NOT a bargain price replacement though

I am also in the category of just about to buy into vac sys, exactly what happened with the CMS too

Schmalz has been in the game for years and I looked at that system when the Vac Sys was NAINA several years ago. It is pricey, but honestly I would buy into whatever system if something happened to my unit. It is so versatile.

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #172 on:** January 02, 2022, 01:24 AM »

Quote from: Richard/RMW on January 01, 2022, 06:23 PM

Quote from: Cheese on January 01, 2022, 09:18 AM
Quote from: MrToolJunkie on January 01, 2022, 12:13 AM
Have you heard that the LS130 is going to be discontinued?

Nothing's been said but it's no longer listed in the 2022 Euro or UK Catalog...that's not a good sign.

https://www.festool.co.uk/-/media/tts/fcp/festool-united-kingdom/downloads/downloads/festool-main-catalogue-2022-uk-en.pdf

Looks like you started a panic...

RMW

I am glad I already have the sander - not used often, but when I need it, I need it.

usernumber1 · « **Reply #173 on:** January 02, 2022, 03:14 AM »

Quote from: Ebuwan on January 02, 2022, 12:54 AM

Anyone hear if Schmalz?

Seems legit and vacuum clamping is their whole game.
https://www.schmalz.com/en/vacuum-clamping-technology/clamping-equipment-for-woodworking/clamping-equipment-for-manual-work/multi-clamp-system-vc-m-vc-m-v-309801/

NOT a bargain price replacement though

I am also in the category of just about to buy into vac sys, exactly what happened with the CMS too

thanks for the links

also yowza!
one head is ~$980 CAD and pump is ~$1280 CAD so about CAD $2300

DynaGlide · « **Reply #174 on:** January 02, 2022, 07:30 AM »

Here's another company

https://www.barth-maschinenbau.de/en/produkt/workbench-jig-vakuusyst/

It's also around 2400.

They make a slick assembly table with integrated vacuum clamping for only $10,000.

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #175 on:** January 02, 2022, 10:00 AM »

I checked Lee Valley but wasn’t aware I could place an order even if it’s on back order. I just checked again to make an order and see the vac set is $2,040. 😢

Cheese · « **Reply #176 on:** January 02, 2022, 10:23 AM »

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on January 02, 2022, 10:00 AM

I checked Lee Valley but wasn’t aware I could place an order even if it’s on back order. I just checked again to make an order and see the vac set is $2,040. 😢

I bet that's Canadian they're talking about, I expect about a 20% discount on that for US dollars.

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #177 on:** January 02, 2022, 11:09 AM »

You’re correct … about $1,615 USD.

Cheese · « **Reply #178 on:** January 02, 2022, 12:10 PM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on January 02, 2022, 07:30 AM

Here's another company...

As nice as the Barth industrial system is I really think the Festool version is a much more elegant solution. And then considering the Festool pricing it really is...er...was a steal.

I'm still amazed that the SE 1 or SE 2 vac heads sell for only $425 each considering they have built-in valving, nicely finished aluminum castings, rotating and tilting capabilities and each unit also includes the rubber vac cup and comes in its own Systainer.

Subtract $100 for the vac cup & $70 for the Systainer and you're left paying only $255 for the unit...steal indeed.

The ability to rapidly change the height on the Barth is nice but it's probably a feature you'll only use 10% of the time. And then there's the inconvenience of having to bolt the Barth system to a bench.

Each system was obviously targeted to a different audience.

Stan Tillinghast · « **Reply #179 on:** January 02, 2022, 12:35 PM »

Lee Valley still gives an expected in-stock date of 12/13/21 on mine. They were very nice when I called to inquire, but had no update.

Coen · « **Reply #180 on:** January 03, 2022, 05:08 AM »

Yeah, expected stockdates in the past is usually not good.

edwarmr · « **Reply #181 on:** January 04, 2022, 11:43 PM »

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on January 02, 2022, 11:09 AM

You’re correct … about $1,615 USD.

@Bugsysiegals

Just so you know they still have the Vac Sys for $1,375 on Lee Valley’s site. Im guessing since you were on the Canadian site that Festool sells it for a higher rate even with the price conversion. I just purchased off the U.S. Lee Valley site for $1,375.

ttf5003 · « **Reply #182 on:** January 05, 2022, 07:24 AM »

I'm late to the party as usual.

If I picked up a second head, VAC-SYS SE 2, would that also function as a stand alone head? It looks like just the tubing is different.

I would pick up a third party vacuum pump as shown earlier in this thread.

Thanks,

Travis

Cheese · « **Reply #183 on:** January 05, 2022, 09:29 AM »

Quote from: ttf5003 on January 05, 2022, 07:24 AM

If I picked up a second head, VAC-SYS SE 2, would that also function as a stand alone head? It looks like just the tubing is different.

I would pick up a third party vacuum pump as shown earlier in this thread.

Ya, you're good to go...don't forget to also order a foot valve as it only comes with the SE 1 head. Or you can mount a hand valve to the bench instead.

ttf5003 · « **Reply #184 on:** January 05, 2022, 10:19 AM »

[/quote]

Ya, you're good to go...don't forget to also order a foot valve as it only comes with the SE 1 head. Or you can mount a hand valve to the bench instead.
[/quote]

Thanks for the quick response.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #185 on:** January 05, 2022, 10:59 AM »

And so it begins:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/265482610529?hash=item3dcfff2761:g:FbEAAOSw9S5h0yxp

SE2 set current bid $1575

Stan Tillinghast · « **Reply #186 on:** January 05, 2022, 12:26 PM »

Update from Lee Valley: expected date of arrival of my Vac Sys System at Lee Valley is now 2/22/22.
If you've ever watched TV in Oahu, that's the phone number of the cab service.
Also Tutu means grandma.
Aloha!

serge0n · « **Reply #187 on:** January 05, 2022, 01:36 PM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on January 05, 2022, 10:59 AM

And so it begins:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/265482610529?hash=item3dcfff2761:g:FbEAAOSw9S5h0yxp

SE2 set current bid $1575

Incredible. Current bid is already $1750. Started from $999.

JMatthew84 · « **Reply #188 on:** January 05, 2022, 05:33 PM »

Thanks for the Lee Valley link, just pre-ordered the system set, now the wait begins; product page says expected Feb 23rd but my order receipt says expected Jan 18th. We shall see!

Stan Tillinghast · « **Reply #189 on:** January 06, 2022, 12:43 PM »

I waited until after the holidays, then two days ago went into one of the local Festool dealers. He said "Too bad! I just sold my last one!" Groan. It was procrastination, I know (to the tune of "It was fascination").

DynaGlide · « **Reply #190 on:** January 06, 2022, 01:19 PM »

I'm starting to make room for the 2nd head on my cart. Working out how I want the hoses routed and waiting on some parts.

I never really planned on having two head units but when I designed the cart I allowed for mounting a second. There's been a few instances a second head would've came in handy. The discontinuation announcement pushed me over the edge.

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #191 on:** January 06, 2022, 02:53 PM »

Quote from: edwarmr on January 04, 2022, 11:43 PM

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on January 02, 2022, 11:09 AM
You’re correct … about $1,615 USD.

@Bugsysiegals

Just so you know they still have the Vac Sys for $1,375 on Lee Valley’s site. Im guessing since you were on the Canadian site that Festool sells it for a higher rate even with the price conversion. I just purchased off the U.S. Lee Valley site for $1,375.

(Attachment Link)

When I went to LV earlier it showed CAD which didn't translate to the $1,375 USD. After seeing your post I realized I could click a link on the top to visit the United States site even though the website is .com rather than .ca. Afterwards, I seen the price was $1,375 and I went ahead and purchased but who knows if they'll actually be able to fullfill ... we'll see. Thanks for sharing, I'd not realized it was still this price or that I could place the order.

edwarmr · « **Reply #192 on:** January 06, 2022, 02:55 PM »

Quote from: Bugsysiegals on January 06, 2022, 02:53 PM

Quote from: edwarmr on January 04, 2022, 11:43 PM
Quote from: Bugsysiegals on January 02, 2022, 11:09 AM
You’re correct … about $1,615 USD.

@Bugsysiegals

Just so you know they still have the Vac Sys for $1,375 on Lee Valley’s site. Im guessing since you were on the Canadian site that Festool sells it for a higher rate even with the price conversion. I just purchased off the U.S. Lee Valley site for $1,375.

(Attachment Link)

When I went to LV earlier it showed CAD which didn't translate to the $1,375 USD. After seeing your post I realized I could click a link on the top to visit the United States site even though the website is .com rather than .ca. Afterwards, I seen the price was $1,375 and I went ahead and purchased but who knows if they'll actually be able to fullfill ... we'll see. Thanks for sharing, I'd not realized it was still this price or that I could place the order.

You’re welcome!
Happy to help 😊

simnick · « **Reply #193 on:** January 07, 2022, 03:18 AM »

Quote from: DynaGlide on January 06, 2022, 01:19 PM

I'm starting to make room for the 2nd head on my cart. Working out how I want the hoses routed and waiting on some parts.

I never really planned on having two head units but when I designed the cart I allowed for mounting a second. There's been a few instances a second head would've came in handy. The discontinuation announcement pushed me over the edge.

Why did you make the heads so proud of the cart? I have a very similar system into extrusion on my outfeed, but I made mine so the head was flush with the table when using the larger heads, so that it would provide more support.

The adjustable height support inspires me, as I could drop it down when a) running large boards on the outfeed, as the edge sticks up, b) go clear of the table for reasons I want to hear from you c)drop it down even further to work for the smaller, taller heads.

DynaGlide · « **Reply #194 on:** January 07, 2022, 06:43 AM »

Quote from: simnick on January 07, 2022, 03:18 AM

Quote from: DynaGlide on January 06, 2022, 01:19 PM

I'm starting to make room for the 2nd head on my cart. Working out how I want the hoses routed and waiting on some parts.

I never really planned on having two head units but when I designed the cart I allowed for mounting a second. There's been a few instances a second head would've came in handy. The discontinuation announcement pushed me over the edge.

Why did you make the heads so proud of the cart? I have a very similar system into extrusion on my outfeed, but I made mine so the head was flush with the table when using the larger heads, so that it would provide more support.

The adjustable height support inspires me, as I could drop it down when a) running large boards on the outfeed, as the edge sticks up, b) go clear of the table for reasons I want to hear from you c)drop it down even further to work for the smaller, taller heads.

The main reason is because that cart is never clean. When I'm working on something I set stuff down there like edgebanding supplies. Having it proud let's me use the heads with stuff on the cart.

JD2720 · « **Reply #195 on:** January 07, 2022, 07:49 AM »

Quote from: serge0n on January 05, 2022, 01:36 PM

Quote from: DynaGlide on January 05, 2022, 10:59 AM
And so it begins:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/265482610529?hash=item3dcfff2761:g:FbEAAOSw9S5h0yxp

SE2 set current bid $1575

Incredible. Current bid is already $1750. Started from $999.

Has anyone else tried to get an estimated cost on shipping? When I do it with my zip code & other valid zip codes, it come back as invalid zip. Is this a scam?

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #196 on:** January 07, 2022, 09:22 AM »

Quote from: JD2720 on January 07, 2022, 07:49 AM

Quote from: serge0n on January 05, 2022, 01:36 PM
Quote from: DynaGlide on January 05, 2022, 10:59 AM
And so it begins:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/265482610529?hash=item3dcfff2761:g:FbEAAOSw9S5h0yxp

SE2 set current bid $1575

Incredible. Current bid is already $1750. Started from $999.

Has anyone else tried to get an estimated cost on shipping? When I do it with my zip code & other valid zip codes, it come back as invalid zip. Is this a scam?

I’ve sold over $4,000 over the last 60 days on eBay of stuff I’ve collected and haven’t been using. Sadly, eBay takes around 11% of all my sales. It used to be around 5% eBay and 5% Paypal. They no longer use PayPal and do direct deposit but now charge 11%! I thought this vac-says kit was selling really high but after eBay fees and shipping the seller won’t make a huge profit on these.

When I click on shipping, it goes to send the seller a message.

For me it wants to message the seller to get the quote.

Cheese · « **Reply #197 on:** January 07, 2022, 10:21 AM »

Quote from: serge0n on January 05, 2022, 01:36 PM

Incredible. Current bid is already $1750. Started from $999.

Up to $1850 with 3 days left...

SRSemenza · « **Reply #198 on:** January 07, 2022, 10:35 AM »

Quote from: Cheese on January 07, 2022, 10:21 AM

Quote from: serge0n on January 05, 2022, 01:36 PM
Incredible. Current bid is already $1750. Started from $999.

Up to $1850 with 3 days left...

Buyers can still pay with PayPal. It is a payment option on the buyers end. It is just that all the payments go through Ebay to the seller regardless of the payment method.

Seth

Bugsysiegals · « **Reply #199 on:** January 07, 2022, 01:01 PM »

Quote from: SRSemenza on January 07, 2022, 10:35 AM

Quote from: Cheese on January 07, 2022, 10:21 AM
Quote from: serge0n on January 05, 2022, 01:36 PM
Incredible. Current bid is already $1750. Started from $999.

Up to $1850 with 3 days left...

Buyers can still pay with PayPal. It is a payment option on the buyers end. It is just that all the payments go through Ebay to the seller regardless of the payment method.

Seth

Right, but the ripoff is that as a seller I was losing 5% to PayPal and 5% from eBay in the past and now I lose 11% even though eBay does direct deposit to me ... I was expecting to only get the 5% fee from eBay but I guess they've found eliminating PayPal and taking the extra 5% for themselves was more profitable ...