Hose Deflector Problem

[jethreaux]

I recently purchased the MFT/3 and enjoy using it along with the TS75. My complaint is about the hose deflector that was included, and as far as I know, is the only hose deflector offered by Festool.

[attachimg=1]
As you can see in the picture, the deflector is the same width as the track, but when installed the only way possible, it does not cover the entire track and leaves a sharp corner exposed. My vacuum hose has already hung up and/or worn from rubbing in this particular spot and it has seen very minimal use. Am I doing something wrong?

 

[rvieceli]

As you have discovered that is a problem with the deflector. It is a hold over from the old style rails which were narrower and it has not been updated.

Here is a lnik to a nice DIY solution:
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-jigs-tool-enhancements/my-custom-built-guide-rail-deflector/

I was also thinking that some one was making a 3d printed one as well but can't find it.

Ron

 

[Birdhunter]

I drape the hose over my arm as I make a TS55 cut on the MFT. Not an ideal solution, but it works.

 

[semenza]

Can't believe this was nine years ago ...... but anyway ...... nine years ago I did this so that it can be shifted to the other edge if the hose is coming from that side.
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festo...ail-deflector-modification/msg14911/#msg14911

Seth

 

[rljatl]

[member=1619]SRSemenza[/member] Seth, any chance you still have the pictures you posted in the old thread?  This another case of the disappearing photos when you click on them.

 

[semenza]

Yup. Plus a couple that were not in the original. I will leave the link for the cutting method description.

[attachimg=1]          [attachimg=2]              [attachimg=3]                [attachimg=4]                [attachimg=5]            [attachimg=6]

Seth

 

[rljatl]

Thanks Seth!

 

[antss]

This is just another example how Festool's braintrust simply ignores customers sometimes. 

I've talked with both engineers and managers in person when the new FS guides came out over ten years ago about the uncovered 2nd groove and how it catches cords.  They were polite but just couldn't wrap their head around why that was an issue and said in no uncertain terms not to hold my breath for a wider deflector.

Here we are a decade later and they still think it's OK to have an updated rail but not a corresponding hose deflector that fits properly.  They like to brag in Europe how they are innovators - It seems they've dropped the ball on this one big time, especially considering the track saw is their baby.

I can't wait to be told this time that I should just buy their new dust bag and cordless saw so there will be no hose or cord to catch on the exposed rail.  [eek]

 

[Svar]

I can't wait to be told this time that I should just buy their new dust bag and cordless saw so there will be no hose or cord to catch on the exposed rail.  [eek]

I'm telling you, just buy their new dust bag and cordless saw so there will be no hose or cord to catch!
There... you are welcome.  [big grin]

 

[antss]

Since you don't work for TTS - your voice doesn't count.  [tongue]

And I ain't buying no stinking battery powered 160mm circ. saw.

Ever.

 

[jethreaux]

Well this is frustrating. I was hoping I somehow had a wrong part or was doing something wrong. The fact this has been an issue for 9 years is beyond ridiculous. This would be an incredibly easy thing to fix. How can a company that prides itself on quality and having a system that all fits/works together not address this issue. This system cost $600 and Festool can't get a $0.02 piece correct?
Also, why was this moved out of the tool complaint folder? This is a legitimate complaint about a Festool tool.

 

[Michael Kellough]

Here is an opportunity for someone with 3D design skills to create a file for on demand 3D printing.

 

[semenza]

Well this is frustrating. I was hoping I somehow had a wrong part or was doing something wrong. The fact this has been an issue for 9 years is beyond ridiculous. This would be an incredibly easy thing to fix. How can a company that prides itself on quality and having a system that all fits/works together not address this issue. This system cost $600 and Festool can't get a $0.02 piece correct?
Also, why was this moved out of the tool complaint folder? This is a legitimate complaint about a Festool tool.

Actually it is the Tool Problems board not the Complaint board. More oriented towards broken tools. Moving it from there doesn't delegitimize the complaint. Seemed like the Jigs and Tool Enhancements board would be a natural home since many of the replies will be about peoples customized deflectors. However it is a toss up. I have moved it back.

Seth

 

[jethreaux]

Hey Seth,
Thanks. I should have said tool problems, not complaints. I was hoping this discussion would stay in this board so that it might draw more attention to a tool problem that I feel can easily be fixed. I think the MFT/3 is a great tool and is functioning exactly how I hoped it would, with the exception of damaging my vacuum hose. There is no need for this to be a problem.

 

[antss]

Perhaps it should go in the ask Festool section , so they can comment publicly on why this part has never been updated.

 

[leakyroof]

As you have discovered that is a problem with the deflector. It is a hold over from the old style rails which were narrower and it has not been updated.

Here is a lnik to a nice DIY solution:
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-jigs-tool-enhancements/my-custom-built-guide-rail-deflector/

I was also thinking that some one was making a 3d printed one as well but can't find it.

Ron

. I bought one, works great. You reuse your track 'key' from the Festool deflector on the new part. Reminds me of a 'Whale Tail' on a Porsche 911 when it's installed on my track... [embarassed]

 

[charley1968]

While i agree that the deflector is a bit of a joke,i think the easiest fix is to drape the hose over your arm or shoulder when you're cutting.

 

[leakyroof]

While i agree that the deflector is a bit of a joke,i think the easiest fix is to drape the hose over your arm or shoulder when you're cutting.

. Try doing that with a really long stretch of a track. You lose hose length going up and over your shoulder, esp. if you're over 6 feet tall... [embarassed]

 

[antss]

No, the easiest fix would be to have the proper width deflector.  [doh]

 

[rst]

Dispite being right handed, I always cut with my left hand, hose up and over my forearm.  Old dog, old tricks...learned to work this way in 1971 using air sanders.  Also helps that I have installed Techflex PTN1.50 Flexo Pet 1-1/2" (1" - 2 1/8") 40 ft, neon green of course, on all my hoses.