Q & A: Jointer Quandary

Problem

Persistent Convex Edge

Sometimes an edge remains curved every time
you joint it.

Solution

Joint the Belly First

This is a problem of technique, not an incorrectly adjusted machine.
Jointing a long, convex board is difficult because rocking it is so easy.Try
this: Joint the center of the board first.Take a few passes to make a solid
and true reference surface.Then make longer and longer cuts until you
joint the full length of the board.

Problem

A Sniped End

Sometimes a jointer takes a heavy bite at the
tail end of a board.

Solution

Raise the Outfeed Table

Although you did your best to set the knives level, it doesn’t always work.
You’ll see the dreaded snipe if the outfeed table is even a tiny bit below
the tallest knife. Loosen the gib screws on the back side of your jointer,
raise the outfeed table a hair and try jointing again. Keep raising the table
by very small amounts until the snipe disappears, then lock down the gib
screws.

Problem

A Tapered Cut

Sometimes a cut mysteriously trails off to nothing.

Solution

Lower the Outfeed Table

Rule out the possibility that you’re dealing with a slightly convex edge
before changing any settings. Start fresh with a 2- to 3-ft.-long board
that’s been ripped straight on the tablesaw. Draw a pencil line down the
sawn edge and joint the board. If the tail end of the line remains visible,
you’ve got an outfeed table that’s too high. Lower the table until you get
a sniped cut, then raise the table until the snipe goes away.

This story originally appeared in American Woodworker December, 2001.

December, 2001

Purchase this back issue.