I have to cut 2″ of length out of each of two panels of a 9-foot MDF raised-panel wainscot section that was mis-ordered 4″ too long. It would take 4 weeks to get a replacement panel (online from IntriG http://www.intrig.net/Default.aspx).
I think I can cut two of four panels in the narrower portion that goes under the window with my circ saw using a cutting fence and then rip the 2″ off on my TS. To re-join the pieces I would rout both cut edges for tongue and groove and then glue them. (That’s the mfr’s method for sections longer than 12′)
Does this method seem feasible?
Two available T&G bits I can get locally are:
Rockler http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?Offerings_ID=2134&TabSelect=Details
Whiteside from Woodcraft http://www.whitesiderouterbits.com/catalog.html#catimgs
Rockler’s produces a 1/4″ tongue and rated maximum 3/4″ stock
Whiteside produces a 9/32″ tongue and rated maximum 13/16″ stock
The Whiteside’s 13/16″ capacity might be more useful sometime in the future, but for 5/8″ stock I am a little concerned with the resulting thinner sides remaining for the groove after 9/32″ gets taken out in the middle. Whiteside rates it for as little as 1/2″ though.
What do you guys think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Replies
I think the Whiteside bits are a step up from the house brand from Rockler but if you are only going to use this for one project I am sure you will be fine with either one. I used bits from CMT and Eagle as well and they both have worked well for me.
Troy
Bruce,
This one is adjustable and will cut 7/32" to 3/8" T&G and will work for stock from 1/2" to 1-1/4":
http://www.freudtools.com/p-155-adjustable-tongue-groove-bit-set.aspx
Freud America, Inc.
That adjustable T&G bit from Freud looks interesting and cheap at what looks like $60 for the set. Have you used it?BruceT
Actually, I was involved in designing those so I'm a little biased but it's pretty simple to use. You remove or add the same number of shims on each bit and the fit of the T&G stays the same.
Charles M
Freud America, Inc.
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