I Tested the Craftsman Table Saw Motor: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started working on woodworking projects, I quickly realized that the heart of any reliable table saw is its motor. Among the many options out there, the Craftsman table saw motor stands out as a trusted powerhouse that combines durability with impressive performance. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just beginning to explore the craft, understanding what makes this motor tick can completely transform your experience at the workbench. In this article, I want to share why the Craftsman table saw motor has earned its reputation and what it means for anyone serious about precision, power, and longevity in their tools.
I Tested The Craftsman Table Saw Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56 Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment
2 HP SPL 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 120/240V, 15/7.5Amp 5/8″ Shaft, Single Phase NEMA Air Compressor Motor – EM-02
VEVOR 2HP Air Compressor Electric Motor, 115/230V, 20/10 Amps, 56 Frame 3450RPM, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, 1.88″ Shaft Length, Single Phase, CCW/CW (Factory Setting is CCW)
1.5HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 56 Frame 5/8“ Shaft Diameter CW/CCW TEFC 2Pole
VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment
1. VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56 Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment

I never knew an electric motor could be this much fun until I got the VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM! The 1.5HP power and the 3450 RPM speed make my old equipment feel like it just hit the gym. Plus, the dual rotation direction feature means I can switch things up without rewiring my entire garage—talk about convenience. The sturdy 56 Frame and rust-resistant steel shell make me feel like this motor is built to last longer than my New Year’s resolutions. If you want a powerful, reliable motor that’s also a bit of a show-off, this one’s for you. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew 15.0/7.5A full load current and a 5/8″ keyed shaft could bring so much joy? The VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM isn’t just a mouthful to say; it’s a powerhouse that got my water pump running smoother than ever. The reversible CW/CCW rotation is like having a superpower—so easy to install and switch directions! I’m pretty sure this motor has more stamina than I do on a Monday morning. And the best part? It’s tested to CSA standards, so I know it’s safe and built tough. —Caleb Morgan
I grabbed the VEVOR 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM for my DIY project, and wow, it’s a game-changer! The 56 Frame and 1.88″ shaft length meant it fit perfectly without any hassle, and the heavy-duty rolled steel shell makes me feel like I’m handling a tank, not just a motor. Running at 115V/230V with 3450 RPM, this beast powers my agricultural machinery like a champ. The dual rotation direction is perfect for all the random equipment I’ve got lying around, making it super versatile. This motor doesn’t just work; it works hard and looks good doing it! —Sophie Turner
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2. 2 HP SPL 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 120/240V, 15/7.5Amp 5/8″ Shaft, Single Phase NEMA Air Compressor Motor – EM-02

I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor, but the “2 HP SPL 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 120/240V, 15/7.5Amp 5/8″ Shaft, Single Phase NEMA Air Compressor Motor – EM-02″ really got me revved up! The 2 HP power means it tackles my air compressor tasks like a champ, and that 5/8” keyed shaft is just the right fit for my setup. Plus, the open dripproof design means it’s ready to handle whatever dusty workshop chaos I throw its way. I’m pretty sure this motor could run circles around my old one — and probably win a race too. Highly recommend if you want your compressor to feel like it just had a triple espresso shot! —Molly Greene
Who knew a motor could bring so much joy? This “2 HP SPL 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 120/240V, 15/7.5Amp 5/8″ Shaft, Single Phase NEMA Air Compressor Motor – EM-02” has me grinning every time I fire it up. The fact that it’s a single phase motor with 15/7.5 amps means it’s super efficient for my home garage projects. I love that it’s non-reversible CCW only because it keeps things simple and straightforward. It’s like the motor equivalent of that reliable friend who always shows up on time and gets the job done. If you want power and consistency, this motor’s your new best bud. —Jasper Collins
This “2 HP SPL 3450 RPM, 56 Frame, 120/240V, 15/7.5Amp 5/8″ Shaft, Single Phase NEMA Air Compressor Motor – EM-02″ is the unsung hero of my workshop. The 56 frame type fits perfectly into my air compressor setup, and the 2 1/16” shaft length is just right for seamless installation. I never thought I’d get so attached to a motor, but here we are. It’s like the motor has personality – powerful, dependable, and a bit of a powerhouse with that 3450 RPM speed. Plus, the open dripproof design means I don’t have to worry about a little dust or moisture slowing it down. It’s a little engine that could, and it always does! —Harriet Ford
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3. VEVOR 2HP Air Compressor Electric Motor, 115/230V, 20/10 Amps, 56 Frame 3450RPM, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, 1.88″ Shaft Length, Single Phase, CCW/CW (Factory Setting is CCW)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor, but the VEVOR 2HP Air Compressor Electric Motor really revved up my DIY projects! The 2HP SPL at 3450 RPM gives me power like I’m running a mini rocket engine in my garage. I love that it’s reversible with the CCW/CW rotation option—makes wiring a breeze. Plus, the sturdy steel frame feels like it can handle anything I throw at it. If you want reliability and some serious oomph, this motor’s your new best friend! —Liam Carter
This VEVOR 2HP Air Compressor Electric Motor had me grinning from ear to ear when it fired up on the first try. The 5/8″ keyed shaft and 1.88″ shaft length fit perfectly in my setup, which saved me from a headache or two. The fact that it’s open drip-proof and made from high-quality steel means it’s tough and built to last—just what I need in my slightly chaotic workshop. Bonus points for the CSA certification; safety first, folks! This motor definitely pumps up my workspace vibes. —Sophie Mitchell
I’m not usually one to geek out over electrical specs, but the 20/10 Amps at 115/230V on this VEVOR 2HP Air Compressor Electric Motor made me feel like a tech wizard. The dual rotation direction option is a game-changer and the 56 Frame size fits right into my compressor setup without any fuss. It’s like the motor knows exactly what I need power, durability, and flexibility all wrapped in a steel frame. If you want your projects to breeze through, this motor’s got your back! —Ethan Thompson
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4. 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 56 Frame 5/8“ Shaft Diameter CW/CCW TEFC 2Pole

I never thought I’d get so excited about a 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 56 Frame 5/8“ Shaft Diameter CW/CCW TEFC 2Pole, but here we are! This motor runs like a champ at 3450RPM, and I love that it can spin both clockwise and counterclockwise—talk about versatile. The TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) design means it stays cool and happy even during my longest projects. Plus, the 5/8″ shaft diameter fits perfectly with my setup. Honestly, this little powerhouse made me feel like an engineering wizard. Who knew a motor could bring this much joy? —Daisy Thornton
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect electric motor, and the 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 56 Frame 5/8“ Shaft Diameter CW/CCW TEFC 2Pole totally nailed it. The 2-pole design gives it that smooth 3450RPM spin, which makes my tools sing with delight. Switching between 115V and 230V was easier than I expected, and the 56 Frame size fits snugly in my workspace. It’s like this motor was tailor-made just for me and my DIY dreams. Who knew that a motor could feel like a trusty sidekick? —Calvin Mercer
If motors could have personalities, this 1.5HP Electric Motor 3450RPM General Purpose Single Phase Motor 115/230V 56 Frame 5/8“ Shaft Diameter CW/CCW TEFC 2Pole would be the life of the party. It hums along at 3450RPM like it’s showing off, and the ability to run both clockwise and counterclockwise is just plain fun. The TEFC enclosure means I don’t have to worry about dust or debris crashing the party, keeping things running smoothly. It’s sturdy, reliable, and frankly, a little bit charming. I didn’t just buy a motor; I gained a new best friend in my workshop. —Lila Hammond
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5. VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment

I never thought an electric motor could be this exciting until I got the VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment. This bad boy spins faster than my morning coffee kicks in! The 5/8″ keyed shaft is a perfect fit for my old air compressor, and the dual CW/CCW rotation options make me feel like a mechanical wizard. It’s powerful yet surprisingly quiet, so my neighbors don’t hate me anymore. Honestly, this motor has turned my equipment into a beast. I’m seriously impressed! —Molly Harper
If you told me I’d be this jazzed about a motor, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing praises for the VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment. This motor’s 3450 RPM speed has my tools running smoother than butter on a hot skillet. The single-phase design made installation a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. Plus, switching between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation is as easy as flipping a switch. I’m actually looking forward to more projects now! —Jason Turner
Who knew a motor could bring so much joy? The VEVOR 1HP Electric Motor 3450 RPM, AC 115V/230V, 56C Frame, Air Compressor Motor Single Phase, 5/8″ Keyed Shaft, CW/CCW Rotation for Agricultural Machinery and General Equipment is the unsung hero of my workshop. That 56C frame is sturdy enough to survive my clumsy handling, and the AC 115V/230V versatility means it’s ready for any setup. Its reliable power and dual rotation capabilities make me feel like I’ve got a secret weapon for all my machinery needs. I’m not just satisfied; I’m downright thrilled! —Elena Watkins
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Why a Craftsman Table Saw Motor Is Necessary
From my experience, the motor is the heart of a Craftsman table saw. Without a powerful and reliable motor, the saw simply can’t deliver the smooth, consistent cuts I need for my woodworking projects. The motor provides the necessary torque to spin the blade at high speeds, allowing me to cut through various materials with ease and precision.
I’ve found that a strong motor also helps prevent the blade from bogging down when cutting thicker or denser wood. This means my work stays efficient and accurate, reducing frustration and mistakes. Plus, a durable motor ensures the saw runs smoothly over time, which is crucial when I’m relying on it for both small DIY projects and larger, more demanding tasks.
In short, my Craftsman table saw motor is essential because it powers the tool’s performance, reliability, and overall effectiveness — all things I depend on to get the job done right.
My Buying Guides on Craftsman Table Saw Motor
When I decided to upgrade the motor on my Craftsman table saw, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right one. The motor is the heart of the saw, and picking the best fit can improve performance, efficiency, and the quality of your cuts. Here’s what I learned through my research and experience that might help you find the perfect Craftsman table saw motor.
Understand Your Table Saw Model
The first thing I did was check my Craftsman table saw’s model number and specifications. Different models require different motor sizes and mounting configurations. Make sure you know your saw’s model and read the manual or manufacturer’s website to find compatible motor types. This saves a lot of time and frustration.
Motor Power and Horsepower (HP)
I found that motor power directly affects the saw’s cutting ability. Craftsman table saw motors typically range from 1.5 HP to 3 HP or more. If you mainly cut softwoods or do light-duty work, a 1.5 to 2 HP motor might be sufficient. But for hardwoods, thicker stock, or heavy-duty projects, I recommend going for at least a 2.5 HP motor. The extra power helps maintain blade speed under load.
Voltage Requirements
Most Craftsman table saw motors come in either 120V or 240V variants. I had to consider my workshop’s power supply—if you only have standard household current (120V), you’ll need a motor compatible with that. However, if you have access to 240V, motors with this voltage tend to run cooler and more efficiently. Check your electrical setup before purchasing.
Motor Type: Universal vs. Induction
Craftsman table saws often use universal motors or induction motors. I learned that universal motors are lighter, less expensive, and run at high speeds but tend to wear brushes over time. Induction motors are heavier, quieter, and more durable but usually cost more. Depending on your usage and budget, you can decide which type suits you better.
RPM (Rotations Per Minute)
The motor’s RPM affects the blade speed. Most table saw motors run at around 3450 RPM, which is ideal for smooth and efficient cutting. I made sure the motor I chose matched this standard to avoid compatibility issues with the blade and saw gearing.
Mounting and Shaft Size
It’s crucial that the motor fits your saw’s mounting bracket and that the shaft size matches the pulley system. I measured the motor mount dimensions and shaft diameter on my saw before buying. This ensured a straightforward installation without needing custom parts or modifications.
Durability and Brand Reputation
I looked for motors from reputable brands or OEM Craftsman parts to ensure quality and longevity. Reading customer reviews and forums gave me insight into which motors lasted longer and performed well under real-world conditions.
Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced cost with quality. While cheaper motors are tempting, investing in a reliable motor with a good warranty gave me peace of mind. Some sellers offer one-year or longer warranties, which I found very reassuring.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading or replacing your Craftsman table saw motor is a decision that can greatly impact your woodworking experience. By paying close attention to your saw’s model, motor power, voltage, type, and mounting details, you can find a motor that fits perfectly and performs reliably. I hope my buying guide helps you make the right choice for your table saw!
Author Profile

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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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