Thin Rip Gauge Track ExtensionUpdated 6 days ago

The Sawinery Thin Rip Gauge has been designed for use with any table saw that has a standard-size miter gauge slot within five inches of the blade. However, not all table saws fall within these dimensions. There are some, where the miter gauge slot is further from the blade than this dimension. A simple modification of the gauge makes it possible to use it with these larger table saws.

In order to apply this modification, a plate needs to be made. The one shown in the photo is from 0.110 thick acrylic plastic; however, you can use any plastic from 1/16” to 1/8” thick (thicker is better). A stiff plastic that is not brittle is best, such as Lexan. Sheet aluminum can also be used.

The width (height on the drawing) of this plate has been established to be the same as the Thin Rip Gauge’s width; hence the 9/32” dimension. The L1 dimension is based on Rich's table saw, which is an Evolution Rave5-S. You may need to increase it, based on your table saw. If you do, L2 needs to be 1 ½” longer than L1. Ideally, the bearings on the Thin Rip Gauge should just touch the teeth of your saw’s blade when fully extended.

Drill the two countersunk holes with care. They must be deep enough for the #6 screw’s heads to be flush, but not so deep that the screws pull through.

Remove the track hardware from the Thin Rip Gauge, retaining all parts.

Drive 11/16” long pieces of ¼” dowel rod (not dowel pins, which are often a different diameter) into any of the three pairs of mounting holes on the main body of the Thin Rip Gauge.

Mark the center of the dowel rods. Drill & tap for #6-32 machine screws. If taps are not available, drill 6/64” pilot hole for a wood screw.

Attach the extension plate to the bottom of the Thin Rip Gauge, using either #6-32x ¾ flathead machine screws or #6 wood screws. Remount the track hardware to the extension plate, rather than to the Thin Rip Gauge’s body. Your jig is now ready for use.