Replies

1. 
   RickL | Oct 16, 2007 03:10pm | #1

   Jointers are pretty basic so any jointer manual will tell you the same thing. You might consider getting a generic book on setting machines such as John White's book.

   http://cambiumbooks.com/books/woodworking_machines/

   It will most likely tell you more than the stock manual. I repair machines for a living and have never seen a good manual on jointers. They certainly don't go into adjusting tables and barely do a good job on knife changing.  As far as parts there isn't much to go wrong and Bridgewood is still going to carry parts. The only thing I've had to change on jointers is bearing and the occasional gib screws on the head.

   I have worked on a number of older Bridgewood jointers as well as Oliver, Crescent, Delta, Northfield, SCMI, Minimax and many others. None of these had manuals that were any better than the others. More on unpacking the machine than any other aspect. Certainly not much on how to use it. Most machines don't come with how to use guides. Even more true with bigger machines such as double end tenoners, pin routers, shapers. Typically the info was handed down from the operator to the trainee.

1. 
   dovetailjoe | Oct 16, 2007 03:19pm | #2

   Rick - thank you so much for your reply - it was very helpful. I don't know why the Wilke people were reluctant to offer another of their manuals - they listed several but not one for this machine. Oh, well, i'll get John White's book and declare victory!
   thanks again.
   peace
   joe clark

1. 
   mike_b | Oct 16, 2007 07:21pm | #3

   dovetailjoe,I have an old Bridgewood 8" jointer and believe me, you're much better off going with RickL's advice. The manual that shipped with my machine is poorly translated and of little use. The machine on the other hand, is quite good. Good luck.Mike

1. 
   dovetailjoe | Oct 16, 2007 07:44pm | #4

   thanks Mike, I'll go with what you two say. I"ve already ordered John White's book. appreciate the help.
   joe

2. 
   tinkerer2 | Oct 17, 2007 06:37am | #5

   I bought an oscillating spindle sander some time ago and had to just laugh at the manual.  I'm still wondering what slushing oil is?

1. 
   KiddervilleAcres | Oct 17, 2007 08:59pm | #6

   tinkerer,

   I can't believe you don''t know what slushing oil is!

   It's recycled oil from massage parlors for gawds sake!

   :-)

   Regards,

    Bob @ Kidderville Acres

    

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!