How to make a jointer out of an electric planer
If you’re a woodworking enthusiast, you probably know how crucial it is to have a jointer in your workshop. A jointer helps you square and straighten the edges of your lumber, resulting in precise and professional-looking projects. However, jointers can be quite expensive, especially for hobbyists and DIYers. But what if there was a way to transform your ordinary electric planer into a functional jointer? In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a jointer out of an electric planer.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that converting an electric planer into a jointer requires some modifications and tinkering. Therefore, it’s essential to proceed with caution and follow all safety guidelines. Additionally, keep in mind that this DIY project will likely void any warranty on your electric planer, so be sure to consider this before starting.
The first step in making a jointer out of an electric planer is to ensure you have the necessary tools and materials. You will need a sturdy workbench, a flat piece of plywood or MDF, screws, a ruler or straight edge, and of course, an electric planer. It’s crucial to choose a planer that has a planing width equal to or greater than the widest board you plan to joint.
Once you have gathered the required materials, it’s time to begin the modification process. Start by securing your electric planer upside down onto the plywood or MDF board using screws. Make sure the planer is positioned centrally and securely to prevent any wobbling or movement during operation. You may also consider adding additional support or braces to ensure stability.
Converting an Electric Planer into a Jointer
If you have an electric planer and are looking to save some money by not purchasing a separate jointer, you can convert your electric planer into a jointer. While it may not be as accurate as a dedicated jointer, it can still be effective for basic jointing tasks. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by securing your planer upside down on a sturdy workbench or table. This will allow you to apply downward pressure while using it as a jointer.
- Use a straight edge or a trusted jointer fence to align the planer’s bed parallel to the workbench. This will ensure that your planer and jointer reference surfaces are flush.
- Attach a tall auxiliary fence to the planer’s existing fence. The auxiliary fence should be tall enough to provide support for the workpiece when you run it through the planer.
- Adjust the height of the auxiliary fence so that it is level with the planer’s bed. This will prevent the workpiece from dropping or tilting as you pass it through the planer.
- Use a jointer push block or a wooden spacer to create a level surface on the planer’s bed. This will help prevent snipe and keep your workpiece stable as you feed it through the planer.
- Before running your workpiece through the planer/jointer, make sure to clean the planer’s blades and bed. This will help prevent any debris from interfering with the jointing process.
- To joint a workpiece, place it against the auxiliary fence and feed it into the planer. Apply downward pressure to keep the workpiece flat against the planer’s bed. Use consistent, smooth movements to ensure an even jointing surface.
- Once you have jointed one face of the workpiece, flip it over and repeat the process on the other face. This will ensure that both faces are flat and parallel to each other.
- After jointing the workpiece, you can use a table saw or a hand plane to square the edges.
- Remember to always wear appropriate safety gear, such as safety glasses and hearing protection, when operating power tools.
While using an electric planer as a jointer may not provide the same level of precision as a dedicated jointer, it can still be a useful tool for basic jointing tasks. With proper setup and technique, you can achieve flat and parallel surfaces on your workpieces.
Preparing the Electric Planer
Before you can start transforming your electric planer into a jointer, you need to make sure it is properly prepared. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
First, gather all the tools and materials you will need for the process. This includes an electric planer, measuring tape, ruler, pencil, straightedge, clamps, and safety equipment such as goggles and gloves.
Step 2: Clean the planer
Make sure your electric planer is clean and free of any debris. This will ensure smooth and accurate cuts. Use a brush or compressed air to remove any sawdust, wood chips, or other particles that may have accumulated on the blades or inside the planer.
Step 3: Check the blades
Inspect the blades of the electric planer. They should be sharp and in good condition. If the blades are dull or damaged, replace them before proceeding with the transformation. Dull blades can affect the quality of the jointer and may cause accidents.
Step 4: Adjust the settings
Adjust the depth settings of the electric planer to the desired depth of cut. This will determine how much material will be removed when planing the edges of the boards. Refer to the planer’s user manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the settings.
Step 5: Secure the planer
Secure the electric planer to a sturdy workbench or table using clamps. This will prevent the planer from moving or slipping while in use. Ensure it is firmly attached and stable.
By following these steps, you can successfully prepare your electric planer for the jointer conversion process.
Building the Jointer Platform
To build the jointer platform for your electric planer, you will need a few materials and tools. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Materials
• Plywood board (¼ inch or thicker)
• Screws
• Electric planer
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Plywood
Measure the length and width of your electric planer’s base. Using these measurements, mark and cut a piece of plywood to the same dimensions.
Step 2: Attach the Electric Planer
Place the plywood board on a flat surface and position the electric planer on top of it, aligning the base with the edges of the plywood. Mark the screw holes on the plywood using the holes of the electric planer as a guide.
Drill pilot holes at the marked positions, then attach the electric planer to the plywood using screws.
Step 3: Test and Adjust
Turn on your electric planer and run a test piece of wood through it to ensure it is properly aligned. If needed, adjust the screws to align the planer base with the plywood surface to achieve an even and smooth cut.
That’s it! You have successfully built the jointer platform for your electric planer. Now you can use it to create precision edges and flatten wooden boards.
Aligning the Electric Planer
Before you start using the electric planer as a jointer, it’s important to ensure that it’s properly aligned. Alignment is crucial for achieving accurate and precise cuts. Here’s how you can align your electric planer:
1. Make sure the planer is turned off and unplugged from the power source. This is essential for your safety.
2. Place the planer on a flat and level surface, such as a workbench or table.
3. Check the planer’s base plate for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, it’s best to replace the base plate before aligning the planer.
4. Loosen the screws that secure the planer’s side plates or fences. These plates help keep the workpiece steady and aligned during the planning process.
5. Use a straightedge or a level to check the alignment of the planer’s fences. The fences should be parallel to each other and perpendicular to the planer’s base plate.
6. Adjust the side plates or fences as needed to achieve the proper alignment. You can tighten or loosen the screws to make the necessary adjustments. It’s important to take your time and make small adjustments, as even small changes can significantly impact the planer’s performance.
7. Once you’re satisfied with the alignment, tighten the screws to secure the side plates or fences in place.
8. Turn on the planer and test it on a scrap piece of wood. Check the results to ensure that the planer is cutting accurately and evenly.
By properly aligning your electric planer, you can ensure that it functions effectively as a jointer and produces professional-quality results. Regularly inspect and maintain your planer to keep it in optimal condition for woodworking projects.
Testing and Fine-tuning the Jointer
Once you have successfully converted your electric planer into a jointer, it’s important to test and fine-tune the machine for optimal performance.
First, make sure to check the alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables. Use a straightedge or a long, straight board to determine if the tables are level with each other. Adjust the table height as needed to ensure they are perfectly parallel.
Next, you will need to adjust the depth of cut. Start with a shallow cut and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired depth. Take note of any snipe or tearout that may occur during the cutting process and make necessary adjustments to minimize these issues.
During the testing phase, pay close attention to the machine’s performance. Take note of any vibration or noise that may indicate misalignment or other issues. It’s important to address these problems before using the jointer on your projects.
Additionally, ensure that the fence is perfectly perpendicular to the table. Use a square to check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments. A misaligned fence can result in inaccurate jointing and compromise the quality of your work.
Once you are satisfied with the alignment and performance of your makeshift jointer, you can start using it for your woodworking projects. Remember to always prioritize safety and wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and ear protection.
Warning: Always exercise caution when working with power tools. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take appropriate safety precautions.
FAQ
What is a jointer and what is it used for?
A jointer is a woodworking tool used for creating a flat surface on the face or edge of a piece of lumber. It is commonly used to square and straighten edges, as well as create a smooth surface for joining boards together.
Can I use an electric planer as a jointer?
Yes, it is possible to convert an electric planer into a jointer with a few modifications. This can be a cost-effective solution for those who do not have the budget or space for a separate jointer in their workshop.
What are the steps to make a jointer out of an electric planer?
To make a jointer out of an electric planer, you will need to remove the planer’s blade guard, attach an extended wooden fence to the planer’s base, and secure the planer onto a flat surface. This will allow you to use the planer as a jointer and achieve similar results.
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