Basic Operations
Dust Collection
Before initial operation, the machine must be connected to a dust collector.
Important: If a dust collection system is not used, the quality of your cut will suffer severely.
Initial Startup
After the assembly and adjustments are complete the planer is ready to be tested. Plug in and start the machine. Keep your finger on the Stop button in case of a problem. The machine should run smoothly with little or no vibration or rubbing noises. Investigate and correct the source of any problems before further operation.
DO NOT attempt to inves- tigate or adjust the planer while it is running. Wait until the machine is turned off, unplugged and all working parts have come to a complete standstill.
Always wear
Changing Mode of Operation
When changing the operating mode (planer to jointer and back) the machine must be turned off, unplugged, and come to a complete
Jointer Operations
Correct operating position
The operator must be positioned offset to the infeed table (Figure 18).
Figure 18
Hand placement
Never pass hands directly over the cutterhead.
Referring to Figure 18:
At the start of the cut, the left hand holds the workpiece firmly against the infeed table and fence while the right hand pushes the workpiece in a smooth, even motion toward the cutterhead. After the cut is under way, the new surface rests firmly on the outfeed table. The left hand is transferred to the outfeed side (Figure 18) and presses down on this part of the workpiece, at the same time maintaining flat contact with the fence. The right hand presses the workpiece forward and before the right hand reaches the cutterhead it should be moved to the work on the outfeed table.
Surfacing
The purpose of surfacing on a jointer is to produce one flat surface (Figure 19). The other side can then be milled to precise, final dimensions on a thickness planer resulting in a board that is smooth and flat on both sides and each side parallel to the other.
!If the wood to be jointed is cupped or bowed, place the concave side down, and take light cuts until the surface is flat.
!Never surface pieces shorter than 12 inches or thinner than 3/8 inch without the use of a special work holding fixture.
!Never surface pieces thinner than 3 inches without the use of a push block.
!Cuts of approximately 1/16" or less at a time are recommended, which provides for better control over the material being surfaced. More passes can then be made to reach the desired depth.
Figure 19
18