Loosely goosey miter gauge

578 Views 23 Replies 11 Participants Last post by woodnthings, 3 d ago

RIchardS

Discussion Starter · 11 d ago

I have a popular brand miter gage and mini crosscut sled. I like both products. However, the set screws that are designed to keep the slide firmly tracking against one side of the table saw’s miter slot keep vibrating loose. It happens on both products as the screws threads are very sloppy. Today I added Teflon tape in an effort to remove the play. I actually had to wrap it 7 times to get a snug fit. Has anyone else found a better solution? The set screw really needs to be threaded into a Teflon insert, like the material used on locking nuts. Rich

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Dave McCann

· #2 · 11 d ago (Edited)

Locktite thread locker.
For small fasteners, I would recommend the #222.
LOCTITE® 222 – A low-strength purple threadlocker. Works on all metals and is especially good for applications that may require disassembly. LOCTITE® 243 – A medium-strength blue threadlocker that offers a good general-purpose solution to seal and secure assemblies.

Have you confirmed that the set screws are the correct size for the threaded hole? (even if the screws are original)

Reactions: 5

woodnthings

· #3 · 11 d ago (Edited)

I doubt if a thread locker would work for screws that are as loose as described.

Those screws are the wrong match for the threads. I would try nylon set screws rather than wrapping the loose ones with Teflon tape.
Get some new screws with a better match. If the threads are "wallowed out" just redrill and rethread for new screws.

OR something like these:

www.amazon.com

Socket Set Screw, Flat, 10-32x1/2, PK25: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

Socket Set Screw, Flat, 10-32x1/2, PK25: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com

Amazon.com: 50Pcs M3 M4 M5 M6 plastic grub set screw bolt transparent clear Set Screw Grub Screw Slotted screw (Size: M3 X 3) : Everything Else

Amazon.com: 50Pcs M3 M4 M5 M6 plastic grub set screw bolt transparent clear Set Screw Grub Screw Slotted screw (Size: M3 X 3) : Everything Else

www.amazon.com

Reactions: 4

Domo

· #4 · 11 d ago

When my tool stops working I buy a better one. Or, make a new one from better materials.

I'd hate to ruin a masterpiece when the head of my hammer flies off.

Admittedly, I'm also very tired of buying something, bringing it home and fixing it.

Reactions: 2

RIchardS

Discussion Starter · #5 · 11 d ago

Both products are new from Rockler. I like the nylon screw option. I will give that a try. Thanks

DrRobert

· #6 · 10 d ago

I would let Rockler know. Don’t shoot me, but I have gotten around this by flattening out the threads on one side with a small hammer. 😳😳

Reactions: 2

FrankC

· #7 · 10 d ago

See if Rockler can help you first if screws are really loose, I have found properly fitted set screws with a self locking feature work well on miter gauge bars:

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.

www.mcmaster.com

Hunter734

· #8 · 10 d ago

Rockler should help you. If not the purple loc tite is a option to try. Do not use the blue. If my memory is correct it's intended for 1/4" and up

woodnthings

· #9 · 10 d ago

Hunter734 said:
Rockler should help you. If not the purple loc tite is a option to try. Do not use the blue. If my memory is correct it's intended for 1/4" and up

A thread locker will do exactly that, lock the screw in the threads.
That make it NON-adjustable, not what I'd want for an adjustment screw.
It may take a few tries to get the feel just right, so adjustability is required. It may also loosen up over time requiring adjustment.
I suggested the Nylon screws because in my experience they stay where you set them because they are slightly oversize.

Reactions: 1

FrankC

· #10 · 10 d ago

I would not use nylon screws, they are not stable, as stated in this article:

What is a Nylon Screw? (with pictures)

A nylon screw is a type of fastener that is used for making mechanical connections between mating objects to ensure that they...

www.aboutmechanics.com

"Nylon will absorb moisture from its environment, which can cause a large fluctuation in its dimensions. This should be considered when selecting a nylon screw, particularly in fastening applications where a change in the screw dimensions could adversely affect the integrity and functionality of the mechanical connection."

Hunter734

· #11 · 9 d ago

woodnthings said:
A thread locker will do exactly that, lock the screw in the threads.
That make it NON-adjustable, not what I'd want for an adjustment screw.
It may take a few tries to get the feel just right, so adjustability is required. It may also loosen up over time requiring adjustment.
I suggested the Nylon screws because in my experience they stay where you set them because they are slightly oversize.

I've only adjusted my compass miter gage once since it came with my Harvey TS. Maybe I just got lucky. I'd hope once it's adjusted to fit properly in the slot it would stay true to size and not need constant adjustment, assuming the slot size is true end to end

calabrese55

· #12 · 9 d ago

If you are going with a DIY fix and want to try something before a redrill / tap try this stuff it works as advertised.
Also try a different set screw it might not be the drill /tap in the ga. but often threads on screws especially small screws are rolled not cut and they can be crap.

www.jbweld.com

J-B Weld Twin Tube

J-B Weld is The Original Cold Weld two-part epoxy system that provides strong, lasting repairs to metal and multiple surfaces.

www.jbweld.com

calabrese55

woodnthings

· #13 · 9 d ago (Edited)

Hunter734 said:
I've only adjusted my compass miter gage once since it came with my Harvey TS. Maybe I just got lucky. I'd hope once it's adjusted to fit properly in the slot it would stay true to size and not need constant adjustment, assuming the slot size is true end to end

If I recall correctly, that miter gauge is very high quality and would not need repeated adjustments?
The OP's miter gauge is not that level of quality, apparently. Made in China? Rolled threads on the screws?
If it was mine, and I do a lot of metal working including drilling and tapping, I'd drill new holes and tap them for precision screws.

Regarding the slot size being true, in my case with multiple saw tables bolted together, they weren't all the same width.
Off just enough so the various gauges I acquired wouldn't all pass through. I used a 14" mill file and evened them out enough so there's no longer and issues.
For anyone who may be looking to get a new one, this thread I posted may be helpful:

www.woodworkingtalk.com

Miter gauges, which one?

Over the past years about 50, I have acquired a few different miter gauges. I thought I would pass along a few examples and some tips I have. The most accurate is the larger Incra and has a vernier adjustment to under 1 degree. The smaller Incra is very accurate and fine for most work. The old...

www.woodworkingtalk.com

www.woodworkingtalk.com

Reactions: 1

Hunter734

· #14 · 9 d ago

woodnthings said:
If I recall correctly, that miter gauge is very high quality and would not need repeated adjustments?
The OP's miter gauge is not that level of quality, apparently. Made in China? Rolled threads on the screws?
If it was mine, and I do a lot of metal working including drilling and tapping, I'd drill new holes and tap them for precision screws.

Regarding the slot size being true, in my case with multiple saw tables bolted together, they weren't all the same width.
Off just enough so the various gauges I acquired wouldn't all pass through. I used a 14" mill file and evened them out enough so there's no longer and issues.
For anyone who may be looking to get a new one, this thread I posted may be helpful:

Miter gauges, which one?

Over the past years about 50, I have acquired a few different miter gauges. I thought I would pass along a few examples and some tips I have. The most accurate is the larger Incra and has a vernier adjustment to under 1 degree. The smaller Incra is very accurate and fine for most work. The old...

www.woodworkingtalk.com

I totally agree. Things aren't perfect sometimes even if it's new. They sometimes need to be improved to suit your needs.
I do industrial machine repair in a large auto plant here in SE Michigan. I've been working on production equipment such a CNC's and various equipment. I've had brand new high priced equipment come through over the years that needed improvement before it would be capable of machining to micron spec's required for power train components. Anything can be repaired or improved with some thought and ambition

Reactions: 2

sanchez

· #15 · 8 d ago

To be honest, I'd return it and for a few dollars more, get an Incra 1000se, or 1000hd. I just got the hd for Christmas, it's incredible if you take the time to set it up right. Rockler lets you use their coupons on Incra products.

Reactions: 2

RIchardS

Discussion Starter · #16 · 7 d ago

Thank you all for the excellent suggestions. Rockler did send me out a new bar with screws but they also had the same amount of play. I am waiting for some nylon screws to come in as I planned on advancing the set screws until a few threads are exposed then flattening them a bit with the hope that they will bind up a bit when retracted back into the bar. Much like when the Dr. suggested. Thus far, the Teflon tape has maintained a tight seal and is holding. I will keep you all posted on my progress.

woodnthings

· #17 · 7 d ago

2

Well, good luck, but you should really get a decent, high quality miter gauge like an Incra, a Harvey, Osborne, others:

Amazon.com : table saw nmiter gauge

You will never look back once you get one. Attach an extended wood fence that you can make a kerf in without cutting it in half to use as your reference for all cuts. It's a real timesaver and accuracy trick.

I also have this one, but seldom use it because I can't cut into it:

See less See more

RIchardS

Discussion Starter · #18 · 7 d ago

Agreed, but sometimes you have to work with the hand you are dealt.

woodnthings

· #19 · 6 d ago

RIchardS said:
Agreed, but sometimes you have to work with the hand you are dealt.

That's for certain.
But I've seen the nice work you do and if there's any chance you can return that "loosey goosey" miter gauge and get an Incra, you'll thank me for ever.
Even the lowest cost Incras are great miter gauges. I use mine all the time, even though I have several others more expensive.
Your work is only as precise as your layout and your work piece stop locations.
The miter gauge is an essential accessory for accuracy on the table saw, so an accurate one is the only way to go.
Much like the fence, you'll need one that's reliable and repeatable.
Your work will improve as well as your entire attitude about woodworking. DAMHIKT !

FrankC

· #20 · 6 d ago

RIchardS said:
Agreed, but sometimes you have to work with the hand you are dealt.

So true, unfortunately that also reduces the bragging rights for some of us. DAMHIK !

Reactions: 1

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