what shims should i use to level a table saw

What Shims Should I Use to Level a Table Saw?

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When leveling a table saw, choosing the right shims is crucial for achieving accurate and stable alignment. The ideal shims for this purpose are typically made of durable metals like brass, stainless steel, or aluminum. These materials offer precision, stability, and resistance to corrosion. Shim thickness can range from as thin as 0.001\” for fine adjustments to 0.01\” or more for larger corrections. The choice depends on the specific leveling needs of your table saw.

What Are the Best Materials for Table Saw Shims?

The choice of shim material is critical for effective table saw leveling. Here are the top options:

  1. Brass Shims:
  2. Highly durable and resistant to deformation
  3. Excellent for precision adjustments

  4. Maintains shape under pressure

  5. Stainless Steel Shims:

  6. Corrosion-resistant
  7. Suitable for long-term use

  8. Provides stability in various conditions

  9. Aluminum Shims:

  10. Lightweight yet sturdy
  11. Easy to cut and shape

  12. Good for general leveling tasks

  13. Sheet Metal and Foil:

  14. Useful for very fine adjustments
  15. Can be sourced from everyday items like soda cans
  16. Typically very thin (around 0.001\”)

How Thick Should Table Saw Shims Be?

what shims should i use to level a table saw

The thickness of shims needed for leveling a table saw can vary significantly:

Adjustment Type Shim Thickness Range Common Uses
Fine Adjustments 0.001\” – 0.002\” Precision leveling, minor corrections
Medium Adjustments 0.002\” – 0.005\” General alignment, small gaps
Large Adjustments 0.005\” – 0.01\”+ Major leveling, significant misalignments

It’s often necessary to use a combination of different thicknesses to achieve the perfect level. Having a range of shim thicknesses on hand allows for more precise adjustments.

What Techniques Should I Use for Shimming a Table Saw?

Follow these steps for effective table saw shimming:

  1. Assess the Table Top:
  2. Use a straight edge and feeler gauges
  3. Identify areas needing adjustment

  4. Note that perfect flatness (e.g., 0.002\”) may not be necessary; variations within 0.004\” to 0.007\” are often acceptable

  5. Select Appropriate Shims:

  6. Choose shims matching required thickness and material

  7. Consider brass for precision adjustments due to stability

  8. Place Shims Strategically:

  9. Insert shims at points needing adjustment
  10. Focus on interfaces between cast iron wings and main table

  11. Use combinations of shims for optimal alignment

  12. Check and Adjust:

  13. Recheck with straight edge and feeler gauges
  14. Make iterative adjustments until desired flatness is achieved

Are There Adjustable Shims for Table Saws?

While there aren’t specific \”adjustable\” table saw shims, the process itself allows for adjustability:

  • Use multiple shims of different thicknesses
  • Stack shims to achieve desired height
  • Add or remove shims for fine-tuning

This approach provides a flexible method for achieving precise leveling.

What Are the Cost Implications of Different Shim Options?

The cost of shims can vary based on material and quality:

  1. Commercial Shim Sets:
  2. Range from inexpensive hobbyist sets to costly precision sets
  3. Brass and stainless steel sets tend to be more expensive

  4. Prices vary based on assortment and precision

  5. DIY Shims:

  6. Very cost-effective
  7. Can be made from readily available materials like soda cans

  8. Minimal to no cost for basic materials

  9. Precision Machinist Shims:

  10. Higher cost due to exact tolerances
  11. Often sold in assorted sets with various thicknesses
  12. Investment can be worthwhile for frequent or professional use

What Challenges Might I Face When Shimming a Table Saw?

Shimming a table saw can present several challenges:

  1. Precision Difficulties:
  2. Working with very thin shims (0.001\”) requires careful handling

  3. Over or under-adjusting is common without proper tools and patience

  4. Material Stability Concerns:

  5. Some materials may compress or deform over time

  6. Choosing stable materials like brass or stainless steel is crucial

  7. Measurement Accuracy:

  8. Requires precise measurement tools like feeler gauges

  9. Small errors can lead to misalignment

  10. Time and Patience:

  11. Achieving perfect alignment can be time-consuming
  12. Requires multiple iterations of checking and adjusting

By understanding these challenges and using the right materials and techniques, you can effectively level your table saw for optimal performance and accuracy in your woodworking projects.

References:
1. Instructables: Safely Making Wedges and Shims on a Table Saw
2. Fine Woodworking: Table saw top-how level?
3. IQS Directory: Metal Shims: Types, Applications, and Advantages

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