That looks like a nice and accurate method of adjusting new Jointer Blades! I haven't used my Jointer in 2 years because of the frustration I experienced in installing new Blades. Now, with this knowledge, I am going back to the garage and make it happen, Thanks.
I got the relationship now, one the TDC is found, you don't move the dial indicator. That is TDC. Then for replacement, I can remove all blades prior to finding TDC on cutter head.
Bingo! As long as the dial indicator plunger is 90 degrees to table surface (get close enough), then find the TDC of the cutterhead. If the dial indicator position isn't moved, it will already be at TDC when the knife is present.
Great Video! Quick question thought. There are those who say it is best that the knives by slightly above the outfeed table. I have the jointer pal and dial indicator so I could follow your method to get the knives inline with the outfeed table and then lower the outfeed table slightly as my outfeed table can be adjusted. Your thoughts?
No. In the video I zero the dial indicator on the outfeed table. Your knives will be set flush with the outfeed table if they also read zero (at-top-dead-center).
Hi Thanks for the video, but I have Dewalt d27300 planer thicknesser which has aluminium surface. So the magnetic base of the indicator will not work. What would you recommend?
I have one question,once you have the dial indicator zeroed on the outfeed table,why would you check the cutter head with the DI?is it to know where it is in relation to the outfeed table ?
After it's zeroed we need to find TDC of the cutterhead and lock the magnetic base. Because the DI is already zeroed on the outfeed table we can then check that the knives will be at zero or flush with the outfeed table.
+Mike Patrick You want the knives to be level with the outfeed table at the top of their revolution around in the cutterhead. That's also called Top Dead Center. Let me know if still not clear.
Another question if you don't mind. I have the Jet 8" Jointer which has knives. My jointer has two springs underneath the blade. Do you think I should remove the springs with your method? It looks like you kept the springs in place with your Powermatic which is probably similar to my Jet. Based on your video, it looks like you have springs too.
Mine doesn’t use springs. The knives are held flush with the out-feed table using a magnetic jig. With the same magnetic jig, you could keep your springs in place - should not interfere.
Should I mark TDC in fence for other knives? And, again why TDC on the cutter head and not knives? Having trouble with relationship. Should knives be .001-.002 high at final setting?
Let me try explaining this again. :) The position the 'dial indicator' is at (over the cutterhead) when at the cutterhead TDC will also be the position for TDC when the knife is present.
+efilimone Yes. There are methods on the net that involve using a straight edge. The gauge is pretty cheap (they can be expensive depending on the brand and accuracy) and has too many uses in the shop to pass up.
GarageWoodworks hey Brian! Love all your vids, and I am finally set on tuning my jointer up as the frustration has reached its peak. I knew you had a good one so I went back and watched this and ordered some fresh knives (vintage delta jointer) and the jigs. Just curious what else you use the dial indicator/mag base for? I think I saw you align your table saw arbor too...anything else?
Really do we need to know top dead center of the casting that holds the knives, I would think we we were zeroed out off the outfeed table and slide over to the knives then adjust them to zero it would be the same
