Cutting preform top help

[Robly]

I need new ideas on cutting a preform top with my festool saw. I do installs and can easily cut the majority of the top from the backside. However the depth of the sawblade is less than the backsplash. I am trying to eliminate all quality control issues on the job site. I need to know if anyone has found a good way to continue the cut from the back of the top to cutting down the back of the backsplash with the saw? I currently cut it close and smooth it out with the belt sander. Easy to screw it up if I get distracted. 

Advise is appreciated.

 

[Dan Clermont]

Hi Robly

Welcome to the forum!

Are you using the TS 55 saw or the TS75 saw? If you have the 55 then get the 75 and that should help

If it were me I'd use the saw and guide rail clamped across the back splash (you'll have to screw a block for the clamp underneath the countertop for the clamp) to make a deep plunge. The guide rail is pretty accurate.

Next use a square and place your guide rail across the countertop and make the second cut. I've had success with this method

Dan Clermont

 

[Dane]

I cut them by plunging as deep as the saw allows from the back, cutting through the backsplash.  Then I clamp a speed square to the backsplash the exact offset of the blade and use that as a fence to finish the cut.  Set it up carefully and it comes out perfectly.  I have also seen a guy use a beam cutting circular saw to do it in one pass.  You can rent those pretty cheaply.

 

[Robly]

Thanks for the info. The speed clamp seems to be the easiest approach. I love using Festool's but the budget stops me from expanding from where I am with tools. I just wanted others input. So many times I have struggled in reinventing the wheel to find a better and simpler idea elsewhere.

 

[John Stegall]

I have the old ATF55E and have cut it both ways...no preference. Whatever I have at hand works. I Would like to have the bigger saw if I did enough of these, but I just make do with the tools I have. Belt sander always at the ready if needed. I also used the RAS115 when I ran out of belts, takes a steady hand.
john