MFT-VL XL, my way

[WilliamT]

Hello FOG,

I want to share my version of an MFT-VL; the original MFT-VL is no longer available.
I am sorry for my poor englisch, I'm german.

I felt the need for a second MFT-VL, but even in Germany there is no way to get one new or second hand for a valuable price.

Moving the OF-Module out and the other modules in was a real pain, the OF-Module with the OF 2200 in is no fun. I use the Incra Fence and the precision plate (got this from the FOG) - thanks a lot.

Here are some pictures of my new setup, I modified a second MFT with some parts from the MFT-VL (ekat.festool.de); now I have a very pleasant setup for me.

Overall table length is 2,5 Meter, one side with the MFT-VL OF2200; the other end with a modified MFT and two CMS Modules, TS-55 table saw and Jigsaw.

Tabletop is Valchromat using the Parf Guide MK 2 System.

I now have a large worktop surface with a router, a table saw and a stationary jigsaw. As infeed or outfeed I use the MW-1000 table or the Kapex fences. It a very productive shop setup for me, everything I use must be moved in my small cellar ;-)

Greetings from Germany,

William T.

 

[Gregor]

A very nice solution.

 

[08G8V8]

Nice setup!

I recently built a MFT using the Parf guide, and just got my Incra LS Positioner.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[FestitaMakool]

That is a very nice and interesting solution  [smile] Even down to the choice of coloured Valchromat. I was only recently aware of Valchromat, it certainly makes for new areas of use.

I’ll remember your solution till later. I will have limited space, in the room that I’m going to set up a workshop. I was thinking a solution near yours, with MFT, VL and CMS modules.
Although, my recent find of a Elektra Beckum Secanta (Metabo) pull saw which can be rotated 180° will occupy one end. I’ll also find solutions to use Kapex extensions and the MW 1000 extension table
for makeshift use across all machines..
I think this is one of the absolutely best features of the Festool system.

Now, Festool: You really need to come up with some kind of replacement for CMS system. With backward compatibility in order to continue VL and GE sizes to the modules.
Sort the issues with safety, either by the modules it self, or the way your machines operates put in a module. You certainly can.
- I guess many of you FOG members will agree to that, that be newbies or seasoned Festool users.

 

[JeffSD]

William, that is a very impressive solution!

 

[DynaGlide]

[member=69236]WilliamT[/member] Excellent setup. Would you mind sharing the part numbers for the profiles you adapted to the mft3? I've never seen the one on the far left you use for the jigsaw.

 

[Cheese]

Nice job...I especially like the Valchromat.  [smile]

Do you use the jigsaw module often?

What's the advantage of using the jigsaw module rather than just clamping the wood to the MFT and using the jigsaw in the conventional manner?

 

[simonh]

That looks great. I built my workstation around the MFT and CMS-VL profiles but with non-festool saw and router table. With the MW1000 extension table it gives a really flexible system.

 

[Michael Kellough]

“ the advantage of using the jigsaw module rather than just clamping the wood to the MFT and using the jigsaw in the conventional manner?‘

For intricate cutting. Think scroll saw.

 

[JeffSD]

William, I was wondering if you've heard anything in Germany about a potential replacement for the discontinued CMS tables.

I've been considering a VL (which is still listed as available in the US) but am a bit hesitant to purchase (especially new) if an updated model is on the horizon.

Thanks.

 

[FestitaMakool]

William, I was wondering if you've heard anything in Germany about a potential replacement for the discontinued CMS tables.

I've been considering a VL (which is still listed as available in the US) but am a bit hesitant to purchase (especially new) if an updated model is on the horizon.

Thanks.

I have been in direct contact with Festool, also major dealers here in Scandinavia regarding the CMS modules and tables. Everyone confirms that it has discontinued. FT saying that there are no plans for a replacement.
Which for me seems like a too quick decision. The CMS system has probably not sold well (expensive, proprietary) - But, I don’t think it has been well marketed. Once you realise the opportunities in combining the system, it is fabulous.

There is no question that they would have to make changes to the modules, and how the machines inside works in order to meet new regulations. However, keeping backward compatibility with new tables, modules and tools would be tempting existing and new users.
- And most important; Users would stay with Festool.

 

[JeffSD]

FestitaMakool, thanks for the information.

I tend to agree with you. Festool's "system" approach has been a key driver behind my purchase of a number of Festool products recently.

Elimination of the Compact Module System, without an update in sight, seems to run counter to an important rationale for purchasing Festool. Hopefully, they will offer a replacement in the not too distant future.

 

[WilliamT]

Hello,

at DynaGlide:

You can get the part numbers from festool ekat, just take a look at the MFT-VL part list. These are the profiles from the MFT-VL, just used instead of the short MFT profiles.

at Cheese:

I own the Jigsaw-Module for only a few month now, it is very comfortable for small parts; it is not a must have. This Module was not very expensive. But it is really the most dangerous CMS-Module, you do not see the moving jigsaw blade only the cutline.

at JeffSD:

I know nothing about Festools future plans, they are like Apple - Yeah, here it is!!!
I bought the CMS Modules over the last years and I like them. The Incra LS wonderfence makes the OF-Module outstanding good, love it.

at All:

Valchromat is no fun to work with, looks cool but is very special to handle. Next time I will use highest grade birch plywood, 19mm birch plywood is more expensive than Valchromat and I had to buy a whole sheet of Valchromat ( = five MFT table tops, around 135,-€  all )

The TS-Module is not very often in use, most I use the TS-55 as a tracksaw, but there are some things you can not do with a tracksaw. If there is a way to get big cabinet table saw and a bandsaw in my shop, my setting would be complete different ;-)

Greetings from Germany,

William T.

 

[FestitaMakool]

[member=71275]JeffSD[/member] Agreed!
I do think that the voice of you users here, on this forum and other fellow Festool (CMS) users should claim Festool to rethink total discontinuity of the CMS system.

As [member=69236]WilliamT[/member] here shows with brilliance it has a lot going for it. I really like the compact but yet a spacious surface to work on. Still he can flip the modules out and make them mobile with a GE table. For at least a couple of years now, for me this will also be invaluable. Later will the fact that these modules can be stationary in my outhouse shop, similar to WilliamT”s setup yet compact. To move them to other jobs will be at ease.
As I have seen many talented amateurs and professionals here and elsewhere, most do not have the space (or money) to have fully fledged stationary machines along with more mobile ones. With CMS and MFT’s you will come a long way accomplishing work with a good workflow and precision.

 

[JeffSD]

William, thanks for the reply!

 

[PreferrablyWood]

I'm a Cms user who has the Router and TS 75 Table saw inserts. I'm interested in Getting the MFT-VL for having the ability to have both mounted when needed. The bandsaw and jigsaw modules are also interesting for a small shop instead of having stand alone machines.

I'll eventually finde the CMS VL and get it for my use its a system that makes sense. Hope Festool reconsiders their decision as it's a system that can attract new users overtime. It's simpler than so many heavier systems but used carefully it can give results that are more than satisfactory for onsite custom jobs.