Difference between 5800/8800:
5800 with 6 Point Mounting
Quick Mounting System
Quick Action Bases
Basic Keypad
8800 with 6 Point Mounting
Suspension Mounting System
Switch Action Bases
Self-Centering Keypad
Telephone Keypad
8800: The suspension mounting arms require 1 knob to move both shoulder support arms in simultaneously, the frame support (12 & 6 o’clock) pretty much stays in the same place. The self-centering turntable moves both mounting arms simultaneously. The switch action clamps are similar to a light switch where there is a definite on and off (over center of a cam). There are more keys so inputting and changing tension is faster.
5800: The quick mount system requires that you adjust the shoulder supports individually and then the frame supports (12 & 6 o’clock). You have to move each mounting arm into position and tighten it up with an included allen wrench. The quick action clamps are very reliable pretty much a nut and bolt design, you need to apply constant pressure to tighten them.
Most of the time the constant pulling is less than 1.5lbs but I just want to make sure I was covering myself.
For reference (hopefully a search @ a later date): The mounting system on 5003 is the same as the 5800 & the 6004 are the same as the 8800. Just the tensioning device is different between the 8800/5800 & 6004/5003.
The biggest advantage for the 8800 is speed. The mounting is faster, the keypad has more inputs & base clamps are easier & quicker. if you are planning on your stringing business growing then I’d get an 8800. Many shops use the 5800 also, It boils down to how much is your time worth? It will count off a couple of minutes per rqt and then eventually add up. i look at machines as an tool and an investment so if you can afford the 8800 it would be good. it has all of our best parts and latest technologies.
bret