Alum stock to fit my T slots

[WCicotte]

I am wanting to make a sled for my TS but my T slots measure 3/4 x 5/8 x 1/4 deep I have several catalogs from sply houses but none that list material of the size I need. Can anyone tell me where I might obtain some?

[cgallery]

Most sleds have rectangular runners (they don't conform to the "T" shape). So you'd make a runner that is 5/8 x 1/4". I'd suggest just using wood or UHMW plastic.

[Uncle Cracker]

Agree with the previous post, but if aluminum (or just about anything else) is what you want, McMaster-Carr should have it.

[steve-norrell]

I have made runners to ride in the miter slots from UHMW. I used 3/4 sheets (as from Woodcraft or Rockler) and cut to size. You probably will want them a "shade or two" higher than the depth of the slot. Works great and, with a little wax in the slot and they move quite nicely.

Similarly, they can be cut for t-slots using 1/4 inch UHMW.

Only problem: sometimes the thickness of the UHMW is not consistent and some binding occurs. The wax and a little sanding helps.

[LCHIEN]

I have made runners to ride in the miter slots from UHMW. I used 3/4 sheets (as from Woodcraft or Rockler) and cut to size. You probably will want them a "shade or two" higher than the depth of the slot. Works great and, with a little wax in the slot and they move quite nicely.

Similarly, they can be cut for t-slots using 1/4 inch UHMW.

Only problem: sometimes the thickness of the UHMW is not consistent and some binding occurs. The wax and a little sanding helps.

After you make the UHMW runners, the you attach some washers of an appropriate diameter to serve as your t-slot retainers, attaching them with short machine-thread FH screws.

[steve-norrell]

After you make the UHMW runners, the you attach some washers of an appropriate diameter to serve as your t-slot retainers, attaching them with short machine-thread FH screws.

A great idea, as usual, from Loren. This is actually quite important as it will prevent the sled, or other jig, from "tipping out" at either end of the table. Just be careful to countersink the screw head and the washers so they don't rub on the bottom of the slot.

Regards, Steve