Powermatic PM15 Adjustments, Extension Cords, Belt Tension, Planer Knife Replacement

Extension Cords

If an extension cord is necessary, make sure the cord rating is suitable for the amperage listed on the machine’s motor plate. An under sized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating.

Use the chart in Figure 4 as a general guide in choosing the correct size cord. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

Adjustments

Tools required: hex wrench

12mm & 14mm wrenches

Disconnect machine from power source before making adjustments.

Belt Tension

To adjust tension of the belts, open the rear panel and use the nuts (A) on the threaded shaft, shown in Figure 4, to either raise or lower the motor. Re-tighten nuts when satisfied. Proper tension is achieved when there is approximately 1/4” deflection in the belt using moderate finger pressure.

Planer Knife Replacement

1.The planer knives are held in position by wedge action. The set screws press against the bottom of the cutterhead slot forcing the gibs into a wedge type seal. To break this seal and remove the knife, simply loosen the gib set screws until they are flush with the top of the gibs. See Figure 6.

2.Tap the gibs down using either a wood block or a soft piece of aluminum or brass (a brass punch is provided with your machine). Once the gibs are free, remove the knife first, then the gibs can be easily removed. Mark all gibs and matching slots to be sure they are replaced in their original position.

3.Clean the knives and cutterhead slot with a non-flammable solvent to remove all pitch and gum residue.

4.Install the gibs back into their original slots, then install the planer knives.

5.Place the knife-setting gauge on the cutterhead, centered over the knife. See Figure 7. Check the height of the knife at several locations along the length of the knife. At all points, it should just contact the center of the gauge.

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

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