When it comes to woodworking, having the right tools can make or break your projects. One of the essential tools for achieving a smooth finish on your wood pieces is a planer. The DeWalt 735 planer is a powerful, robust choice that many woodworkers swear by. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up your DeWalt 735 planer, so you can unleash your creativity and achieve professional-quality results.
Understanding the DeWalt 735 Planer
Before you dive into the setup, it’s crucial to understand what makes the DeWalt 735 planer an excellent choice for your woodworking needs. The DeWalt 735 is designed to deliver a flawless finish with its adjustable speed settings and high cutting capacity. Its dual knives offer precise and clean cuts, ensuring that every piece you work on meets your high standards.
Key Features of the DeWalt 735 Planer:
- 13-inch capacity of planing width.
- Two-speed gear box for optimum results based on your material.
- Fan-assisted chip ejection system.
- Adjustable depth of cut settings.
Understanding these features will help you maximize the potential of your planer as you set it up.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials
Before setting up your DeWalt 735 planer, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a handy checklist:
Tools Needed:
- Philips head screwdriver.
- Flathead screwdriver.
- Tape measure for accurate height adjustments.
- Level to ensure your planer is stable.
Materials Needed:
Having these items on hand will streamline the setup process and help you avoid interruptions.
Unboxing Your DeWalt 735 Planer
After acquiring your DeWalt 735 planer, it’s time to get started.
Step 1: Carefully Open the Box
Ensure you have a clean workspace to prevent any components from getting lost. Once you’ve removed the outer packaging, take a moment to check the contents against the packaging list provided by DeWalt.
Step 2: Inspect Components
Ensure that all parts are accounted for and free of damage. What should you look for? The main components include:
- Planer body
- Infeed and outfeed tables
- Knives
- Dust port
- Depth adjustment crank
If you notice any missing or damaged parts, contact the retailer or DeWalt for assistance.
Setting Up the DeWalt 735 Planer
It’s time to set up your DeWalt 735 planer for optimal use. While the setup is relatively straightforward, following the steps closely will ensure safety and functionality.
Step 1: Assembly of Infeed and Outfeed Tables
The first step involves installing the infeed and outfeed tables. These tables support the wood as it’s being planed, ensuring a smooth and consistent finish.
Assembly Tips:
– Use the included screws to fasten the tables securely to the planer.
– Adjust them so they’re even with the cutter head. This will allow your materials to pass through without any snags.
Step 2: Adjusting the Depth of Cut
Setting the depth of cut is crucial to achieving the desired thickness and finish on your wood.
How to Adjust:
- Locate the depth adjustment crank on the side of the planer.
- Rotate it to set the desired thickness.
- A good starting point is around 1/16 inch to avoid taking off too much material at once.
Pro Tip: Make test cuts on scrap wood to fine-tune your settings before working on your actual project.
Connecting to Dust Collection
The DeWalt 735 features a dust port designed to minimize mess during operation. Connecting it to a dust collection system will help maintain a clean workspace and extend the lifespan of your planer.
Step 1: Choose the Right Adapter
You may need a compatible dust port adapter, depending on your dust collection system. Check the size of the dust port on the 735 and match it accordingly.
Step 2: Secure the Dust Collection Hose
Attach the dust collection hose securely to the port to prevent any leaks. This will help direct the dust away from your workspace, making for a safer and cleaner project.
Powering Up Your DeWalt 735 Planer
With the physical setup complete, it’s time to power up your planer.
Step 1: Plugging In
Ensure the power switch is turned off before plugging in the planer to avoid accidental starting. Use a reliable outlet rated for the equipment’s wattage.
Step 2: Power On
After plugging in, turn on the machine using the power switch. Give it a moment to start and check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Safety Tip: Always wear safety glasses and earmuffs when operating the planer to protect yourself from flying debris and loud noise.
Performing Test Cuts
Once you have ensured everything is secure and functional, it’s time to perform some test cuts.
Step 1: Select a Scrap Piece of Wood
Choose a piece of scrap wood that is similar to what you plan to work on. Ensure it’s clean and free of any major defects.
Step 2: Making the Test Cuts
Insert the scrap wood into the infeed and guide it through the planer. Monitor how the machine handles the wood, paying close attention to the cut quality.
Evaluate the Finishing:
- Examine the surface for smoothness.
- Adjust the depth if necessary based on the results.
Maintaining Your DeWalt 735 Planer
To ensure the longevity of your DeWalt 735 planer, proper maintenance is essential.
Regular Cleaning
After every few uses, clean the internals of the planer to remove wood shavings and debris. This step helps maintain performance and prevents overheating.
Knife Maintenance
The quality of the knives plays a significant role in how well your planer performs. Regularly check the knives for dullness and replace them when necessary. Sharp knives result in cleaner cuts and a better finish.
Conclusion
Setting up your DeWalt 735 planer may seem daunting at first, but by following this detailed guide, you’ll be well on your way to achieving perfectly planed wood every time. With its robust features, the DeWalt 735 will undoubtedly enhance your woodworking projects, allowing you to create with confidence and precision.
A well-maintained and properly set-up planer is your gateway to transforming rough lumber into stunning finished pieces. Happy planing!
What are the key features of the DeWalt 735 planer?
The DeWalt 735 planer is equipped with several key features that make it a popular choice among woodworkers. The dual-speed system allows you to switch between a faster feed rate for rough cuts and a slower rate for finer finishes. Additionally, the 12-amp motor provides ample power to handle a variety of wood types, ensuring smooth performance under different conditions. The three-blade system offers a superior finish and minimizes snipe, a common problem in planing.
Another notable feature is the integrated dust hood, which connects easily to a shop vacuum to help manage wood shavings and debris. This not only keeps your workspace clean but also improves visibility while you work. The foldable infeed and outfeed tables enhance portability and storage, making it easier to handle longer boards. With a cutting capacity of 13 inches, it’s ideal for both small and larger projects, adding to its versatility.
How do I set up my DeWalt 735 planer for the first time?
Setting up your DeWalt 735 planer for the first time involves a few important steps. Start by ensuring that the planer is placed on a stable, level surface. Safety is crucial, so it’s advisable to use proper eye protection and hearing protection during the setup. Unbox the planer and assemble the infeed and outfeed tables according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the manual for any specific assembly details that may be required.
Once the planer is assembled, it’s time to adjust the height settings according to your desired thickness for planing. This can typically be done using the depth adjustment knob. Before you begin planing, power on the machine to ensure it operates smoothly. It’s a good practice to run a test board through the planer to familiarize yourself with its controls and performance.
What safety precautions should I take while using the DeWalt 735 planer?
Safety is essential when operating any power tool, including the DeWalt 735 planer. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and hearing protection, to safeguard yourself from wood dust and noise. Additionally, ensure that your hair and loose clothing are secured and away from moving parts. Before starting the planer, check the area around your workspace to ensure it’s free of any obstructions that could interfere with your work.
Before each use, inspect the planer for any signs of wear or damage, particularly the blades. Make sure to use the correct feed rate and avoid forcing the wood through the machine to prevent kickback or damage to the tool. Lastly, always power down the planer and unplug it before making any adjustments or changing blades to enhance your safety while working.
What types of wood can I use with the DeWalt 735 planer?
The DeWalt 735 planer is versatile and can handle a variety of wood types. It works well with hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry, which are commonly used in furniture-making and cabinetry. Softwoods such as pine and cedar can also be planed effectively, making it suitable for various projects around the home or workshop. However, it is important to consider the density of the wood and the sharpness of the blades for optimal performance.
While the planer can handle many wood species, it is advised to avoid extremely dense or resinous woods, which can dull the blades more quickly and may lead to poor finishes or excessive wear on the machine. Always ensure you’re using well-seasoned and straight-grained stock to achieve the best results in your woodworking projects.
How often should I change the blades on my DeWalt 735 planer?
The frequency of blade changes on your DeWalt 735 planer largely depends on how often you use the tool and the types of materials you’re working with. Generally, for typical use with hardwoods and softwoods, you may need to replace the blades every 20 to 50 board feet, but this can vary. Keep an eye out for signs of dullness, such as increased effort required to feed the wood, a rough surface finish, or visible nicks on the blades.
It’s a good practice to inspect your blades regularly and replace them as needed to maintain optimal performance. Not only does replacing dull blades improve the quality of your cuts, but it also reduces strain on the motor and extends the lifespan of the machine. When changing blades, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation and alignment to ensure safe operation.
Can the DeWalt 735 planer handle large boards?
Yes, the DeWalt 735 planer is designed to handle larger boards with ease, thanks to its extended infeed and outfeed tables that provide additional support. These tables can help you manage longer and heavier lumber without encountering issues like snipe or inconsistency in thickness. The planer has a cutting capacity of 13 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of board lengths and thicknesses.
However, when planing large boards, it’s essential to maintain proper technique. Ensure that the board is straight and not warped to prevent uneven cuts. It may also help to use roller stands or additional support if the board is significantly long or heavy, allowing for smoother operation and better control during the planing process.
How can I minimize snipe when using the DeWalt 735 planer?
Minimizing snipe—a condition where the ends of the board are cut deeper than the middle—requires careful setup and technique. First, ensure that both the infeed and outfeed tables are properly leveled and aligned. Any unevenness can contribute to snipe, so make necessary adjustments before starting your project. Additionally, using longer boards can help alleviate some snipe issues, as the planer has more material to work with at the start and end of the cut.
Another approach to reduce snipe is to support the board as it enters and exits the planer. Using roller stands or a stable platform ensures that the board maintains contact with the tables throughout the feeding process, which can help keep the cut even. Lastly, planing the board slightly longer than needed and then trimming it to final dimensions can also serve as an effective strategy to mitigate the effects of snipe.
What maintenance does the DeWalt 735 planer require?
Regular maintenance of the DeWalt 735 planer is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Start by keeping the exterior and interior of the planer clean; removing sawdust and debris after each use will help prevent potential clogging and issues during operation. Additionally, inspect belts and other moving parts periodically for any signs of wear or damage, and look for loose screws or components that may need tightening.
Blade maintenance is equally important; routinely check for dullness or nicks and replace the blades as necessary. Lubricating moving parts and checking the alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables can also contribute to smooth operation. Always consult your user manual for specific maintenance guidelines and recommended schedules to keep your planer in peak condition, enhancing its efficiency and performance over time.