Cutting a door to fit with the TS55 - problem and solution

[pugilato]

I have a project to install four louvered mahogany doors. The first door was way oversize (by 7/8" on each side, 1/4" on the bottom), so I set up the TS55 to zip right through these. The rails and stile are solid mahogany, 1 3/8" thick.

Well, I found the TS55 somewhat lacking in power (or perhaps it was the blade). After the first interminable cut, I had to sand the new edge with my RO90 (80-220 grit because of the burn marks). After considering the situation, the best I came up with was to use the router approach, namely, set the depth of the TS55 make the rest of the cuts in depth increments, without moving the rail. That worked real well and did not have to deal with the burn marks as much. Another approach I thought of was to go all the way through, but short of the mark, then slide the rail to the mark, and finish the cut with a very narrow piece to cut (maybe 1/8").

Is there a better way?

 

[semenza]

If it was the 48 tooth blade, then that would be the problem on the rip cuts. I think the multi-pass method is probably the best one.

Or get the TS75 for those types of cuts.  [big grin]

Seth

 

[johnleve]

I have the 75 and have used this method myself on a few pieces where the internal tensions of the wood were causing me some trouble.  With a well clamped guide rail it is amazing how well the final cut turns out.  I just used a plane to clean it up, took all of 15 seconds, did not think about the full depth cut at the end but I suspect that would work well but not sure any time would be saved.

 

[Stephen B]

[size=14pt]
I use my TS55 for sizing doors.

The Universal blade works very well with core doors and solid cedar. With solid hardwood doors I have used both the Universal and Panther. With the Panther sizing the long edge, light sanding may be necessary.

I tend to only use the 48 tooth for ply and other wood based sheet goods..

Edit. Sharp blades.

 

[Superchippy]

[size=14pt]
I use my TS55 for sizing doors.

The Universal blade works very well with core doors and solid cedar. With solid hardwood doors I have used both the Universal and Panther. With the Panther sizing the long edge, light sanding may be necessary.

I tend to only use the 48 tooth for ply and other wood based sheet goods..

Edit. Sharp blades.

Agree a new or freshly sharpened panther works great in the ts55