Hybrid MFT/Assembly table

[rnt80]

I just wrapped up my last job and  had a couple of days until I start the next one.  I used the time to spruce up my assembly table/bench and took some pics. The orginal had a 4X4 torsion box top that served me well but wasn't very versatile. It worked well as a large flat surface but that was about it. I decided to strip it down to the orginal 4X4 box and make some additions. I added a 4x6 piece of 1/2" mdf to the top and topped that off with two 1/4" pieces of hardboard the same size. I enclosed it with an ash apron and routed a groove on one side so that I could slide clamps down the front of it. I routed out the holes in the top using the lr32 and a 20mm bit I ordered from Bob M. While the new top does restrict my access to the drawers somewhat I can still get to everything. I thought about orienting the top the other direction but that wouldn't have worked with my cheap boom arm in the way. I'm sure I could've come up with something but this has worked fine thus far. The clamping possibilities that the track/groove and holes have opened up are awesome.
I'm almost done building my install kit that will fit in a systainer 5, I'll post some pics of that when I'm done.

 

[johnsonri]

Outstanding setup Russ!!!!

 

[fshanno]

Fantastic setup.  Excellent table, everything is handy.  The table saw/router setup is great too.  I've always wanted to do that.  Looks like it's straight from the pages of Wood Magazine or something.  Kapex in the background, sweet.

I noticed you have the Rigid saw.  How do you like it?  Have you seen the new R4511?

 

[rnt80]

The table has proved invaluable already.  I don't think I fully realized how much I would take advantage of the new clamping possibilities.  The Ridgid ts has served me well.  It lacks power though and bogs down on some operations.  The cart that it's sitting on is from Wood magazine.  I built it a couple of years ago.  One of these days I'll get a cabinet saw...

 

[Les]

You have made good use of your down time.

Nice shop. Very well organized.

What will keep the clamp in the slot when you clamp something? Is it 2 slots?

 

[rnt80]

Thanks.  I used a t-slot bit to cut the slot.  I just had to cut it a little deeper to accomodate the thickness of the clamp.  Both the holes and the slot have proved to be extremely useful already.