Removed jointer knife springs - Any risks?

[David Utterback]

Replaced the knives in my Jet 8" jointer yesterday. The height of the knives was difficult to set with underside springs in place since they were nearly fully compressed. I took them out and used the Jointer Pal to hold them at top dead center and cinched the retainer. It went much, much faster than previous adjustments with springs in place.

Although the test cut was acceptable, is there any risk running the jointer with the springs removed? Thanks

[Ron Selzer]

springs do nothing for holding the knives in place.
Ron

[Robert Engel]

No, the springs are just to maintain contact to the knife setting jig.

[Tom M King]

The first thing I do, at the first knife change on any jointer I get, is to take the jack screws, and springs out.

[Bill Dufour]

As long as you took them all out, so it is balanced, you are fine.

[David Utterback]

Thank you for your insights.

[Will Patterson]

@David Utterback (https://sawmillcreek.org/member.php?3573-David-Utterback)

David,

I have the Jet 8" Jointer and I am going to replace the knives. I have the jointer pal so I will use it. I am curious why you removed the springs. Don't they force the blades up towards the leveling arms of the jointer pal?

Thanks, Bill