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if you have the Delta 36-725 table saw, you are aware that they have yet to make an insert for dado blades.

I decided to build a dado sled to help with that issue. This sled will accommodate up to a 20" width board. While it doesn't solve the problem of long "vertical" dados, it does at least take care of shelves and the like. I am making an entertainment center, so all of my dados are cut front to back, or laterally.

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I am thinking about getting this saw. Read the reviews about insert. I had the same answer. I use sled for cross cuts, and I have one for miter. Why not for dado?

Current saw does not have arbor length to take a dado blade.
 

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It will accommodate up to 3/4" from what I can tell. I am cutting 11/16" on my current project. I absolutely love the saw. I made a folding outfeed table based on a design by The Wood Whisperer. The fence on the saw is phenomenal!
 

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Thanks for feedback… Need to make some room first and run some added power in garage.
 

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By the way. You wrote "Dewalt". But isn't that a Delta model?
 

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With no intent on being rude or ignorant but is there any reason for not being able to make your own insert for this saw? Is the opening designed in such a way as to make it difficult? I only ask as I have a delta contractor style saw and make my own inserts. Again, not trying to be 'saucy' here :)

Cheers!
 

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No offense at all!! I expected the question in fact! While it is possible to make my own insert, the design of the opening makes it tough. Hard to explain, but the adjustment screws for insert are designed in such a way that you adjust them through the insert. It is something I have been pondering about, and when I get some free time, I will try to accomplish that.
 

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If you can, snap a close up pic of the insert opening in the table saw. I'm sure we'd all be more than willing to help out with suggestions if needed. Cheers!
 

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I make my zero clearance and dado blade inserts for my Delta Unisaw. I use the original as a pattern (stuck to 1/2 inch baltic birch plywood with double sided tape) and rough cut it on a band saw. Then I use a pattern (or flush cut) router bit and use it to follow the shape of the original thatʻs stuck to the BBP.

As for the adjustment/leveling screws … I just use 4 small brass wood screws and screw them in from the bottom. You only have to adjust them once so doing it from the bottom is not that much of a bother. Hope this gives you some ideas of how you could make dado blade inserts.

BTW … you can go back and edit your project posting and correct the typo (DeWalt to Delta).
 

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I make my zero clearance and dado blade inserts for my Delta Unisaw. I use the original as a pattern (stuck to 1/2 inch baltic birch plywood with double sided tape) and rough cut it on a band saw. Then I use a pattern (or flush cut) router bit and use it to follow the shape of the original thatʻs stuck to the BBP.

As for the adjustment/leveling screws … I just use 4 small brass wood screws and screw them in from the bottom. You only have to adjust them once so doing it from the bottom is not that much of a bother. Hope this gives you some ideas of how you could make dado blade inserts.

BTW … you can go back and edit your project posting and correct the typo (DeWalt to Delta).

- tyvekboy
Thx!! One problem is I can't get Baltic Birch out here in Ca. I will edit as well. Thx for help and suggestions sir!!
 

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The biggest problem is that the thickness of the insert is barely an 1/8 of an inch and there isn't a material I know of strong enough (other than metal) to use. I've been trying to come up with a design myself but haven't been successful.
 

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That is the other problem I didn't address was the thickness. I don't think I can use my planer to get as thin as the insert needs to be
 

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Many of us have the problem with newer contractor job site saws, then these hybrids do the same now and use thin steel for insert. I tried plexiglass, but it shattered after few cuts. Second problem is to get a insert to fasten to the table top. Cheaply made, but hard on the woodworker. And, Delta nor anyone else makes insert for this saw.
 

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Hey, thanks NKAWTG for the insert post. Lowes did not have this back in June. But at $54, I think I would like to make a zero clearance.
 
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