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13" Ridgid Planer sniping problem

10K views 14 replies 12 participants last post by  gfadvm 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have a 13" Ridgid Planer, and consistently find snipes at the end (last 3 inches or so) of my boards. I have been living with-this like a golfer adapting to his slice-by trying to plane entire 8'-10' boards first before rough cutting them down to a more workable length.

Does anyone have any advice on how to fix the actual problem?
 
#3 ·
+1 on NiteWalker's advice.

Also helps if you support the ends of longer boards … especially on the outfeed side. I use roller stands on both sides if the board is over 4' or so in length.
 
#4 ·
I have the Ridgid 13" planer. If the infeed or outfeed tables are off the slightest, you'll get sniping.

I made a shop cart with adjustable outfeed arms that works great. If I get any snipe, I just readjust the level and snipe is gonzo! The cart is in my projects if you're interested in my solution.
 
#5 ·
Snipe happens when the end of the board farthest from the cutters is lower than it should be. Infeed or outfeed. If you're sniping at the trailing end of the board, then the leading end has dropped too low by the time the trailing end is exiting the cutters. If you're sniping at the leading end, then the trailing end is too low as you start your feed.
 
#8 · (Edited by Moderator)
Tootch,
Here is the infeed/outfeed table I made that pretty much eliminates sniping. Do remember that the shorter the board, the greater the chance for sniping and I occasionally still will get some sniping. Staggering pieces side-to-side and slightly over-lapping also helps stop the snipe. Regardless of the length of the table, adjusting infeed and outfeed angles is an important step as Nightwalker points out.

For perspective do notice that the overall length of the combined table is 'longer' than the 8ft length of the base. I actually used this to plane my 3"x12"x90" workbench top halves successfully.

http://lumberjocks.com/projects/34959
 
#10 ·
Holy cow! thanks to all of yinz for these tips. I am a new member and this is my first post-I'm absolutely blown away by how many of you are willing to share ideas. Good to know I'm not alone!!

is there an adjustment on the machine itself to raise the infeed/outfeed table? I bought this used and the manual wasn't part of the deal…
 
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