Hand-Feed for the Parks Planer
Here’s a simple way to get an infinitely variable feed rate on a Parks Model 97 thickness planer, without altering any part of the machine. Simply install a hand crank on the throwout sleeve. Although no planer is 100% tear-proof, it sure makes a big difference once you get used to the feel of cranking wood through by hand.
To make the crank, I started with an old farm machinery crank and fitted it to a short keyed shaft that slides into the center hole of the throwout sleeve. To use it, I simply disengage the power feed and start cranking. Make sure you remove the crank before you use the power feed. This idea could probably be adapted to other planers that have a similar feed disengagement mechanism.
John Colombini, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Fine Woodworking Magazine, April 1983 No. 39
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