Refinishing TS55 baseplate

[Joemicrowave]

I have recently acquired a TS55 EQ saw with a heavily used baseplate. Any suggestions for refinishing the surface: best type of paint to use, surface preparation, etc.

 

[peter halle]

Joe,

Welcome to the FOG!  Honestly I don't remember this question coming up before.  Others might have and can give advice but if you don't get an answer I would suggest that you contact Festool USA at 888-337-8600.

If you go that route please let us know what they say.  IN the meantime enjoy your saw!

Peter

 

[mouppe]

There was a thread about a Kapex if I recall correctly to do with chipping paint or something? Maybe that could help?

 

[Brice Burrell]

Welcome!  I believe the base on the TS55 is a powder coated magnesium.  If so it dosen't need protection from corrosion.  The powder coat does give it a bit more abrasion resistance but that isn't a big deal.  Since this is older saw I'd be checking the two tabs built in to the base where the saw rides on the protruded channel in the rail.  These tabs are across from the adjustable cam to tighten the saw to the rail.  If these tabs are worn out you'll need to replace the base.  The newer saws have replaceable plastic parts in place of the tabs.   

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Just thought I'd add the part number (494589) and price ($65.34 USD) for the base plate if you decide you want to replace it. You can order from our service department using the number below in my signature. Even if you choose not to replace it, give them a call and they can probably recommend the best method for refurbishing it.

 

[Paul G]

Just thought I'd add the part number (494589) and price ($65.34 USD) for the base plate if you decide you want to replace it. You can order from our service department using the number below in my signature. Even if you choose not to replace it, give them a call and they can probably recommend the best method for refurbishing it.

As a side note, your response is at 8:20pm Pacific (maybe later in your timezone) on a holiday. Not many companies provide that kind of assistance. Kudos to you sir.

 

[ajones]

Hi

If you do remove the base plate of your saw to refinish or replace, it . it will need to be calibrated  so the base is in the correct orientation to the blade its not just a matter of unbolting and refitting.

 

[Corwin]

Hi

If you do remove the base plate of your saw to refinish or replace, it . it will need to be calibrated  so the base is in the correct orientation to the blade its not just a matter of unbolting and refitting.

Excellent point!  Therefor, you will want to leave your rail clamped in place on a wide piece of material that you have cut before you remove the base.  Check out page 12 of the supplemental manual for instructions.  But, Festool's service department is open and they have probably already covered all this...