The Dewalt 734 Planer is a versatile tool that has become a favorite among both amateur and professional woodworkers. With its powerful motor and precision-designed features, this planer allows users to achieve smooth, flat surfaces on their wood pieces with ease. Whether you’re crafting a beautiful tabletop or simply smoothing out reclaimed lumber, understanding how to use the Dewalt 734 Planer effectively is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore its features, set-up procedures, operational techniques, and maintenance tips to ensure you get the most out of this incredible tool.
Understanding the Dewalt 734 Planer
Before diving into the specifics of using the Dewalt 734 Planer, let’s take a closer look at the features that make it stand out in the crowded field of planers.
Key Features
The Dewalt 734 Planer boasts a variety of features designed to enhance both usability and performance:
- Powerful Motor: With a 15-amp motor, this planer delivers a robust performance capable of handling tough jobs with ease.
- Two-Speed Gearbox: Operate at either 28,000 or 20,000 RPM, allowing you to adjust for different woodworking tasks.
Specifications
Understanding the specifications of the Dewalt 734 can help you appreciate its capabilities:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Planing Width | 12 inches |
| Planing Depth | 1/8 inch max |
| Weight | 63 pounds |
Setting Up the Dewalt 734 Planer
Correctly setting up your Dewalt 734 Planer is crucial for achieving optimal performance and ensuring safety. Follow these steps to get started:
Unboxing and Assembly
When you first get your planer, take the time to unwrap it carefully and assemble the parts as indicated in the instruction manual. Ensuring that all components are securely attached will prevent issues during operation.
Placing the Planer
Select a stable, flat surface to place your Dewalt 734 Planer. This ensures accurate cuts and prevents vibrations that could affect your work quality. Do not forget to have ample space around the machine for maneuvering and adjusting your workpieces.
Adjusting the Blade Depth
Set the blade depth according to your project requirements. The Dewalt 734 allows you to adjust the cut from 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch. For beginners, starting at a shallower depth is advisable to achieve a feel for the tool before moving to more aggressive cuts.
How to Use the Dewalt 734 Planer Effectively
Once the setup is complete, it’s time to delve into the practical steps of using the Dewalt 734 Planer.
Preparing Your Workpiece
Before planing, ensure that your wood is free from any nails, screws, or other foreign objects. These can damage the blades and affect the quality of your cut. Always inspect the grain orientation to decide the best approach to planing.
Loading the Workpiece
Place the wood on the infeed table, ensuring it rests flat and is supported by both the infeed and outfeed sections of the planer. This provides stability, reducing the risk of snipe—shallow grooves at the ends of the board caused by an unsteady feed.
Starting the Planer
- Plug the Planer In: Ensure the power switch is off before plugging in the Dewalt 734.
- Turn on the Power: Start the motor and allow it to reach full RPM before feeding your workpiece.
- Feeding the Wood: Gently push the wood through the machine while maintaining a constant pressure, allowing the blades to do the work without forcing the material.
Monitoring the Process
As you plane, keep a close eye on the workpiece being fed through the machine. It’s essential to maintain consistent speed and pressure to avoid uneven cuts.
Inspecting the Finished Surface
After planing, check the surface for smoothness and remove any small imperfections with sandpaper if necessary. A well-planed surface should be free of tear-out and scars.
Maintenance of the Dewalt 734 Planer
To ensure the longevity and performance of your Dewalt 734 Planer, proper maintenance is paramount. Here are some essential tips:
Cleaning
After each use, wipe down the exterior to remove dust and wood chips. Pay particular attention to the infeed and outfeed areas as these can accumulate debris that affects performance.
Sharpening and Replacing Blades
The blades are key to achieving quality results. Monitor their condition regularly:
– If you notice a dull cut or unsatisfactory finish, it may be time to sharpen or replace the blades.
– Replacing the blades can typically be done by following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Periodic Checks
Conduct regular checks on the belt tension and motor function. Ensure there are no unusual sounds or vibrations during operation.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Despite the Dewalt 734 Planer’s efficiency, issues may arise. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
Snipe
As mentioned earlier, snipe can occur if the workpiece is not adequately supported. To minimize this, ensure consistent pressure is applied and use support at both ends of the board.
Dull Blades
Dull blades can create unwanted marks and uneven surfaces. Stay vigilant about the state of your blades and sharpen or replace them when necessary.
Uneven Cuts
If you find that cuts are uneven:
– Check to make sure the infeed and outfeed tables are level.
– Inspect the blades for damage or dullness.
Conclusion
The Dewalt 734 Planer is an invaluable tool for achieving precision in your woodworking projects. By understanding its features, setting it up correctly, and following the recommended operation techniques, you can harness its full potential. Regular maintenance and staying vigilant about common issues will ensure longevity and peak performance. Whether you are a seasoned carpenter or just starting, mastering the use of the Dewalt 734 Planer will significantly enhance your woodworking results.
With practice, you’ll soon find yourself producing smooth, professional-quality surfaces that can impress anyone who sees your work. Embrace the process, keep your tools well-maintained, and enjoy the journey into woodworking with the Dewalt 734 Planer!
What is the Dewalt 734 planer best used for?
The Dewalt 734 planer is best used for efficiently smoothing and flattening wood surfaces. It excels at removing roughness and imperfections, making it ideal for carpenters and woodworkers looking to achieve a fine finish on their projects. Whether you’re preparing lumber for cabinetry, furniture-making, or other woodworking endeavors, this planer can handle various types of hardwoods and softwoods with ease.
Additionally, the planer features adjustable depth settings, allowing users to customize the thickness of the cut for different materials. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for shaping wood to precise dimensions while maintaining a smooth surface, which is essential for any high-quality woodworking project.
How do I set up my Dewalt 734 planer?
Setting up your Dewalt 734 planer involves several straightforward steps. First, ensure that the planer is placed on a stable, flat surface in your workshop. It’s important to check that the machine is plugged in securely and that you have accounted for proper workspace clearance around the tool for safety. Familiarize yourself with the height adjustment knob before plugging it in to set the desired cutting depth appropriately.
Next, after adjusting the cutting depth, make sure to inspect the blades for wear or damage before use. If they are dull or chipped, replace them for optimal results. Finally, consult the user manual to familiarize yourself with any additional components and features, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of how to operate the planer safely and effectively.
What is the maximum thickness the Dewalt 734 planer can handle?
The Dewalt 734 planer has a maximum cutting width of 12 inches and can handle materials up to 6 inches in thickness. This capacity makes it suitable for a wide range of woodworking applications, from planing standard lumber to working on thicker boards. Whether you’re working with two-by-fours or more substantial planks, the 734 can accommodate different sizes without compromising performance.
It’s crucial to remember that while the planer can handle a maximum thickness of 6 inches, this does not mean you should always plane materials to that thickness in one pass. For optimal results, it’s often recommended to take multiple lighter passes, especially with dense hardwoods, to achieve a smoother finish without overworking the motor.
How do I change the blades on the Dewalt 734 planer?
Changing the blades on the Dewalt 734 planer is a simple process that can be done with basic tools. To begin, ensure that the planer is unplugged to avoid any accidental startups. Then, remove the cutting head cover by loosening the screws. Once exposed, you will find the two reversible knives held in place by screws. Carefully unscrew these and lift the knives out, taking note of their orientation for replacement.
When installing new blades, reverse the procedure: insert the new or sharpened knives into the slot, ensuring they are oriented correctly, and tighten the screws to secure them in place. After that, replace the cover and ensure it’s tightly fastened before plugging the planer back in. Regularly changing or sharpening the blades ensures a high-quality finish on your wood projects and prolongs the lifespan of the tool.
What safety precautions should I take when using the Dewalt 734 planer?
Safety is paramount when operating any power tool, including the Dewalt 734 planer. Before using the planer, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask, to safeguard against flying debris and noise. Ensure that your work area is clean and free of clutter, allowing for safe maneuverability around the tool as you work.
Additionally, familiarize yourself with the tool’s safety features, such as the on/off switch and the automatic blade guard, which helps prevent accidental blade engagement. Keep your hands clear of the cutting area and never reach into the planer while it’s running. Lastly, maintain a firm grip on the material being planed to ensure it stays steady and reduces the chances of kickback during operation.
Can I use the Dewalt 734 planer for jointing boards?
While the Dewalt 734 planer is primarily designed for planing boards to achieve a smooth finish, it can also be used for jointing in a limited capacity. Jointing involves flattening one face of a board and creating a straight edge, typically best accomplished with a jointer. However, if a jointer is not available, the planer can be utilized to flatten one side of a board by taking multiple passes until the surface is level.
It’s important to keep in mind that while the planer can somewhat emulate jointing, it may not yield the same precision as a dedicated jointer. For best results, always check the flatness of the board after planing and be prepared to address any remaining uneven areas through further planing or other methods.
How often should I clean the Dewalt 734 planer?
Cleaning the Dewalt 734 planer regularly is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. After each use, take the time to remove any wood shavings and dust from the machine’s exterior and internal components. This will not only help keep the tool functioning optimally but also reduce the risk of dust buildup that could affect its operation or lead to potential health hazards in the workshop.
In addition to regular surface cleaning, it’s wise to perform a more thorough inspection and cleaning of the blades and internal mechanisms every few uses or as needed. Checking for dust accumulation or debris lodged in the cutter head area can prevent performance issues and improve the quality of your cuts, ensuring that your planer remains a reliable asset in your woodworking toolkit.
What types of wood can I use with the Dewalt 734 planer?
The Dewalt 734 planer is versatile and can handle a variety of wood types, including both hardwoods and softwoods. This makes it suitable for various projects, from planing soft pine and cedar to denser hardwoods like oak and maple. However, for best results, it’s advisable to consider the wood’s density and grain pattern, as some woods may require specific adjustments to the depth settings to avoid tear-out.
Additionally, avoid using the planer on wet or excessively dirty wood, as this can damage the blades and lead to subpar finishes. Always ensure the wood is in good condition and free of large knots or defects, which could cause issues during planing. By selecting the appropriate material and preparing it properly, you can maximize the performance of your Dewalt 734 planer.