Easy Table Saw Rip Fence Hold-Down Upgrade
Featherboards and hold-downs are great for keeping a workpiece under control while ripping stock on the table saw. But on some saws, the pressure from these accessories can cause the rip fence to lift slightly.
That small amount of movement can create a gap beneath the fence, allowing thin stock to slip underneath and ruin the cut.
A simple solution is to add a shop-made hold-down to the rear of the rip fence. This inexpensive upgrade helps keep the fence seated against the table while still allowing it to slide along the rails for adjustments.
Add an Aluminum Channel to the Rear Rail
The key to this hold-down is a short piece of aluminum channel that hooks beneath the table saw's rear fence rail.
The channel captures the rail to resist upward movement while allowing the rip fence to slide along it.
Aluminum is a good choice because it provides a smooth sliding surface and is easy to cut and drill.
The channel should fit the rear rail without binding or interfering with the fence's normal movement.
Attach the Hold-Down to the Rip Fence
A couple of spacer blocks and screws connect the aluminum channel to the back end of the rip fence.
The thickness of the blocks is determined by the distance between the bottom of the fence and the channel.
Since rip fence designs vary, you'll need to size the blocks and channel to fit your particular saw.
Once assembled, the channel should engage the rear rail with enough clearance to slide smoothly while limiting upward movement.
Before using the saw, check that the fence still locks securely, remains parallel to the blade, and travels freely through its full adjustment range. The hold-down should not interfere with the fence-locking mechanism or other moving parts.
Better Control When Ripping Thin Stock
With the rear hold-down installed, the rip fence is less likely to lift when pressure is applied by a featherboard.
That helps prevent thin workpieces from slipping beneath the fence and keeps the setup more consistent from one cut to the next.
It's a small modification, but it can make a noticeable difference when working with thin stock.
Woodsmith Tip: If your rip fence lifts or shifts during normal use, check its adjustment and locking mechanism first. This hold-down is a useful addition for compatible fence designs, but it shouldn't compensate for a damaged or improperly adjusted fence.
Get More from Your Table Saw
A properly adjusted rip fence is essential for accurate table saw work. Combine it with the right featherboard setup and sound ripping techniques for better control when cutting narrow or thin stock.
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