Q:

The infeed table on my jointer is sagging. I’ve lost the manual and don’t know how to fix it. Would you please explain how?

Dan Heinz, Normal, IL

A:

The fact that the table is sagging tells me your machine has dovetailed ways with gibs. When the screws holding the gibs in place work loose, the table sags.

To fix it, raise the table until it is level with the high point of the blades’ arc. Loosen the locknuts on all of the gib screws and back out the screws about a quarter turn. (Take care with the top one: Loosen it too much, and the gib could fall out.) The upper section of the dovetail is most responsible for preventing sag, so adjust the top gib screw first. Tighten it until the table’s height is hard to adjust and then back the screw off so that the table moves smoothly. Secure the screw’s locknut. Adjust the remaining screws in the same way. The top two screws should fit tightest against the gib. When you are done, the table should feel tight, but move smoothly.

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