Setting Up Tools Accurately

The Maker’s Quest

In this episode, Brian and Greg talk about how they set up their tools in their shop and how important it is to set up tools accurately They then share a few tips on tool setup.

Hosted By: Brian Benham

Portfolio: https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/custom-furniture-colorado-springs/

Brian’s Woodworking Plans: https://www.digitaldesignconcepts.art/

Brian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benham_design/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ

Greg Porter

https://skyscraperguitars.com/
Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage

Show Notes Revisiting Tool Setup and Millwrighting

Greg and Brian discussed the setup of their tools, revisiting a previously discussed topic. They talked about the cost and accuracy of machinist tools, with Greg estimating costs to be around $400. They also explored the application of millwrighting principles to home workshops, with Greg suggesting a focus on prioritizing tools and tool levelness. Brian agreed, proposing to start with the table saw as the hub of his shop. The discussion also highlighted the need for understanding millwrighting concepts for those unfamiliar with the term.

Millwrights, Woodworking, and Precision Challenges

Greg and Brian discussed the role of a millwright in factory machinery setup and the precision required in their respective woodworking projects. Brian shared his approach to tool leveling and truing, emphasizing the importance of aligning tools for optimal performance and discussing the challenges of working with a naturally variable material like wood. They also highlighted the significance of maintaining and adjusting machinery for precision and longevity, and the impact of environmental factors on their work.

Precision Woodworking and Metalworking Techniques

Greg and Brian discussed the importance of precision in woodworking and metalworking, with a focus on the use of torsion boxes and solid surface materials. Greg shared his approach to ensuring accuracy in woodworking, including the construction of a torsion box router extension and the use of a solid surface top. They also discussed the benefits of a torsion box workbench, the potential issues with embedding materials into the grain of a project when using a steel table for woodworking, and the advantages of investing in a good setup table for metalworking. Lastly, they explored the use of phenolic resin and solid surface materials in their woodworking projects, with Greg sharing his experience of sourcing a large piece of solid surface for a new fixture in his shop.

Machine Leveling, Truing, and Tolerance Adjustments

Greg emphasized the importance of leveling and truing machines, particularly milling machines and table saws, to ensure their longevity and accuracy. He detailed the use of a Sterett 12-inch machinist level and the potential issues with an unleveled machine, particularly in the context of glue-ups and welding. Greg also explained the intricacies of milling machine tolerance adjustments, focusing on the table, head, and Z travel. Brian, seeking to understand the application of these principles in CNC machines, was informed that the same principles apply, with the router head needing to be as perpendicular to the spoil board as possible. They also discussed the potential issues with using a mobile base and the benefits of removing it.

Band Saws, Drum Sanders, and Solutions

Brian and Greg discussed the challenges and solutions related to using band saws and drum sanders in a woodworking shop. They shared their experiences with the tools, highlighting issues such as blade wear, heat generation, and paper slipping. Greg suggested using wider blades on band saws and a more powerful Powermatic drum sander to avoid frustration and damage to work pieces. They also discussed potential solutions, including the use of precision ground steel blocks to adjust the drum height and a dial indicator with adjustable arms to accurately measure its position. Brian and Greg also considered the longevity of the digital control panel of the Powermatic and the possibility of it becoming obsolete in the future, with simple, mechanical solutions being seen as more reliable and easier to repair.

Precision Equipment and Woodworking Success

Greg and Brian discussed the significance of precision equipment in woodworking and machining. Greg stressed the importance of using tools like squares to ensure accuracy and true setup and shared his appreciation for instructional videos by Tubal Cane and Randy Richards. Brian shared his experiences with setting up a jointer, highlighting the challenges he faced and the solutions he found. Both agreed on the importance of properly setting up and adjusting tools to ensure accurate cuts and prevent future problems, emphasizing the value of taking the time to fine-tune tools for improved performance.