Do not have the chisel slot against the blind end of the mortise, as the chips will not be able to clear the chisel. This can cause overheating and possible breakage of chisel or bit.
When cutting deep mortises, make the cut in several stages of approximately 1" each, to allow chips to clear. To prevent breakout at the back of the workpiece when cutting through mortises, use a piece of scrap material under the workpiece as support.
Maintenance
Before any intervention on the machine, disconnect it from the electrical supply by pulling out the plug or switching off the main switch! Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
General
A coat of paste wax applied to the table and column will help to keep the surfaces clean.
If the power cord is worn, cut, or damaged in any way, have it replaced immediately.
The Mortiser requires only minor maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication and routine adjustment and sharpening of the chisel and bit.
Dust the machine down after each use and, as necessary, use light applications of oil or grease to lubricate linkages, moving parts, etc.
Sharpening Chisel and Bit
The chisel and bit should be kept sharp for best performance. Blunt edges will give inaccurate mortises and can lead to overheating and breakage to chisel or bit. If chisel and bit are badly worn and become difficult to sharpen, they should be replaced.
Bit
Sharpen the bit by using a small, smooth file, following the original shape of the bit. File the inside edge of the spur, the sides of the brad point, and the cutting edge inwards toward the flute of the bit (Figure 20).
Do not file the outside edge of the spur, as this will affect the diameter of the bit.
Figure 19
Figure 20
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