Al's Blog at LumberJocks.com

Blind nailer.........where to buy?

Al — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:35:28 GMT

I recently read about a technique called “blind nailing” and thought I’d invest in the process and tool except I can’t find the tool. I checked in with Coastal and Tools Plus but they don’t carry it. Any suggestions? Thanks Al

Screen door and joinery

Al — Thu, 14 May 2009 18:37:39 GMT

Hi again LJ’s. I recently constructed a screen door. I really enjoyed my first attempt at M&T joinery. The plans call for me to reinforce the joints with hardwood dowels. I am at a point where this is my next step but I’m not sure I want to do this unless it is necessary. I believe I did a good job with the glue coverage and clamping so I’m actually looking for reasons not to peg this door to death. (16 pegs) However, if I need to I will. A little guidance from you always gets me going in the right direction. Thanks for you expertise. Al

Mortise & Tenon question............need some advise

Al — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 01:34:17 GMT

As I embarked on my new addiction of woodworking, I spent the winter months orginizing my small workshop and built some jigs for future use. From plans, I built a pretty cool tenonning jig from PlansNow and put it to the test this past weekend with good results. However, when reviewing the plans, the mortise dimensions are a bit longer than the tenons. Is that a technical reason to help with the fit or am I doing somthing wrong? Since the tenons are already cut, I sure would like to use them “as is” if possible. The mortises (spelling ?) have not been started. However, logic tells me that the mortise and tenon should be a perfect fit. Thanks again for your support. Al

Hitachi drill.........new drill or new battery

Al — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 01:35:27 GMT

I have a 14 volt Hitachi drill ( about 4 years old). Latley the charge does not hold and I assume it’s the battery life going rather than the drill itself. Since this is my first battery operated drill I’m not sure which is the problem. My instincts tells me it’s the battery…................your input is always well received. Thanks for all your past help. Al

I NEED a replacement fence......Craftsman table saw

Al — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:27:52 GMT

Although my saw is fine, my fence always left a lot to be desired and now it’s just awful. While seraching for a replacement I found that most fences are worth almost as much as the saw or more. As a hobbyist, I’m hoping to resolve my fence issue within reason (under $200 if possible). You have always come up with a solution so….... I will go to the well once again. Thanks, Al

Router Table in need of switch...need help

Al — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 22:27:48 GMT

I recently built a router table and base. (great fun) However I’m trying to determine the best way to adapt a switch for convenience. A friend suggested an in-line switch but I’m not crazy about that idea. I was thinking of mounting a box with a combination plug outlet/switch to plug the router into and use a replacement cord that ties everything together and plug that into a outlet. What do you think??? Also, do they make after market switches like those on tablesaws? Thanks for your help again. Al

Dado Blades

Al — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 22:50:45 GMT

Greetings…....Need some basic advise. I have a 10” table saw and need to buy a dado blade. If I only need to make 1/2’’ groove, (and is there ever a real need to go that much deeper) is a 6” blade acceptable or should I get an 8” blade? Thanks. Al

Crosscutting Vs. ripping

Al — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 21:54:54 GMT

After getting my tablesaw up to snuf including a new saw blade (DeWalt 10” 60 tooth carbide) and labeled as “precision trim”, I find it to be great when cross cutting but lacks a bit when ripping. I thought this blade would cut both ways without a problem. Is there a good combo version I could purchase or is it best to have 2 seperate blades and plan my cuts accordingly. As always, Thanks. Al

Dust Collection Unit.......Suggestions please!!

Al — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 21:41:09 GMT

As I continue to develop my woodworking hobby, it has become obvious that I need a dust collection system. My current work area is in my basement and covers approx. 400 sq feet (small). I plan on expanding it to 1000sq ft but not right away, so we’ll stay with the 400 sq ft for now. I need suggestions regarding the brand and type of unit to purchase. Budget is probably under $600 as I have surfed and saw price ranges. Thanks as always for your advise. Al

Jig saw loser!!

Al — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 23:49:00 GMT

Hi again. I’m in need of a good jig saw. As a newcomer to this, I seem to get the saws that just don’t give me a cut that is true, (uneven sloppy type cuts…or maybe it’s just me).......anyway, any recomendations. I don’t want a B&D but I don’t want to break the bank. Looking for some thoughts. Thanks