Alaskan 9' EZ first cut rails

[tech_type]

Hi,

Has anyone had any experience of the rail level adjuster screws vibrating loose during operation using the Alaskan 9' EZ first cut rails? I tried using these rails for the first time, and although they were set up correctly when I started the cut, the adjusters moved considerably when I was sawing, resulting in some very crooked lumber! Any tips as to how to overcome this?

[Rob D]

They need to be under tension or otherwise they will vibrate lose.

 

Do you have any pics to illustrate? Would be easier to help. I've found that yes they can vibrate loose - but even if they do not found it affects the first cut that much in terms of accuracy.

 

There's a vid here if it helps

 

 

 

 

[Big J]

You have two sets of holes for the adjusters. In the unused hole, put a screw into the timber to hold the adjusters under tension. The EZ rails are OK, but I think you are possibly better with a very robust ladder.

[cornish chough]

Yes ladder every time ,i've had a 4.5 m ladder used only for milling for ten years works every time ,four nails to hold it down!

[agg221]

I really rate the Ripsaw slabbing rail system, but it's a pain to import one-offs. What it really needs is a UK-based supplier (hint to RobD...!)

 

Alec

[Forest2Furniture]

I use a ladder and screws, never had a problem - yet

[agg221]

A ladder works fine, depending on what you're doing.

 

It's very fiddly if you want to mill something longer than your ladder, so it's not a problem if you only want lengths up to about 12' but a bit tricky for 20' boards. Transport can also be a pain (unless you bring everything to a central point for milling) unless you have a very long vehicle or it's low enough to reach a roof rack easily.

 

The reason I like the Ripsaw rail is that it's a rigid box-section that knocks down into 5' lengths. I have four lengths, so 20' capacity. When bolted together (5mins) it's rigid enough to lift from one end without sagging in the middle, and it is designed to take pins along the length which stop it being pushed down under the weight of the mill. It also has a simple end clamp which has worked well.

 

Alec