When it comes to woodworking, precision is key. The Dewalt 733 Planer is known for delivering accurate results, but to maintain its performance, you may need to adjust the rollers from time to time. This article provides a detailed guide on how to adjust the rollers on your Dewalt 733 planer, ensuring it continues to produce high-quality work.
Understanding the Importance of Roller Adjustment
Rollers are crucial components of the Dewalt 733 planer, responsible for feeding the wood through the machine and providing the necessary pressure while maintaining stability. Properly adjusted rollers can lead to:
1. Improved Cutting Efficiency: Well-functioning rollers ensure that the wood is fed evenly, reducing strain on the blades and motor.
2. Better Surface Finish: Correct roller adjustment helps prevent snipe and uneven surfaces, resulting in a better finish.
3. Extended Tool Life: When everything operates smoothly, the wear and tear on your planer are minimized, extending its overall lifespan.
Tools You Will Need
Before diving into the adjustment process, gather the following tools:
- Allen wrench (usually included with your planer)
- Flathead screwdriver
- Philips screwdriver
- Calipers or feeler gauge
- Woodworking lubricant
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjust Rollers on Dewalt 733 Planer
Now that you’re equipped with the necessary tools, it’s time to adjust the rollers. Follow the step-by-step guide below for a successful adjustment process.
1. Safety First
Before starting any adjustment, ensure that your planer is unplugged from the power source. This precaution prevents accidental startups that could lead to injury. Additionally, have safety goggles handy to protect your eyes.
2. Remove the Planer’s Cover
The first step is gaining access to the internal components of your Dewalt 733 planer. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws on the side and back of the machine.
- Carefully lift off the cover, revealing the rollers and other internal parts.
3. Inspect the Rollers
With the cover removed, visually inspect the rollers for any signs of damage, wear, or debris buildup. If you find any issues, it might be necessary to replace them before proceeding with adjustments.
4. Measuring the Roller Height
To achieve the correct adjustment, measuring the height of the rollers is important. Here’s how to do it:
- Utilize calipers or a feeler gauge to measure the distance from the bottom of the planer to the top of the upper roller.
- Compare this measurement with the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if an adjustment is needed.
5. Adjusting the Upper Roller
If the upper roller is too high or too low, you will need to make adjustments:
1. Locate the Adjustment Bolts: Find the adjustment bolts that control the height of the upper roller, typically located on either side of the roller.
2. Turn the Bolts Carefully: Use an Allen wrench to turn the bolts clockwise to raise the roller or counterclockwise to lower it. Make small adjustments and constantly recheck the height.
6. Adjusting the Lower Roller
Once the upper roller is correctly adjusted, you’ll need to repeat this process for the lower roller.
1. Measure the Height: Similarly, measure the height of the lower roller.
2. Adjust as Necessary: Make the necessary adjustments using the adjustment bolts, ensuring both rollers are at the correct height according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
7. Lubricate the Rollers
After adjusting both rollers, apply woodworking lubricant to ensure smooth operation. This step minimizes friction and enhances the performance of the rollers.
8. Reassemble the Planer
Once satisfied with the adjustments, it’s time to reassemble your planer:
- Carefully place the cover back on, ensuring that all parts fit snugly.
- Re-insert and tighten all screws with the Philips screwdriver.
Testing Your Adjustments
After reassembling, it’s crucial to test the adjustments to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Here’s how to do it:
1. Plug the Planer Back In
After ensuring that everything is secured, plug the Dewalt 733 planer back into the power source.
2. Run a Test Board
Select a piece of scrap wood and feed it through the planer. Observe how it runs through the machine. Key aspects to check include:
1. Smooth Operation: The wood should pass through without any hesitation or unusual noises.
2. Surface Quality: Check for any signs of snipe or uneven finishing on the edges of the board.
3. Fine-tune if Necessary
If you notice any issues during the test, you might need to revisit the adjustments. Make small tweaks and test again until you find the right balance.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even after adjustments, you may encounter some common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
1. Snipe Marks
Snipe is a common issue for many woodworkers. If you notice snipe marks on the ends of your boards, consider the following solutions:
1. Adjust Roller Height: Ensure both rollers are adjusted correctly, particularly the front roller.
2. Support the Board Ends: Use additional support to hold the board as it enters and exits the planer.
2. Difficulty Feeding the Wood
If the planer struggles to feed wood through correctly, check for the following:
1. Roller Alignment: Ensure that both rollers are aligned and at the correct height.
2. Clean Rollers and Blades: Any debris on the rollers or dulled blades can impede performance.
3. Uneven Surfaces
If the wood finish isn’t smooth:
1. Recheck Roller Settings: Both rollers need to be accurately adjusted to avoid uneven cutting.
2. Inspect Blade Condition: Dull or damaged blades can lead to poor finish quality and should be replaced if needed.
Conclusion
Adjusting the rollers on your Dewalt 733 planer is an essential maintenance task that can lead to improved performance and durability. By following the detailed steps outlined above, you can ensure your tool continues to operate at peak efficiency. Remember, regular checks and adjustments can save you time and frustration in your woodworking projects, allowing you to focus on creating beautiful pieces.
With a well-functioning planer, your woodworking endeavors will not only become easier but also yield professional-quality results. Happy planing!
What is the purpose of the rollers on the Dewalt 733 planer?
The rollers on the Dewalt 733 planer play a crucial role in feeding the wood through the machine. They help ensure that the material is pulled in and pushed out smoothly, allowing for an even cut. Properly adjusted rollers also reduce the risk of snipe, which is when the ends of the boards are cut at an angle or leave a rough finish.
Moreover, the rollers contribute to the stabilization of the workpiece as it passes through the cutter head. When the rollers are functioning correctly, they help maintain the alignment and consistency of the cut. This capability is particularly important when working with varying wood thicknesses or softer woods that may compress during the planing process.
How do I know if my Dewalt 733 planer rollers need adjustment?
Signs that your Dewalt 733 planer rollers need adjustment include visible snipe on your boards, inconsistent cut quality, and difficulty in feeding material through the machine. If you notice that the leading or trailing edge of your workpiece is rough or tapered, it’s a strong indication that the rollers may not be correctly set.
Additionally, you may experience issues with the material sticking or catching while being fed through the planer. If the machine requires extra force to push the wood through or creates uneven surfaces, it may be time to evaluate and adjust the rollers for optimal performance.
What tools do I need to adjust the rollers on the Dewalt 733 planer?
To adjust the rollers on the Dewalt 733 planer, you will need a few essential tools. A standard screwdriver or a hex wrench set is typically required to remove the access panels and make the necessary adjustments to the roller tension. Make sure to have both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers on hand, as different screws might require different types.
Additionally, a square or straight edge is beneficial for ensuring that the rollers are aligned correctly with the cutter head. This will help you achieve precision in your cuts. Lastly, it’s a good idea to have a clean cloth or compressed air on hand to remove any wood shavings or debris that could obstruct the adjustment process.
Can I adjust the rollers myself, or should I seek professional help?
Adjusting the rollers on your Dewalt 733 planer can be a straightforward process for someone with a basic understanding of woodworking tools and machinery. The manufacturer’s manual provides detailed instructions on how to make these adjustments safely. Therefore, if you are comfortable using tools and following guidelines, you can certainly tackle the task yourself.
However, if you feel unsure or lack the confidence to perform the adjustments, it is perfectly reasonable to seek professional help. A qualified technician can ensure that everything is set correctly, giving you peace of mind as you continue working with your planer.
What common mistakes should I avoid when adjusting the rollers?
One common mistake to avoid when adjusting the rollers is over-tightening the adjustment screws. Over-tightening can place undue stress on the components and may lead to premature wear or even damage to the machine. Instead, make incremental adjustments and test the planer’s performance before making further changes.
Another mistake is neglecting to check the alignment of the rollers with the cutter head. Failing to ensure that the rollers are parallel with the cutter can result in uneven cuts and increased friction during operation. Always use a square or straight edge to confirm that everything is aligned properly as you make adjustments.
How often should I check and adjust the rollers on my Dewalt 733 planer?
It is advisable to check and adjust the rollers on your Dewalt 733 planer regularly, particularly after extensive use or when you notice a change in cut quality. A good rule of thumb is to perform an inspection after every few significant projects or when switching to different types of wood, as variable density and hardness can affect how the rollers interact with the material.
Additionally, if you maintain a professional workshop where the planer is frequently used, checking the condition of the rollers bi-weekly could help preserve the longevity of your machine and ensure consistent performance. Scheduling regular maintenance checks can prevent more extensive issues down the line.
What should I do if my adjustments do not improve planer performance?
If adjusting the rollers on your Dewalt 733 planer does not yield the desired performance improvements, you may want to review your process to ensure that no other factors are affecting the quality of your cuts. Check for potential issues like dull blades or misalignment of the cutter head, as these can significantly impact the effectiveness of the planing process.
Moreover, consider examining the condition of other components of the machine. There may be wear and tear elsewhere that needs addressing, such as the bearings or motor performance. If problems persist despite all adjustments, consulting a professional technician or the manufacturer for insights could provide further assistance.