How To Make A Slidingfence For Titan Planer Thicknesser
If you own a Titan planer thicknesser, you know how important it is to have a reliable and sturdy fence. The fence plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and consistent cuts, and it also helps to keep your workpiece securely in place.
However, the standard fence that comes with the Titan planer thicknesser may not always meet your specific needs. It might lack the necessary precision or stability for certain woodworking projects. In such cases, it is worth considering making a sliding fence that can be adjusted to suit your requirements.
A sliding fence offers several advantages over a fixed fence. It allows you to position the fence precisely along the length of the planer, ensuring consistent cuts and minimizing the risk of snipe. Additionally, a sliding fence can be easily adjusted to accommodate different sizes of workpieces, making it a versatile tool in your woodworking arsenal.
To make a sliding fence for your Titan planer thicknesser, you will need some basic materials and tools. A sturdy piece of hardwood, such as oak or beech, is ideal for the fence. You will also need a fastening mechanism, such as a T-track or a sliding rail, to attach the fence to the planer bed.
Planning Your Sliding Fence
When it comes to making a sliding fence for your Titan planer thicknesser, careful planning is essential. This ensures that your fence is not only functional but also meets your specific needs and requirements. Here are some important points to consider when planning your sliding fence:
- Dimensions: Determine the desired length and height of your sliding fence. Consider the size of the materials you will be working with and the space available in your workshop.
- Material: Choose a sturdy and durable material for your sliding fence. Common options include hardwood, plywood, or metal. Consider the weight and stability of the material to ensure smooth sliding operation.
- Design: Decide on the design of your sliding fence. You can opt for a simple, straight design or incorporate additional features such as T-tracks, adjustable stops, or measuring scales for added functionality.
- Mounting: Determine how you will mount the sliding fence to your Titan planer thicknesser. This will depend on the specific model and design of your machine. Consider using clamps, brackets, or custom mounting hardware for secure attachment.
- Glide Mechanism: Consider the type of glide mechanism you will use for your sliding fence. Common options include linear bearings, slides, or rollers. Ensure that your chosen mechanism provides smooth and effortless movement.
- Alignment: Take measurements and ensure that your sliding fence is aligned perfectly parallel to the planer bed. This is crucial for accurate and consistent planing results.
- Safety Features: Incorporate safety features into your sliding fence design. This could include a blade guard, emergency stop button, or protective barriers to prevent accidents and injuries.
By carefully planning your sliding fence, you can create a reliable and efficient tool that enhances the functionality of your Titan planer thicknesser. Remember to take accurate measurements, choose quality materials, and prioritize safety to achieve the best results.
Gathering the Necessary Materials
Before you begin building your sliding fence for your Titan planer thicknesser, gather all of the necessary materials and tools to ensure a smooth construction process. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Measuring tape
- Marker
- 2×4 wooden boards
- Wood screws
- Plywood or MDF sheets
- Table saw
- Drill with drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Sanding block or sandpaper
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Router with a straight bit
- Countersink bit
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Once you have all of these materials, you’re ready to start constructing your sliding fence for your Titan planer thicknesser.
Building the Frame
Before you can start building the sliding fence for your Titan planer thicknesser, you need to construct the frame that will hold everything together. The frame should be sturdy and rigid to provide stability and support for the fence.
Start by measuring the dimensions of your planer thicknesser to determine the size of the frame you need to build. Use a tape measure to accurately measure the length, width, and height of the machine.
Next, gather the necessary materials for the frame. You will need sturdy lumber, such as 2x4s or 2x6s, as well as screws or nails to secure the pieces together. Choose high-quality lumber that is straight and free from defects to ensure the strength and stability of the frame.
Using a saw, cut the lumber to the appropriate lengths based on your measurements. You will need two longer pieces for the sides of the frame and two shorter pieces for the top and bottom. Make sure the corners are cut at 90-degree angles for a snug fit.
Once you have all the pieces cut to size, lay them out on a flat surface to assemble the frame. Place the shorter top and bottom pieces between the longer side pieces, forming a rectangle. Use screws or nails to secure the corners of the frame, ensuring a tight and secure fit.
Check the frame for any wobbling or unevenness. If necessary, make adjustments or add additional support to ensure stability. The frame should be solid and level to support the weight of the sliding fence and the pressure from the planer thicknesser.
Finally, attach the sliding fence mechanism to the frame using screws or bolts. Make sure it is securely fastened and able to move smoothly along the frame. Test the sliding motion to ensure it operates correctly before proceeding with the rest of the planer thicknesser setup.
With the frame built and the sliding fence mechanism attached, you are now ready to continue assembling your sliding fence for the Titan planer thicknesser. This solid and sturdy frame will provide the necessary support for the fence and ensure smooth and accurate operation of your woodworking machine.
Installing the Sliding Mechanism
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials and tools, you can start installing the sliding mechanism for your titan planer thicknesser fence. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation process:
- Start by measuring and marking the desired position for the sliding mechanism on your workbench. Make sure it is aligned with the planer thicknesser and provides enough space for the fence to slide smoothly.
- Using a drill, create pilot holes in the marked positions to guide the screws during installation. Make sure the holes are deep enough to securely hold the sliding mechanism.
- Attach the sliding mechanism to the workbench using screws or bolts, depending on the design of your chosen mechanism. Ensure that it is tightly secured and level with the workbench surface.
- Next, attach the sliding fence to the sliding mechanism. Slide it back and forth to test its movement and make any necessary adjustments for smooth operation.
- Once the sliding fence is securely attached, check for any gaps or misalignment. Make any additional adjustments to ensure that it is parallel to the planer thicknesser and properly aligned.
- Finally, test the sliding fence by running a piece of wood through the planer thicknesser. Ensure that the fence stays in place and provides the desired support and guidance for the wood.
With the sliding mechanism installed and properly adjusted, you can now enjoy the convenience and functionality of a sliding fence for your titan planer thicknesser.
Attaching the Fence Boards
Once the frame of the sliding fence is built and secured to the planer thicknesser, it’s time to attach the fence boards. The fence boards serve as the guide for the wood being planed, ensuring a straight and accurate cut.
To attach the fence boards, follow these steps:
- Measure the width of the planing surface and the desired height of the fence. Cut the fence boards to the appropriate size.
- Place the first board vertically against the planing surface, aligning it with one end of the sliding fence frame. Use clamps to hold it in place temporarily.
- Drill pilot holes through the fence board and into the sliding fence frame. This will prevent the wood from splitting when screws are inserted.
- Insert screws through the pilot holes and tighten them to secure the fence board to the frame. Repeat this process for the remaining fence boards, making sure they are aligned and evenly spaced.
- Once all the fence boards are attached, check their alignment and adjust if needed. The fence should be completely straight and parallel to the planing surface.
- Finally, add any additional supports or braces to strengthen the fence and prevent it from flexing or sagging.
With the fence boards securely attached, the sliding fence for the Titan planer thicknesser is now complete. It’s important to regularly check and maintain the fence to ensure its accuracy and stability during operation.
Adjusting and Testing the Fence
Once you have constructed your sliding fence for your Titan planer thicknesser, you will need to adjust it to ensure it is properly aligned and functioning correctly. Follow these steps to make sure your fence is set up properly:
1. Check the alignment: Place a straight edge against the fence to check if it is parallel to the planer table. If there are any discrepancies, use the adjustment screws on the fence to align it properly.
2. Test the movement: Slide the fence along the rails to ensure it moves smoothly and without any obstructions. Make any necessary adjustments to the screws or rails to ensure smooth movement.
3. Lock the fence: Engage the locking mechanism to secure the fence in place once it is properly aligned. Ensure that the lock holds the fence securely and does not allow any movement during planing operations.
4. Test for accuracy: Using a scrap piece of wood, make a few passes through the planer to test the accuracy of the fence. Measure the width of the board before and after planing to ensure the fence is cutting evenly across the entire width.
5. Make fine adjustments: If necessary, make any fine adjustments to the fence to achieve the desired planing results. This may involve small tweaks to the alignment or locking mechanism.
By carefully adjusting and testing your sliding fence, you can ensure that your Titan planer thicknesser operates accurately and produces consistent results. Regularly check and maintain your fence to keep it in optimal working condition.
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