Tablesaw Splitter Jig

thingiverse

The start of a jig for installing "splitters" in custom-built table saw blade insert plates has been initiated, modeled after a picture in a catalog as a DIY project. No commercial jig is required. This jig will be secured to a thin sheet of ply/MDF positioned square with the fence, with the fence adjusted so that the blade centers perfectly within the rectangular groove. Four holes are then drilled using a 7/64" drill to locate the position of a splitter. The actual splitter part will insert into those holes. Six mounting holes are sized for a #12 screw. A **NOTE** has been added, as it is unknown if this design will work, or if the splitter part will be strong enough to withstand use without snapping off. Commercial products utilize plastic-coated splitters with metal cores. **Update - 2019-10-02** Two versions of the splitter are available: a standard and a reinforced version. The splitter body is 1/64" under the standard 1/8" kerf width. The standard version is made from plastic only, its strength remains uncertain. Perhaps it will be strong enough, or perhaps not. Printing another one may be necessary if it breaks. The reinforced version is designed to accommodate a standard-sized 1.25" 17 gauge (0.055" diameter) finishing nail with point and head removed, length cut to 30 mm. This should provide the splitter with extra lateral strength. The pin-center nail holes were opened up using a #53 drill bit, then secured with CA glue. Finishing nails can be sourced from https://www.mcmaster.com/97828a637. The splitter is printed pins-up, at 80% scale, with brim applied.