Sliding Table Saw Slider Elevation
Why the slider is positioned slightly above the main table, and how to compensate when using the machine to rip hardwood. February 26, 2007
Question
On a sliding panel saw do most of you have the slider raised above the table? I just got a slider and use this saw for everything including ripping hardwoods. My question is concerning the slider being raised above the table. When I rip using the rip fence my stock is now at angle when it rides on the slider. If I use this saw for everything would it be beneficial to have the slider level with the table? Any help will be appreciated.
Forum Responses
(Cabinetmaking Forum)
From contributor M:
I use mine for the same things, not just cutting up panels and I have mine set up pretty level with the main saw table. If you make the adjustments yourself you'll need a good straight edge because as you lower one part of the slider you'll affect other parts of it. It is critical to keep the slider co-planer with the saw table. You're going to need some patience when you attack it.
From contributor H:
I do not use my slider for ripping hardwoods, but if you can add a laminate sheet to temporarily bring it level or cut a tad oversize and then rip again using the saw table only, that should do the job. The raised height of the slider makes cutting panels easier and that's the main function of the saw.
From contributor F:
My slider came set up from the factory with the sliding table just barely higher than the table, so slight you can hardly tell it's higher. I rip all my own hardwood and sheet goods all the time with out any problems at all. If what your talking about is a add on slider to a standard table saw. I don't thing you need more than hairs width or less above the fixed table. You can pick the color yourself.
From contributor D:
Mine is raised a little above the table. I might need to lower it a little because when I rip hardwoods, at the end of the cut when the piece has been cut completely, the side on the rip fence then falls flat. So in other words, the end of the board is cut to a 90 degree but the front is still at a slight bevel. This just means that you have to joint every piece which is done anyways.
