Using the FS-KS angle guide for crosscutting?

[jgowrie]

So I purchased the TrackSaw accessory kit and I really thought I would be happy with the FS-KS as a way to set a 90 degree cut so I wouldn't have to make two measurements as long as the unit was set up properly.

The issue I had immediately though was caused by the friction tape on the bottom of the track... it makes sliding the track and angle unit into place nearly impossible without running the risk of knocking the angle unit out of proper alignment. 

Thoughts or suggestions on using this item?  Maybe I have to now spend more money and on a section of track that I can rip the friction tape off so it doesn't fight me when trying to align my track using the angle unit?  [unsure]

 

[ear3]

It is one of the more reviled accessories on the FOG as far as I've seen.  Don't have it, so I can't comment specifically, but there are some older threads on how people have modified the AU to hold an angle more consistently.  Here's one (you can search for additional threads by inputting "angle unit" in the search function):http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-jigs-tool-enhancements/'fixed'-my-angle-unit/

There are some recent aftermarket accessories that are supposedly superior if you're just looking to do consistent 90 degree cuts:
https://tsoproducts.com/tools-equipment/grs-16-guide-rail-square/

Ongoing thread about the GRS:
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festo...re-coming-to-market-teaser-for-future-review/

 

[Z48LT1]

If I may add my remarks to Ed Reno's comment about the TSO Products GRS-16 Guide Rail Square, Dan Pattison has an excellent video reviewing its use here:
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festo...easer-for-future-review/msg491657/#msg491657.

At about the 6:00 mark, he demonstrates an unadvertised (I believe) feature: using the GRS-16 as a lever, pressing down on the left end of the square lifts the guide rail, and its offending friction strips, off the work piece, allowing smooth adjusting of the guide rail to your cutting mark.  I don't know whether it would be feasible to clamp the angle unit to the guide rail so as to get the leverage to use it similarly, but the principle of lifting the friction strips, but not necessarily the entire guide rail off the work surface may be a useful approach to your problem.

Cheers - Gary

 

[Rob-GB]

If I may add my remarks to Ed Reno's comment about the TSO Products GRS-16 Guide Rail Square, Dan Pattison has an excellent video reviewing its use here:
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festo...easer-for-future-review/msg491657/#msg491657.

I don't know whether it would be feasible to clamp the angle unit to the guide rail so as to get the leverage to use it similarly, but the principle of lifting the friction strips, but not necessarily the entire guide rail off the work surface may be a useful approach to your problem.

Cheers - Gary

It is possible but you have to make something like I did here

To make it more secure if you feel it warranted you could double up on the additional clamping part but I have never needed to on the occasions it has been used  [smile]

Rob.

 

[jgowrie]

Thanks for all the info guys it's going to come in handy.  I will check out those products! 

As a new Festool user I just assumed products made by Festool are going to be top notch but I guess I have to do my research in the future.