PH/JIG/M
-9-
Assembling the Joint
Self-tapping pocket hole screws do not need
to have pilot holes drilled, even in hardwoods.
Other types of screws can work in the jig but
the self-tapping screws reduce splitting in the
timber and are hardened to reduce breakage.
Whenever possible use glue on the joint unless
it is necessary to disassemble the joint.
To aid assembly on corner joints, it is advisable
to use a high batten, clamped to the bench. The
components can be pushed against it to keep
the two parts flush to each other, whilst screwing
them together.
When assembling edge to edge joints it is
advisable to use a face clamp to keep both parts
flush. The face clamp can be adjusted to suit
material thickness by adjusting the locking nut
on the handle of the face clamp. The larger pad
on the clamp should be on the face side of the
material.
The screw should be driven into the component
using a torque control screwdriving drill. The
torque control allows control of the tightness
of the screws into the wood and minimise the
possibility of stripping the screw. The longer
square drive screwdriver bit is used for most
pocket hole screw driving applications. The
shorter bit allows for use in tight spaces. The
screwdriver bits have 1/4” quick change shanks
and can be used directly into a drill chuck or
more conveniently into a Trend Snappy quick
change drill chuck Ref. SNAP/QC.
If a torque control screwdriver is not available
start to screw with a conventional drill and then
finish off by hand using a square drive hand
screwdriver or the Trend Snappy Handriver
Ref. SNAP/HAND/1.
If access to the screws are tight the screwdriver
bits can be fitted into a 1/4” socket fitted to a
ratchet or use a flexible shaft screwdriver.
After use, store jig carefully.
Bench
Batten
Component
Component
Square Drive Bit
Ref. PH/CLAMP/F6 available as an accessory.
