Replies

1. 
   John_D | Aug 04, 2006 09:02pm | #1

   David Marks did a show on a torsion box-based assembly table which may be of interest to you.  Didn't have a maple top, though...

   My goal is for my work to outlast me.  Expect my joinery to get simpler as time goes by.
2. 
   ring | Aug 05, 2006 11:23am | #2

   Over the years I've developed 2 different assembly benches, neither of them with maple tops. 

   One is a torsion box of MDF with the top covered in smooth laminate.  The inevitable glue spills that are part of assembly are easy to clean off the laminate.

   The other is an open framework of maple 2x6 's, kind of like a ladder.  It allows space for clamp heads and tails which a solid surface doesn't.

   Either "bench" top I just set on a pair of low (12" high) horses.

   DR

1. 
   joemckoh | Aug 05, 2006 12:07pm | #3

     I like your ideas.  How did you make your clamping fixture?  (flat)

1. 
   ring | Aug 05, 2006 01:26pm | #4

   I don't have a photo but it's as simple as can be.  Here's a sketch of the idea.  Just make sure the stock is milled and cut perfectly square.  Mine is maple but any hardwood you've got is OK.  It's held together with lag bolts.  You can actually clamp the cabinet to the frame in some instances, but the point is that it's mostly open space. 

   The size should fit whatever you anticipate as normal cabinet work.  Too big is just difficult to move around and store. 

   DR

1. 
   joemckoh | Aug 05, 2006 02:28pm | #5

   Thank you for your help.

1. 
   SARGEgrinder47 | Aug 06, 2006 05:41pm | #7

   If you are cramped for space joe, you could use the clamp box in ring's drawing in yet another way. Cut a piece of MDF (.004 flat off the shelf) and attach an L shaped block of wood to the under-side so it fits just inside the four outer corners of that open clamp. That will keep it stationary till you decide to pack up and shut down for the day.

   Set up two saw-horses and drop the open frame on them. Position the MDF top in the frame and you now have a solid assembly table. Two for one sale. The whole contraption will sit on edge on a wall when not in use to free up space.

   Good luck...

   SARGE.. 

   Edited 8/6/2006 10:44 am ET by SARGEgrinder47

2. 
   DougF | Aug 05, 2006 11:29pm | #6

   I have a similar "bench" but I used yellow pine 2x8's (also for the top) mounted on 5" lockable swivel casters.  I made it so when not in use it nests under the work bench stretcher.  Makes a good foot rest when seated at the work bench.

   Doug

3. 
   Little_Joe | Aug 07, 2006 09:37pm | #8

   You might get some help here...

   Look down the list a ways... for Benches, Work

   Enjoy!

   http://woodworkstuff.net/woodidxfun.html