Quick-change system for benchtop tools
Benchtop real estate in my shop is at a premium, so I can't afford to dedicate permanent space to tools that I use infrequently, such as a grinder, mortiser, or belt/disc sander. Yet, when I do use those tools, I want them securely mounted for safety. So, I came up with a quick-change system that addresses both concerns.
I first found a common mounting-board size that works with all of my benchtop tools, and then cut a 3⁄4 "-thick piece of plywood for each tool. On one of these boards, I test-fit each tool to determine the best locations for the three mounting slots, and used a 3⁄8 " straight bit to rout the slots leading to each location in each board.
Next, using one of the slotted mounting boards as a guide, I marked the locations for the mounting holes on my benchtop, drilled holes for each 5⁄16 "-18 brass threaded insert (part no. 3607-BI from McFeely's, 800/443-7937 or www.mcfeelys.com), and installed the inserts. You also can buy the studded T-knobs (part no. JKD-3114) from McFeely's.
—Scott Warnecke, Findlay, Ohio