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Table saw extension

beds

New member
I had to trim down a door yesterday and it showed how I need to change my table saw layout. I've got a nice Rigid table saw with a fence that extends 24" on either side. I have problems with big 4x8 sheet material (and doors) and also with cuts > 24". I don't do alot of these, but this seems like a nice project while it snows.

I've got alot of room in my shop and was thinking of making cabinets around my table saw so that the work area around the saw was all at the saw level. The other issue I was thinking of was getting a different or extended fence that would go beyone the 24". I have no problem with getting rid of the Rigid fence as that is one of the weak points with this saw. Here is a system I was thinking of:
http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.aspx?c=1&p=47305&cat=1,41080,51225&ap=1

My question is if anyone has any experience with one of these fence systems. Also, should I think about scrapping my Rigid table saw (which my wife gave me as an engagement present!) and getting something more cabinet-maker style.
 

Glenn9643

Bronze Member
GOLD Site Supporter
I've had a Grizzly 1023Z cabinet saw http://www.grizzly.com/products/G1023Z for several years and been well satisfied. I added an extension table and Biesemeyer fence, but the Shop Fox fence that comes with the saw is good. I already had the Beis so I used it and upgraded a Craftsman with the Shop Fox. You'll need to upgrade the blade unless they've improved. Look at a Forrest WWII
http://www.forrestsawblades.com/woodworker_2.htm
They're cheaper on Amazon, but the link was too long.
For trimming a door or anything bulky like that I usually clamp a straight-edge to it as a guide and make the cut with a skillsaw.
My first thought about "cabinets around the saw" is that they'll eventually be in the way of something you need to do. I needed a router table a few years back and had an old heavy double pedastal desk that was not being used and beatup looking. I removed the legs from the desk and built a oak frame on casters to mount it in. I designed the oak frame so that the top of the desk (router table to be) was the same height as my cabinet saw top. I removed the center drawer from the desk and made a cutout in the center of the top to accept my router. Works fine as a router table. When I need a glueup table it works for that too; with the formica top glue drippings scrape right off. When I need an extension table for my cabinet saw I can roll it into place as needed. I also built a stand for my planer so that the outfeed is the same as my router table and cabinet saw, which helps when planing long stock. Built a stand for my compound miter saw so that saw is at the same height, and I can use the cabinet saw surface as well as the router table to support stock when making cuts. All of it's on casters and can be moved as required.
 
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