Hey everyone,
I’m a new hobbyist woodworker. I recently acquired a new to me table saw, a Ridgid TS2424-1. Runs great, cuts straight, well maintained. However, as you can see in the picture the previous owner has both wings mounted on the right and the rails pushed to the right also. I’m wanting to build a cross-cut sled but I’m concerned about the balance of the sled with very little table space left of the blade. My question is should I purchase a 3rd wing to mount on the left side of the cast iron table and keep the extra table length to the right or should I break it down and put one wing on either side?
Thanks for any input in advance!
Matt
Replies
It is not unusual for folks to adapt their gear to fit what they do most. As a new to the craft woodworker youmight be best served by putting the saw back to the factory specs to learn how to use it
If it did not come with the assembly instructions find a copy. You'll learn more about the saw by going through the process as well.
In my own experience I needed more of the table to the right of the blade as I did a lot of work with sheet goods (plywood, MDF etc). This allowed me to cut bigger pieces more efficiently and safely. I like the saw and used to have one until I moved overseas. I also created a sled for the saw and made great use of it. However, to echo what MJ said, it will mostly depend on what work you plan on doing. Enjoy the craft. It is a lifelong activity!
I do like the extra table to the right so far because I needed to cut down birch plywood sheets on my first few projects.
I do have the saw manual and went through it completely to familiarize myself with the safety, features and operation before I began my first project.
So it seems adding a table on the left shouldn't be a problem and will support the cross-cut sled better.
Another thought on your table saw is the possibility that the previous owner has installed a sliding table on the left side of the saw that requires removing the left wing of the saw. I have a Delta Unisaw where I have installed a sliding table. Depending on how you would use your saw, you may just install one wing on each side of the saw and see how it works for you. Enjoy and good luck.
With all that cast iron, there's a lot of weight on the right. I would put the second cast iron wing on the left, where it belongs, and then add a table extension on the right made out of melamine. You'll have more real estate, and your saw will be a lot less likely to tip over.
Personally I'd put it back the way they intended. But if you decide not to, I'd at least put legs under it to support the extra weight.
I have a Ridgid 4512 with steel wings that are much lighter. I mounted a router table under the RH side. It's heavy on that side, and I should put legs under it. I haven't, and it hasn't tipped, but I am always concerned about pressing too hard on the router table.
Reverse your thinking. Make a crosscut sled with the bulk to the right of the blade. Any hanging over the left would it no problem. Be sure the complete right side is co-planer to the table.
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