Setting Parallel Guides

[Woodwork Wizard]

This is an idea I saw on the FOG ages ago, a sewing needle stuck in the 'arrow' of the parallel guide stop. Makes it much easier to get both parallel guides set the same. I gave up on trying to align the measurement scale with the arrow and was using a spacer made from scrap to set each guide individually, but now I'll use the scale again as it's really quick to set very accurately.

I leave the parallel guides permanently attached to the 3000 rail which I keep 2 feet from the cutting table as its only use is to slice down 8 x 4 sheets. It's not at all unwieldy as I only have to move it 2 feet and never have to faff trying to install the guides on the rail then struggle to set them both accurately.

 

[Mr Heavy]

Can I have my sewing needle back please? I need to darn my undertrousers as a hole has worn through and my shed is draughty.

Thanks.

 

[Hurricane Whisperer]

Why not just extend the clear portion over the scale and then scribe a line in the clear plastic?

 

[greg mann]

Why not just extend the clear portion over the scale and then scribe a line in the clear plastic?

Or turn the needle around to have a finer point over the scale.

 

[sancho57]

I think it's a good idea. I could never in my mind justify drilling holes and adding a plastic indicator.

This is totally reverserable with no damage to the PGs

 

[rst]

Mr Heavy is obviously not Scottish or the draft would feel natural.

 

[JonSchuck]

I like the idea of leaving the guides on the long rail when not in use.  They are kind of a hassle to take on and off.  I might have to copy that idea when my Woodpecker ones get here.  And leave my Festool ones on another rail.  And leave my Rip Dogs ones on another rail.  Thanks Wizard.  I knew there was a reason (other than the fact that I am a sick puppy) that I needed three sets of parallel guides.

Come to think of it, I do have more than three rails.  Nah, don't even think that way Jon.  Of course it wouldn't hurt anything if I just wandered over to Seneca and looked around.  I wouldn't have to buy anything.

 

[Flatsawn]

Great idea for the parallel guides. I'm trying to decide of which 3 to get. I was ready to get the Festool parallel guides then I read a thread as to how difficult they are to work with, some are selling them out of disgust.
I then was directed over to Seneca for their version and saw a price tag of $190. Festool parallel guides are expensive but these aren't  what I would consider a cheaper alternative. I never really considered Woodpeckers, maybe I should look to them once more.
Leaving them on the track is a fairly good idea, after all when was the last time an 8 ft guide rail was used when not also wanting the parallel guides? I just keep thinking it would be nice not to have to measure and pencil each time.
Thanks for a good thread I needed this one.