Guide Rails FS1080 & FS1400

[dinkjs]

I am going to be doing a remodel on my master closet and I just don't have the money right now to purchase any additional guide rails right now.  But I can buy the connectors.  Is it unrealistic to be able to use the FS1080 and FS1400 that I already have with connectors to rip a 4 X 8?  Based on the measurements its 97" where as the 4x8 is 96" or there about.  Just how problematic is this?

 

[cliffp]

In my experience, if you are using a TS55R you need 40-50cm more rail than the length of cut. I think you can cut this down a little bit if you don't mind plunging into the wood at the start instead of beginning the cut with the saw fully plunged.

 

[MahalaHomecraft]

I've had to do that before.  For a rip or 2 it's ok but if you're doing it all day it really sucks.  I don't own a long rail but I have 2 1400s and with the guide rail connectors that works just fine.  I believe amazon warehouse currently has a discounted makita rail available for less than $80.  The makita rails work with all the festool accessories except the parallel guides.  I have 2 of them and have had no issues whatsoever.

 

[semenza]

Hi,

    97" will be too short even plunging at the start. And to finish the cut you will need to run the front of the saw off the end of the rail. Not really a good idea. I have used a short rail for a longer cut a couple times by cutting as much as possible and then moving the rail further to finish the cut.  If you have enough rail to overlap  a foot or more you can realign with the first part of the cut.  Not ideal but it works in a pinch.

Seth