MFT 3 TOP won't go back together, do I force it, cut it????

[tristan cochrane]

I recently took my MFT3 table top off the base and several days later I tried to reassemble it and it wont fit back in comfortably.  does anyone know if it is a tight fit that needs to be knocked back in?; if you are supposed to slacken the frame and then tighten around the MDF top after (im worried that might throw the square sides out?)?; if I should cut or sand the MFT to fit back in again snuggly?

I am reluctant to force it incase i lose the accuracy and squareness I just paid so much for!  Its about a month old.  Any experience to share on fitting these tops would be welcome before I do it,

Thanks!

 

[peter halle]

Welcome to the FOG!

Sounds like you had some sort of expansion.  You might want to see if you can loosen the connectors in the corners on the opposite end from where you slide the rail holding components on.  That way the keys mounted in the rail don't move.  I would still suggest that you check afterwards and be prepared to have to set up your fence and possibly your rail again.

Peter

 

[ajones]

If the top has been kept somewhere humid whilst separated from the base, put the top somewhere dry for a few days and you may find that it then fits, if that works it may be worth considering sealing the top to stop it absorbing moisture.

 

[sancho57]

Could be the weather did you try it when there was a lot of moisture in the air? When we had that cold snap? Could be a few things going on there.

 

[mouppe]

Just be aware the sides are not square to the holes in the top. So don't feel bad about shaving a bit off the top to fit it in.

I'd take my TS55 to it if I were you and take a mm off two sides.

 

[anthonyz]

I would take your HL850 and just plane off an equal, but small amount on all sides so the distance from edge to holes remains the same. Make sure you clamp down the top you are working on, on to your other MFT table. If you don't own a HL850 Planer or a second MFT, now you have a reason to buy them.  ;D

 

[semenza]

If the top has been kept somewhere humid whilst separated from the base, put the top somewhere dry for a few days and you may find that it then fits, if that works it may be worth considering sealing the top to stop it absorbing moisture.

Hi Tristan,

  Welcome to the forum!  [smile]

      What Footstool said  [thumbs up]

Seth