Kapex Squeaking?

[rmoursund]

Just wondering if anyone else is experiencing this minor, but yet annoying problem?  My Kapex has received light use over the last 3 weeks and has just developed a moderately loud squeak when the saw is rotated toward the downward position.  This squeak occurs just after the saw starts its downward rotation; after approximately 5 degrees of rotation.  This is true whereever the saw is positioned on the guide rails.  Most likely it just needs some oil which I have not tried as of yet, nor I have tried to investigate where to place this oil, nor I have I tried to contact Festool (I know they would resolve this problem).

To me the squeak indicates metal to metal ware which could result in a longer term, more serious problem.  So the question remains is anyone else experiencing this problem?  Thanks

 

[Frank-Jan]

I just checked mine, and I guess it's the spring, mine makes a sound at the point you describe. The sound mine makes is soft enough not to be annoying, but I don't think a bit of oil will cause harm.

 

[MiterMaster]

Does it sound like Gary's?
http://www.garymkatz.com/ToolReviews/Kapex.htm

When watching his video, at times I do hear a bit of a howling noise.  I have not noticed it on my Kapex, but I'll start paying more attention to see if I hear it on mine, I'm sure it's just the electronics of the saw working as designed.

Mike

 

[rmoursund]

The sound I'm getting is a definite squeak, like a squeaking door.  It is short in duration and occurs just momentarily after releasing the saw to the down position after passing approximately 5 degrees.  I don't engage the motor, I am just releasing the saw to the down position.  It could be a spring.  I haven't throughly checked this out as of yet and even when I do, I don't know that I will locate the problem in that I don't claim to be the world's best mechanic.  Like I said earlier, I've used this saw for about three weeks and it just started happening last night (8/2/2008) and is still going on as of today.

 

[Frank-Jan]

The spring I mentioned is at the hinge point and can be seen when the saw head is lowered (look from above). You don't need to be a mechanic to hear if the sound originates there, and if it does, I personally don't think it's a long term serious problem (maybe just an annoyance)