That was EZ – I repeat, that was EZ!!
I just came in from the garage and grabbed the camera. I cannot believe I just made this cut!
I just took my EZ Repeaters out of the box about an hour ago. My first impression of the EZ Repeaters, after I got them on the rail, was that they had too much slop in them to make consistent repeat cuts. I finally figured out that you have to clamp the material just a touch and it tightens them up like a drum.
Once I got it tight I adjusted it to the saw blade, set the cut for 1†and ripped three perfect 1†strips of melamine right out of the box. Checked them with a calipers and I mean they were on the money. Ok, that was kid’s stuff – Let me try something special for my 4th cut.
Yes folks, that’s a 5/16†wide strip of ¾â€ melamine I started with – I set the repeaters for 1/16â€. It was a little off…(about .0005″ near as I can tell without a micrometer) But I didn’t get any chip out!
Man I’m good!!! I have absolutely no idea what anyone would want with a 1/16†strip of chip free melamine but I’ll be dipped if I can’t make you a pile of them anytime you want!
I repeat – that was the 4th cut, right out of the box, 1/16″ strip of chip free melamine, no measurments, no hands. I shudder to think of what a “pro” might be capable of with this thing! EZ tools are just darn fun to play with!
Edited 2/6/2006 12:06 pm ET by GoldenWreckedAngle
Replies
Have you no shame? (thanks)
"he...never charged nothing for his preaching, and it was worth it, too" - Mark Twain
Now try one repeater with your square. It is hard to believe that it is that good. Maybe you can make believers of the "F" people!
Burt
I seen your post over at knots about the square. The next day mine arrived and I couldn't be more thrilled with it!
I don't have the repeater and I'm guessing that's my next purchase. I had reservations about it and I'm thinking I was wrong, gotta get one!
I was drinking a couple Takate's(Mexican beer) with an old work aquantance tonight and he was talking about getting a table saw, said that he needed to spend about 12 to 16 hundred bucks to get a good one. All he needs it for is sheet goods, told him to come out to my house next Saturday and I'll show him how to save a grand.
Doug
Doug,
The more I experience the EZ Smart stuff, the more excited I get. When I bought mine, it was strictly to cut plywood. Within a couple of weeks I had the Smart table and 100" router kit on the way. Now I have both the repeaters and the square. When you start to use the router kit and think of all the worlds that opens, it is unreal. I've always enjoyed designing my own tools and the EZ has so many possibilities. My next project is an EZ router table.
Burt
I think Dino is calling what you are describing "The Cabinet Maker." I see the square, with one repeater arm, is available on the web site as a turn key option for a very reasonable price.
I tried putting the square on first then slipping the repeater on behind it but it's not designed to work that way. I'm thinking you just pull the repeater arm off the universal base and run the long bolts into the pre-tapped holes on the square conectors. That looks like the right way to do it anyway. Is that how yours is set up?
If you set up one of the repeater arms with the square, would you still be able to use the universal clamp in front of it to make the cut I opened this thread with?
Hi K.
The Cabinet Maker is one of many ways that you can "custom made" your system for the specific job.
For cutting cabinet parts, do the cross cuts first and the final "cut to size" rip cuts after.
Even Better. Rout first. EZ-er to rout the whole panel than routing parts.
The Cabinet maker is the best way to cut cabinet parts. You don't have to use 2 repeaters and you can work faster.
In order to transform one of your repeaters to the cabinet maker, you need two 5/16-18 3" long studs.
You can use the smart clamps on the square. Or you can install a toggle clamp.
If you set up one of the repeater arms with the square, would you still be able to use the universal clamp in front of it to make the cut I opened this thread with?
Yes. That can be done. I don't remember how, but i remember that was designed and predrilled for any imaginable combination. In the near future, I see smaller repeaters and extendable square with integrated measuring system.
The smaller repeater only for narrow and trimming cuts, and the extendable square for large panels and cabinet parts.
Have Fun and take it Ez.
YCF Dino
Thanks Dino - Most of what I'm doing with the EZ is cabinet work righ tnow so it looks like I need to go that route. I'll have some time this weekend to look at it and figure it out. I'll post a picture of the set-up when I get it re-configured.
'Sorry for taking so long to get back with you. And also thanks to Dino for helping out with the answer. I'll be honest and say that I haven't tried that but I will and let you know how it works out.
'Took a look at the repeater and the square and then gave Dino a call just to make sure I was correct before passing this along to you.
To start you will need 4 studs - 5/16" - 18 thread. Put one in each of the holes behind the square and replace the two black screws in the square with two studs. Put a nut on the two studs in the square. tighten the nut so that it holds the stud in place. I'd stop for a minute here and make sure the square is still in proper adjustment. Next remove the repeater arm from the GCU and set it aside. Move the clamps from the GCU and place them on the studs in the square and behind the square. Mount the repeater on the back set of studs. I would just leave the white plastic pieces(the ones that go against the rail) on the studs from the GCU.
This should function well.
Burt
Thanks Burt - I'll set it up this weekend. One concern - With the square locking screws replaced with permanent studs like that, I won't be able to slide the square around right? I would like to be able to set the square up on a 50" rail and slide it toward the middle for narrower cross cuts. Perhaps I can use long wing nuts in stead of studs.
The studs are removable.
you lock the stud with the knurled knobs.
When you start playing with the square/repeater combo,
You can find more combinations. You can even use the smart clamps, or a toggle clamp. The idea is to keep the main use of the square/fence, and the same time, custom build your own combo using any and all components of the system.
Have Fun.
YCF Dino
It should work ok.
Welcome back! Been missing the way you wreck angles and wreak words, you witty wunder!
Welcome to the
Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
where ...
Excellence is its own reward!
Thanks Piffin - missed you too. I see you're not getting any more attractive. <G>
Wow! If I send my first payment today can I get a free ab-buster or maybe Hits from the Seventies?
Really dude, you've got to better than this!
Better than this?
How? If you know of a better way, feel free to tell us.
We're all here to learn.
YCF Dino
Well Dino....Spose I'll have to post in the "Official Tipi Fest 06" thread your apearance and demo here now won't I ?
And I might have to buy the one you bring already put together and set up with all the attachments...deal?
Be well
andy
Well Dino....Spose I'll have to post in the "Official Tipi Fest 06" thread your appearance and demo here now won't I ?
My appearance can be a nice tax right off due to the educational and training aspect of the Dead Wood Concept and the ez smart.
And I might have to buy the one you bring already put together and set up with all the attachments...deal?
No sales inquires fro this Forum Andy. Mr Tonton don't allow that.
I will Demo the D-Mix this time to get done with the D-Mix myth.
And few other tricks. Setting a perfect custom shower floor in 30 minutes or less. And how to get drunk in ....we see about that.
I need a break from you guys. So, I'm IN.
YCF Dino
Well Dino, it's like this. I have your EZsmart product in the shop with a dedicated PC circular saw in it. I'm deciding whether to buy the router guide and go with your product line and become a dedicated customer, or go over to the Festool product line. And when I see the forum being used as an advertising tool I begin to think I've made up my mind.
Thank you very much and enjoy the fest."With every mistake we must surely be learning"
Mike.
GWA reported a new way. A safe and accurate way. Never mind if the tools are made by me or Festool. What you may see as an advertisement to me and others is the excitement of the new tool and not the sale of tihis tool.
When I have a problem, I come here to find answers. I never try to solicit any sales or send private emails to any members of this forum.
If the users have any problem with a newly develop system, we talk, learn and find ways to correct it. If Bosch or Porter Cable come up with something new and the user talks about it, Is this advertising?
The fact that I'am a member of this forum and I make the tools that GWA talk about in this thread, makes GWA and me tool pimps?
I think you're confusing one with the other. But for the benefit of .. that I' may be wrong, "and this is not the first time", I make this my last post here and I like to tell everyone...please don't talk about the ez stuff on this forum, because I was a member there and you may be accused as a tool pimp.
See you at the fest.
Are you in?
YCF D
I finally made the jump to EZ system this fall, and have kicked my self a few times for not doing it sooner. Its a great product that works super well, and after one use, you realize how great a cut you can get out of a circular saw. I think it is important to discuss its use and how to use it better, because if we can get a tool to work faster or better or more accurately we all win. (or at least thats what I think)
and, if you stop posting I go to edison and will take away your coffee!
"Well Dino, it's like this. I have your EZsmart product in the shop with a dedicated PC circular saw in it. I'm deciding whether to buy the router guide and go with your product line and become a dedicated customer, or go over to the Festool product line. And when I see the forum being used as an advertising tool I begin to think I've made up my mind."
Me too. I've compared several of the straightedge cutting guides, but Dino's continued presence here in answering questions, offering suggestions and explanations, and sharing his enthusiasm has helped me make up my mind also.
"he...never charged nothing for his preaching, and it was worth it, too" - Mark Twain
Edited 2/5/2006 12:53 pm by Huck
Huck,
Just to clean the waters before my departure from breaktime.
The ez works with or without Festool and there is no reason to make this an ez vs Festool thing.
Thank you all guys and I like to make Andy's job EZ-ER.
See you all at the Fest.
YCF Dino
edit. To correct spelling errors.
Edited 2/5/2006 12:37 am ET by dinothecarpenter
No no no you don't!!!
We're not going to let some newbie chase you off this site. No way Hosea! This is your forum as much as mine or any others.
One isolated opinion from a nobody chasing his tail is worth removing yourself from this forum over?
You try that and I'll chase you down myself and douse you in a tub of Ouzo!
be making sure you are going to be seeing straight
'Nemo me impune lacesset'No one will provoke me with impunity
Edited 2/5/2006 1:24 pm ET by razzman
Edited 2/7/2006 1:19 am ET by razzman
Agree razz a mataz man...Dino is one of the most standup guys I've seen post here.
No newbie is gonna mess with us....do i get a "I hear ya"?
Be goin' ta sleep
Night MaryEllen
andyView Image
I hear ya!
Couldn't agree more with you and Razzman.
I would hate to see Dino actually leave over this.
I have several EZ tools and really appreciate the way they have changed the way I work. I bought them on the reviews of several posters here, whose opinions I trust. I have bought many other tools based on the same opinions over the last seven years since I found this site.
Dino being on the forum really didn't have anything to do with my purchase - It was based on reviews of long time regulars. I have learned a little more about the EZ tools since their purchase from having Dino here.
How about the many people who now use a mud mix known as the D-mix. Dino spent a great deal of time and effort trying to get that info out - and he doesn't profit from it at all.
I really don't see Dino as a tool pimp, but rather someone who cares about the industry and likes to share ideas. Just as I will tell people to buy Little Giant Ladders and Panasonic cordless tools.
Stay Dino, Stay
Just as I will tell people to buy Little Giant Ladders and Panasonic cordless tools.>>>>>>Nahhhh, he ain't goin' anywhere cause if he does we'll have to protest this site! lol
Far as Little Giant ladders...I finally broke down a ways back and got a great deal on Ebay for one. thing is...I bought the biggest one they make (of course). That thing is too heavy for words...ugh. Makes you think twice before schlepping it around. I dont recommend getting the largest one to anyone. Yeh, demo how its so strong but lets see one of the little ladies that set one up in their ad carry one of those biggies up a set of stairs. NO WAY!!
Be bigger ain't always better
andyView Image
Yeah they can be heavy, but so am I.
I have the one that gets as small as 5' step and the one that gets as small as 3' step. The 3' rides in my van all the time and gets used for most things. Very handy in tight spots like bathrooms and such - can go right up one side and down the other.
The 5' stays at home unless I know I will have to do some higher work, or if I am building a new addition or garage or something.
Both are aluminum type 1A genuine Little Giants and I wouldn't trade them for any other ladders.
> ...I bought the biggest one they make (of course). That thing is too heavy for words...
I got the 26 ft., too. Heavy, but it's the best all around ladder I have. And not that much heavier than the 32 ft. Louisville I had to get for the places the LG wouldn't reach.
-- J.S.
Seriously considering the E-Z guide. Can you tell me how portable it is. I have been using a homemade guide to rip sheets of plywood with mixed results. Is the EZ as good as they say? Do I have to assign a saw to it in order to attach the foot, or can it be removed easily?
My tools are all carried in a Econoline Van. Is this easy to break down and carry?
Thanks for any help with my questions!
The SmartGuide is very very portable. I keep mine (100" total, plus a short guide and spare parts) in a shotgun case. You can leave the SmartBase on your saw, giving up a little depth of cut ability) or you can use the through bolted option to make it removable. Either way the saw suffers no ill effects, so you can use it for any other purpose. Leaving the SmartBase on, however, gives you the advantage of using the zero clearnace inserts when the saw is off the rail for splinter free cuts...
PaulB
The EZ guide is indeed as good as they say. It is extremely portable. The longest guide section I have is 50". One guide by itself good for cutting sheet stock the 4' way. Two guides join together very easily to form a very straight guide long enough for 8' rips.
I carry my guides and clamps and a few other small parts in a molded plastic shotgun case in my Econoline.
While you don't have to necessarily dedicate a saw to the system - I would. I used the very high bond tape that came with the base for a permanent installation on my Porter Cable saw. While I can use the saw for other things, the base very much limits my sightline - I am used to looking at the blade. Also, with the zero clearance insert removed to see the blade better - I have had problems with the void created hanging up when free hand ripping narrow stock - should be using the guide. Anyway, I prefer to have a dedicated saw for the guide - the results with the guide are so good, it really justifies it anyway.
I also recommend the table as a very integral part of the system. Also folds up very compact to fit in my van. Makes cutting so easy, but, also useful for many things other than just a cut table. Works great when assembling face frames with pocket screws - room for clamps.
I recommend getting an EZ guide. You will be glad you did. Truly a better way of working - I can't belive what I used to go through to cut sheet goods by myself with my table saw - not to say this system is only good for sheet goods. Good for many things. I was using mine Friday to cut attached fillers on cabinets - beautiful splinter free cuts with no worry of wandering off the line.
This post is getting long.
Yes they are as good as people say. Yes they are very portable. Get one and a table kit. Then you can start adding more things as you grow used to it.
> Is the EZ as good as they say?
No, it's better. It's a really solidly built tool, and extremely versatile.
> Do I have to assign a saw to it in order to attach the foot, or can it be removed easily?
You can make it removable, but to gain maybe another 3/8" of blade sticking down, it's very rarely worth the bother. The trouble with taking it apart is getting it aligned when you put it back together.
One solution is to go to larger saws. An 8 1/4" on the EZ is about like a 7 1/4" off. I got a 10" Makita, which with the guides is nearly equal to the Unisaw. It also uses the same blades as the Uni and the chop saw. There are others who have gone all the way to the 16" Makita.
> Is this easy to break down and carry?
Yes. It's about like carrying a saw, a long level, and a few bar clamps. Way far easier than trying to move a table saw. For site work, this system really blows all the "portable" TS's away. For a permanent shop, it'll give the TS a run for its money.
-- J.S.
The other option is to order a 190mm (7 1/2") blade for your circular saw. Every 7 1/4" saw I've checked has room for the larger metric blades that will get you through a 2x. I bought a Makita 7 1/2" blade a while back and can cut 2x's with my Bosh on the EZ, no problem. The problem is that it's a chop saw blade so it's not much use for ripping. If I ever use up my stash of Irwin blades I'll probably find a metric blade distributor and order the blade I need.
Most metric blades have a 30mm arbor but most of the internet distributors I found sell a 15.9mm (5/8") adapter washer.
K, I tried to reply to the fabic cuting post, but something somewhere went kafluey. Great Idea on your wife's part, I hope my wife don't find out..I NEED my ez..LOL
Glad yer back!
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Save a few posts, fill in your Profile, we can help!
An EZ wive's group at the Gatherings forum would be the sure doom of many a man.
Ditto what Razzman said. I think Taunton, our gracious hosts are cool with it. If your answering questions and giving tips here bothers some infrequent visitor he can put you on ignore or not read any of your posts. It would be his loss. If you leave it will be our loss and I take that more personal. I doubt if we need a poll to see whether you should go or stay, sure it would be a resounding stay with us.
Don't go man we need you!
Bob
Dont you dare leave. I havent learned enough yet. Havent gotten enough information yet. If you leave now... I might end up cutting some fingers off.
Im a La-ez man.
Let me see if I can help you with your EZ vs. Festool question.
Why not both? http://forums.taunton.com/fw-tools/messages?msg=7417.251
Good idea. When I get the first kid through college I think I'll treat myself to one!"With every mistake we must surely be learning"
mike, i can see that you are another non-believer..
thanks for the link addressed to andy .. brought me right here..
some day you may look back and find that your ignorance of EZ has clouded your judgementMike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore
I don't know who you think I am or what you think I'm doing here but I like your tag line.
Maybe someone can find a link to Dino's first post here and see if Mike585 can learn as much from his initial impression mistakes as old GWA did.
Apologies to you and all. I got the impression that you were a character in an infomercial. In reading your posts here and over at Knots I can see that you are a ligitimate character.
I have no problem with Dino. I think he's a good guy with a good product. I hope Breaktime is and contnues to be a place where I can get honest information without being "sold"."With every mistake we must surely be learning"
After reading all the posts, pro and con, and the ribbing I get from my guys, I purchased an ez system.
I initially got it for making some straight cuts with out a shooting board.The day after it arrived, I had an opportunity to split some 10 foot fiberglass columns.As the builder walked by he rolled his eyes, and said there was a case of caulk in the hot box, so I could fine tune the cuts. I split two columns, and cut a 135degree pie out of another, an the results were exceptional, NO CAULKING NEEDED.
I try not to buy on the spur of the moment. I figure if Dino can take a year of abuse from fellow breaktimers, and still hang around to answer questions, he is a stand up guy. This is not the AUTOHAMMER off an infomercial.
This tool was priced right, exceeded my expectaions, and delivery was quick.
Greg in connecticut
greg... i know what you mean.. i quartered some newel posts with mine for a decorative cornerMike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore
Mike
I remember you posting those pictures before. Those are what inspired me to cut the tapered columns with the easy.
I have found the easy makes my work look a lot more professional, and it takes no extra time.
Greg in overcast connecticut
Hey Mike! You didn't lap the plywood in the last picture!
Hack!!!!!
blue
don't worry, blue .. we had words about that..
View Image
remember my theory of A-B ? you're explaining "A" ... and the guy you're talking to is thinking "B" ? guess which one that is ?Mike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore
Geez Mike...I was only kidding.
Come to think of it though....in my younger carpentry days, I would have insisted on that plywood joint being rabbetted! That's how I was taught to do T1-11.
My, my how times have changed.
blue
you , kidding ? .. why , i'm shocked
hey... how's the grandkids ? still moving around the country ?Mike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore
Mike, I have the best grandkids in the world! The oldest one (five) managed to play me to a stalemate in chess recently. Actually, he had me on the ropes and I was lucky to gain a stalemate!
We are 99% sure we are heading to TX, probably in the North Austin area. North San Antonio isn't ruled out yet but it's a longshot.
blue
Actually, he had me on the ropes and I was lucky to gain a stalemate!
Why? Let the kid win once on the Blue moon... Blue.
DDD
Dino, when I first taught the lad to play, I used to do stupid things and let him beat me. After about two dozen games, I had to start playing for real. He's good! At this point, he doesn't formulate any complicated tactics, he just plays defense and reacts to what I do. I'm sure when he learns to play offensively, I'll never have a chance.
I did whip him at Mario carts tonite for the first time in my life. We were playing with his dad and those two kept whupping one another. I managed to sneak over the finish line first three times! I had three wins and three second places! That is a miracle for me!
blue
Finally got around to hooking up my EZ guide system. Made the table and put together the guide and saw.
Clamped down on a 3/4inch sheet of ply and ran an inch strip off it just to test 'er out.
Pretty sweet cut. Smooth edge with no fuzz or chipping just as it said it was. If used for no other reason than simplistic length cutting with smooth edges it would be worth it.
I know I won't be satisfied without the square and the repeater. Nothing like running into a situation where you know it would be so much easier if you had the right tool when you haven't got it yet.
be feeling like a McDonald's restaurant...I'll take that and that and that
'Nemo me impune lacesset'No one will provoke me with impunity
raz
I dont know enough of what you do so cant say weather the repeater is a need or not but you cant live without the square!
I was getting frustrated having to make two marks on short pieces of ply to do cross cutting, it was driving me nuts, wasted a lot of time.
Once I got the square that all changed. I can go along and mark out three or four cuts at one time(I've gotten a good knack for alowing for the blade thickness) and just as you would use a framing square to make your cross cuts you use the ez square.
If the crosscuts are more critical then I mark, cut, mark, cut....... but for something like shelves where a 1/32" + - I mark what ever the board will handle.
You gotta get the square. For you that just means one less trip to the bargin bin at HD or Lowes! :)
Doug
Oh ya, that reminds me, it's been awhile:o) I'll have to take a sunday cruise.
Got the sq and repeater just the other day. Opened the package and said cool beans.
Like a man on a mission headed down to the house where the guide is. Then realized I needed to take a look at the website again. ROAR!
be reporting in later
'Nemo me impune lacesset'No one will provoke me with impunity
Edited 2/18/2006 11:18 pm ET by razzman
I made the trip down to eureka zone to get the cabinet maker kit, left with the long repeaters and the square. got home, ripped my first sheet with the square and OH yeah! I am making a bed frame out of simple plywood boxes and I am going to be doing a whole bunch of repetitive rip cuts in 3/4" ply (ok the artist formely known as 3/4 ply.... 23/32)
It is really nice to move the sheet of plywood once as 4x8 and then slice and dice away...
My brother in law lives in Hutto, north of Austin. If you do move there, let me know and I'll try to put you in touch with people we know.We're Longhorn alumni - Hook'em Horns!
Yap. Like the last time that you send the guy 50 miles away for DD Cup?
howdoyoudoblue?
ROAR!
'Nemo me impune lacesset'No one will provoke me with impunity
I'd go 50 for a DD.
;)
"Citius, Altius, Fortius"
Nice to see yer mug around here again.
Does this mean you're back, or is this just a brief visit?
I'm not sure yet...
How are the boys? Carl is still making waves in the science world I hope?
The boys are both doing great. Carl started wrestling this year. You missed a few entertaining posts about that. Chris got his first real job, and now wants a car. I hope your family is doing well.
The fact is that government cannot produce equality, and any serious effort to do so can destroy liberty and other public goods. [Jeane Kirkpatrick]
What blade did you use for melamine? I need to make some shelving, and the blades I find are 10" for table saws. I want something for my circular saw and EZ guide.
A $15.00 Freud Diablo.
Apply 2 strips of masking tape on the bottom of the AC-2.
That should build up more pressure against the melamine and minimize- eliminate the chipping.
To get 100% zero chipping guarantee, you need to use the router for the final pass. Or even the planer that you can hook into your router kit.
Another trick that always works, cut 1-16" deep backwards (score)and finish your cut with another pass cutting forward.
Good luck. I remember spending my lounge money for this dumb blades some times and go hungry the rest of the day working, and don't even get a clean cut.
Imagine working 2 hours from your house and at the last minute of the installation job, you get a nasty chip-out on mica or melamine.
Mr Tomton was right. I never mention the ez smart.
I'M IN.
YCF Dino
La-ez man
underground woodworker.
Yes. All that and more.
You guys seen nothing yet.
Thanks Mr Tonton.
Thanks Guys.
I take it that this means you will not leave us! The good guys win! I know you will be careful and not solicit, advertise, etc. Keep up your help for us guys.
Bob
Dino,
I'm still luvin the EZ Smart system. Stick around.
Where is that tub of ouzo?...
Billy
I used an Irwin 40 tooth blade I bought on clearance. At the risk of sounding like the Ginsu infomercial I'm accused of hosting here, that was after I accidentally ripped through a chunk of aluminum on the repeaters with it too.
There's a tip for you - make sure you set the repeater arms lower than your cut depth. Mine are custom grooved now so I shouldn't have to worry about it any more but I doubt it's a factory recommended modification.
heh , heh, heh,
I JUST customized a smart clamp with a groove...DOH!
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Save a few posts, fill in your Profile, we can help!
Hey Duane - Jenny's been swiping my guides to cut fabric with her rotary cutter? I wonder if I ought to post that tip over at Gatherings?
Can you split one of those in half please?
blue
Sure! Here's a shot of the 1/16" strip split right down the middle with my 1/8" blade.