Trouble w/Rigid Jointer or Me?

[Bob Webb]

Finally got around to using my Rigid 6" jointer for the first time.

Made the first pass with a piece of pine and nothing was removed. Noticed the infeed table set at "0". Lowered it to about 1/16" and made another pass. Just a little was removed from the first 1" of the board but nothing after that. Lowered to 1/8" and it removed more but not the entire length.

Anyone have any idea what is going on?

Thanks for the help.

[Hellrazor]

Get a 3' or longer level and check the level of the whole work top.

[gary]

This could be technique, setup or both. First make sure the outfeed table is even with the blades at the top of their arc. Unplug the jointer so you can rotate the cutterhead to verify it. You can use a straightedge to verify it. Goal is to get within 0.001" - I use a dial gauge with magnetic base to set mine.

Now for technique, you need to put downward pressure on the outfeed table side as soon as enough stock gets there. Are you keeping pressure on the infeed too long?

I always leave my jointer set to 1/32" cut. Ignore the gauge - set the infeed table 1/32" below the outfeed table which should be set to the blades.

SAFETY
1. Don't press down over the cutterhead. If the piece kicks, your hands will go into the cutter.
2. Use push pads - this does not remove rule 1 above.

[Tom Hintz]

First, it is not uncommon for the jointer to remove wood from just a small area at first. That contact area will grow with each pass as the edge gets straighter.
The jointer is one of the harder to use tools in the shop, though it doesn't look like it. Technique is crucial and takes some practice. I have a story on the jointer at the link below with photos and video that might be of some help. Just be very sure you are using the proper technique BEFORE trying to adjust the jointer!

http://www.newwoodworker.com/basic/usejntr.html

[Bruce Cohen]

Hey Bob,

Considering you live in Texas, maybe you're close to Loring. Try inviting him over and ply him with food and huge amounts of Barbecue and Lone Star Beer.

Then have him set up the Jointer for you.

Bruce