How To Shim A Table Saw Fence
Having a properly aligned table saw fence is crucial for making accurate cuts. Over time, however, the fence may become misaligned, leading to inaccurate cuts and frustration. One common solution to this problem is shimming the fence.
Shimming involves adding thin strips of material between the fence and the table saw to adjust its position and ensure it is parallel to the blade. This simple technique can be done by anyone with basic woodworking skills and a few common tools.
To begin, you will need a set of feeler gauges or thin strips of material, such as brass or plastic. Start by removing the fence from the table saw and checking for any debris or buildup that may be causing the misalignment.
Next, place the feeler gauges or strips of material between the fence and the table saw on the side opposite the misalignment. Gradually tighten the bolts or screws that secure the fence, checking for parallelism as you go. Adjust the shims as needed to achieve the desired alignment.
Once the fence is shimmed and properly aligned, double-check by making test cuts on scrap material. If the cuts are accurate and parallel, you have successfully shimmed your table saw fence. Remember to regularly check and adjust the alignment of your fence to ensure accurate cuts in the future.
What is a table saw fence?
A table saw fence is a crucial component of a table saw that helps guide and control the workpiece during cutting. It is a metal or aluminum bar that runs parallel to the saw blade and can be adjusted to various positions and distances from the blade.
The main purpose of a table saw fence is to ensure accurate and consistent cuts by providing a straight and reliable guide for the workpiece. It helps in preventing the workpiece from wandering or veering off the desired cutting path. The fence acts as a barrier that keeps the workpiece aligned and prevents it from moving sideways while being cut.
Table saw fences are typically equipped with measuring scales or rulers that allow precise adjustments and measurements. This enables woodworkers to make accurate and repeatable cuts, which is essential for creating quality joinery, such as dadoes, rabbets, and grooves.
Some table saw fences also come with additional features, such as T-slots or tracks that allow for the attachment of accessories like featherboards or jigs. These accessories further enhance the safety, precision, and versatility of the table saw.
In conclusion, a table saw fence is an essential component of a table saw that plays a significant role in ensuring accurate and consistent cuts. It acts as a guide for the workpiece and helps keep it aligned and prevents it from wandering during cutting. With its adjustable features and measuring scales, it allows woodworkers to make precise and repeatable cuts, ultimately contributing to the overall quality of their woodworking projects.
Step 1: Preparing the table saw
Before you start shimming your table saw fence, it’s important to properly prepare the table saw to ensure accurate and safe cutting. Follow these steps to prepare your table saw:
1. Check the alignment
Start by checking the alignment of your table saw blade. Make sure it is parallel to the miter gauge slots. This can be done using a combination square or a specialized alignment tool.
If the blade is not aligned, you may need to adjust the trunnions or other components of the table saw to bring it into alignment. Consult your table saw’s user manual for specific instructions.
2. Verify the squareness of the blade
Next, check the squareness of the blade to the table surface. Use a reliable square to ensure that the blade is perfectly perpendicular to the table surface. Make any necessary adjustments to bring it into square.
This step is crucial to ensure accurate and safe cutting. A misaligned blade can cause inaccurate cuts and increase the risk of kickback.
3. Clean the table surface
Before shimming the fence, make sure the table surface is clean and free from any debris or sawdust. Use a brush or vacuum to remove any dirt from the table and ensure a clean workspace.
A clean table surface will provide a stable and accurate foundation for your table saw fence.
Pro tip: Always wear appropriate safety equipment, such as safety glasses and ear protection, when working with power tools like a table saw.
Removing the existing fence
Before you can begin shimming a table saw fence, you need to remove the existing fence from your saw. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Unplug the table saw
Safety is always a top priority when working with power tools. Start by unplugging the table saw from the power source to avoid any accidents.
Step 2: Loosen the fence clamps
Most table saw fences are held in place by clamps. Find the clamps on your saw’s fence and loosen them. Depending on the model, you might need to use a wrench or another tool to do this.
Step 3: Slide the fence off the rails
Once the clamps are loosened, gently slide the fence off the rails. Be careful as the fence might be heavy. You might need someone to help you with this step if the fence is particularly bulky.
Now that you have successfully removed the existing fence, you can move on to shim the fence to improve its alignment and accuracy.
Step 2: Gathering the necessary materials
Before you start shimming your table saw fence, you will need to gather a few materials. Here is a list of the things you will need:
1. Shims: You will need thin pieces of material that can be used to adjust the position of the fence. Shims may be made of plastic, wood, or metal.
2. Tape measure: A tape measure will be necessary to measure the gap between the fence and the saw blade accurately.
3. Ruler or straightedge: You will need a ruler or a straight edge to help you align the fence and the shims properly.
4. Screwdriver or Allen wrench: Depending on the type of fasteners used on your table saw fence, you will need either a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to loosen and tighten the bolts.
5. Safety equipment: It is essential to prioritize your safety while working with a table saw. Make sure you have safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection on hand before you begin.
6. Additional shimming materials: Depending on the condition of your fence and the size of the gap, you may need additional materials such as wooden wedges or washers to help shim the fence properly.
Once you have gathered all these materials, you will be ready to move on to the next step of shimming your table saw fence.
What you will need
To shim a table saw fence, you will need the following:
- Shims: You will need a variety of shims of different thicknesses. These can be made from materials such as aluminum or plastic.
- Table saw fence: Make sure you have a table saw fence that is compatible with shimming. Some fences may not be adjustable or have the necessary parts for shimming.
- Level: A level will help you determine if your fence is level and if shimming is necessary.
- Screwdriver: You may need a screwdriver to make adjustments to the fence if necessary.
- Eyewear and gloves: Safety should always be a top priority when working with power tools. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves to keep yourself safe.
Having these items on hand will ensure that you have everything you need to shim your table saw fence effectively and safely.
Step 3: Cutting the shims
Now that you have measured the gap and determined the thickness of the shims needed, it’s time to cut them to the correct width and length.
Here is a step-by-step guide on cutting the shims:
- Start by selecting a piece of hardwood or plywood that is suitable for making shims. Ensure that the wood is flat and free from knots or imperfections.
- Using a table saw, set the fence to the desired width of the shims. It is important to be accurate with your measurements to ensure a proper fit.
- Place the wood against the fence, aligning it with the blade. Use the push stick to safely push the wood through the saw, creating a strip of wood that is the width of the desired shim.
- Repeat this process for each shim needed, ensuring that all shims are the same width.
- Next, measure the length needed for each shim. Use a tape measure to measure the gap on the table saw fence, and add a small amount for clearance.
- Once you have the desired length, use a miter saw or a table saw to cut the shims to length. Again, be accurate with your measurements to ensure a proper fit.
- After cutting the shims, check their fit by placing them in the gap between the table saw fence and the table. They should fit snugly and provide the necessary support.
Remember to take your time and double-check your measurements before cutting the shims. It is crucial to have accurately cut shims for a proper alignment of the table saw fence.
Measuring and cutting the shims
Before you start measuring and cutting the shims for your table saw fence, make sure you have gathered all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a tape measure, a pencil, a utility knife, and some thin pieces of plywood or cardboard.
Start by measuring the gap between the table saw fence and the table surface. Use a tape measure to get an accurate measurement of the width of the gap. Take note of this measurement as it will determine the thickness of the shims you need to cut.
Next, mark the measurements on the thin plywood or cardboard using a pencil. Make sure to mark the length and width of the shims according to the measurements you took earlier. Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
Once you have marked the measurements, use a utility knife to cut along the pencil lines. Take your time and make clean, precise cuts. It is important that the shims are cut to the exact size to ensure a proper fit.
After cutting the shims, test their fit by placing them in the gap between the table saw fence and the table surface. If the shims are slightly too wide, gently sand them down until they fit snugly in the gap. If they are too thin, cut additional shims to fill the gap.
Repeat this process until you have enough shims to fill the entire gap between the table saw fence and the table surface. Remember to always double-check your measurements and make accurate cuts to ensure the shims fit properly.
Tip: It is advisable to cut a few extra shims in case you need them for future adjustments or replacements.
Questions and answers
What is a table saw fence?
A table saw fence is a metal or wooden guide that is placed parallel to the saw blade on a table saw. It helps to ensure accuracy and consistency when ripping or crosscutting materials.
Why is it important to shim a table saw fence?
Shimming a table saw fence is important because it helps to align the fence perfectly parallel to the saw blade. This ensures that the fence is straight and provides accurate cuts without any deviation.
How can I tell if my table saw fence needs to be shimmed?
If you notice that your cuts are not coming out straight or that the fence is not parallel to the saw blade, it may indicate that your table saw fence needs to be shimmed. You can use a straight edge or a dial indicator to check for any gaps or misalignment.
What materials can be used for shimming a table saw fence?
There are several materials that can be used for shimming a table saw fence, including metal shims, plastic shims, or even washers. The choice of material depends on the specific requirements of your table saw and personal preference.
Are there any safety precautions to take when shimming a table saw fence?
Yes, it is important to follow safety precautions when shimming a table saw fence. Make sure to turn off and unplug the saw before making any adjustments. Use appropriate safety equipment like gloves and safety glasses. Additionally, double-check the stability of the fence after shimming to ensure it is secure before using the table saw.
Harrison Clayton
Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.
