Accessory table broken already

[Tom H]

Almost done putting the 21829 together, and....when I tightened the knob on the accessory table, one of the small slots that secures it to the front rail broke. This is a very thin piece of metal, and it looks like the torque created from turning the knob was too much.

It looks like this wouldn't matter if all I used the accessory table for was cutting surface for large pieces...not sure how it would affect the router as I have never used one. It definitely causes the accessory table to lay askew.

The set-up manual says that there is a miter slot on each side of the blade, and explains the appropriate situations in which to use the left or right side miter slot. Are the slots on the accessory table the miter slots? If so, is the statement in the manual that there is a miter slot on each side of the blade assuming that the user will move the accessory table from one side of the blade to the other depending on the desired type of cut?

I've looked at the forums and searched "how to use miter gauge." No complete answer that I could find, but it looks like the original BTs didn't come with a miter gauge or miter slot, as the SMT took care of that need, and the miter gauge which is included with the 21829 was an add-on or after market accessory for the BTs. Is this correct?

If the accessory table is what you use with the miter gauge, any cuts would be way off with the way the damaged accessory table lays on the rails. I'll be bringing the accessory table to Sears today to ask for a replacement either way.

[ofna89]

I also have a 21829 which is 1 week old but didnt have any problems with the assembly. I think you are correct with putting the table on either side of the blade, also I would think with that piece being broken it would effect the miter cuts.

[Popeye]

Take it back or get Sears to get you a new table. Pat

[Ken Weaver]

What Pat said - you don't want to start out with it not right, they should stand by it.

[gjat]

Almost done putting the 21829 together, and....when I tightened the knob on the accessory table, one of the small slots that secures it to the front rail broke. This is a very thin piece of metal, and it looks like the torque created from turning the knob was too much.

It looks like this wouldn't matter if all I used the accessory table for was cutting surface for large pieces...not sure how it would affect the router as I have never used one. It definitely causes the accessory table to lay askew.

I'd take it back. That shouldn't have happened, even from 'operator' error. At least exchange the accessory table. You would not want it falling out while cutting.

The set-up manual says that there is a miter slot on each side of the blade, and explains the appropriate situations in which to use the left or right side miter slot. Are the slots on the accessory table the miter slots? If so, is the statement in the manual that there is a miter slot on each side of the blade assuming that the user will move the accessory table from one side of the blade to the other depending on the desired type of cut?

I'd have to see your accessory table. The miter slots are approx. 5/8" wide. Yes, it could be moved to each side of the blade. Most traditional use is to the left.

I've looked at the forums and searched "how to use miter gauge." No complete answer that I could find, but it looks like the original BTs didn't come with a miter gauge or miter slot, as the SMT took care of that need, and the miter gauge which is included with the 21829 was an add-on or after market accessory for the BTs. Is this correct?

The miter guage is un-needed on the BT's, but miter slot table is sold as an add-on. There is NOTHING that the BT should safely do that requires a miter slot. The Fence and SMT will handle it. However, there are circumstances that the miter slot MAY be preferable.

If the accessory table is what you use with the miter gauge, any cuts would be way off with the way the damaged accessory table lays on the rails. I'll be bringing the accessory table to Sears today to ask for a replacement either way.

Good luck. Stop by Barnes and Nobles and pick up a good book on table-saw basics. Though I've gotten my questions answered by the experienced people here, sometimes it's more convenient to have a book with you to read and look at diagrams while out in the garage. Cutting off a finger has got to hurt.

[rlah]

Almost done putting the 21829 together, and....when I tightened the knob on the accessory table, one of the small slots that secures it to the front rail broke. This is a very thin piece of metal, and it looks like the torque created from turning the knob was too much.

While working on my 21829 recently, I noticed the lever to tighten the accessory table didn't want to tighten properly... so I looked underneath and found the plastic part was deformed because apparently I didn't have the accessory table all the way down in the front rail a previous time and so the plastic deformed against the side of the rail instead of allowing the cam action to work properly... but at least my table piece did not break like yours... you might look at the plastic part to see if it has deformed a bit... you may need to replace it as well.

rlah

[ofna89]

I would look at getting a book on ts also. Last night I picked one up at Rockler called The Complete Table Saw Book. 288 pages of great info. Also if there is a Rockler in your area they are offering 40% off all of their books until monday. Good luck.

[Tom H]

Sears exchanged the accessory table with no hassle. The few cuts I've made seem to be OK, and the accessory table feels like it fits securely.

No Rockler in my neck of the woods, but I've got a Borders gift card and a book to exchange, and a book on table saw basics seems to be in order, as you suggest.

Thanks guys

Tom