The fence that came with my used bt3100 is not reliable. The back end won't lock in place, and I can't make a square rip cut (back end moves about 1/4 inch). Any recommendations for an aftermarket fence that (1) is compatible/easy-to-install on a bt3100, (2) reliable, (3) decent (or higher) quality? Thanks in advance.
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Before your thread goes any farther, I'll be the one to ask the standard question, which is: are you sure you're seating the back end of the rip fence correctly in the rear rail?
This thread contains a diagram, courtesy of RayInTheUK, that shows the right and wrong way to do it.
There's also an adjustment screw on the back end of the fence that needs to be fiddled a bit to find the best compromise between being able to easily remove and replace the fence, and getting a secure lock.
If you know about this and it's not the problem, fine; but perhaps nine out of ten times, this is all that's wrong.LarryComment
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Some people have had your problem with the fence just to find something out of adjustment and once fixed were completely satisfied with it. It is one of the features on the saw that most of us like and rely on. My suggestion would be to search the forum for old threads concerning the fence.Opinions are like gas;
I don't mind hearing it, but keep it to yourself if it stinks.
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Your fence will be rock solid once you get to the bottom of the problem. It's certainly not a flaw in design, can just be a little finicky.Comment
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the preceeding posts are basically correct, the BT3 fence design is well regarded because of the locking rear which is made possible by the rear rail.
When the BT fence doesn't lock at the rear its usually because of
adjustment required, broken plastic parts in the rear locking mechanism due to wear and or being dropped. There's a two-stage locking sequence taht occurs when you lower the front handle - first the rip fence is locked at two points to the front rail (which squares it consistently), then, as you lower the handle further the rear rail isgrabbed and locked. When all works its quite solid.
You might take a look at my BT3 FAQ on this matter.
Loring in Katy, TX USA
If your only tool is a hammer, you tend to treat all problems as if they were nails.
BT3 FAQ - https://www.sawdustzone.org/forum/di...sked-questionsComment
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Thanks
Thanks everybody, that may be the problem I'm having. I'll take a hard look at whether the back end of the fence is seated correctly.Comment
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It it helps, I thought the same thing at first but mine has been working right for years now.
JimComment
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In line with your original question - yes, there used to be an after market fence made for the BT 4 or 5 years ago. It didn't get much response probably because the original fence is/was as good as anything on the market for its accuracy and holding.Hank Lee
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you wanted!
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after market fence for Bt3100
Before you go and start trying to replace your present fence on the saw...might want to check and see if all the adjustments are done properly to the one you have now. When all of that is done and you are ready to start setting up for another test cut...set the fence to desired cut...
hold fence down with one hand on the top of the fence, and gently, firmly
pull fence handle toward you and then lock in down in position. This will insure that the rear locking mechanism is engaged to the rail and has a
chance of locking slightly ahead of the front locking handle. eezlockComment
LCHIEN
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