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Post by birdhunter on Jul 25, 2019 12:58:34 GMT -5
I just unpacked my first Mafell tool, the DDF40 and tried a few test cuts.
I found I need what feels like excessive force to drill the holes. I’ve talked to the Timberwolf people and found them more than anxious to please. They suggested continuing to use the tool in the hope the need for a lot of force diminishes.
To me, the tool feels like the drills are dull. I tried both sizes of drills that came in the kit. The smallest bit is slightly easier to push in.
Any advice?
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Post by aas on Jul 25, 2019 13:27:28 GMT -5
What material are you drilling into?.. what size holes?
How are you gripping the machine?.. also, do you have a comparison to how much effort it needs?
It's unlikely a brand new unit has dull drills.
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Post by birdhunter on Jul 25, 2019 14:53:24 GMT -5
The machine came with 6mm and 8mm and I tried both. The bits looked pristine.
My test cuts were into MDF and into white oak. I had a Festool vac attached.
I tried different grips grips and tried to mimic the grip I saw in some Mafell tutorials.
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Post by Knight Woodworks on Jul 25, 2019 15:19:43 GMT -5
I’d say this is normal. I own a DD40P, the plunge requires significantly more effort than either of the Dominos or a biscuit joiner.
Enjoy your new tool.
John
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Post by aas on Jul 25, 2019 15:21:52 GMT -5
If you push slowly there is more resistance - try a short, sharp, shove.
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Post by birdhunter on Jul 25, 2019 15:59:17 GMT -5
I'll try the quicker push. Thanks.
I'm extremely pleased with the machine's quality. The joints I have cut so far have been perfect.
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New DDF40
Jul 25, 2019 17:58:15 GMT -5
via mobile
aas likes this
Post by lincoln on Jul 25, 2019 17:58:15 GMT -5
I have the DD40P, so not sure if this applies to the DDF, bit I was told to push on the end of the tool with the heel of my hand, palm up. It's amazing how much easier it makes the plunge.
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Post by birdhunter on Jul 25, 2019 19:31:55 GMT -5
I’ll try the heel push. The faster push technique did help..
This technique is totally different than with the Festool Domino where a slower controlled push produces best results.
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Post by aas on Jul 26, 2019 1:49:25 GMT -5
I'll second the heel push... for softer materials - chipboard, etc., it's not so important... but white oak is pretty hard. Find a position where you can get the force of your arm behind the tool without affecting stability of the tool.
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