Panel Saw Project

[erik_f]

I have a BT48 and am currently thinking about some sort of panel saw to rip 4x8 sheets down to size easily. I don't want to buy a panel saw, but I am interested in making some sort of compact design to simply rip sheets into 2'x4' chuncks. I have a few ideas as how this can be done, but wanted to hear if anyone else was doing something similar. I know there are some guide systems out there for circular saws...but that requires putting the sheet on saw horses or hanging off the back of the pick up. What I would like is something I can set the sheet on and rip it without having to worry about large slaps of plywood hitting me in the shin...much like an industrial panel saw.

Erik

[signsbyjay]

Erik,

I bought this set of plans but have not yet built the saw. The plans are very complete.

http://www.plansnow.com/dn3087.html

Jay

[brucehiggins]

I bought the kit for the one Jay mentioned and built it a year ago. It works great.

[erik_f]

What does the kit include I already bought the plans thaks by the way guys

[brucehiggins]

The kit had all the hardware except the conduit. I modified mine and used 1" x 2" tubing instead of conduit.

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[erik_f]

I was thinking about the kit...but didn't know if it was worth it...but it looks like it came together nicely Bruce. I have to call today to find out if anything has changed since you bought the kit. I have a table saw...but if this works out I think I might sell it for a smaller table top unit.

[coach]

looks like a good tool. I have priced panel saws for 2,000.00.
Will the saw hold 12' stock. (Sink deck is 25" x 145")
Does anyone know what the depth of thefootprint is?

[brucehiggins]

THe depth of the footprint is 27" though it folds flat to about 8-10" when not in use. It will accomodate any length sheets. I made some slideout extensions (see wheel in lower picture) that easily slide back in when not in use. The plans call for attached extensions that you can see on their website. I too priced panel saws and decided this was a good alternative. I made mine so I could adjust the alignment and it cuts a precise 90 degree cut. I have used it for ripping once - it works fine for that but I would just as soon use my table saw. The worm-drive skilsaw I used has a conveniant handle. I taped the on/off trigger in the on position and plugged the saw into a Rockler on/off switch which is attached to the side of the panel saw near the top. It took a few days to make but that included several modifications.
Bruce

[coach]

Thanks Bruce, I am ordering in the next couple of days.
Do you recall the wall thickness of the rectangular tubing you used in place of the conduit?
Thanks everyone for sharing the information.

Dave

[brucehiggins]

David,
It was 1/16".
Bruce