Delta 22-580 planer on a mobile cart

When mounting a heavy stationary power tool like a planer to a mobile workstation or cart, it's highly recommended to securely bolt it down rather than just leaving it freely sitting on top. Here are some good reasons to take the time to properly bolt it in place:

• Safety - A loose, unsecured machine can vibrate and walk across the cart top during use, potentially falling off and causing injury. Proper mounting prevents this hazard.

• Stability - Bolting ensures the machine stays put providing a stable, vibration-free platform for best performance.

• Accuracy - An unsecured planer can shift slightly during use, affecting the accuracy of the cuts and causing snipe.

• Noise/Vibration - Firmly securing the planer helps dampen noise and vibration for a smoother run.

• Convenience - It makes the machine easier to move around without worrying about it sliding on the cart top.

Consider going with a threaded insert nut system for a low profile and secure hold. Or use through-bolts with washers and nuts underneath the cart top. Either will safely keep that 95 lb planer planted firmly during use. The small effort is well worth it for both safety and performance.

Thanks Claude.

You raised a few more points than I thought of, but definitely on the same track.

Howard

I have a tiny shop with lots of stuff carefully lined up to go over this and under that.  Just yesterday I was planing a 6' long board and the end of it snagged something and the planer went the other way.  It rolled the cart about a foot. If it had not been bolted to the cart the planer would have fallen off the cart.  Accidents happen but sometimes I give them a little help.

Bolt it down.

I was using my planer in a different location on a fixed table because of board length and it wasn't fastened down. The outfeed end hit something and the planer started moving backwards down the board.  I was able to kill the power before it went off the table. I suggest planer, top and frame be fastened.

Barry Irby and Bill Howatt - thanks for your insights here - I'll definitely bolt it to the top

I bolted mine down, and put a piece of old indoor outdoor rubber runner in-between the top and the planer.  I figure it would cut down on some vibration noise.  It seems to help, but I have never measured it with and with out it on there.