Making A Phenolic Tabel Saw Insert

[Jeff Walters]

Hi All,

I have an old Craftsaman table saw that I want to create some Zero Clearance Inserts for and was told the best way to go is using a Phenolic material. However I am finding that there are all kinds of them with different grades. I am thinking that the material made form paper and canvas woudl be the best however the more I read the more confused I get.

Can anyone shed any light on what is the best grade and type to use? Also wouldn't mind a good tip on where to purchase at a decent price.

Thanks,
Jeff Walters :)

[Cary Falk]

I bought a 2 pack of blanks from Rockler. Item #26648.

[Bill Huber]

I get mine from Forrest Saw Blades Online, http://www.sliversmill.com/category_72_Universal_Blank_Sheets.html

I use the 1/2" sheets and they really make nice inserts.

[Dell Littlefield]

I used some corian countertop material for several of mine and it works very well. Scrap from a neighbor's new kitchen counters so the price was right!

[Paul Wunder]

http://www.leecraftzeroclearance.com/

Check his models for applicability to your saw. Amazon also sells them

[Jeff Walters]

Thank you all. I will check out the links and see what I come up with. I do like the corian idea and actually have a sheet I was gong to use for turning a pen. Never thought of using it for an insert.

Jeff

[Brian Deakin]

I use laminate flooring to make my inserts

Measure the thickness of your insert with calipers

Go to store ask if they have any offcuts or old display samples , identify off cut of correct thickness ,cut to size


regards Brian

[scott spencer]

I've had excellent luck with the Leecraft phenolic inserts.