My plan has been to buy a used (70's or so vintage) Craftsman 6"
jointer for my home shop. Just some small pieces of furniture, etc.,
nothing production. I had seen them sell on Ebay for $100-$125, just
waiting for one to show up locally (Chicago area).

A few days ago I met a guy who will sell me a newer Ridgid jointer for
$180. Apparently his father bought it, used it for a short time, then
passed away. I do have a dust collector that I'll be using, and the
Ridgid appears to be set up better for the 4" hose, but other than
that, is the Ridgid worth the extra $$$?

Being the cheap-skate, I would rather spend the extra $$$ on wood,
unless there is a compelling reason why the newer machine is worth it.

What do you think?

Rob