When it comes to woodworking, achieving a smooth, even surface on your materials is essential. The Dewalt DW734 planer is a powerful tool designed to transform rough lumber into beautifully finished boards. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, understanding how to effectively use this planer can elevate the quality of your projects significantly. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using the DW734 planer, from setup and operation to tips for optimal results.
Understanding the Dewalt DW734 Planer
Before diving into the usage instructions, it’s essential to understand what the Dewalt DW734 planer offers. Known for its robust design and outstanding performance, this portable thickness planer features:
- Powerful Motor: The DW734 has a 15-amp motor that delivers a high-speed cutting action, enabling you to handle tough hardwoods with ease.
- Three-Blade System: The three-blade cutter head allows for quick and efficient cuts, reducing tear-out and ensuring smooth finishes.
This combination of features makes the DW734 a favored choice among woodworking enthusiasts and professionals.
Setting Up Your DW734 Planer
Before you can begin using your planer, you need to set it up correctly. Follow these steps for proper installation:
1. Unboxing and Initial Inspection
Once you have received your DW734, carefully unbox the machine. Inspect for any damage that may have occurred during shipping. Ensure that all the components mentioned in the user manual are included:
- Planer body
- Cutter head assembly
- Instruction manual
- Power cord
2. Choosing the Right Location
Select a stable, flat surface to place your planer. Ensure that there is sufficient room around it for materials, as well as for changing blades and adjustments. The ideal workspace should have:
- Good lighting
- Minimized dust and debris
3. Powering the Planer
Plug the DW734 into a power outlet that provides the correct voltage. Always ensure the power source is suitable to prevent any electrical hazards.
4. Connecting Dust Collection
For a cleaner workspace, it’s advisable to connect a dust collector or a shop vacuum to the dust port. This feature significantly reduces the mess created during planing, maintaining a safe work environment.
Operating the Dewalt DW734 Planer
Once your planer is set up, you’re ready to start using it. Here’s how to operate your DW734 effectively:
1. Adjusting the Thickness Setting
The DW734 allows you to adjust the board thickness up to 1/8 inch per pass. To set the thickness:
- Turn the height adjustment handwheel until the desired thickness is visible on the gauge.
- Make sure the board is not thicker than the desired thickness, as this can cause motor strain.
2. Preparing Your Wood
Before you run your wood through the planer, ensure it is properly prepared:
- Straight Edges: If the edges are rough, use a jointer or a hand plane first to ensure straight edges.
- Inspect for Nails or Screws: Always check the wood for any hidden fasteners that could damage the blades.
3. Planing Process
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to start planing:
Step 1: Feeding the Wood
- Position the wood into the inlet of the planer. Ensure that the wood is supported on both sides.
- Align the board with the in-feed rollers, and let the planer pull it in naturally.
Step 2: Operating the Planer
- Turn on the planer using the switch located at the front.
- Feed the wood slowly to maintain control over the cut. Avoid forcing the wood through.
Step 3: Checking Thickness
- After the first run, check the thickness of the board. Repeat the process for additional passes if a thicker cut is desired.
- Make minor adjustments to the thickness if necessary.
4. Cleaning the Planer
Once you’ve finished using the planer, it’s crucial to clean it. Remove any wood chips from the inside and around the blade area to prevent buildup. You should also wipe the exterior to keep it in top condition.
Maintaining Your Dewalt DW734 Planer
Regular maintenance of your planer will ensure longevity and optimal performance. Follow these care tips:
1. Blade Maintenance
The blades on your DW734 will eventually dull with use. Here’s how to maintain them:
- Inspect Regularly: Check the blades frequently for nicks or dullness.
- Sharpening: Use a sharpening stone to hone the edge of the blades as required.
- Replacement: If blades are excessively worn, consider replacing them.
2. Cleaning the Interior
Use a vacuum or blower to keep the interior of the planer free from sawdust and debris. This prevents the motor from overheating and helps with performance.
3. Checking the Feed Rollers
The feed rollers can wear over time. Ensure they are clean and free from resins or dust to maintain grip on the wood.
4. Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect all components of the DW734 for any signs of wear, such as the power cord, motor, and switches. Regular inspections allow you to catch small issues before they escalate into more significant problems.
Tips for Optimal Planing
To get the most out of your Dewalt DW734 planer, keep these expert tips in mind:
1. Moisture Content
Always check your wood’s moisture content before planing. Planing wet wood can lead to uneven surfaces and damage the blades.
2. Planing Direction
Feed the wood in the direction of the grain. Planing against the grain can cause tear-out and a rough finish.
3. Take Smaller Passes
If you are dealing with particularly thick or dense wood, take smaller passes for a smoother finish.
4. Test with Scrap Wood
Before planing your actual workpiece, test the settings on scrap wood to ensure the desired finish.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful operation, you might run into issues. Here are solutions to common problems:
1. Snipe
This is a common issue where the ends of the board are lowered more than the middle. To avoid this:
- Ensure you have proper infeed and outfeed support.
- Use longer boards and feed them through carefully.
2. Uneven Cuts
If your cuts are not even, it could be due to dull blades or improper feeding. Regularly check your blades and ensure proper feeding technique.
3. Excessive Noise
If your planer is louder than usual, check for any foreign objects stuck in the blade area. Regular maintenance can minimize operating noise.
Conclusion
Using the Dewalt DW734 planer can significantly enhance the quality of your woodworking projects. With its robust features and proper usage techniques, you can produce stunningly smooth finishes and achieve precise thicknesses effortlessly. Remember to maintain your tool adequately and practice good feeding techniques to ensure the best results. The DW734 isn’t just a piece of machinery; it’s a reliable companion for every woodworker committed to achieving excellence in their craft.
What is the Dewalt DW734 Planer?
The Dewalt DW734 Planer is a portable thickness planer designed for professionals and woodworking enthusiasts. It is engineered to provide smooth and even cuts, making it ideal for flattening lumber and achieving consistent thickness. With its powerful motor and robust build, the DW734 handles various types of wood, ensuring quality finishes for your projects.
Additionally, this planer is equipped with a three-knife cutter head that enhances cutting efficiency and produces cleaner finishes. It also features a a material removal gauge and a dust hood, making it a user-friendly tool for anyone looking to improve their woodworking setup.
What makes the DW734 stand out from other planers?
The DW734 stands out due to its combination of features, performance, and portability. One key feature is its three-knife cutter head, which not only offers faster material removal compared to two-knife systems but also delivers a smoother finish. This is crucial for professional results, especially when dealing with hardwoods that require a delicate touch.
Furthermore, the DW734 boasts a relatively lightweight design, allowing for easy transportation. Its adjustable depth stop feature is also noteworthy, providing precise cutting depths for various projects. This versatility is what makes the DW734 an attractive option among both seasoned woodworkers and novices.
How do I set up the Dewalt DW734 Planer?
Setting up the DW734 Planer is a straightforward process. Begin by placing the planer on a stable workbench or stand to ensure stability during operation. Make sure that the tool is plugged into a properly grounded outlet, and always follow safety precautions. It’s essential to review the user manual for specific assembly requirements, especially for the dust collection system.
Once the planer is positioned, you can adjust the cutting depth by turning the depth adjustment knob. Be sure to use the material removal gauge to keep track of the depth changes. After setup, run a few test pieces of scrap wood to familiarize yourself with the operation and make any necessary adjustments before starting on your actual workpieces.
What types of wood can I use with the DW734?
The MW734 Planer is capable of handling a wide variety of woods, including softwoods like pine and cedar as well as hardwoods such as oak and maple. Its powerful motor and sharp, three-knife cutter head allow it to tackle both species effectively, producing smooth finishes regardless of the wood type.
However, it is important to check for defects in the wood before planing, such as knots or splits, as these can affect the quality of the cut and potentially damage the blades. Additionally, always make sure the wood is dry, as moisture can result in uneven cuts and may also impact the planer’s performance.
How often should I change the blades on my DW734 Planer?
Changing the blades on your DW734 Planer depends largely on the frequency of use and the types of wood you are working with. Generally, it is advisable to check the blades after every 10 to 15 hours of use. If you notice a decrease in cutting performance, such as rough finishes or increased effort when planing, it may be time for a replacement.
Replacing the blades can typically be done yourself, as the DW734 is designed for easy blade changes. Make sure to use only recommended replacement blades, as using off-brand options can lead to poor results and potentially damage the tool. Regular maintenance will enhance the longevity of the planer and ensure consistent performance.
Can the DW734 Planer handle large materials?
The DW734 Planer is primarily designed for smaller to medium-sized workpieces. It has a maximum thickness capacity of 6 inches and a width capacity of 12 inches, making it suitable for most common lumber sizes. However, if you are working with large or heavy boards, it is important to manage the feeding speed and support the material adequately to prevent strain on the tool.
While it may struggle with very large or heavy pieces, you can still use the planer for thicker or wider boards by processing them in smaller sections. Ensuring that the wood is properly supported and that you take care to maintain a consistent feed rate will help achieve the best results without overloading the machine.
What safety precautions should I take when using the DW734 Planer?
Safety is paramount when operating any woodworking tool, including the DW734 Planer. First and foremost, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris and hearing protection if you’re operating the machine in a noisy environment. Additionally, avoid loose clothing and jewelry that could get caught in the machinery.
Before starting the planing operation, ensure that the workspace is clean and free from any obstacles. Always operate the planer with both hands for better control, and never reach into the cutting area while the planer is running. Following these safety precautions will help ensure a safe and productive working environment while using the DW734.