New TS55, what rails to get

[jhark123]

Hi all,

I just got the TS55 and it came with a 55" rail.  I'd like to be able to rip 4'x8' sheet of ply.  Also, I'm thinking of trying my hand at paperstone counters, in which case I would need to rip.

Ideally I'd like to get another 55" rail with the holes in case I get a OF1400 later  [tongue].  Is the connector easy and quick to use?  Do the two rails togethar produce a really straight rail?

Or would you just get a 106" as a second rail?

 

[Jonhilgen]

I've been down that road (by that I mean just buing another 55" and joining them).  Unfortunately, I felt I could never really trust the joined rails to make a true/straight cut no matter how thorough I was in joining them.  If you are pinched for space, or are going to be using them in the field, then the two 55" rails are the way to go.

I have just purchased the 3000 rail for ripping sheet goods and it has really simplified things in my shop.  I say go for the long rail.

Jon

 

[Brice Burrell]

This has been covered many times before. You'll find the advice pretty split down the middle. Here are some good parameters to help base your decision on. The shorter rails are better option if you plan on traveling from the shop often. The long rails are nice since you don't have to mess around with joining and checking to make sure that have stayed straight. The second thing to decide on length, a second 1400mm vs. 1900mm or 2700mm vs. 3000mm rail. The longer rails make it much easier to place the rail on the material with the correct overhang on each side.

 

 

[bionicus]

I've had no problems joining my rails but if I were buying a TS55 today I'd pay the difference and get the 75" rail with it instead. Then add the 55" rail with holes, some connecting rods, and you're set for both the LR32 system and ~ 10-ft rip cuts.

 

[jhark123]

I would be using my rails almost exclusively on the jobsite.  Part of the reason I am switching to the festool system is to reduce the number of trips I take to the trailer when setting up for finish work.  I would be using two 55" rails for ripping 96" sheet goods, is that enough overhang to be comfortable?

Thanks.

 

[Brice Burrell]

I would be using my rails almost exclusively on the jobsite.  Part of the reason I am switching to the festool system is to reduce the number of trips I take to the trailer when setting up for finish work.  I would be using two 55" rails for ripping 96" sheet goods, is that enough overhang to be comfortable?

Thanks.

That works but I like using one 55" and one 75" rail, plus the 75" makes it easier to crosscut 48-49" sheets goods.

 

[Wonderwino]

Not quite.  I have a TS75, which is larger, but I like at least 10" of overhang, especially at the start end.  Both gibs must engage the rail before you start moving the saw.  If the rear gib is off the rail, it tends to adjust itself tighter and stop the saw a few inches into the cut.  The 2700mm rail is recommended for rips with the TS55, but if you go for the 3000mm rail, you will be ready if you ever have the need for a TS75.

The other advise on buying the "holey" rails is great.  I did buy an LR32 and wish all my rails had holes in them.  Unfortuantely, they only come in 1400mm and 2424mm sizes now.

 

[mouppe]

Hi all,

I just got the TS55 and it came with a 55" rail.  I'd like to be able to rip 4'x8' sheet of ply.  Also, I'm thinking of trying my hand at paperstone counters, in which case I would need to rip.

Ideally I'd like to get another 55" rail with the holes in case I get a OF1400 later  [tongue].  Is the connector easy and quick to use?  Do the two rails togethar produce a really straight rail?

Or would you just get a 106" as a second rail?

I could be wrong, but I was under the impression that the TS55 now comes with a 55" rail with the holes in as standard. You may want to check with Festool HQ or with your dealer if you have just bought it and it came without a holed rail.

Richard.

 

[GPowers]

For the TS55, in the shop, I would use the 1900mm for cross cutting sheet goods and the 3000mm for ripping sheet goods. Just my thoughts...

 

[jhark123]

I should clarify that this is a "new to me" ts55.  Otherwise I'm sure the dealer would trade out the standard 55" for one with the LR32 holes.  I decided to get the 55" LR32 since I can still use it later if I don't like using it for sheet goods.

 

[chelseaboy]

I have the large bag with 2 rails, and yes they connect well  [wink]
http://www.powertoolworld.co.uk/festool-rail-clamps-accessories/festool-big-guide-rail-bag-496940.html