Troubleshooting and Techniques

Even with a sharp, properly adjusted plane, things sometimes go awry. Here are some suggestions for solving the most common issues, as well as for looking after your plane properly so that it performs well for years to come.

Why are shavings jamming?

Shavings jam if the mouth opening is too tight and/or the blade is set too aggressively. A lighter cut and thinner shavings are usually better. It’s rarely necessary, but if a heavier shaving is desired, open the mouth to suit.

Why am I getting tear-out, and how can I prevent it?

A sharp blade and a light cut are the first steps to eliminating tear-out. Being aware of grain direction and proceeding accordingly will minimize most problems. Closing up the mouth so the toe supports the wood ahead of the cut is usually helpful. All of these strategies allow the plane to cut the shaving cleanly before it can lift and break. Experimentation and experience are the best teachers. Tear-out is seldom an issue with a jack rabbet plane, and even if it does occur, it will seldom be seen.

Why has the rabbet become narrower as I cut?

Concentrating on keeping steady pressure on the fence and less downward pressure on the plane will help it track more accurately.

How do I ensure the vertical and horizontal intersection is crisp and square?

Make sure that all the set-ups are accurate. The blade edge should be sharp and square to the side and protrude just slightly from the working side of the plane. Be sure to hold the plane so that the bottom is flat to the work and the fence is tight to the edge. Use a firm grip on the tote and steady pressure on the front of the plane to keep the fence engaged. You can grip either the front knob or the front rod and the adjacent section of the fence.

What ongoing maintenance should I plan for?

Apart from sharpening the blade, rust prevention is the single biggest maintenance issue. Avoid planing wet wood, especially woods with a high tannin content (e.g., oak). After a working session, take out the blade and use a soft brush to remove lingering shavings and dust. Periodically apply a silicone-free wax to the body to seal out moisture. Boeshield T-9 and Veritas Tool Wax both work well. Every so often, strip the plane down completely to give it a thorough cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts.

If storage conditions are damp, or there is a risk of the tool being jostled about in a toolbox or vehicle, storing it in a plane sack or wrapping it in an old towel provides additional protection.