Powermatic 1285T Service manual

Operating Instructions and Parts Manual
12-inch Jointer
Model 1285
For machines with serial no. 11121285640 and higher
WALTER MEIER (Manufacturing) Inc.
427 New Sanford Road
LaVergne, Tennessee 37086 Part No. M-0460216
Ph.: 800-274-6848 Revision C4 02/2012
www.waltermeier.com Copyright © 2012 Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc.
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2
Warranty and Service
Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc., warrants every product it sells. If one of our tools needs service or repair, one of our
Authorized Service Centers located throughout the United States can give you quick service. In most cases, any of these Walter
Meier Authorized Service Centers can authorize warranty repair, assist you in obtaining parts, or perform routine maintenance
and major repair on your POWERMATIC
®
tools. For the name of an Authorized Service Center in your area call 1-800-274-6848.
MORE INFORMATION
Walter Meier is consistently adding new products to the line. For complete, up-to-date product information, check with your local
Walter Meier distributor, or visit powermatic.com.
WARRANTY
POWERMATIC products carry a limitedwarrantywhich varies in duration based upon the product.
WHAT IS COVERED?
This warranty covers any defects in workmanship or materials subject to the exceptions stated below. Cutting tools, abrasives
and other consumables are excluded from warranty coverage.
WHO IS COVERED?
This warranty covers only the initial purchaser of the product.
WHAT IS THE PERIOD OF COVERAGE?
The general POWERMATIC warranty lasts for thetime period specified in the product literature of each product.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED?
The Five Year Warranty does not cover products used for commercial, industrial or educational purposes. Products with a Five
Year Warranty that are used for commercial, industrial or education purposes revert to a One Year Warranty. This warranty does
not cover defects due directly or indirectly to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, normal wear-and-tear, improper repair or
alterations, or lack of maintenance.
HOW TO GET SERVICE
The product or part must be returned for examination, postage prepaid, to a location designated by us. For the name of the
location nearest you, please call1-800-274-6848.
You must provide proof of initial purchase date and an explanation of the complaint must accompany the merchandise. If our
inspection discloses a defect, wewill repair or replace the product, or refund the purchase price, at our option.
We will return the repaired product or replacement at our expense unless it is determined by usthat there is no defect, or that the
defect resulted from causes not within the scope of our warranty in which case we will, at your direction, dispose of or return the
product. In the event you choose to have the product returned, you will be responsible for the handling and shipping costs of the
return.
HOW STATE LAW APPLIES
This warranty givesyou specific legal rights; you may also have other rightswhich vary from state to state.
LIMITATIONS ON THIS WARRANTY
WALTER MEIER (MANUFACTURING) INC., LIMITS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES TO THE PERIOD OF THE LIMITED
WARRANTY FOR EACH PRODUCT. EXCEPT AS STATED HEREIN, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS AREEXCLUDED. SOME STATESDO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG THEIMPLIED WARRANTY
LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONMAY NOT APPLY TOYOU.
WALTER MEIER (MANUFACTURING) INC., SHALL IN NO EVENT BE LIABLE FOR DEATH, INJURIES TO PERSONS OR
PROPERTY, OR FOR INCIDENTAL, CONTINGENT, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE
OF OUR PRODUCTS. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONOR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
Walter Meier sells through distributors only. The specifications in Walter Meier catalogs are given as general information and are
not binding. Members of Walter Meier reserve the right to effect at any time, without prior notice, those alterations to parts,
fittings, and accessory equipment which they may deem necessary for any reason whatsoever.

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Table of Contents
Warranty and Service..........................................................................................................................2
Warning .............................................................................................................................................4
Introduction........................................................................................................................................7
Specifications.....................................................................................................................................7
Unpacking..........................................................................................................................................8
Contents of the Shipping Container ..................................................................................................8
Assembly...........................................................................................................................................9
Fence Installation............................................................................................................................9
Switch Arm ...................................................................................................................................10
Dust Hood.....................................................................................................................................10
Grounding Instructions......................................................................................................................10
Voltage Conversion.......................................................................................................................11
Extension cords.............................................................................................................................11
Adjustments .....................................................................................................................................12
Drive Belt Tension.........................................................................................................................12
Setting Outfeed Table Height .........................................................................................................12
Setting Infeed Table Height (Depth of Cut)......................................................................................14
Replacing and Setting Knives (Straight Cutterhead).........................................................................14
Replacing Knife Inserts (Helical Cutterhead) ...................................................................................16
Fence Adjustments........................................................................................................................17
Cutter Guard Tension....................................................................................................................18
Operating Controls............................................................................................................................18
Operation.........................................................................................................................................18
Hand Placement............................................................................................................................19
Edge Jointing ................................................................................................................................19
Surfacing ......................................................................................................................................19
Rabbeting.....................................................................................................................................19
Jointing Warped Surfaces..............................................................................................................20
Jointing Short or Thin Work............................................................................................................20
Direction of Grain..........................................................................................................................20
Beveling .......................................................................................................................................20
Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................21
Lubrication....................................................................................................................................21
Cutterhead Repairs .......................................................................................................................21
Knife Inserts (Helical Cutterhead) ...................................................................................................22
Whetting Knives (Straight Cutterhead) ............................................................................................23
Optional Accessories ........................................................................................................................27
Replacement Parts...........................................................................................................................27
Parts List: Stand Assembly ............................................................................................................28
Stand Assembly............................................................................................................................29
Parts List: Table Assembly.............................................................................................................30
Table Assembly.............................................................................................................................31
Parts List: Motor Pulley Assembly...................................................................................................32
Motor Pulley Assembly ..................................................................................................................33
Parts List: Cutterhead Guard Assembly ..........................................................................................34
Cutterhead Guard Assembly ..........................................................................................................35
Parts List: Straight Cutterhead Assembly ........................................................................................36
Straight Cutterhead Assembly........................................................................................................37
Parts List: Helical Cutterhead Assembly..........................................................................................38
Helical Cutterhead Assembly .........................................................................................................39
Parts List: Fence Assembly............................................................................................................40
Fence Assembly............................................................................................................................41
Electrical Connections – 1 Phase.......................................................................................................42
Electrical Connections – 3 Phase.......................................................................................................43

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Warning
1. Read and understand the entire owner’s manual before attempting assembly or operation.
2. Read and understand the warnings posted on the machine and in this manual. Failure to comply with
all of these warnings may cause serious injury.
3. Replace the warning labels if they become obscured or removed.
4. This jointer is designed and intended for use by properly trained and experienced personnel only. If
you are not familiar with the proper and safe operation of a jointer, do not use until proper training and
knowledge have been obtained.
5. Do not use this jointer for other than its intended use. If used for other purposes, Walter Meier
(Manufacturing) Inc., disclaims any real or implied warranty and holds itself harmless from any injury
that may result from that use.
6. Always wear approved safety glasses/face shields while using this jointer. Everyday eyeglasses only
have impact resistant lenses; they are not safety glasses.
7. Before operating this jointer, remove tie, rings, watches and other jewelry, and roll sleeves up past
the elbows. Remove all loose clothing and confine long hair. Non-slip footwear or anti-skid floor strips
are recommended. Do not wear gloves.
8. Wear ear protectors (plugs or muffs) during extended periods of operation.
9. Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling and other construction activities
contain chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:
•Lead from lead based paint.
•Crystalline silica from bricks, cement and other masonry products.
•Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.
Your risk of exposure varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your
exposure to these chemicals, work in a well-ventilated area and work with approved safety
equipment, such as face or dust masks that are specifically designed to filter out microscopic
particles.
10. Do not operate this machine while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any medication.
11. Make certain the switch is in the OFF position before connecting the machine to the power supply.
12. Make certain the machine is properly grounded.
13. Make all machine adjustments or maintenance with the machine unplugged from the power source.
14. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Form a habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting
wrenches are removed from the machine before turning it on.
15. Keep safety guards in place at all times when the machine is in use, the only exception being special
operations such as rabbet cuts which require removal of the cutter guard. If guards are removed for
maintenance purposes or special operations, use extreme caution and replace the guards
immediately when finished.
16. Check damaged parts. Before further use of the machine, a guard or other part that is damaged
should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended
function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting
and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should
be properly repaired or replaced.
17. Provide for adequate space surrounding work area and non-glare, overhead lighting.
18. Keep the floor around the machine clean and free of scrap material, oil and grease.

5
19. Keep visitors a safe distance from the work area. Keep children away.
20. Make your workshop child proof with padlocks, master switches or by removing starter keys.
21. Give your work undivided attention. Looking around, carrying on a conversation and “horse-play” are
careless acts that can result in serious injury.
22. Maintain a balanced stance at all times so that you do not fall or lean against the knives or other
moving parts. Do not overreach or use excessive force to perform any machine operation.
23. Use the right tool at the correct speed and feed rate. Do not force a tool or attachment to do a job for
which it was not designed. The right tool will do the job better and safer.
24. Use recommended accessories; improper accessories may be hazardous.
25. Maintain tools with care. Keep knives sharp and clean for the best and safest performance. Follow
instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
26. Turn off the machine before cleaning. Use a brush or compressed air to remove chips or debris — do
not use your hands.
27. Do not stand on the machine. Serious injury could occur if the machine tips over.
28. Never leave the machine running unattended. Turn the power off and do not leave the machine until
the cutterhead comes to a complete stop.
29. Remove loose items and unnecessary work pieces from the area before starting the machine.
30. Never surface stock less than 12 inches long, or 3 inches wide, or 3 inches thick without a hold-down
or push block.
31. When working on the jointer, follow the 3-inch
radius rule. The hands must never be closer than
3 inches to the cutterhead. See Figure A.
32. Use extra care in the location of the jointer in the
shop. Position the jointer so that potential kicked
back stock will strike a wall and not endanger
other persons in the area.
33. Never apply pressure to stock directly over the
cutterhead. This may result in the stock tipping
into the cutterhead along with the operator’s
fingers. Follow the 3-inch rule. Position hands
away from extreme ends of stock, and push
through with a smooth, even motion.
34. “Pull-out” and the danger of kicked back stock can
occur when the work piece has knots, holes, or
foreign materials such as nails. It can also occur
when the stock is fed against the grain on the
jointer. The grain should run in the same direction
you are cutting.
35. It is good practice to move the hands in an
alternate motion from back to front as the work
continues through the cut. Never pass the hands
directly over the cutter knife. As one hand
approaches the knives, remove it from the stock in
an arc motion and place it back on the stock in a
position beyond the cutter knife. See Figure B. At
all times hold the stock firmly.
Figure A
Figure
B

6
36. Before attempting to joint or plane, each work piece must be carefully examined for stock condition
and grain orientation. NOTE: At certain times it may be necessary to plane against the grain when
working with a swirl grain wood or burls. With this type of work the operator must use a lesser depth
of cut and a slow rate of feed.
Familiarize yourself with the following safety notices used in this manual:
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in minor injury and/or
possible machine damage.
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in serious injury or possibly
even death.
- - SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - -

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Introduction
This manual is provided by Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc., covering the safe operation and
maintenance procedures for a Model 1285 Jointer. This manual contains instructions on installation,
safety precautions, general operating procedures, maintenance instructions and parts breakdown. This
machine has been designed and constructed to provide years of trouble free operation if used in
accordance with instructions set forth in this manual. If there are any questions or comments, please
contact either your local supplier or Walter Meier. Walter Meier can also be reached at our web site:
www.waltermeier.com.
Specifications
Model Number..............................................................................................................................1285
Stock Numbers:
3HP, 1PH, 230V, with standard cutterhead.......................................................................1791241
3HP, 1PH, 230V, with helical cutterhead..........................................................................1791307
3HP, 3PH, 230/460V*, with helical cutterhead ..................................................................1791308
Cutting Capacity (W x D) (in.) ..............................................................................................11-3/4 x 3/4
Cutterhead Speed (RPM).............................................................................................................5,000
Rabbeting Capacity (in.)...................................................................................................................3/4
Table Surface (L x W) (in.) .........................................................................................................84 x 12
Outfeed Table Height from Floor (in.)...........................................................................................31-5/8
Fence Size (L x W) (in.)....................................................................................................47-1/4 x 5-1/4
Fence Tilt (degrees)..................................................................................................90, 45 right, 45 left
Fence Positive Stops (deg.)...............................................................................................+/- 45 and 90
Number of Knives – standard cutterhead..............................................................................................3
Size of knives – standard cutterhead (L x W x T) (in.).....................................................12 x 1-3/16 x1/8
Number of Inserts – helical cutterhead ......................................................................42, and 2 rabbeting
Size of inserts – helical cutterhead (L x W x T) (mm.).............................................................30 x 12 x 2
Dust Collection Minimum CFM Required..........................................................................................800
Dust Port Diameter (in.).......................................................................................................................4
Approximate Net Weight (lbs.).........................................................................................................762
Approximate Shipping Weight (lbs.).................................................................................................880
*pre-wired 230 volt; 460 volt operation requires additional purchase of 460V contactor, p/n PJ1285-109.
The above specifications were current at the time this manual was published, but because of our policy of
continuous improvement, Walter Meier reserves the right to change specifications at any time and without
prior notice, without incurring obligations.

8
Unpacking
Open shipping container and check for shipping
damage. Report any damage immediately to
your distributor and shipping agent. Compare
the contents of your container with the following
parts list to make sure all parts are intact.
Missing parts, if any, should be reported to your
distributor. Read the instruction manual
thoroughly for assembly, maintenance and
safety instructions.
NOTE: The wrenches and knife setting gauge
will be found inside the jointer stand.
Contents of the Shipping Container
1 Jointer
1 Fence Assembly
1 Dust Hood
1 Knife Setting Gauge (for straight knife
cutterhead only)
1 Hex Wrench, 10mm
1 Combination Wrench, 10-12mm
2 Push Blocks
1 Owner's Manual
1 Warranty Card
Read and understand the entire contents of this manual before attempting set-up
or operation! Failure to comply may cause serious injury.

9
Assembly
Tools need for assembly:
10mm hex wrench (provided)
10-12mm combination wrench (provided)
forklift or hoist with straps
cross-point screwdriver
1. Remove top and sides of crate from around
the machine.
2. Remove the dust hood and the fence
assembly from the skid. Reach into the
stand and remove the screws securing the
stand to the skid.
3. Raise the jointer off the skid with lifting
straps. The straps should be suitable to lift
762 pounds of weight, and should be placed
under the base casting as shown in Figure
1. Do not lift the jointer under the infeed and
outfeed tables.
4. The jointer should be placed on a sturdy,
level floor in a dry area, with sufficient
lighting and ventilation. Leave enough room
around the machine for loading and
offloading stock and routine maintenance
work. The machine can be further stabilized
by bolting it to the floor using lag screws
through the holes on the inside of the stand.
5. This machine is equipped with noise-
reducing table lips. The work site should,
however, be one which minimizes
reverberant sound from walls, ceilings and
other equipment.
6. Exposed metal areas of the jointer, including
the table and fence surfaces, have been
factory coated with a protectant. This should
be removed with a soft cloth dampened with
a solvent such as mineral spirits or
kerosene. Do not use gasoline, acetone or
lacquer thinner, and do not use an abrasive
pad. Do not let solvent contact the plastic
parts of the machine, as it may damage
them.
Fence Installation
1. Use an assistant to help place the fence
assembly on top the table, aligning the
holes in the fence assembly with the holes
in the table base, as shown in Figure 2.
2. Use the two socket head cap screws and
two lock washers (Figure 2), and tighten
securely with a 10mm hex wrench.
Figure 1
Figure 2

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Switch Arm
The arm (Figure 3) on which the push button
switch is located is shipped in the down position.
The arm should be pivoted to upright position as
shown. Tighten the two screws with a 10mm
wrench.
Dust Hood
Before attaching the dust hood, make sure the
hole in the dust chute is concealed by the dust
chute cover, as shown in Figure 4.
Mount the dust hood to the jointer stand using
the seven 1/4 x 1/2 hex cap screws and seven
1/4 lock washers (Figure 5).
It is recommended that a dust collection system
of at least 800 CFM be connected to the jointer’s
dust hood, via a 4-inch diameter hose.
Grounding Instructions
Electrical connections must
be made by a qualified electrician in
compliance with all relevant codes. This
machine must be properly grounded to help
prevent electrical shock and possible fatal
injury.
This machine must be grounded. Grounding
provides a path of least resistance to help divert
current away from the operator in case of
electrical malfunction.
Make sure the voltage of your power supply
matches the specifications on the motor plate of
the machine.
Open the junction box (Figure 6) and connect
the wires according to the diagram on the inside
of the junction box cover. A similar diagram can
be found at the back of this manual. The green
wire (ground) must be properly grounded.
The Model 1285 may be fitted with an
appropriate plug, or be “hard-wired” to an
electrical panel. If hard-wired to a panel, make
sure a disconnect is available for the operator.
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5
Figure 6

11
If the
j
ointer is to be hard-wired, make sure the
fuses have been removed or the breakers have
been tripped in the circuit to which the saw will
be connected. Place a warning placard on the
fuse holder or circuit breaker to prevent it being
turned on while the machine is being wired.
Always follow proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out
procedures when performing any wiring on this
machine.
Voltage Conversion
The Model 1285 Jointer is wired for 1-phase,
230 volt only; or 3-phase, 230/460 volt. The 3-
phase model is pre-wired at the factory for 230
volt. However, if you wish to convert your 3-
phase jointer from 230 volt to 460 volt, proceed
as follows:
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Remove cover from junction box, and open
the side door on the stand.
3. Change the wires in the junction box by
following the diagram on the inside of the
junction box cover, or the diagram found at
the back of this manual.
4. Replace the 230 volt contactor (see Figure
7) with the 460 volt contactor (stock no.
PJ1285-109). The 460 volt contactor is
available through your authorized
Powermatic distributor, or by calling 1-800-
274-6848.
5. If you are using a plug on the jointer’s power
cord, install an appropriate 460 volt plug.
6. After wiring for the new voltage, turn on the
machine and observe the rotation of the
cutterhead; it should rotate clockwise when
viewed from the front of machine. If it
rotates counterclockwise, disconnect jointer
from power source and switch any two of
the three wires at the junction box.
7. Close junction box and reconnect power.
Extension cords
The use of an extension cord is not
recommended, but if one is necessary make
sure the cord rating is suitable for the amperage
listed on the machine’s motor plate. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage
resulting in loss of power and overheating.
Use the chart in Figure 8 as a general guide in
choosing the correct size cord. If in doubt, use
the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge
number, the heavier the cord.
Figure 7
Figure 8

12
Adjustments
Disconnect jointer from
power supply before making adjustments.
Drive Belt Tension
To check the tension of the drive belts:
1. Remove the three cap nuts and flat washers
on the pulley cover with a 9/16 wrench, and
remove the guard to expose the belts and
pulleys. See Figure 9.
NOTE: The hex nuts and flat washers on the
threaded rods (A, Figure 9) should be left in
place; they keep the pulley cover from bending
as it is being tightened back into place with the
cap nuts.
2. There should be a small amount of
deflection in the belt when pressing it
midway between the pulleys with moderate
finger pressure (Figure 10).
3. If the belts need tightening, loosen the lower
hex nut (A, Figure 11) on the motor base
with a 19mm wrench.
4. Turn the top hex nut (B, Figure 11)
clockwise until proper tension is achieved.
5. Retightenlower hex nut (A, Figure 11).
NOTE: The belts should be inspected again
after the first few times the machine is used, as
the belts may stretch slightly during the
“breaking-in” process.
Setting Outfeed Table Height
For accurate work in most jointing operations,
the outfeed table must be exactly level with the
knives/inserts at their highest point of revolution.
The outfeed table on the Model 1285 has been
pre-set at the factory to the proper height in
relation to the cutterhead. However, the level of
the outfeed table should be checked in case of
slight misadjustment during shipping. Outfeed
table height should also be inspected after re-
setting or replacing knives/inserts.
1. The outfeed table has a stop screw (A,
Figure 12) which, when contacting the edge
of the table as shown, will ensure the
outfeed table is at the proper height. Loosen
the handwheel (C, Figure 12) and raise the
outfeed table adjustment arm (D, Figure 12)
until this stop screw (A, Figure 12) contacts
the edge of the table as shown.
Figure 9
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12

13
2. Place a strai
g
ht ed
g
e on the outfeed table
and extending over the cutterhead, as
shown in Figure 13.
3. Rock the cutterhead slightly so that a knife
tip contacts the straight edge. If the knife tip
just contacts the straight edge without
moving the straight edge, then the outfeed
table is at the proper height. If the knife tip
pushes up the straight edge, the outfeed
table is too low. If the knife tip does not
contact the straight edge, the outfeed table
is too high.
4. To raise the height of the outfeed table,
loosen the hex nut (B, Figure 12) and rotate
the stop screw (A, Figure 12) clockwise. To
lower the height of the outfeed table, rotate
the stop screw (A, Figure 12) counter
clockwise.
5. When the outfeed table is level with the
knives, tighten the hex nut (B, Figure 12)
and firmly tighten the handwheel (C, Figure
12).
After the outfeed table has been set, it should
not be changed except for special operations.
As a final check of the outfeed table adjustment,
turn on the jointer and run a scrap piece of wood
slowly over the knives for 6 to 8 inches; the
wood should rest firmly on both tables, as
shown in Figure 14, with no open space under
the finished cut.
If the outfeed table is too high, the finished
surface of the workpiece will be curved (Figure
15).
If the outfeed table is too low, the workpiece will
be gouged at the end of the cut (Figure 16).
Make further changes to the stop screw if
necessary to ensure the outfeed table is level
with the knives/inserts.
Figure 13
Figure 14
Figure 15
Figure 16

14
Setting Infeed Table Height (Depth of
Cut)
1. To set the cutting depth, loosen handwheel
(A, Figure 17) by turning counterclockwise.
2. Move table adjustment arm (B, Figure 17)
up or down to raise or lower infeed table.
The pointer (C, Figure 17) shows the depth
of cut on the adjoining scale.
3. Tighten handwheel securely (A, Figure 17).
The stop screw (D, Figure 17) on the infeed
table should be set so that when it contacts the
table, the infeed table will be exactly level with
the knives (with the scale pointer at zero). The
setting of this stop screw has been made at the
factory, but should be checked by the operator
before using the jointer. It should also be
checked occasionally as the machine receives
use.
Use the same procedure as for the outfeed
table, placing the straightedge across outfeed
table, cutterhead and infeed table. Loosen the
hex nut (E, Figure 17) and adjust the stop screw
(D, Figure 17) as necessary. When finished,
retighten hex nut (E, Figure 17).
If the infeed table is level with the knives but the
scale pointer (C, Figure 17) appears to be off,
loosen the scale pointer with a screwdriver and
adjust it as needed until it reads zero. Retighten
the screw.
Replacing and Setting Knives
(Straight Cutterhead)
Jointer knives are very
sharp. Use care and proceed slowly when
working with or around the cutterhead.
After a period of use, dull knives should be
reground or replaced. Remove the pulley cover
at the rear of the machine – this will allow you to
rotate the cutterhead by using the belts.
To remove a knife:
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Back the fence away from the cutterhead as
far as it will go. Lower infeed and outfeed
tables.
3. Turn the six gib screws (Figure 18) into the
gib with a 10mm wrench. As the pressure of
the gib is released, the two springs in the
cutterhead slot will cause the knife to rise.
4. Carefully remove the knife from the
cutterhead.
Figure 17
Figure 18

15
5. It is recommended when replacing knives
that you clean the knife slots in the
cutterhead. Remove the gib along with the
gib screws, and remove the two springs.
Clean the cutterhead slot of any debris or
dust that might prevent the knife from
seating properly. Also clean the gib, gib
screws, and springs. Closely inspect the gib
screws – if the threads appear worn or
stripped, or if the heads are becoming
rounded, replace the screws.
6. Re-insert the springs and the gib.
7. Place the new or resharpened knife into the
slot as shown in Figure 18, making sure the
direction of the knife is correct.
8. Place the knife setting gauge (provided)
upon the cutterhead and centered over a
knife, as shown in Figure 19. Make sure the
feet of the knife setting gauge rest solidly
upon the cutterhead and that its handle is
parallel to the cutterhead. The gauge is now
holding the knife at proper depth.
9. While keeping the knife setting gauge in
place, tighten the six gib screws just enough
to hold the knife in position. Start with the
center screws first, and work your way
toward the end screws.
10. Repeat steps 3 through 9 for the other two
knives in the cutterhead. Make the gib
screws just tight enough to hold the knives
in position.
With all three jointer knives in the cutterhead,
the knives should now be tightened
incrementally to prevent any buckling or
distortion of the cutterhead. Proceed as follows:
11. Rotate the cutterhead to each knife in turn,
tightening the gib screws a little more
(center screws first, then toward the end
screws). Do this at least twice; on the final
rotation, firmly tighten all gib screws.
After replacing and checking
knives, check again carefully. Make certain
the direction of knives is correct, and all
eighteen gib screws are tightened securely.
Loose gib screws can result in knives being
thrown from the cutterhead, causing severe
damage to the machine and possible serious
or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders.
Figure 19

16
Replacing Knife Inserts (Helical
Cutterhead)
Jointer knife inserts are very
sharp. Use care and proceed slowly when
working with or around the cutterhead.
The helical cutterhead is a solid steel design
that holds 42 two-sided knife inserts, and two
rabbet knife inserts on the outboard end of the
cutterhead. Replacing knife inserts is a simple
process, and they will seat themselves properly
without having to be set with a knife gauge.
After a period of use, dull knife inserts should be
flipped over to present a new edge. If both
edges are worn, knife inserts should be
replaced.
1. Loosen the gib screw (A, Figure 20).
2. Remove the knife insert (B, Figure 20) with
the gib (C, Figure 20) from its slot.
3. Make sure the slot (D, Figure 20) is free of
dust and debris that would prevent the gib
and insert from seating properly. Wipe out
the slot and clean with solvent if needed.
4. Flip the knife insert 180 degrees and place it
onto the two pins of the gib. Make sure the
knife edge faces the proper direction (see
Figure 21).
5. Re-install the gib into the slot.
6. Firmly tighten the gib screw (A, Figure 20).
NOTE: To ensure optimal cutting, all knife
inserts in the cutterhead should be flipped at the
same time. Of course, if an insert is nicked or
damaged, it can be flipped or replaced
individually as needed.
After installing a knife insert, be sure to tighten
the gib screw before moving on to the next knife
insert.
Make certain the direction of
knife inserts is correct, and all gib screws
are tightened securely. Loose gib screws
can result in knife inserts being thrown from
the cutterhead, causing severe damage to
the machine and possible serious or fatal
injury to the operator or bystanders.
Figure 20
Figure 21

17
Fence Adjustments
The fence (A, Figure 22) tilts backward and
forward to 45 degrees. It has a 90-degree stop
(B, Figure 22) and a 45-degree stop (C, Figure
22).
To tilt fence forward:
1. Loosen the lock handle (D, Figure 22) and
tilt the fence forward using the handle (E,
Figure 22). NOTE: Lift up slightly on the
fence while tilting it, to prevent scratching
the table surface.
2. Retightenlock handle (D, Figure 22).
To tilt fence backward:
1. Loosen the lock handle (D, Figure 22) and
pivot the stop block (F, Figure 22) out of the
way.
2. Tilt the fence using the handle (E, Figure
22). NOTE: Lift up slightly on the fence
while tilting it to prevent scratching the table
surface.
3. Retightenlock handle (D, Figure 22).
To move fence forward or backward:
1. Loosen lock handle (G, Figure 22) and
rotate handwheel (H, Figure 22);
counterclockwise for forward fence
movement, clockwise for backward fence
movement.
2. When desired position is reached, securely
tighten lock handle (G, Figure 22).
To check and adjust the 90-degree stop:
1. Loosen lock handle (D, Figure 23) and tilt
fence until the stop screw (B, Figure 23)
contacts the stop block (F, Figure 23).
2. Place a square or machinist’s protractor (not
provided) on the table and flush against the
fence surface. See Figure 23.
3. If adjustment is necessary, loosen the hex
nut on the stop screw (B, Figure 23) and
turn the stop screw as needed until the
fence is flush with your square.
4. Retighten the hex nut.
Figure 22
Figure 23

18
To check and adjust the 45-degree stop:
1. Loosen lock handle (D, Figure 22) and tilt
fence until it contacts the 45-degree stop (C,
Figure 22).
2. Place a machinist’s protractor or similar
device set at 45 degrees on the table and
against the fence.
3. If adjustment is necessary, loosen the hex
nut on the stop screw (C, Figure 22) and
turn the stop screw until the fence is flush
with the protractor.
4. Retighten the hex nut.
Cutter Guard Tension
The tension of the guard (Figure 24) must
always be sufficient during jointer operations to
cause the guard to conceal the unused part of
the cutterhead, and to swing back to contact the
fence after the workpiece has cleared the
cutterhead. To adjust the guard tension:
1. Loosen the knob shown in Figure 24 and
push the knob to the right to increase guard
tension; or to the left to decrease guard
tension.
2. Tighten the knob in that position.
Operating Controls
The push button on/off switch is conveniently
positioned above the table (Figure 25). Do not
remove the clear plastic cover, as this keeps
wood dust out of the switch.
Operation
NOTE: If you are inexperienced at jointing, use
scrap pieces of lumber to check settings and get
the feel of operations before attempting regular
work.
Always use the guard
whenever possible and keep hands away
from cutterhead. Failure to comply may
cause serious injury.
Ideally, the fence should be moved forward
(toward the front of the machine) to expose only
the amount of cutterhead needed for the
workpiece.
TIP: If workpieces of the same size are
constantly being run on the jointer, the operator
may wish to occasionally adjust the fence
forward or backward to prevent wear on only
one area of the knives.
Figure 24
Figure 25

19
Hand Placement
At the start of the cut, the left hand holds the
workpiece firmly against the infeed table and
fence, while the right hand pushes the
workpiece toward the knives. After the cut is
under way, the jointed surface of the workpiece
rests firmly on the outfeed table. The left hand
should press down on this part, at the same time
maintaining flat contact of the workpiece with the
fence. The right hand pushes the workpiece
forward and before the right hand reaches the
cutterhead, the right hand should be moved to
the workpiece on the outfeed table. The
workpiece is then pushed on through to
complete the cut. Follow the 3-inch rule (see
page 5). Never pass hands directly over the
cutterhead.
Edge Jointing
This is the most common operation for the
jointer. Set the fence to the 90-degree stop and
thus square with the table. Depth of cut should
be the minimum required to obtain a straight
edge. Do not make cuts deeper than 1/8” in a
single pass. Hold the best face of the workpiece
firmly against the fence throughout the feed.
See Figure 26.
Surfacing
Jointing the face of stock, or surfacing is shown
in Figure 27. Adjust the infeed table for depth of
cut. Cuts of approximately 1/16” at a time are
recommended, as this allows better control over
the material being surfaced. More passes can
then be made to reach the desired depth.
Always use a hold-down or
push block when surfacing short stock or
stock less than 3 inches thick. Figure 26
shows push blocks being used for surfacing.
Rabbeting
A rabbet is a groove cut along the edge of a
workpiece. See Figure 28. The width and
thickness of the workpiece used will be
dependent upon the desired width and length of
the rabbet. However, never rabbet a workpiece
less than 12 inches long.
A rabbet cut requires
removal of the cutterhead guard. Use
extreme caution and keep hands clear of
cutterhead. Always replace guard
immediately after rabbeting operation is
completed.
Figure 26
Figure 27
Figure 28

20
Use push blocks to rabbet cut whenever
possible. The rabbeting capacity is 3/4”.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Set fence for desired width of rabbet.
3. Check width of the rabbet by measuring the
distance from the end of a knife in the
cutterhead to the fence.
4. Reconnect power. Lower the infeed table
1/32” at a time and make successive cuts
until the desired depth of rabbet has been
obtained. See Figure 28. NOTE: It is easier
and safer to take a series of shallow cuts.
Jointing Warped Surfaces
If the wood to be jointed is dished or warped,
take light cuts until the surface is flat. Avoid
forcing such material down against the table;
excessive pressure will spring it while passing
the knives, and it will spring back and remain
curved after the cut is completed.
Jointing Short or Thin Work
When jointing short or thin pieces, use a push
block to eliminate all danger to the hands. Two
push blocks are shipped with your jointer, and
additional ones can be purchased from most
hardware or machine tool stores. You can also
make your own easily from scrap material.
Three types of commonly used push blocks are
represented in Figure 29.
Direction of Grain
Avoid feeding work into the jointer against the
grain. This will result in chipped and splintered
edges. See Figure 30. Feed with the grain to
obtain a smooth surface, as shown in Figure 31.
Beveling
To cut a bevel, lock the fence at the required
angle and run the workpiece across the knives
while keeping it firmly against the fence and
tables. Several passes may be necessary to
achieve the desired result.
While the fence can be tilted in or out for bevel
cutting, it is recommended for safety reasons
that the fence be tilted in toward the operator, if
possible, making a cradled cut.
Figure 29
Figure 30
Figure 30