21
OPERATIONS (cont.)
THICKNESS PLANING
Thickness planing sizes the workpiece to a desired thickness, while at the same time creating a
smooth and level surface. The thickness of each cut will depend on the type of wood, width of the
workpiece, and condition of the lumber (i.e. dryness, grain composition, straightness, etc).
Always make thin test cuts on a scrap piece of wood prior to performing final cuts.
GETTING PREPARED
It is always a good idea to use a piece of scrap wood for your first planing attempt. Also, before
each use of the planer, make it a habit of checking for loose fasteners, fittings or hardware. Turn
the planer ON and allow it to reach full speed. Pay close attention to any excessively loud noises
that may be coming from the planer or any excessive vibration. If either occurs, shut down the
planer immediately checking again for loose hardware. Go through the ASSEMBLY and
ADJUSTMENTS sections again if necessary.
BASIC OPERATION
WARNING!
To avoid serious personal injury, NEVER stand directly in line with the front or rear
of the planer. If an object is thrown from the planer, it can travel in either direction.
1) Stand to either the left or right side of the planer.
2) Flip the switch to the ON position.
3) Once powered on, select desired feed speed
4) Lift the workpiece onto the infeed table by grabbing the edges of the board at the middle of
the length. NOTE: For longer pieces, be sure to use additional supports such as roller
stands.
5) Push slightly on the board to start feed and allow the feed rollers to pull the board through
the planer. Once the feed rollers start to pull the workpiece through, let go of the board and
allow the rollers to do their job. DO NOT push or pull on the workpiece once the rollers have
engaged.
6) Move to one side of the rear of the planer and receive the planed workpiece by grabbing the
edges of the wood like you did when feeding the workpiece in. You can either carry the piece
back to the front of the planer or stack it on the top bars to easily pass it back to the front of
the planer.
7) It normally takes several passes of varying depths to achieve a smooth finish, so repeat this
process as many times as necessary. Remember the less you take off in a pass, the
smoother the finish will be, but you may still need to finish the surface by sanding.
