[Khoram]

Hi folks,

I just built a flip-top tool cart to save space in my small garage shop. I want to install my planer on one side and will eventually install a sander on the other. However, I can't find information anywhere as to what I want to use to attach the tools securely to the flip-top. I have looked through my planer's manual, but it doesn't mention, and neither do the plans I used for the flip-top itself. I've looked through about 15 different threads all over various forums where people talk about their flip top builds and I've never seen it mentioned there, either.

Can anyone educate me, please?

Thanks!

 

[Dave Paine]

Do the tools have mounting holes? If so you just need a bolt and nut. Diameter to fit in the hole, assuming the head space is not limited, and length to go through the mounting hole, the wood on the flip top, allow e.g., 3/4in length for the nut and a washer.

I would use lock nuts. These have plastic collars inserted into the top. This should prevent the nut from coming loose due to vibration.

If the tool does not have mounting holes then you need to post some picture for folks to be able to try to advise a mounting solution.

 

[Khoram]

Yes, the tools do have mounting holes. I just don't know much yet about the various kinds of bolts and when to use each type. Also, it seems like once I bolt one tool down to one side, I won't be able to access the underside to secure nuts on when attaching the second tool to the opposite side (does that make sense?). I'm wondering how people overcome this or if they are just using some kind of screw into the plywood and not using a bolt/nut.

 

[jschaben]

Hi folks,

I just built a flip-top tool cart to save space in my small garage shop. I want to install my planer on one side and will eventually install a sander on the other. However, I can't find information anywhere as to what I want to use to attach the tools securely to the flip-top. I have looked through my planer's manual, but it doesn't mention, and neither do the plans I used for the flip-top itself. I've looked through about 15 different threads all over various forums where people talk about their flip top builds and I've never seen it mentioned there, either.

Can anyone educate me, please?

Thanks!

Hi - I used cap screws with t-nuts on the bottom. I used the t-nuts because they sit pretty flush and wouldn't interfere with the tool placement on the other side. If you haven't got head space for a standard cap screw, look into the socket head cap screws which tighten/loosen with an allen wrench. I have an oscillating spindle sander on one side and a bench grinder and worksharp on the other on mine. Haven't had and loose screw/vibration issues in 3 years yet. :smile:

 

[Alchymist]

Layout the holes on both sides of the mounting board, drill, then install carriage bolts as appropriate, from both sides. Put a washer over each bolt, then use a nut to draw the head of the bolt flush with the surface. Remove washer and nut, install tool and replace washer and nut.