Upgrading your DeWalt 734 planer with a SHELIX cutterhead can significantly improve performance, providing smoother cuts and reduced tear-out. The SHELIX cutterhead’s helical carbide insert design delivers superior results compared to traditional straight knives. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to install a SHELIX cutterhead in your DeWalt 734 planer.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1: Remove the Outer Cover
Begin by taking off the outer cover by removing the four screws on top of the machine.
Step 2: Remove the Chip Breaker
Unscrew the two screws on each side of the chip breaker using the wrench provided, then carefully remove the chip breaker.
Step 3: Remove the Blades
Take out the three blades from the original cutterhead by removing the screws and clamp bar that hold them in place.
Step 4: Remove the Rotate Lock
- First, remove the spring that holds the rotate lock in place.
- Then, remove the lock itself.
Step 5: Remove the Cutting Assembly
- Use the hand crank to raise the cutting assembly as high as possible.
- Once raised, use your hands to manually lift the head off the base.
- Carefully maneuver the assembly off the posts.
Step 6: Remove the Gear Cover and Gears
- Remove the gear cover by taking out the two screws (one on each side).
- Remove the three snap rings on the gears and pull off the gears.
- Ensure you don’t lose the spacer on the front gear.
Step 7: Remove the Pulley and Bearing
- Take off the pulley belt and remove the nut securing the head. A piece of wood can help hold the cutterhead in place while you remove the nut.
- Remove the pulley carefully, ensuring you don’t lose the key.
- Take out the snap ring holding the bearing in place.
Step 8: Remove the Old Cutterhead
- From the opposite side of the pulley, tap the cutterhead out using a block of hardwood.
Step 9: Install the SHELIX Cutterhead
- Carefully maneuver the SHELIX cutterhead into the bearing housing, ensuring proper alignment to avoid damaging the carbide tips.
- Tap the cutterhead into the bearing housing securely.
Step 10: Reassemble the Planer
- Follow the disassembly steps in reverse order to reassemble the planer.
- Ensure all snap rings, spacers, and washers are properly reinstalled.
- Before reinstalling the pulley, make sure the cutterhead spins freely.
- Confirm that the pulley belt is correctly positioned on both pulleys.
Upgrading to a SHELIX cutterhead will greatly improve the cutting efficiency of your DeWalt 734 planer, reducing noise, extending tool life, and producing a superior finish. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can successfully install your new cutterhead and enjoy the benefits of helical cutting technology.
For more detailed guidance, consult our Byrd Tool Expert’s support team at support@byrdtoolexperts.com or call us at 855-567-3250.
