Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Aug 15, 2006 08:37pm | #1

   Most cabinet saws have some way of adjusting how deeply the worm gear meshes with the gear on the trunnion.  Usually the adjustment is in the part or parts that support the shaft the worm gear is mounted on. By meshing the gear more deeply you can probably eliminate the play between the two gears.

   Loose pulleys or a loose motor mount can also cause a thump on starting but usually not with enough force to rattle the whole machine.  I haven't seen this problem with the gear on other saws but your diagnosis seems reasonable. 

   If you can give me a model number on the saw I'll try to get you some more specific information.

   John White

1. 
   jabraham | Aug 15, 2006 09:24pm | #2

   Thanks for the reply.

   I'll re-check the motor mount and pulley tension again to be sure.

   I'll also check to see if the worm gear shaft is adjustable.

   My saw is Delta Model 36-812

1. 
   jabraham | Aug 15, 2006 09:52pm | #3

   Ok, I rechecked the bearings and motor mount. Tight

   I further tested my theory by removing the cabinet cover and holding the motor rigidly (effectively removing the slop in the worm gear) by either pressing on the motor or pulling on the motor while I started the saw. This eliminated the thunk. I further tested this by completely rasing the blade, which also removes any slop in the worm gear since the arbor bracket seats tightly to the worm gear when the blade is completely raised. This also eliminated the thunk. The manual does not mention any adjustments to this mechanism, I hope you can shed some further light.

1. 
   JohnWW | Aug 15, 2006 11:08pm | #4

   Good follow up information, I'll see if I can get some details on whether the gear meshing is adjustable.

   John W.