1400mm (55") guide rail x2 with connectors...or go with larger rail for 8' rips

[shaun.mcc]

Hi all,
I searched the forum to look for some input/advice on guide rail advice as I jump into Festool. I bought the TS 55 REQ and rec'd last week. I plan to use it to break down sheets ...and do plan to rip up 8' long strips for face frames, carcasses, etc. (I'll post ?'s about the parallel guides in a minute) Since it came with the 1400mm (55" rail)...I believe most will recommend I go with the 3000mm rail, correct? Or do many of you recommend buying an additional 1400mm rail (or slightly larger) and connecting the two? Do you still see accurate, smooth cuts? I noticed the protective case/bag fits only the 1400mm rail...is that telling? If ordering the 3000mm rail is shipping a problem (i.e. damage)? 

Thanks,
Shaun

 

[Martin Johnson]

I've used connect rails for years...never an issue.  Key is alignment...Brian Sedgley has a cool trick where he places the base plate over the two rails then tightens the connector...never fails to create a perfectly aligned track.  The other nice thing is that it is much easier to carry and store two shorter rails.

 

[Wooden Skye]

It really depends on whether you can store the 3000.  I can't so I connect rails.  I bought the Betterley connector and never had an issue.  If you are going to buy another 55" rail, buy the holy rail.  That is the one thing I regret about my Festool purchases.

 

[Martin Johnson]

Excellent point...I connect the LR rail, so I can use my router to make shelf pin pieces...

 

[shaun.mcc]

I have plenty of room...12'+ ceiling...anything special with storage (i.e. so it does't warp...I know it metal and extruded so it's pretty stout)?

I will have to look up the LR, the Betterley, and the holy rail...as I'm not familiar with those yet.

 

[bkharman]

I have plenty of room...12'+ ceiling...anything special with storage (i.e. so it does't warp...I know it metal and extruded so it's pretty stout)?

I will have to look up the LR, the Betterley, and the holy rail...as I'm not familiar with those yet.

The LR and holy rail are the same. They are for the LR 32 setup.

 

[Dunn wood]

I've used connect rails for years...never an issue.  Key is alignment...Brian Sedgley has a cool trick where he places the base plate over the two rails then tightens the connector...never fails to create a perfectly aligned track.  The other nice thing is that it is much easier to carry and store two shorter rails.

I agree with the base plate idea, works great. Bought the 3000 about a year ago and love it, but the first job I had with it was straight lining 12' maple  [sad] so still had to add to the rail. Hang onto those joiners.

 

[Tinker]

I have several different lengths of rail. Some holy.
The shortest is, i think, 32".  the longest is 72" or 76", somewhere around there.
I have, on a few occasions, put two together.  I use one of my old 48" masonry levels clamped to the back edge and have had no problem with a straight cut.
Tinker

 

[Sparktrician]

I use two 1400mm rails coupled and aligned using the Betterley.  I don't have the space for a longer rail. 

 

[wow]

I ordered my 95" Holey Rail from Amazon and got it in perfect shape. I would not hesitate to order the 3000 rail from them if you can't find one locally.

 

[Sparktrician]

I ordered my 95" Holey Rail from Amazon and got it in perfect shape. I would not hesitate to order the 3000 rail from them if you can't find one locally.

The longer rails are more of a liability than an asset for me.  Much prefer shorter ones that can be easily transported and stored over the long ones that seem to inevitably cause problems on tight sites and in my (small) shop. 

 

[wow]

I ordered my 95" Holey Rail from Amazon and got it in perfect shape. I would not hesitate to order the 3000 rail from them if you can't find one locally.

The longer rails are more of a liability than an asset for me.  Much prefer shorter ones that can be easily transported and stored over the long ones that seem to inevitably cause problems on tight sites and in my (small) shop.

They are certainly not for everyone or every application. I am glad I have mine, but I have a fairly large area to use it in.

 

[dltflt]

If you can afford the 3000 then buy it. Also make sure you have safe storage area for that length of rail.

 

[shaun.mcc]

Thanks guys...I'm leaning for the holy rail first and the connectors. Then get a 3000mm later. Storage-wise (for the 3000)...do you leave on floor...do you stand up hanging on wall or cleated?

Thanks,
Shaun

 

[grbmds]

I've used connect rails for years...never an issue.  Key is alignment...Brian Sedgley has a cool trick where he places the base plate over the two rails then tightens the connector...never fails to create a perfectly aligned track.  The other nice thing is that it is much easier to carry and store two shorter rails.

When you say the "base plate", what are you referring to. I couldn't find a video that showed this trick.

 

[dltflt]

Thanks guys...I'm leaning for the holy rail first and the connectors. Then get a 3000mm later. Storage-wise (for the 3000)...do you leave on floor...do you stand up hanging on wall or cleated?

Thanks,
Shaun

I have a wood cart that has a flat space on top that was perfect for storing my rails.  I have seen other Foggers hang theirs.  So it is really just a matter of protecting them from getting damaged.

 

[elfick]

When you say the "base plate", what are you referring to. I couldn't find a video that showed this trick.

I think they mean the base plate of the saw.

 

[gkaiseril]

One slides the TS55 or TS75 over the gap and adjust the rails until there is no discernible bump or catch and then tightens the set screws.

 

[grbmds]

When you say the "base plate", what are you referring to. I couldn't find a video that showed this trick.

I think they mean the base plate of the saw.

One slides the TS55 or TS75 over the gap and adjust the rails until there is no discernible bump or catch and then tightens the set screws.

Oh . .. Should have guessed that. Thanks. That does sound like it would be a good suggestion, although I have not really had any problems joining rails just using a straight edge to make sure they line up.

 

[Carman]

I went the same path with the "holey" 1400 then followed with the 3000 later, I hang mine although had an issue with the strip coming off due to the heat in my garage during summer months.