The Dewalt DW735 is a powerhouse tool that can transform your woodworking projects by providing precisely planed surfaces. This wood planer is celebrated for its outstanding performance, precision, and reliability, making it a favorite among both professional carpenters and DIY enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into how to use the Dewalt DW735 effectively, ensuring you get the most out of this exceptional machine.
Understanding the Dewalt DW735
Before you dive into using the DW735, it’s essential to grasp its core features and specifications. The DW735 is a two-speed, 13-inch thickness planer designed to handle a variety of wood types with ease.
Key Features of the Dewalt DW735
- Two-speed gearbox: Choose between the 96 CPI (Cuts Per Inch) for a smoother finish and 179 CPI for faster cuts, depending on your project needs.
- Powerful motor: The DW735 is equipped with a 15-amp motor that delivers a whopping 20,000 RPM. This robust power ensures you can tackle even dense hardwoods without bogging down.
- Easy blade changes: The machine features reversible knives, extending the life of your blades significantly, thus saving you time and money.
- Integrated chip ejection: The DW735 has a built-in dust management system to keep your workspace clean and reduce cleanup time.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Power | 15-amp motor |
| Planing Width | 13 inches |
| RPM | 20,000 |
| Cuts per Inch | 96 / 179 |
| Weight | 92 pounds |
Understanding these specifications will help you appreciate the capabilities of the DW735 as you embark on your woodworking adventures.
Setting Up Your Dewalt DW735
Setting up your planer properly is crucial for achieving the best results. Here is a step-by-step guide to get your DW735 ready for action.
Unboxing and Assembly
When you first get your Dewalt DW735, carefully unbox it and check for any missing parts. The tool generally comes with the following:
- The main unit
- User manual
- Two infeed and outfeed tables (if included)
- Blade adjustment tools
To assemble the tool, follow these steps:
-
Attach Infeed and Outfeed Tables: Depending on your model, the DW735 may come with additional support tables. Attach them to the planer using the provided hardware for enhanced support when working with longer boards.
-
Install the Blades: Open the cutter head to access the blades. Remove any protective coverings and install the reversible blades according to the installation guide in the user manual.
-
Check for Level: Ensure that your planer is on a flat and level surface to guarantee even planing.
Powering Up
Before you start planing, plug your Dewalt DW735 into a power source that meets its electrical requirements. It is essential to ensure that the electrical outlet can handle the 15-amp motor’s demands.
To power it on, follow these steps:
-
Activate the Power Switch: Locate the power switch on the front panel and turn it on.
-
Select the Speed: Depending on your project, select between the two speeds by sliding the switch located on the top of the motor.
Planing Your Wood: Step-by-Step Guide
With your Dewalt DW735 set up and ready to go, it’s time to start planing your wood. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve the best results.
Preparation of Wood
-
Choosing the Right Wood: Select a piece of wood that has been properly dried and cured. Using damp or warped wood can lead to unsatisfactory results.
-
Inspect the Wood: Check your wood for any foreign objects such as nails or screws that might damage the blades during the planing process.
-
Cut to Length: Ensure your wood is cut to a manageable length. Longer boards may require additional support at the infeed and outfeed sides.
Feeding the Wood into the Planer
-
Position the Board: Turn on the DW735 and place the leading edge of the wood on the infeed table.
-
Feed Slowly: Allow the wood to enter the cutter head slowly, ensuring a steady feed rate. Avoid forcing the wood into the planer as this might stress the motor and cause uneven cuts.
-
Monitor Progress: Keep an eye on the indicators to see how much wood is being removed. Aim for a consistent thickness throughout the board.
Finishing the Planing Process
-
Eject the Finished Board: Once you’ve run the board through the planer, it will emerge from the outfeed table. Gently lower the board to avoid any impact damage.
-
Inspect the Surface: Check the surface for smoothness. If needed, you may choose to run it through the planer again to achieve your desired finish.
-
Repeat as Necessary: If you are working with multiple boards, repeat the above steps for each piece, adjusting the depth of cut as necessary using the thickness adjustment knob.
Maintenance and Care for Your Dewalt DW735
To keep your Dewalt DW735 running like new and to extend its lifespan, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some maintenance tips:
Cleaning the Planer
- Dust Collection: Regularly empty the chip ejection port to maintain effective dust collection and avoid building up debris that can cause performance issues.
- Surface Cleaning: Wipe down the surfaces of the planer with a dry cloth to remove any sawdust and residue.
Blade Maintenance
- Blade Inspection: Periodically check your blades for wear and tear. Replace them when they show signs of dulling or damage.
- Reversible Blades: For even blade wear, swap the blades after every significant use.
Cleaning the Interior Components
- Disconnect the power before opening the machine.
- Use compressed air to remove any built-up dust and debris inside the cabinet.
Conclusion
The Dewalt DW735 thickness planer is an indispensable tool for anyone serious about woodworking. With its robust features and user-friendly design, mastering the art of wood planing becomes a journey of creativity and precision. By following this guide, you can harness the full potential of the DW735, enabling you to produce beautiful, smooth, and expertly crafted wooden surfaces that enhance your projects.
Whether you are a professional woodworker or a passionate hobbyist, investing time in learning how to use and maintain your Dewalt DW735 will pay off in the quality of your work and the durability of your tools. Enjoy the process and happy planing!
What is the Dewalt DW735, and how does it work?
The Dewalt DW735 is a high-performance thickness planer designed for woodworkers looking to achieve precision and efficiency in their projects. It features a powerful motor that drives dual stainless steel cutter heads, ensuring clean cuts and a smooth finish on every pass. The machine is engineered to handle a variety of wood types, making it versatile for various woodworking tasks.
As the material is fed through the planer, the cutters rotate at high speeds to remove material from the surface, bringing it to the desired thickness. The DW735 includes features such as an easy-to-read depth adjustment gauge and a feed rate that can be adjusted, allowing users to customize their approach to different types of wood and project requirements.
What are the key features of the Dewalt DW735?
The Dewalt DW735 is equipped with several standout features that make it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional woodworkers. Some of its key features include a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers a maximum cutting depth of 1/8 inch per pass and a 13-inch width capacity. The dual-speed gearbox allows users to switch between a 96 CPI (count per inch) fine finish and a 179 CPI for quicker passes.
Additionally, the DW735 comes with an innovative fan-assisted chip removal system that helps to keep the work area clean and reduces the risk of snipe on the material. The onboard material removal gauge helps users track how much material they’ve removed during the planing process, ultimately allowing for more precise planning.
How do I maintain the Dewalt DW735?
Maintaining your Dewalt DW735 is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Regular maintenance includes cleaning, inspecting and replacing blades, and checking the condition of the drive belt and other moving parts. After each use, it’s a good practice to clear out any wood shavings or debris that might have accumulated inside the machine to prevent any blockages or motor issues.
In addition to cleaning, you should periodically check and replace the planer blades when they become dull. This not only enhances the quality of your cuts but also reduces strain on the motor. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubricant usage and routine inspection of electrical components will further ensure the machine operates smoothly.
Can I use the DW735 for different types of wood?
Yes, the Dewalt DW735 is designed to handle a wide range of wood types, making it a versatile tool in any woodworker’s arsenal. From hardwoods like oak and maple to softer woods like pine and cedar, the DW735 can effectively thickness a variety of materials. However, different woods can have unique characteristics, so it’s important to adjust the feed rate and depth of cut accordingly.
When working with particularly hard or dense woods, consider making shallower cuts to avoid overworking the machine and ensure a clean finish. Always experiment on a scrap piece of wood first to understand how your material behaves and to set the appropriate cutter height and feed rate.
What safety precautions should I take when using the DW735?
Safety is paramount when working with power tools like the Dewalt DW735. Always ensure you’re wearing proper personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask, to protect yourself from debris and noise. Additionally, double-check that the work area is clear of any obstructions and that the machine is properly secured to avoid any accidents or injuries.
Before operating the planer, familiarize yourself with the user manual, paying close attention to the safety warnings and operating procedures. Always operate the machine with both hands and avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the machinery. Finally, never attempt to remove waste material while the machine is running.
How do I set the depth of cut on the DW735?
Setting the depth of cut on the Dewalt DW735 is a straightforward process that ensures precision while planing. Begin by checking the depth adjustment knob located on the front of the machine. You can turn this knob to raise or lower the bed, allowing you to set the desired cutting depth. The setting is easily visible on the depth scale, making it user-friendly.
To ensure accuracy, it’s advised to make a test pass with a scrap piece of wood after adjusting the depth. This helps confirm that the thickness is correct before you proceed with your actual workpiece. Remember to make incremental adjustments rather than attempting to remove too much material in a single pass for better results.
What are the common issues users face with the DW735?
One common issue users may encounter with the Dewalt DW735 is snipe, which refers to a slight dip at the beginning or end of a board after planing. This can occur due to improper workpiece support or alignment, so it’s crucial to feed the material in correctly and use infeed and outfeed supports when working with longer boards to minimize this risk.
Another issue is related to blade dullness. As blades wear down, they may not cut as cleanly or efficiently, leading to a rough finish. Users should be attentive to the performance of the blades and be prepared to replace or sharpen them promptly to ensure the machine operates at its best.
Is the DW735 portable, and can it be used on job sites?
The Dewalt DW735 is somewhat portable, designed with features that facilitate easier transportation for job site use. It weighs around 80 pounds, making it manageable for moving, especially with the help of a second person or a dolly. Additionally, the sturdy design and durable components ensure it can withstand the rigors of a worksite environment.
For optimal portability, users can consider purchasing foldable stands that enhance stability while also offering easy setup and breakdown. This enhances its usability on job sites without compromising on performance, making the DW735 a great addition for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.