How to Install Bits in a Wood Shaper Machine

Most woodshops use shapers with a variety of bits.

A wood shaper does what no other woodworking machine can do. It uses a plethora of knifes, or "bits" that cut and carve wood into almost any shape imaginable. The bits fit over a shaft and are secured by a large nut that is tightened with a wrench specifically designed to fit the shaper. These bits spin at a high rate of speed and are dangerous if not properly installed.

Things You'll Need

• Shaper wrenches

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the shaper, and remove the dust cover if the shaper has one. It should simply lift off the machine.

2. Crank the large wheel on the front of the shaper clockwise to raise the shaft up out of the shaper table until it stops. Unscrew the large nut on top of the shaft with your fingers and remove it. If it is too tight, use the special shaper wrench to loosen it and then remove it.

3. Drop the bit over the shaft. The bit has a large hole in it which fits over the shaft.

4. Screw the nut back down on the shaft with your fingers until it stops on top of the bit.

5. Place the other specifically designed wrench under the bit and fit in on the large nut that the bit is sitting on.

6. Place the other wrench on the nut on top of the bit. Push the top wrench clockwise to tighten while you hold the bottom wrench to stop the shaft from turning. Tighten the nuts as hard as you can.

Tips & Warnings

• Shaper knives are as sharp as any kitchen knife. Use care when handling. Make sure that your wrenches are properly seated on the shaper nuts before applying force to them. They can slip off and cause you injury.