Kapex - Calibrating 90 Degree Setting

[Shoshinsha]

Hey all,

Kinda of a new guy here.  I have searched the forum and net, but have not found the answer to my question.  Hoping someone can help.

I checked my Kapex saw 90 degree setting for accuracy using the 4 (or 5) cut method.  I am pretty sure I understand how that all works including using the equation in the supplemental manual.  What I don't know is which way to move the scale depending on whether the calculation is positive or negative.  In my case it is negative...which way do I move the scale?  too the left or to the right?

Thanks

 

[sancho57]

I had the same problem and question. I dont have a pair of calipers like is recommended in the supplemental manual.

I made my own close clearance insert. So I cut a piece of wood say 10" wide. Then slide it up to the kerf on the close clearance insert and I could see where it was off and was able to adj to whereever it was needed.

Hey it worked for me

 

[Shoshinsha]

Thanks for the reply.

I have calipers.  I measured and and calculated the angle using the supplemental manual equation...now I am looking for input on which direction to shift the scale.

 

[sancho57]

. Photos would help. Its hard to help you if we dont know what were dealing with.

It might be better if you called festool service. Or bring it to a brick and mortar who specialises in festools.
Im sure they can help you sort this out

 

[Gregor]

which way do I move the scale?  too the left or to the right?

That depends on which side you used for checking.

Simple solution: take a (preferably as wide as the cut capability) scrap with a straight edge (to use for referencing against the fence), make a cut, let the saw come to rest, lock the head in transport position, flip the workpiece over while putting it on the other side of the blade (the edge used to reference against the fence there, upside now down) with the fresh cut touching the blade.

Then look if the front of the blade touches the cut: in case it does you'll have to turn the blade away from where the workpiece now rests, in case it dosn't (cut closed at the fence) you need to turn the blade toward the side the workpiece now is.
The scale moves with the blade.

 

[Shoshinsha]

Gregor,

Thanks for the reply...this method seems like a good idea.  The calculation tells me that the saw is about 5/64" out of square over a 10" cut...I should be able to see this when the board is flipped.  I am hoping that a 45 degree cut is spot on after making the adjustment so that I don't have to move the scale in or out as well.

 

[Gregor]

The experience from adjusting my Kapex is that you'll have to move the scale ends in/out (depending on what side you look at) after making the 90° spot on, simply from accidently misaligning the ends of the scale when setting the 90°. While it's possibly to DIY it's a time consuming thing to do.

Should your machine be within the 3 year warranty: I would suggest that you use 'Service all included' to have festool service calibrate you machine - you paid premium to have it working flawlessly while warranty lasts, why not employ that privilege?