Kapex Startup noise

[mperata]

I just purchased a new Kapex from Bob Marino and when I start the saw I hear a sound I can only describe as a clicking growl. The sound continues through startup shutdown and immediately and abruptly stops when the blade hits what appears to be a brake detent. Other than this noise, the saw appears to be working quite nicely.

I can email a .wma file to anyone willing to listen and give me a hint of "is this normal" or not. I am replacing a Delta CMS and and the startup noise is distinctly different between the two saws with the Delta being typical.

Michael
Misposted to General Forum

 

[peter halle]

Michael,

I don't have a Kapex yet, but I can tell you that many of the Festool saws growl.  It is the result of the electronics in place that allow for the variable speed with constant monitoring to maintain the speed I believe.

If you just received it I wouldn't worry.  Use it for a couple days and see what happens.

Peter

Brice did a video with the sound of the TS55.  Here is a link to the page.  Brice's video page  Scroll down to the video called TS55 Sound.

 

[Rick Christopherson]

The sound is normal and is the result of gear lash in the drivetrain from the Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) of the speed control. Speed is controlled by rapidly turning the motor on and off, which causes the gears to engage and slack rapidly. This is why the sound is not typically present when the motor is under load while cutting, because the gears normally remain engaged (meshed).

 

[peter halle]

Thanks Rick!  [thumbs up]

Peter

 

[mperata]

Thanks for the responses. I will give it a week or so and report back.

Anybody want to buy an almost new Delta CMS, four Porter Cable routers and Porter Cable trim saw?  [smile] Don't need them now!! [big grin]

Michael

 

[Holzhacker]

Michael, PC trim saw for sale? You aren't talking about the little 6" PC Saw Boss are you? If so, I can't imagine getting rid of mine regardless of whatever other tools I have. Love that little saw.