Fein Power Tools recently redesigned its Turbo I, Turbo II, and Turbo II HEPA series shop vacuums. All three models have the same basic features and specs, differing only in terms of their filters, weight, and tank capacity (size).
This will be the third generation of Turbo models sold in the U.S. These new models have a squared off tank (they used to be rounder) and four large casters (versus the multitude of small casters on the last generation). Notable new features include a rimmed flat storage area on top and accessory cord and hose storage hooks on the back.
As before, the machines can be used as standard vacuums or set to tool-activated mode for use as dust extractors. First- and second-generation tools had variable suction (variable-speed motors) were controlled by a push button or knob on the front of the machine. These new models are single-speed tools. If suction needs to be reduced—as might be necessary when sanding—a slot can be opened at the coupling to divert a portion of the air. Suction falls off as the slot is opened but will return to full when it’s closed.
All three models have 1,100 watt motors and produce 151 CFM of airflow, 98.4” of water lift, and 66 dB of sound pressure—making them comparable to Festool’s CT26 (350-1,200 watts; 137 CFM; 96” lift; 62-72 dB).
Fein offers three flat pleated filters to fit these machines. The cellulose filter is intended for dry use only and goes for about $35. The PES (polyethersulfone) filter is synthetic and can be used to collect wet or dry. It costs about $65. The HEPA filter is about $100. Dry material can be collected in a disposable fleece bag or in the tank itself when a permanent fleece filter ($60) is used. Wet material and liquid can be collected with the PES filter in place.
My take: I bought a first-generation Turbo vac in the 1990s and it was great for its time. This vac appears to be better. The squared off shape and low profile should make it easier to stow in a vehicle and less likely to tip over in use. The flat top (where tools can be placed) is a welcome addition as are the cord, hose, and nozzle holders on the back of the machine.
It doesn’t bother me that the vac no longer has a variable-speed motor. I almost always run vacuums full out and if I needed to reduce the suction of this vac it would be easy enough to open the bleeder on the tool adapter. And a variable-speed switch is just one more thing to break or wear out. You can’t reduce sound level by turning the motor down—but really, 66 dB is already pretty quiet (a normal conversation is 60-65 dB).
The only time when the single-speed motor might be a problem is when the breaker is tripping because there is insufficient power, a long cord run, or a high amp draw tool plugged into the vac. In that situation it might help to be able to turn the motor down. Under normal circumstances, though, a built-in power-on delay should prevent breakers from tripping.
Turbo I Specs
Power: 1,100 watts
Suction: 151 CFM
Static Water Lift: 98.4”
Sound pressure: 66 dB
Wet/Dry: Yes
Cord: 16’
Hose: 16’
Capacity: 5.8 gallons
Weight: 17.9 pounds
Country of origin: Romania
Includes: hose, tool coupler, filter bag, filter
Web price: $299 ($449 with accessory set)
Turbo II Specs
Power: 1,100 watts
Suction: 151 CFM
Static Water Lift: 98.4”
Sound pressure: 66 dB
Wet/Dry: Yes
Cord: 16’
Hose: 16’
Capacity: 8.4 gallons
Weight: 20.1 pounds
Country of origin: Romania
Includes: hose, tool coupler, filter bag, filter
Web price: $399 ($499 with accessory set)
Turbo II HEPA Specs (same as above but with HEPA filter)
Power: 1,100 watts
Suction: 151 CFM
Static Water Lift: 98.4”
Sound pressure: 66 dB
Wet/Dry: Yes
Cord: 16’
Hose: 16’
Capacity: 8.4 gallons
Weight: 20.1 pounds
Country of origin: Romania
Includes: hose, tool coupler, filter bag, HEPA filter
Web price: $499 ($549 with accessory set)
