DeWalt Planer: Woodworking Techniques & Maintenance

The DeWalt planer serves various woodworking tasks, including surface preparation, thickness adjustments, and edge truing, that need specific techniques for optimal utilization. The initial step involves understanding the planer’s components, like the blades and depth settings, ensuring the tool operates efficiently and safely. Mastering the correct methods for operating a DeWalt planer not only enhances project quality but also prolongs the tool’s lifespan with proper maintenance procedures.

Contents

Unleash Your Inner Woodworker: The DeWalt Planer – Your Path to Perfection!

Ever dreamt of transforming rough, unruly lumber into surfaces so smooth they rival a baby’s bottom? The DeWalt planer is your secret weapon! Think of it as the unsung hero in every woodworker’s arsenal, capable of turning even the most stubborn piece of wood into a masterpiece of dimension and smoothness.

DeWalt has earned a stellar reputation for crafting tools that are both dependable and accurate, and their planers are no exception. We’re talking about machines that are built to last, with the precision to make your woodworking projects shine.

Now, DeWalt offers a lineup of fantastic planers. The DW735, the DW734, and the DW733, each with its own unique set of features and strengths. Think of the DW735 as the muscle car of the group, boasting a two-speed gearbox, fan-assisted chip ejection, and three-knife cutterhead, ready to tackle even the most demanding projects. The DW734 strikes a sweet balance between power and portability, making it a great all-around choice. The DW733 offers a more compact design, perfectly suited for smaller workshops or those just starting their woodworking journey. Finding the right one depends on your needs and workspace, don’t worry, we’ll help you on your woodworking journey!

But hold on a second! Before you dive headfirst into a pile of lumber, remember that safety is paramount. Power tools are no joke, and a little knowledge goes a long way. Proper training and a healthy respect for the machine are essential for a safe and enjoyable woodworking experience. Think of your planer as a powerful ally, but one that demands respect.

So, what are we going to cover? Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a woodworking adventure! We’ll explore everything from setting up your workspace and mastering essential planing techniques to fine-tuning your planer for optimal results, troubleshooting common issues, and, of course, staying safe every step of the way. Get ready to transform your woodworking dreams into reality!

Setting the Stage: Essential Equipment and Workspace Setup

Alright, so you’ve got your shiny new DeWalt planer (or maybe it’s not so new, but still shiny in your heart!), but hold up! Before you start feeding prized lumber through that beast, let’s talk about prepping your workspace. Think of it like setting the mood for a good date – you wouldn’t show up to a fancy restaurant in your pajamas, would you? (Okay, maybe on a really bad day, but I digress!). Similarly, a well-organized and equipped workspace is essential for getting the best results from your planer and, more importantly, staying safe.

Infeed/Outfeed Tables: Support is Key!

Imagine trying to walk a tightrope without a net, or… well, a tightrope! That’s what it’s like trying to plane long boards without proper support. Infeed and outfeed tables act as that safety net, keeping your lumber level and preventing those dreaded snipe marks at the beginning and end of each pass.

The benefit? They keep your workpieces from teetering, ensuring consistent thickness and reducing the chance of the board tipping into the blades before it’s ready.
Pro-Tip: Take the time to adjust and align your infeed/outfeed tables perfectly with the planer bed. We’re talking laser-beam precision here (or at least, as close as you can get with a ruler and a bit of elbow grease). This is critical for avoiding snipe and getting that glass-smooth finish we all crave.

Dust Collection System: Breathe Easy!

Let’s be real: Planers create a TON of dust. We’re talking more than a small sandbox. And breathing in that stuff is no fun for anyone, especially if you want to continue woodworking until retirement! A good dust collection system isn’t just a luxury; it’s a health necessity.

Hook It Up: Connect your shop vac or dust collector to the planer’s dust port.
Gear Up: Use appropriate hoses, adapters, and dust bags that are designed for the volume of dust a planer kicks out. A standard vacuum cleaner bag probably won’t cut it. You need heavy-duty protection.

Safety Gear: Protecting Yourself is Priority Number One!

Okay, people, listen up! This isn’t optional. Wearing safety gear when operating a planer is non-negotiable. Think of it as your superhero armor against rogue wood chips and deafening noise.

Hearing Protection: Plugs or muffs, take your pick, but protect your ears. Planers are loud, and prolonged exposure can lead to permanent hearing damage. Trust me on this one.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield are essential. Flying debris can cause serious eye injuries, and nobody wants a splinter in their eyeball (shudder!).
Dust Mask/Respirator: Even with a dust collection system, some fine particles will escape. A dust mask or respirator will filter out those nasties and keep your lungs happy.

Measuring Tools: Accuracy is Key!

You can’t achieve precision without precise measurement. Ditch the “eyeballing” approach and arm yourself with the following:

Calipers: For ultra-precise thickness measurements.
Rulers: For general measurements.
Measuring Tape: For larger dimensions.
Thickness Gauges: To quickly check the thickness of your boards.

Wrenches/Allen Wrenches & Screwdrivers: The Maintenance Crew

These seemingly simple tools are your best friends when it comes to blade changes, adjustments, and general maintenance. Keep a set handy in your workspace.

Push Sticks/Paddles: Keeping Your Fingers Safe!

Get a Grip: Always use push sticks or paddles to feed shorter pieces of wood through the planer. This keeps your hands a safe distance from the blades.
Practice Proper Form: A good grip and controlled movement are key.

So, there you have it! With the right equipment and a properly set up workspace, you’re well on your way to mastering the DeWalt planer and creating beautiful, dimensioned lumber. Now get out there and make some sawdust! (Safely, of course!)

3. Wood Preparation: Setting the Stage for Planing Success

Alright, future woodworking wizards, before you even think about firing up that DeWalt planer, let’s talk lumber. Picking the right wood and prepping it correctly is like laying the foundation for a skyscraper – skip this step, and you’re just asking for trouble (and a whole lot of wasted wood!).

#### Wood Selection: Choosing Your Champion

Not all wood is created equal, my friends. Choosing the right type is crucial. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t enter a chihuahua in a weightlifting competition, right? Similarly, you need to match the wood to the job.

Hardness: Some woods are as tough as nails (literally, they can make nailing difficult!). Others are softer than a baby’s bottom. Hardwoods like oak and maple are great for furniture that needs to withstand a beating, while softwoods like pine are easier to work with for projects like trim or shelving.
Grain: The grain pattern isn’t just for looks (although it is pretty!). Straight grain is generally easier to plane than wild, swirling grain. Plus, different grain patterns can affect how the wood takes stain and finish.
Stability: Wood moves. It expands and contracts with changes in humidity, and if you’re not careful, your meticulously planed masterpiece could warp and twist like a pretzel. Look for wood that’s been properly dried (kiln-dried is best) to minimize movement.

Wood Species Spotlight!
Pine: The friendly neighborhood softwood. Affordable, easy to work with, but dents easily.
Oak: The strong and sturdy type. Durable, beautiful grain, but can be a bear to plane.
Maple: The smooth operator. Fine grain, takes finishes beautifully, but can be prone to burning if you’re not careful.
Walnut: The sophisticated one. Rich color, gorgeous grain, but expensive.

Wood Inspection: Be a Lumber Detective

Before you feed your precious wood into the jaws of the planer, take a close look. You’re searching for clues that could spell disaster for your project (and your planer blades!).
Knots: These are like little roadblocks in the wood’s grain. Loose knots can pop out during planing, leaving ugly holes. Avoid wood with loose or excessive knots if you can.
Nails/Screws: The ultimate planer blade killers! Run a metal detector over the wood (or just be really thorough with your eyes) to make sure there are no hidden metal surprises lurking inside. Even a tiny brad nail can ruin your day (and your blades).

So, there you have it! By carefully selecting the right wood for your project and giving it a thorough inspection, you’re setting yourself up for planing success. Now, let’s move on to the fun part – making those boards perfectly smooth and flat!

Mastering the Basics: Essential Planing Techniques

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of actually using that DeWalt planer of yours. It’s not just about feeding wood in and hoping for the best; there’s a bit of finesse involved. Think of it like learning to dance – a few basic steps and you’ll be gliding across that wood in no time!

Planing Overview

So, what is planing all about? At its core, it’s a controlled shaving process. The planer’s spinning blades take off thin layers of wood, turning that rough, uneven board into a smooth, flat, and dimensionally accurate piece. It’s like giving your lumber a spa day, but instead of cucumbers, it gets sharp steel!

Thicknessing

This is where the magic happens. Thicknessing is the process of making a board a specific, uniform thickness.
* First, set the desired thickness on your planer.
* Then, feed the board through, taking light passes each time.
* Finally, repeat until you reach your target. Think of it as whittling, but with a powerful motor and consistent results.

Surfacing

Got a gnarly, rough board? Surfacing is your answer. It’s all about creating a perfectly flat face on one side of the wood. This is usually the first step before thicknessing, giving you a reliable reference point. Remember, patience is key; take light cuts and let the planer do the work.

Jointing (Edge Jointing)

Ever tried gluing two boards together only to find a giant gap in the middle? Edge jointing is the solution! It’s about creating a perfectly straight and square edge so that boards can be glued together seamlessly. You can achieve this by using a jointer (obviously!), but you can use your planer in a pinch by building a simple jig. There are tons of tutorials online.

Straightening

Wood isn’t always cooperative. Sometimes, it warps and twists like a pretzel. Straightening is the art of coaxing that wood back into shape. It involves carefully removing material to flatten out the warp or twist. This might require multiple passes and a keen eye, but the result is well worth the effort.

Snipe Reduction

Ah, snipe – the bane of every planer’s existence! Snipe refers to those annoying little dips at the beginning and end of a board. What causes it? It happens when the board isn’t fully supported as it enters and exits the planer.

The easiest solution? Infeed and outfeed tables.
Another trick? Sacrifice board. Feed an extra piece of wood before and after your workpiece.

Blade Changing

Those blades won’t stay sharp forever. Eventually, you’ll need to swap them out.
* Always disconnect the power first.
* Refer to your planer’s manual for specific instructions.
* Invest in high-quality replacement blades to keep your planer performing at its best. After all, sharp blades are happy blades!

Dust Collection

Let’s be honest, planing creates a mountain of sawdust.
* Connect your planer to a dust collection system to keep your workspace clean and your lungs happy.
* If you don’t have a full system, a shop vac works wonders.
* Always wear a dust mask or respirator, even with dust collection, to protect yourself from fine particles.

Machine Maintenance

Treat your planer right, and it’ll treat you right.
* Regular cleaning (removing dust and debris) is essential.
* Lubricate moving parts as needed.
* Inspect belts, rollers, and other components for wear and tear.
* A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your planer running smoothly for years to come.

Fine-Tuning Performance: Adjustments for Optimal Results

So, you’ve got your DeWalt planer humming along, ready to transform rough lumber into woodworking gold. But did you know that tweaking a few settings can take your results from good to absolutely stunning? It’s like turning up the volume on a favorite song or adding that perfect ingredient to a dish. Let’s dive into the adjustments that’ll help you unlock your planer’s full potential!

Depth of Cut: How Deep Should You Go?

Think of the depth of cut as how much “bite” your planer takes with each pass. Going too deep can strain the motor and lead to a rough, uneven surface. The general rule is: less is more. Lighter cuts are almost always better!

Softwoods: For softies like pine, a cut of 1/16″ or less is ideal.
Hardwoods: With dense woods like oak or maple, stick to 1/32″ or even less for that silky smooth finish.

Experiment! Start with a shallow cut and gradually increase until you find the sweet spot for your particular wood. This also depends on the condition of your blade. Newer blades can generally handle deeper cuts.

Feed Rate: Speed Matters

The feed rate controls how quickly the wood is fed through the planer. A slower feed rate generally results in a smoother surface, especially on hardwoods. A faster feed rate can save time but might lead to more tearout or a less refined finish. Most planers will have auto feed rate controls, for the Dewalt 735 Model, it has two speeds.

Consider these points:

For Finish: Slow feed rates are great when the goal is to achieve an amazing finish on the wood.
For Roughing: Fast feed rates are ideal for removing material quickly when the smoothness of the surface is not the highest priority.

Infeed/Outfeed Table Height Adjustment: Supporting Your Success

Imagine trying to walk a tightrope without any support – that’s what it’s like to plane long boards without properly adjusted infeed/outfeed tables! These tables provide crucial support, preventing the wood from dipping at the ends and causing that dreaded snipe.

Alignment is Key: The goal is to have the tables perfectly aligned with the planer bed. Use a straight edge to check for any dips or humps.
Slightly Higher: Some woodworkers prefer to set the tables ever-so-slightly higher than the bed to provide even more support and prevent snipe.

Repeatability Stop: Consistent Thickness Every Time

Ever needed several boards with the exact same thickness? That’s where the repeatability stop comes in handy. This feature allows you to set a specific thickness and then consistently plane boards to that dimension.

Lock it In: Once you’ve found the perfect setting, lock the stop in place to prevent accidental changes.
Test Run: Always do a test run on a scrap piece of wood to ensure the thickness is accurate before planing your final pieces.

By mastering these adjustments, you’ll be well on your way to achieving professional-quality results with your DeWalt planer! Happy planing!

Safety First: Minimizing Risks and Preventing Accidents

Okay, folks, let’s talk safety! I know, I know, it’s not the most exciting part of woodworking, but trust me, it’s the most important. We want to keep all ten fingers, both eyes, and our hearing intact so we can keep creating amazing things. Think of safety as your woodworking superpower – it protects you from the dark side of power tools! So always remember to prioritize safety!

Kickback: When the Wood Fights Back

Imagine this: You’re feeding a piece of lumber into your planer, everything seems fine, and then BAM! The wood suddenly gets launched back at you like a rogue missile. That’s kickback, and it’s no fun. It happens when the blades grab the wood aggressively, usually due to incorrect feeding or trying to take too big of a bite.

How to prevent it:

Never try to plane wood that’s shorter than the distance between the infeed and outfeed rollers.
Always feed the wood in the direction of the grain.
Take shallow cuts. Don’t be greedy!
Use push sticks or paddles to keep your hands away from the cutter head.

Loose Knots: Nature’s Little Surprises (That Aren’t)

Knots are a natural part of wood, but loose knots are a recipe for disaster. These little guys can pop out during planing, turning into high-speed projectiles. Not cool.

What to do:

Inspect your lumber carefully before planing.
If you find a loose knot, try to stabilize it with epoxy or wood glue.
As a last resort, work around the knot by adjusting your planing strategy or choosing a different piece of wood.

Grain Direction: Go With the Flow (of the Wood)

Wood grain isn’t just for looks; it also dictates how the wood behaves when being cut. Planing against the grain can lead to tearout (ugly splintering) and, you guessed it, kickback.

The key:

Always plane with the grain. It might take a little practice to spot the grain direction consistently, but it’s worth it.
If you’re unsure, take a very light test pass and see which way the wood fibers are lifting.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Your Woodworking Armor

Think of PPE as your superhero suit for the workshop. It’s not optional; it’s essential.

Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield are non-negotiable. Wood chips flying into your eyes? No thanks.
Hearing Protection: Planers are loud. Like, really loud. Earplugs or earmuffs will save your ears from long-term damage.
Dust Mask/Respirator: Wood dust is nasty stuff. A dust mask or respirator will keep those fine particles out of your lungs.

Machine Guarding: Don’t Mess With the Shield

Planers come with safety guards for a reason: to protect you from the spinning blades. It’s tempting to remove them for “better visibility,” but that’s a HUGE mistake.

Remember:

Always keep the guards in place and properly adjusted.
If a guard is damaged or missing, replace it immediately.

Lockout/Tagout: Power Down Before You Tinker

Whenever you’re performing maintenance, changing blades, or making adjustments, disconnect the power. This is called lockout/tagout, and it prevents accidental start-ups that could lead to serious injury.

How to do it:

Unplug the planer from the outlet.
If your planer has a power switch with a lockout feature, use it.
Never rely on the power switch alone. Always unplug.

There you have it! You’ve got a better grasp of how to keep yourself safe while using a planer. Remember that safety is an ongoing process, so never stop learning and refining your techniques.

Troubleshooting: Solving Common Planer Problems – Don’t Panic, We’ve All Been There!

Okay, so you’re humming along, feeding lumber through your DeWalt planer like a champ, and suddenly…BAM! Something’s not quite right. Don’t sweat it! Every woodworker, from the weekend warrior to the seasoned pro, runs into snags. This section is your “Planer Problem Solver,” a friendly guide to getting back on track.

Snipe: The Case of the Mysterious Dip
- Identifying the Culprit: Snipe is that annoying little dip you find at the beginning or end of your board, like the planer took a tiny nibble. It happens when the workpiece isn’t fully supported as it enters or exits the machine.
- The Fix:
  - Infeed/Outfeed Tables are Your Best Friends: Make sure they are level with the planer bed.
  - “Sacrificial” Piece: Feed a piece of scrap wood right behind the actual workpiece you want to plane. The snipe occurs on the scrap, keeping the workpiece clean.
  - Lift-Off Technique: Gently lift the board at the end of the cut, as it exits the planer, to keep it from dipping. This requires practice, but it can minimize snipe.
Tearout: When Good Grain Goes Bad
- Understanding the Enemy: Tearout is when the planer blades grab chunks of wood against the grain, leaving a splintered, unsightly mess.
- The Prevention Plan:
  - Grain Direction is Key: Always feed the wood with the grain. If you’re not sure, experiment on a scrap piece.
  - Shallow Cuts Save the Day: Reduce the depth of cut. Sometimes, a more gradual approach is best.
  - Sharp Blades are Non-Negotiable: Dull blades are far more likely to cause tearout.
Uneven Thickness: The Wobbling Wood
- Tracking Down the Issue: Is one side thicker than the other? This usually points to a problem with the planer’s setup or your technique.
- The Solution:
  - Check the Planer Bed: Make sure it’s clean and free of debris.
  - Consistent Feed Pressure: Apply even pressure as you feed the wood through the planer.
  - Double-Check Your Measurements: Sometimes, it’s just a case of misreading your calipers or ruler.
Motor Overload: The Grumbling Gears
- What’s Happening: Your planer starts to sound like it’s struggling, or worse, it shuts down completely. This is usually caused by trying to remove too much material at once.
- The Prevention Plan:
  - Take It Easy: Reduce the depth of cut. Small, incremental passes are better than one big, stressful one.
  - Give It a Break: If you’re planing a lot of wood, let the motor cool down periodically.
  - Ensure Adequate Power Supply: Use correct gauge extension cord, which is a heavy-duty extension cord that can handle high amperage.
Blade Dullness: The Sign of the Times
- Recognizing the Symptoms: The planer is struggling to cut, leaving a rough or fuzzy surface.
- The Remedy:
  - Time for a Change: Replace those dull blades. This is the most common cause of poor planing results.
  - Invest in Quality: High-quality replacement blades will last longer and give you a better finish.
Chip Marks: Those Pesky Little Dents
- Identifying the Culprit: These are small indentations on the wood surface, caused by chips getting caught between the blade and the wood.
- The Solution:
  - Dust Collection is Your Friend: Ensure efficient dust collection to remove chips quickly.
  - Clean the Bed: Regularly clean the planer bed to prevent chip buildup.
  - Slow Down: A slightly slower feed rate can help the dust collection keep up and prevent chip marks.

So, there you have it! Armed with these tips, you’re well on your way to mastering your DeWalt planer. Get out there, practice on some scrap wood, and watch those rough boards transform into smooth, beautiful surfaces. Happy planing!