Woodworking Tips and New Products from Circle Saw

Ethanol Warning

2007-07-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Ethanol when used in any 2 cycle engine will cause the engine to run cleaner, but it also will make it run hotter, not always a good thing.

Echo and several others have come out and said using E85 and E80 will void the manufacturer's warranty. We have found even E90 with only 10% ethanol will lead to early engine failure. When you mix your fuel use a 1 gallon oil mix and mix it 9/10of a gallon of

PREMIUM E90 Fuel

to a 1 gallon oil mix

Woodworking Shaper Operation

2006-07-20T05:13:00.000-07:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Ok folks here goes

I know a lot of people buy used machines out there and usually they don't come with any manuals ---Like you read them any way--- but every once in a while if you have never used a particular machine or set one up it is a good idea to download the manual for it. Several times in the past week I have had customers complain about belt life.-- Although most shapers have a dual sheave pulley they are designed to only run one belt at a time --NOT TWO-- Your machine should have a speed diagram probably on the door showing which pulley set up to use for different spindle speeds. Generally 4" and smaller od cutters run at 10,000 RPM and any cutter larger than that should run at 7,000 RPM. Hope this clears up some problems with operation and belt life.

Make More Sawdust

http://www.circlesaw.com

Delta Bandsaws -- Blade Tracking

2006-06-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

For those of you that have purchased on of the 14" Delta Bandsaws made overseas, 28-206 or the 28-276 often times the blade tracking is a real pain, the fix is simple change the tire that the blade rides on from the hard plastic to the urethane tire that is used on the USA made saw. The better grade of tire is a part # 426020940003 and allows the blade to bite into the tire which makes the blade track straighter as long as the saw is adjusted properly and your blade is in good shape.

The Woodworking Shows

2006-03-15T03:16:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Mark your calendars March 31st- April 2nd, The Woodworking Shows return to Houston at Reliant Center.

This year more emphasis will be on education as well as new products and as always some really good deals and a chance to test drive some of the latest products.

This year our booths will be next to the Delta/Porter-Cable trailers, stop by to see what is new and revamped and enjoy the show.

Discount coupons and advance tickets can be purchased online @ http://thewoodworkingshows.com/

Porter Cable 890 router recall

2006-01-26T12:41:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

If you have purchased any of the 890 series Porter-Cable routers do yourself a favor and check the serial #

Although there have been no accidents YET the quality control department is concerned enough about a potential shock hazard to recall a large number of routers.

Follow this link to Porter Cable website for details http://www.porter-cable.com/index.asp?e=5983&p=1009092

Porter-Cable Recall

2005-12-02T15:36:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Porter-Cable and BDK Corporation have announced a recall on several of the new 7-1/4" circular saw with the new Quik-Change blade change systems.

The lower guard on these saws could stick in the open position, posing a risk of severe lacerations to consumers.

You can call Porter-Cable @ (800)949-7930 or follow either of the following links to find out if your saw is affected and how to resolve the problem.

http://www.porter-cable.com/index.asp?e=5983&p=973092

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/06040.html

Remember, all it takes is one time, one slip-up and Emergency Room Here we come.

Cut safe & be safe

Delta Truckload Sale

2005-11-19T10:01:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

The weather has finally turned and it's time to really enjoy our shop's again. Just in time for the season we have purchased an enormous amount of woodworking machinery from Delta just before their latest price increase and are getting ready for our winter sale.

And with prices set to rival those found at The Woodworking Shows and free tool assembly and adjustment it's time to buy the tool you've been dreaming of. Local delivery available for a nominal fee.

Don't Miss This Sale!

A sample of the deals to be found are listed @ http://www.circlesaw.com/deltawoodworkingspecials.htm however for a complete list give us a call 713-864-8444, prices valid November 21st thru December 31st.

Bosch PR10 Colt Laminate Trimmer and Router

2005-10-30T15:47:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Every once in a while a tool comes along that is fun to show off. The new Bosch 1 HP "Colt" PR10 router is just that tool. Small enough to be used for a laminate trimmer and with a base that is beefier than their previous laminate trimmers and hopefully not as fragile, it certainly passed my first accidental drop test and behold the base was still in one piece.

Running a 3/4" dish carver in mahogany proved to be no challenge for the Bosch 1 HP motor, plenty of power and this tool fits very comfortably in the hand with a rubber grip to reduce any vibration one might feel. With the one wrench tool change and the easy depth adjustment it is just 2 cool. Twist the base to the position marked as unlocked and you can make a 2" adjustment quickly and twist the base to the locked position and the fine adjustment works effortlessly.

All this coupled with an attractive price tag and single or variable speed models, an edge guide and a full complement of sub bases due out in January that will enable template guides, either Bosch or Porter-Cable style to be used, round out the accessory department.

Makita Slide Compound Miter w/ Laser

2005-10-08T08:56:00.000-07:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

As promised as soon as begin to get our hands on some of the new tools we would let you know how the did.

The Makita LS1214L, one of the new saws out, well not really a new tool but a 1st rate revision, they have been making this saw for over 10 years now since the LS1211 but they have really added some nice features and the best is the laser that can be switched off if not needed but can also be on all the time, blade running or not adjusted to the left, right or center of the blade quickly and easily. In addition when you start to make a cut as the blade guard comes down the laser is not affected.

Add the upgraded 15 amp motor with electronic speed control for consistent blade speeds, 3200 RPM for added torque in 8/4 hardwoods and a direct drive unit you get no belt slippage now or later.

Right out of the box with no adjustments this saw as any Makita Slide Compound I have ever checked was dead on cutting as near perfect as you could want. You can never saw 100% perfect because someone, somewhere will take exception but cutting 45 miters they are as tight and true as I've ever seen or needed.

Delta Drill Press 17-925 & 17-990x problems

2005-09-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Recently we have discovered a problem on some of the Delta Drill Press 17-925 & 17-990x. If you check out this link

http://media.ptg-online.com/media/dm/PartsLists/20050404085008_DP25.pdf

it will show a drawing on these drill presses. Make sure you have 3/4" of quill #78 extending below the bracket #76 that attached to the depth stop. #80 is a retaining nut that holds the #85 spindle assembly. After enough use with the bracket set to low it will loosen the nuts that holds the spindle assy in and the next thing you know the spindle is sitting on the table.

This is not a Good thing.

Make more sawdust

Bill Harrison

New Tools Everywhere

2005-09-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

DeWalt purchases Porter-cable, Delta Machinery, Oldham Saw Blades and DeVilbiss Compressor Company ------ old news but many are not aware of this

Makita adds laser's to their slide miter saws

Built-in laser clearly indicates line of cut with micro fine adjustments; independent switch allows laser to be seen with and without the blade rotating

Makita adds new 3 speed cordless to their line

Watch for more on these and other improvements to the Woodworking Tool Industry

Milwaukee's V28 Cordless Secret

2005-02-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

Milwaukee's V28 Cordless Secret

The sour grapes fable of Aesop revolved around the fox that tried and tried to get some grapes that were hanging high up on a vine. After many futile attempts to get the grapes, the fox walked away in bitter frustration saying "I didn't really want those grapes anyway; they were probably sour." In coming months you may hear many of Milwaukee's competitors using what I refer to as the " sour grapes theory ". Many would have you believe they have already evaluated and condemned the Lithium battery technology as not suited for heavy power tool use. In concept they are correct. The Smart Battery Enter the engineering department of Milwaukee Electric Tool. These are the folks that brought such breakthroughs as the 1st right angle drill, the hole hawg and the reciprocating saw, aka the Sawzall. Since 1924 with the invention of the first one handed electric drill Milwaukee has pushed the envelope of design and engineering wonders. Lithium batteries are but part of the answer - the rest is electronic innovation that enables the battery pack to balance the shock load exerted when the tool is called upon to spin a 2 inch self feed bit. Really now, if the battery technology would not hold up in the field would Milwaukee be foolish enough to put a two year warranty on the battery pack. With a battery loss of 2-5 percent per month while not being used this means a fully charged battery would still have plenty of power after 10 months of lying somewhere on a shelf - maybe longer. Add to that the operating temperature of -4 degree to 167 degrees heat and cold do not adversely affect it. The Milwaukee v28 battery actually likes hot weather, a definite plus in Houston, Texas. Add a battery charge gauge and you know how much juice you have remaining and the fact that Lithium performs at full power for 95% of the battery cycle with no power drop until the very end. The Charger Ok, after 9 years in the research and development stage they have put a huge amount of effort to bring the best to the market, the charger is no different. A smart charger for sure, with further plans to bring out a charger capable of charging both NI-Cad and Lithium batteries. Milwaukee engineering strikes again. The Tools All of the tools in the initial offering have been totally redesigned to take full advantage of the new Lithium batteries and the Milwaukee 28 volt system. The Sawzall From the first cut you realize this is a new sawzall, although stroke has been shortened to 1-1/8" and the counterbalance eliminated the vibration is non existent. Better design and less vibration = less operator fatigue, longer tool life with Milwaukee's 5 year warranty and longer run times. The Portaband For those cutting steel with this tool offers the same capacity as the current 6236 / 6238 deep cut electric portaband from Milwaukee using the same 44 - 7/8 inch blades. Although the tool with battery weighs in 2 pounds heavier than its electric brother the advantage of not having to drag 100 - 200 feet of 12/3 cord more than offsets the weight difference. The Impact For those running auger's where electricity is not practical or need to change a few tires the ½" square drive impact has a pin detent for socket retention, and develops 325 ft/lbs of torque. With its variable speed trigger, this is very helpful for starting lag bolts, auger bits or running nuts and bolts up slowly. Best balance in its field. Exceptional run time, 33% longer than the nearest competitor. The Circular Saw

Using a 6-1/2" x 5/8" bore carbide tipped saw blade the Milwaukee 28 volt circular saw has the power to rip 46 sheets of ½" OSB. That's 368 feet of cutting. Or put a steel cutting blade on and cut metal studs and unistrut or anything with Rockwell hardness of 25 or less to your hearts content. The Hammerdrill/Drill Driver

With 600 inch pounds of torque and 0-600 RPM in low range and 0-1800 RPM in high gear coupled with 2700 BPM in the hammer mode this is one serious drill. Add the Milwaukee 28 volt Lithium battery and you get twice as many holes, screws or lag bolts as the most powerful 18 volt cordless. V28 The Next Generation in Cordless Technology is Here.

Routing Dado's

2005-02-08T03:25:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply I realize this may be above many of your skill levels but I continue to get asked why are my dado's not straight. First of all you need to realize that no round router sub base is perfectly round. In order to get a straight dado either use a router bit with a bearing on top and a straight template either plywood or 1x but you have to make sure it has a true edge or my favorite is to mount your router to a piece of melamine after your have ripped it on your tablesaw to ensure you have a straight edge. Now you can also run this along your straightedge such as a TruGrip clamp or a straight factory edge ripped from a fresh piece of plywood. You can see a factory made sample for the large 3 H.P. Porter-Cable routers at http://www.circlesaw.com/shoppingcart/item33742191.html Of course if you dado's are close enough to the edge a good quality router edge will also do but sooner or later you will need a dado further from the edge than your edge guide will allow. Make more sawdust.

Skil 3400 Tablesaw Safety Recall

2005-02-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

New Tools, Accessories & Tips from Circle Saw Builder's Supply

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 6, 2004 Release # 05-063 Firm’s Hotline: (800) 351-5788 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, Robert Bosch Tool Corp. Announce Recall of Skil® Table Saws

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the manufacturers named below, today announced voluntary recalls of the following consumer products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Skil® Table Saw Model 3400 Units: 120,000

Manufacturer: Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, of Mount Prospect, Ill.

Hazard: The blade drive mechanism may loosen or the motor can separate from the tool.

Loosening of the blade drive mechanism can result in kickback of the item being sawed, resulting in possible laceration. Motor unit separation can cause the coasting saw blade to damage the saw wiring resulting in possible electric shock, or the separated motor could strike the user and cause injury. Incidents/Injuries: Robert Bosch Tool Corporation has received eleven reports of loose or broken motors. No injury or property damage has been reported. Description: Only Skil® table saws with model number 3400 printed on the front side of the table base with the date codes listed below are included in the recall. Date codes are printed on the upper right corner of the table base and include 2002 date codes 28501-28831, 2003 codes 38101-39231 and 2004 codes 48101-48811. The table saw holds a 10-inch blade and is made of metal tabletop with a red plastic base. Sold at: Home Depot, Lowe’s and Menards as well as independent hardware retailers nationwide from July 2002 through October 2004 for between $149 and $199. Manufactured in: Taiwan

Remedy: Contact Robert Bosch Tool Corporation to receive a repair kit. The kit includes hardware and instructions for installation. Consumer Contact: Robert Bosch Tool Corporation at (800) 351-5788 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the Skil Web site @ http://66.77.255.70/webrequest/Recall3400.aspx

Milwaukee Electric Tool introduces a revolution in cordless tools

2005-02-05T14:03:00.000-08:00

After nine years of research and development, Milwaukee's 28-volt battery delivers increased power and up to twice the run time of traditional 18 volt models, yet the battery weighs slightly less. This breakthrough technology allows Milwaukee to introduce new tools, like the world's first cordless band saw, powerful enough for every day professional use. The V28 line of tools also includes a hammerdrill, circular saw, Sawzall reciprocating saw, impact wrench, work light and battery charger. The V28 line will be available at participating distributors nationwide in the second quarter of 2005. Stay tuned for more information

What's New

2005-01-08T11:44:00.000-08:00

Here you will find Tips and Tricks as well as new product information

Cutting Pergo and Other Laminate Flooring

2005-01-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

Cutting Pergo and Other Laminate Flooring As most woodworkers know when ripping conventional lumber on a table saw you use a 20 to 40 tooth blade and when crosscutting or cutting across the grain best results are seen with a 50 to 80 tooth blade depending on the power of the saw you are using. When you are cutting manmade materials the rules change. And when you are cutting laminate flooring due to the amount of glue and the manufacturing process of this product All THE RULES CHANGE. Try to use a 60 or 80 tooth carbide blade and you will be lucky to get 30 feet of cut. When selecting a blade for this type of product you need to pay particular attention to the gullet of the blade. Follow this link for a picture http://www.circlesaw.com/additional%20images/Amana%20rip%20blade%20for%20pergo.jpg If you are viewing this in a news reader you may need to copy and paste this into your browser The larger the space between the teeth the faster the chips are removed which prevents the heat typically generated from the glue. In case no one ever told you heat is the number 1 enemy of any cutting tool. Experience has taught us the best results are achieved with a 20 to 30 tooth blade and not more than a 40 tooth carbide blade. With this blade you will get a little chip out on the back side so make sure you cut with the finish side up, besides most of the end cuts will be covered with some type of trim. Make more sawdust