New Kapex - is this a flaw (pic)

[Lou in DE]

I received a new Kapex a few days ago (6 week backorder) and was setting it up temporarily yesterday when I noticed what appears to be fractures or something on the bottom - see photos. Is this normal - do all the Kapex saws have this as part of the casting? This is only on the right side as shown.

Lou

This is my first post although I've been lurking here for quite a while.

EDIT> fixed Kapex spelling

 

[Locks14]

I have a Bosch Glide 12" saw, so can't compare as I don't own a Kapex - I'm sure someone else will tell you if it's "normal". However with that said, I don't think one needs to own a Kapex to comment on this being unacceptable for such an expensive saw.

I'd personally return it and ask for a replacement. Given the 6 week delay I'd even expect the dealer to allow you to keep and use this one until a replacement can be shipped.

It may be purely cosmetic and just a minor flaw in the casting, but on the other hand there could be compromise in the material and without stripping the paint you can't tell, so for peace of mind I'd return it.

 

[semenza]

Hi,

  Welcome to the forum. There have been quite a few threads on the Kapex casting. A search for Kapex casting will bring up additional info for you. In short those are marks from the casting process and as far as I know all Kapex are like that.

Seth

 

[Locks14]

A google image search of high res Kapex photos revealed this:

There does seem to be some slight casting marks, but not as severe as the ones in the OP's pics.

Same in this one:

http://www.mmtoolparts.com/store/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/h/s/hs_ks120_561283_a_17a.jpg

 

[AlexThePalex]

It is normal and no problem whatsoever.

 

[peter halle]

The saw has casting marks on it.  As an owner within your thirty day window I would suggest that you try the saw out.  If after using the saw the casting bother you, the operation of the saw bothers you, or you don't like the anything else about the saw then use the 30 day return policy to try and get a saw with fewer casting marks or return it and go for a different brand.  But at least try the saw out before you go further.  You have nothing to lose.

Regarding the high resolution image - the are plenty more non high resolution images out there in Festool advertising that shows the casting marks.

Peter

 

[peter halle]

The base of the Kapex is a magnesium alloy I believe.  I haven't seen rust on mine from scratching it up during transport so that I could use the tool.

Peter

 

[SittingElf]

I'd return it because you got the Spanish version!! [eek] [big grin]

It's not an issue.... All of them have the beading visible. Mine shows the same beading, but it was dead on out of the box, and didn't require a single adjustment. It's not a flaw unless bare metal is showing as previously mentioned.

Cheers,

Frank

 

[Lou in DE]

Thanks for all the input - as I am new to owning Festool, I didn't realize that there were many threads on this subject - should have done a search [embarassed] It seems like this is a non-issue and just part of the manufacturing - in every other respect, the saw is very well finished and all the controls smooth as butter.

I ran a few tests on the Kapex and it seems to be right on - compared to the Makita that it is replacing - well - there is no comparison - cuts are smooth as glass.

As a side note, I'd like to thank Seth for editing my first FOG post so I didn't seem like an idiot  [big grin]

Looking forward to participating and learning here.

 

[DB10]

You gota use these tools, that's what there designed for. There way to expensive and good to keep all shinny and looking like new.