Thread: Steel cut off table build

Hi all

I had problems getting my 355mm metal cutoff saw to cut square. The saw was a high quality GMC saw that just didnt cut square.

The problem appeared to be in the base plate not being level. So off to the tool shop to look at getting a better quality one. Apart from the dewalt they were all pressed steel bases so would have to be adapted to some sort of stand anyway so the lengths stay square to the cutting wheel.

In the end I decided to butcher the one I had and see if I could get it to cut straight. I was given a saw stand for xmas so decided to use it in the build.

Firstly here is the saw;
Attachment 157381
And three pieces of 100x100x2.5 that I had lying around laid out to form the table;
Attachment 157382
A piece of decent angle iron serves as a base for the saw mount to be welded to. I disassembled the saw and then cut the saw mount off the base of the saw. I really bodgied it up trying to get it off and in the had to cut it off with a disc. Oh well.

This base has a bolt through the middle that bolts into the table so that it can pivot sideways so that it is adjustable for vertical. A couple of holes allows a tek screw to go through both the mount and the table to hold it tight;
Attachment 157383
Bolted up and checking for square;
Attachment 157384
The same angle used for the mount is used as the fence. It pivots from the middle and again has tek screws to hold it in position once squared up.

A coat of trailer paint for some bling;

Attachment 157385
It took a bit of adjusting to get it 99.9% square which left some funny cuts across the base. Not sure how I could have got around this but I am sure something will come to be before I build another one.
Attachment 157386

It now cuts square

Total cost - $0.00

I mounted it on the table saw stand and though it vibrates a little its not too bad. It can always be screwed down to a bench.

I am watching the specials on GMC cut off saws and will get another one when they are on special as a backup. Best $0.00 I ever spent