Jointer feed height

[MarkAndrew1]

Hi,

I just picked up a Delta jointer for truing up my tops and backs.
Does anyone know how high I should have the feed table for
truing?

[dave d]

Hi Mark,
Just to be clear, you are referring to jointing the edges before gluing the two halves together, right? If so, you want a tiny amount, like 1/64" or so (repeat if necessary), and if you are not familiar with using a jointer practice on something else first. The reason I suggest this is that if you don't know where to apply pressure as you make the cut, you could actually scoop out the middle of the workpiece and make it concave (or if your jointer is not set up properly). Feeding in the right grain direction is also crucial. As an alternative, Ken has recommended using a straightedge with sandpaper affixed to it, and rubbing the two halves against it. This is a low-tech method, and it works perfectly well. I'm just a bit hesitant to use a power tool like that with thin stock, but others may not have the same trepidation.
My $.02.

[MarkAndrew1]

Hi Mark,
Just to be clear, you are referring to jointing the edges before gluing the two halves together, right? If so, you want a tiny amount, like 1/64" or so (repeat if necessary), and if you are not familiar with using a jointer practice on something else first. The reason I suggest this is that if you don't know where to apply pressure as you make the cut, you could actually scoop out the middle of the workpiece and make it concave (or if your jointer is not set up properly). Feeding in the right grain direction is also crucial. As an alternative, Ken has recommended using a straightedge with sandpaper affixed to it, and rubbing the two halves against it. This is a low-tech method, and it works perfectly well. I'm just a bit hesitant to use a power tool like that with thin stock, but others may not have the same trepidation.
My $.02.

Hi ddietz,

I did make the jig but I found a Delta jointer for a cheap price and
decided to go for it. The guy I bought it from set up the blade and
taught me how to do it in the future. 1/64" sounds good to me. I will
practice on a spare back set that I have. I will also be sure to apply
pressure where needed and feeding the pieces in the right grain
direction.

Thanks!

[ken cierp]

The in-feed table is set lower than the out-feed which is fixed. The trick is to get the "apex" of the blade/cutter perfectly in line with the plane of the out-feed table along its entire length --- I use magnets to accomplish this process. First thing to do is lay a flat board on the out feed table only -- position it so it over the center line of the cutter head. Turn the cutter head by hand, if the blades hit the board you have some work to do getting the machine adjusted.

As far as how much to take of each pass -- simple answer a tiny bit at a time. There is a right and wrong direction to feed the wood, the correct direction will leave a glass smooth finish -- the wrong direction, not so good.

I will say that the odds of a used machine with the blades being properly sharpened and correctly adjusted are slim at best. A jointer that is maintained and set-up properly is a joy to used. Take the time to get it right, you will not be sorry.

[dave d]

By the way, I have the Delta JT360 6 inch jointer, so if you have some questions let me know. I found that it took some time to set up properly (a day, mostly because I was inexperienced at checking and setting the height of the knives) but once set it works well.

The Wood Whisperer is a good source of information on jointer set-up.

[MarkAndrew1]

By the way, I have the Delta JT360 6 inch jointer, so if you have some questions let me know. I found that it took some time to set up properly (a day, mostly because I was inexperienced at checking and setting the height of the knives) but once set it works well.

The Wood Whisperer is a good source of information on jointer set-up.

Thanks ddietz!

Great video! My Delta is a 6" as well. So, I watched the video and then
checked my jointer. I used a straight edge to make all the checks. All I had
to do was re-adjust the fence to a 90deg angle. I tried a couple pieces of
hog backs that I had lying around and it worked great. I ran it through
twice, held up the 2 pieces to the light and saw no gaps. The jointer
cost me $65 so I think it was well worth the investment....

Thank you for the help!