Play in sliding miter table

[WayneS]

I am having difficulty in eliminating "play" in the sliding miter table. Although the movement is not great, it is enough to result in my cuts being out of square by a small amount.
I have tried to adjust the slides that allow the miter table to move on the base as outlined in the manual but I cannot eliminate the side to side movement. It is possible that these slides have worn, but my 5 year old BT3100 does not get heavy use.
I'd be grateful for any ideas. Thanks.

[steve-norrell]

I recently had to replace the SMT slides after I found out the SMT does not like being dropped on the concrete floor. I had little trouble adjusting them after making sure that they were properly positioned so the table could freely slide (there is a lip on the slide that has to fit in a slot created by Slide A and Slide B).

If you are satisfied that the slides and the bolts that hold the slides in alignment are properly adjusted (Parts Diagram #20, 25, 28, 33) then check the parts that align and hold the SMT to the rails (Parts Diagram #15 [Guide Bar] and the miter locking clamp mechanisms). Make sure they are not loose.

I am sure that others will also have suggestions. Good luck, Steve

[Black wallnut]

Keep in mind that you can turn the slides 180° and keep using them. There are two wear surfaces designed into them.

[steve-norrell]

Keep in mind that you can turn the slides 180° and keep using them. There are two wear surfaces designed into them.

Good point.

However, when mine broke I couldn't figure out how to glue all those little itty bitty pieces back together. Kind of like "all the king's horses, and all the king's men".

Regards, Steve

[Uncle Cracker]

Yup, if the cams are fully adjusted inward, then you got at least one with a flat spot, or some other component problem. Do as Wallnut suggests and turn 'em around and reinstall.

[WayneS]

Thanks for your help. I turned the slides around and presto, was able to snug up nicely so that the slide moves easily but there is no excess play.
Proving once again, when you need help, ask someone who knows!

[chopnhack]

Good question, I had almost given up on the smt. I have never really used it much and when I did, I wasted a piece of ply when the darn smt gave me a tapered cut instead of a nice square piece. I will look into adjusting those cams too!
Thanks.