PC 557 Plate Joiner

[David Helm]

I have had this biscuit joiner for about 5 years. Always used the 4 inch blade. I need to install the 2 inch blade for the size ff biscuits. Problem is, I am unable to loosen the hex keyed nut that holds the blade on. Any ideas?

[Ron Kellison]

Any chance it's a left-hand thread and you're trying to turn it in the wrong direction?

[George Bokros]

Just checked my owners manual. You have to hold the spindle lock engaged in the the spindle and turn the allen screw counter clockwise. If I remember it is pretty tight from the factory.

[John M Wilson]

I have had the same problem with mine -- broke one allen wrench & bent another. I began to fear stripping the screw & decided to give up on the FF biscuits & just used the size 0 ones.

[Rick Moyer]

I've switched the blades but don't remember having any issues. Sorry, it's been a long time since I used mine. Perhaps yours is just very tight.

[David Helm]

I am twisting it the correct direction; using a very sturdy T handle hex key and having zero luck turning it. Very frustrating because I really do need to use the ff biscuits for applications that the 0 is just too big.

[George Bokros]

You will get more leverage with "L" long arm that came with the joiner.
George

[David Helm]

You will get more leverage with "L" long arm that came with the joiner.
George

The long handled one just twisted. The T handle is stronger. Still no luck:-(

[George Bokros]

How about an allen socket and a rachet wrench or breaker bar . Could go over kill and get the old impact wrench.

George

[Frank Martin]

How about an allen socket and a rachet wrench or breaker bar . Could go over kill and get the old impact wrench.

George

When I had this machine, I remember it being very tight too. I was able to do it with a quality long arm allen key. I am with George, try an impact driver, it will also make sure the screw head is not damaged.

[David Helm]

Thanks George, your idea worked and I can now use the 2 inch blade.

[Chris Padilla]

Ha! I remember going through this a couple years ago. Yeah, they really put that 4" blade on TIGHT. I managed to get it off without bending up my hex key too badly but yeah, it took some effort for sure. I'm glad the impact wrench worked...I didn't have to go quite that far but it entered my mind a few times as I was straining and sweating and cussing.... :)

[George Bokros]

Thanks George, your idea worked and I can now use the 2 inch blade.

Just curious which of my suggestions worked for you?

[David Helm]

The ratchet with hex key insert.