FREE ENGLISH GENERAL 30-360 (01) PDF USER GUIDE

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What are some rules for safe operation of the planer?

To help ensure safe operation, learn the machine’s applications and limitations, as well as potential hazards. Do not operate this planer when tired, distracted, or under the effects of drugs, alcohol or any medication that impairs reflexes or alertness. The work area should be well lit, clean and free of debris. Keep children and visitors at a safe distance when the planer is in operation; do not permit them to operate the planer. Childproof and tamper proof your shop and all machinery with locks, master electrical switches and switch keys, to prevent unauthorized or unsupervised use. Stay alert and give your work your undivided attention. Work in a well-ventilated area and use a dust collector whenever possible. Wear face, eye, ear, respiratory and body protection devices. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, bracelets, necklaces or other jewelry while the planer is in operation. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair and wear non-slip footwear. Be sure that adjusting wrenches, tools, drinks and other clutter are removed from the machine and/or the table surface before operating. Keep hands well away from knives and all moving parts. Use a push stick to feed stock, and a brush, not hands, to clear away chips and dust. Be sure that the knives are securely installed in the cutter head. Always use clean, properly sharpened knives. Inspect stock and remove all foreign objects before planing. Only process natural solid wood boards. Never plane MDF, particle board, plywood, laminates or other synthetic materials. Do not push or force stock into the cutter head. To minimize the risk of injury from kickback, use proper feeding technique and stand to one side, out of the path of a potential kickback. Select appropriate feed speed for the stock being planed: high speed for softwood and slow for hardwoods. Place stock firmly against the table and use suitable in-feed and out-feed support if stock is too long. Keep guards in place and in working order. Never stand or lean on machinery. Always disconnect the tool from the power source before servicing or changing accessories such as knives, or before performing any maintenance or cleaning, or if the machine will be left unattended. Make sure that the switch is in the “OFF” position before plugging in the power cord. Make sure the tool is properly grounded. Do not use this planer for any purpose other than its intended use.


What are the electrical requirements for the planer?

Before connecting the machine to the power source, verify that the voltage of your power supply corresponds with the voltage specified on the motor I.D. nameplate. This tool is for indoor use only. Use locally approved wire that includes a separate grounding wire and a 3 prong grounding type plug with a matching receptacle. The installation of an appropriate power cord and plug must be performed by a qualified electrician. The machine must be connected to an electrical source using a power cord that has a grounding wire, which must also be properly connected to the grounding prong on the plug. The outlet must be properly installed and grounded and all electrical connections must be made in accordance with all local codes and regulations. Make sure that the wires in your circuit are capable of handling the amperage draw from your machine, as well as any other machines that could be operating on the same circuit. If the circuit breaker trips or the fuse blows regularly, your machine may be operating on a circuit that is close to its amperage draw capacity. If you find it necessary to use an extension cord, use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong grounding plug and a matching 3-pole receptacle that accepts the tool’s plug. Make sure the cord rating is suitable for the amperage listed on the motor I.D. plate.


What is the minimum gauge for extension cord lengths?

AMPERES 50 feet 100 feet 200 feet 300 feet
< 5 18 16 16 14
6 to 10 18 16 14 12
10 to 12 16 16 14 12
12 to 16 14 12 NR NR
*NR = Not Recommended

What are the main parts and components of the planer?

  • A. Frame
  • B. Extension Roller
  • C. On/Off Switch
  • D. Main Table
  • E. Dust Chute
  • F. Graduated Scale
  • G. Feed Speed Adjustment Knob
  • H. Depth of Cut Adjustment Handwheel
  • I. Eccentric Block
  • J. Extension Roller Lock Levers (2)
  • K. Table Roller Adjustment Lever

What is included in the list of contents?

  • A. Dust Chute
  • B. Handwheel (Depth of Cut Adjustment)
  • C. Lifting Hook
  • D. Foot Pad
  • E. Handle (Table Roller Adjustment Lever)
  • F. Threaded Rod (Table Roller Adjustment Lever)
  • G. Lock Knob (Depth of Cut Adjustment Handwheel)
  • H. Flat Washer (Depth of Cut Adjustment Handwheel)
  • I. Flange Bolt (Dust Chute)
  • J. Screwdriver
  • K. 3, 4, 6 mm Allen Keys
  • L. 10,14,19, 24 mm Wrenches
  • M. Knife Setting Bar
  • N. Knife Setting Pad
  • O. Retention Ring

What are the additional requirements for set up?

  • A. 0.02” Feeler Gauge
  • B. 0.004” Feeler Gauge
  • C. Gauge Block
  • D. Straight Edge

What is the planer designed for?

This 20” heavy-duty planer is designed for thickness planing of solid wood only. The unit is not designed nor should it be used to surface or prepare, plywood, wood paneling, particleboard, MDF nor any other wood based by-products nor any non-wood based materials.


What are the dimensions of boards that can be planed?

This unit has the capacity to plane boards of up to 20” wide having a maximum thickness of 8” and a minimum thickness of 3/16”.


What are the two different cutter head options?

  • Model 30-360 M1 – 20” planer with 4-knife cutter head;
  • Model 30-360HC M1 – 20” planer with General International’s unique “Magnum” style helical cutter head containing 58 reversible two-sided, quick-change carbide inserts.

How do you remove the protective coating on the table?

Remove the protective coating on the table by rubbing with a rag dipped in kerosene, mineral spirits or paint thinner. A putty knife, held flat to avoid scratching the surface, may also be used to scrape off the coating followed by clean-up with solvent.


How do you prevent rust on the table?

To prevent rust, apply a light coating of paste wax or use regular applications of any after-market surface protectant or rust inhibitor.


Where should the machine be placed within the shop?

This machine should be installed and operated only on a solid, flat and stable floor that is able to support the weight of the machine (1397 lbs – 635 kg) and the operator. Plan for placement within your shop that will allow the operator to work unencumbered and unobstructed by foot traffic (either passing shop visitors or other shop workers) or other tools or machinery.


What are some safety measures for establishing a safety zone?

It is advisable to establish a safety zone around shop machinery. A clearly defined “no-go” zone on the floor around each machine can help avoid accidents. Take a few moments to either paint (using non-slip paint) or using tape, define on the floor the limits or perimeter of each machines safety zone. Take steps to ensure that all operators and shop visitors are aware that these areas are off limits whenever a machine is running for everyone but the individual operating the unit.


How do you assemble the knife setting jig?

  1. Using a pair of pliers, push a retention ring into the inner grooves on each end of the knife setting jig rod.
  2. Slide one foot onto one end of the rod.
  3. Secure the foot on the rod by pushing a retention ring into the exposed groove in the rod.
  4. Repeat step 2 and 3 to install the other foot.

What do you need to do before assembling the machine?

Before assembling, make sure that the switch is in the “OFF” position and that the power cord is unplugged. Do not plug in or turn on the machine until you have completed the assembly and installation steps.


How do you attach the depth of cut adjustment handwheel?

  1. Slide the handwheel onto the arbor.
  2. Slide the flat washer onto the arbor, then secure it in place with by tightening the lock knob.

How do you connect to a dust collector?

  1. Place the dust chute against the opening in the back of the machine.
  2. Align the mounting holes in the dust chute with the corresponding holes in the machine, then secure it with 6 flange bolts using a 10 mm wrench.

How do you install the lifting hooks?

Install the lifting hooks on the top of the machine.


How do you install the table roller adjustment lever?

Tighten the handle onto the shaft, then tighten the assembly into the bracket.


Q: How do you reduce the risk of shock or fire when operating the unit?

Do not operate the unit with a damaged power cord or plug. Replace a damaged cord or plug immediately. To avoid unexpected or unintentional start-up, make sure the power switch is in the off position before connecting to a power source.


Q: What should you do when operations have been completed?

Unplug the machine from the power source.


Q: What is the purpose of the magnetic safety switch?

This machine is equipped with a magnetic safety switch designed to protect the user from unintentional start-up.


Q: How do you restart the machine after pressing the red “STOP” button?

Once the RED “STOP” button has been pressed, the machine can only be restarted by turning the inner part of the button to the right to release the stop button.


Q: How do you avoid unexpected or unintentional start-up?

Make sure that the power switch is in the off position before connecting to a power source.


Q: What is the overload protection feature and what does it do?

The magnetic safety switch on this machine is equipped with an overload protection feature. To prevent an electrical overload from damaging the motor, in the event of a spike in line voltage or amperage draw, the internal overload protector will automatically be tripped, thereby cutting off power to the motor.


Q: What are some common causes of overloads?

  • Overworking the motor by forcing the machine, particularly with thicker denser material, thereby causing an increase in power consumption and a spike in amperage draw.
  • An electrical extension cord that is too long or not the correct gauge of wire, which can also cause an increase in amperage draw.
  • Overworked circuit caused by operating on a circuit that is close to its amperage draw capacity.

Q: How do you reset the overload protection switch after it has been tripped?

  1. Unplug the machine.
  2. Open the motor door in the back of the machine and remove the electrical box cover with a Phillips screwdriver.
  3. Press the button to reset the overload protection.
  4. Before starting the machine, retighten the cover box and close the motor door.

Q: What should you always do before performing any maintenance or adjustments?

Make sure the machine has been turned off and unplugged from the power source.


Q: What is the purpose of the adjustable table rollers?

The two adjustable table rollers are designed to help reduce friction when feeding stock through the planer.


Q: How do you adjust the height of the table rollers?

  1. Loosen the lock lever.
  2. Turn the adjustment lever up or down as needed.
  3. Tighten the lock lever to secure the rollers at the desired height.

Q: How should the rollers be set for rough stock?

As a general rule when planing rough stock the rollers should be set higher.


Q: How should the rollers be set for smooth stock?

When planing smooth stock they should be set lower.


Q: How do you immobilize the machine?

The pads and anchor bolts can be used to help keep the machine immobilized by either lowering the bolts against pads on the floor to act as points of contact with the floor, or for permanent installations, by drilling into the floor and bolting the machine in place.


Q: What is the purpose of the infeed table extension roller?

The infeed table extension roller is designed to support the workpiece as well as to help reduce friction when feeding longer stock through the planer.


Q: How do you use the table extension roller?

  1. Loosen the levers (right & left), then lift the table extension into the horizontal position and push it all the way.
  2. Tighten the levers to lock the roller in position. Note: Make sure the extension roller plates are against the eccentric nuts.

Q: What direction should you always plane?

Always plane in the general direction of the grain.


Q: What should you not do when planing?

Planing against the grain or planing end grain is dangerous and may cause the workpiece to shatter.


Q: What is the planer designed to do?

This planer is designed to remove material from the top face of a board in order to bring the board (or a series of boards) down to a specific desired shape or profile and thickness.


Q: How do you obtain uniform results across the length of a board?

The stock being planed must have one face that has already been machined perfectly flat (usually on a jointer) and the stock should be fed with this flat face against the table.


Q: What materials should the planer be used with?

This planer is intended for use with solid woods or MDF only, and should not be used to plane or mold any other materials.


Q: What should you inspect before feeding lumber through the planer?

Before being fed through the planer all lumber should be inspected for debris and foreign objects such as staples or nails.


Q: What can happen if foreign objects are stuck to or embedded in your work-piece?

Foreign objects stuck to, or embedded in your work-piece can be ejected from the machine at high speed and cause serious injury or damage cutter knives.


Q: What type of lumber should you avoid using in the planer?

Select lumber carefully and avoid workpieces with loose or protruding knots. Workpieces that are twisted, severely deformed or warped should also be avoided.


Q: What are the risks of using warped, twisted, damaged, or fragile stock?

Warped, twisted, damaged or fragile stock runs an increased risk of jamming in or damaging the machine or cutters. There is also a much greater risk of injury to the operator or bystanders from kickback, where the workpiece is forcefully or violently ejected from the machine due to a jam, whenever working with such damaged or warped wood.


Q: What are the minimum and maximum dimensions for a workpiece?

  • Maximum planing width: 20”
  • Maximum workpiece thickness: 8”
  • Minimum workpiece thickness: 3/16”
  • Minimum workpiece length: 8 1/4”

Q: What can happen if you ignore the rated limits of the machine?

Ignoring these limits and feeding non-compatible stock into this planer can lead to serious injury to the user or shop bystanders, and cause damage to the workpiece and/or the machine.


Q: What should you do if the stock you wish to plane does not meet the listed limitations?

If the stock you wish to plane does not meet or comply with the limitations listed above, find another safer way to perform the required task.


Q: What should you make sure of before starting a project?

  • Make sure the board has been inspected and is suitable for planing.
  • Make sure you and any assistants are wearing safe appropriate workshop attire. Roll up long sleeves, secure long hair and remove any jewelry: watches, rings, bracelets or anything that could become caught in the moving parts, potentially causing serious injury.
  • Make sure to have on safety glasses as well as hearing and respiratory protection at all times when using the planer.

Q: What safety checks should be done before each use?

To reduce the risk of damage to the planer or the workpiece, as well as a potential for personal injury, after initial set-up as well as before each use, make sure that everything is securely installed and that all fasteners and moving parts on this machine are locked in place before starting the machine.


Q: What should you do with multiple boards that are to be planed?

If multiple boards are to be planed, collect all workpieces together and set them nearby on a table or bench within easy reach. To limit the potential for injury in the event of a kickback, avoid having to step or reach in front of the machine to pick up the next workpiece.


Q: How do you adjust the depth of cut?

The depth of cut is adjustable by using the handwheel.


Q: What is the maximum depth of cut on full width planing?

The maximum depth of cut on full width planing is 1/8”.


Q: What is recommended for both hard and soft wood when planing?

It is recommended that for both hard and soft wood: removing less material per pass and taking multiple passes is always preferred to more aggressive planing.


Q: How do you adjust the cutting depth?

  1. Turn off the machine.
  2. Position the board under the infeed roller and adjust the position of the table work with the handwheel so that the infeed roller is in contact with the board.
  3. Remove the board and adjust the cutting depth using the scale by turning the handwheel clockwise.

Q: How do you adjust the feed speed?

The feed speed adjustment knob is located on the right hand side of the machine. * To increase the feed rate at 28 fpm, pull the knob out. * To decrease the feed rate at 22 fpm, push the knob back. * For zero speed, set the knob in neutral position.


Q: When should speed changes be made?

To avoid damage to the gearbox, speed changes should only be made while the machine is running.


Q: What is the first step when planing a board?

With the planer turned off, position the workpiece on the infeed table with the flat face down and the face to be planed facing up.


Q: What is the second step when planing a board?

Adjust the depth of cut (see section “Adjusting depth of cut”).


Q: What is the third step when planing a board?

Set the board aside, then turn the planer on. Adjust the speed.


Q: What is the fourth step when planing a board?

Stand to one side of the machine and set the board back on the infeed table with the face to be planed facing up.


Q: What is the fifth step when planing a board?

Align the board laterally so that it will be fed through the planer in the general direction of the grain, and allow the workpiece enough clearance to feed properly without rubbing or catching on either side of the machine.


Q: What is the sixth step when planing a board?

Slowly slide the workpiece forward until the infeed roller “grips” the board.


Q: What is the seventh step when planing a board?

Release the board allowing the feed roller to automatically feed the board through the planer.


Q: What is the eighth step when planing a board?

Step to the rear of the machine and recover the planed board on the outfeed table once it has cleared the outfeed roller and has stopped advancing.


Q: What should you never do with the workpiece once it is in control of the automatic feed rollers?

Never push, pull or otherwise try to move or re-position the workpiece once it is in the control of the automatic feed rollers.


Q: What should you avoid when a board is engaged in the cutter head?

To limit the potential for injury in the event of a kickback, avoid standing directly in line-with the front or back of the planer whenever a board is engaged in the cutter head.


Q: What can you use a gauge block for?

You may use a homemade gauge block made of hardwood. If you prefer, precision aluminum gauge blocks are available.


Q: Is the cutter head pre-set parallel to the table?

The cutter head has been pre-set parallel to the table at the factory, therefore, except in some rare cases (important maintenance, transport handling) no further adjustments are required.


Q: How do you adjust the cutter head parallel to the table?

  1. Disconnect the machine from the power source.
  2. Place the gauge block on the table directly under the cutter head. Lower the cutter head until it just touches the gauge block.
  3. Move the gauge block to the opposite end of the table and make sure it just touches the cutter head at the other end as well.
  4. If not, leave the gauge in place and under the table, loosen the three screws using a 6 mm Allen key, insert a screwdriver in the hole located in the lead screw housing, and then turn the shaft clockwise or counterclockwise so that the gauge block just touches the cutter head.
  5. Position the gauge block to the other side to make sure the table is now parallel to the cutter head.

Q: What components should you take note of in order to make required adjustments?

A infeed roller; B chipbreaker; C cutter head with knife/insert; D out-feed roller.


Q: How do you adjust the infeed and outfeed rollers?

  1. Place the gauge block under the knife/insert, adjust the table height until you can only slide a 0.02” feeler gauge between the block and the cutter.
  2. Place the block under the end of the infeed roller. Loosen the nut, turn the screw until the roller touches the top of the block, and then re-tighten the nut. Repeat for the other end.
  3. Place the block under the end of the outfeed roller. Loosen the nut, turn the screw until the roller touches the top of the block, and then re-tighten the nut. Repeat for the other end.

Q: How do you adjust the chipbreaker?

  1. Place the block under a knife/insertion and adjust the table height until you can slide only a 0.004” feeler gauge between the block and the knife/insertion. Then place the block under the chipbreaker.
  2. Remove the dust chute, remove the two bolts with a 10 mm wrench, and then lift the chip deflector cover in order to access the cutter head.
  3. Loosen the two jam nuts using a 10 mm wrench.
  4. Turn the set screws using a 4 mm Allen key in the direction required so that the chipbreaker touches the top of the block. Note: Start with the set screw located on the same side as the gauge block, then move the block to the other end and adjust the other set screw.
  5. Retighten the two jam nuts using a 10 mm wrench. Re-install the chip deflector and the dust chute before starting the machine.

Q: How do you align the table rollers?

  1. Disconnect the machine from the power source. Place a straight edge across the rollers in up position.
  2. Using a 10 mm wrench, loosen the jam nuts located at each end table roller under the table, then turn the bolts to the direction required to raise or lower the roller. Retighten the bolts and repeat with the other roller. Note: Always make sure the rollers are parallel to the table and at the same height.

Q: How do you level the extension roller to the table rollers?

  1. Place a straight edge across the table rollers and the extension roller in up position.
  2. Verify visibly that the extension roller is leveled to the table rollers.
  3. To level: Loosen two eccentric blocks using a 4 mm Allen key, then turn the eccentric blocks in the direction required until the extension roller is leveled to the table rollers.

Q: What periodic maintenance should be performed?

  • Inspect/test the ON/OFF switches before each use. Do not operate the planer with a damaged switch; replace a damaged switch immediately.
  • Keep the machine as well the table clean and free of saw dust, woodchips, pitch or glue. Vacuum or brush off any loose debris and wipe down the machine and the table occasionally with a damp rag.
  • An occasional light coating of paste wax can help protect the table surface and reduce workpiece friction.
  • Avoid using silicon based products that may affect or react with wood finishing products such as oil, solvent or water-based stains, varnishes and lacquers.
  • Periodically inspect the power cord and plug for damage. To minimize the risk of electric shock or fire, never operate the planer with a damaged power cord or plug. Replace a damaged power cord or plug at the first visible signs of damage.
  • The drive gears, chain and elevation screws should be cleaned of woodchips, dust, debris and old grease. After cleaning, re-apply a generous coating of any common automotive bearing grease.
  • Regularly inspect planed workpieces for signs of knife/inserts damage or wear and replace damaged or worn knives immediately.
  • Wipe the chains with a lubricated cloth for medium to slow speed operation.
  • If excessive build-up of dust, dirt or wood shavings occur; coat chain with a light film of oil (never pour directly on chain). Over oiling defeats the purpose of the lubrication, the chain will overly accelerate, and will require constant replacement.
  • The bearings on the cutter head are factory lubricated and sealed, therefore they require no further attention.

Q: How do you know when to replace the knives or inserts?

Observing planed workpieces as they come out of the machine and looking for signs of knife damage or wear is the best method to help you to determine when knives/insertions are due to be changed.


Q: What are some signs of damage or wear to look for?

  • A raised ridgeline in the workpiece that runs a straight line from beginning to end of the board. This is generally an indication that one or all of the knives/inserts has been nicked or damaged by a foreign object such as a nail, staple or other hard object hidden or embedded in the workpiece.
  • A slight washboard or chatter effect, which can be an indication of uneven knife wear/insertions or causing one knife/several inserts to cut just deeper than the other.
  • Rough, irregular, torn or fuzzy grain on a freshly planed surface may be a sign of worn or dull blades/inserts causing the wood to tear out.

Q: What can cause fuzzy grain, other than dull blades/inserts?

Fuzzy grain can also be a sign of high moisture content in the workpiece.


Q: What should you do if you suspect that moisture content is the cause of fuzzy grain?

Set the workpiece aside and test by planing other boards with known or acceptable moisture content. If the planed results using a different workpiece are smooth, then moisture content in your wood is the problem – no adjustments can be made to the machine for this. Set the “wet” stock aside and simply work with drier wood.


Q: How do you maintain even knife wear?

To maintain even knife wear always replace all knives each time knife replacement is required (only for the model 30-360).


Q: What do you use to check if the knives are properly adjusted?

To make sure the knives are properly adjusted, use the jig provided to check each of the four knives.


Q: How do you inspect the cutter head knives?

  1. Unscrew the 6 screws and remove the left panel using a 4 mm Allen key.
  2. Remove the dust chute and the chip deflector bolts using a 10 mm wrench. Then tilt up the chip deflector cover.
  3. Remove the chip deflector using a 4 mm Allen key.
  4. Position one of the four knives on top by manually turning the cutter head belt and setting the gauge on the cutter head. Ideal knife position has the gauge sitting flush on the cutter head and the knife barely touching the center reference pads on the gauge.
  5. Make sure the other knives are positioned properly and in a good condition. Should any (or all) of the knives need adjusting, follow the instructions in the section “Knife setting or replacement”. Once the verifications are done, re-install the chip deflector, chip deflector cover and the left panel before starting the machine.

Q: How do you reduce the risk of shock or fire when operating the unit?

Do not operate the unit with a damaged power cord or plug. Replace a damaged cord or plug immediately. To avoid unexpected or unintentional start-up, make sure the power switch is in the off position before connecting to a power source.


Q: What should you do when operations have been completed?

Unplug the machine from the power source.


Q: What is the purpose of the magnetic safety switch?

This machine is equipped with a magnetic safety switch designed to protect the user from unintentional start-up.


Q: How do you restart the machine after pressing the red “STOP” button?

Once the RED “STOP” button has been pressed, the machine can only be restarted by turning the inner part of the button to the right to release the stop button.


Q: How do you avoid unexpected or unintentional start-up?

Make sure that the power switch is in the off position before connecting to a power source.


Q: What is the overload protection feature and what does it do?

The magnetic safety switch on this machine is equipped with an overload protection feature. To prevent an electrical overload from damaging the motor, in the event of a spike in line voltage or amperage draw, the internal overload protector will automatically be tripped, thereby cutting off power to the motor.


Q: What are some common causes of overloads?

  • Overworking the motor by forcing the machine, particularly with thicker denser material, thereby causing an increase in power consumption and a spike in amperage draw.
  • An electrical extension cord that is too long or not the correct gauge of wire, which can also cause an increase in amperage draw.
  • Overworked circuit caused by operating on a circuit that is close to its amperage draw capacity.

Q: How do you reset the overload protection switch after it has been tripped?

  1. Unplug the machine.
  2. Open the motor door in the back of the machine and remove the electrical box cover with a Phillips screwdriver.
  3. Press the button to reset the overload protection.
  4. Before starting the machine, retighten the cover box and close the motor door.

Q: What should you always do before performing any maintenance or adjustments?

Make sure the machine has been turned off and unplugged from the power source.


Q: What is the purpose of the adjustable table rollers?

The two adjustable table rollers are designed to help reduce friction when feeding stock through the planer.


Q: How do you adjust the height of the table rollers?

  1. Loosen the lock lever.
  2. Turn the adjustment lever up or down as needed.
  3. Tighten the lock lever to secure the rollers at the desired height.

Q: How should the rollers be set for rough stock?

As a general rule when planing rough stock the rollers should be set higher.


Q: How should the rollers be set for smooth stock?

When planing smooth stock they should be set lower.


Q: How do you immobilize the machine?

The pads and anchor bolts can be used to help keep the machine immobilized by either lowering the bolts against pads on the floor to act as points of contact with the floor, or for permanent installations, by drilling into the floor and bolting the machine in place.


Q: What is the purpose of the infeed table extension roller?

The infeed table extension roller is designed to support the workpiece as well as to help reduce friction when feeding longer stock through the planer.


Q: How do you use the table extension roller?

  1. Loosen the levers (right & left), then lift the table extension into the horizontal position and push it all the way.
  2. Tighten the levers to lock the roller in position. Note: Make sure the extension roller plates are against the eccentric nuts.

Q: What direction should you always plane?

Always plane in the general direction of the grain.


Q: What should you not do when planing?

Planing against the grain or planing end grain is dangerous and may cause the workpiece to shatter.


Q: What is the planer designed to do?

This planer is designed to remove material from the top face of a board in order to bring the board (or a series of boards) down to a specific desired shape or profile and thickness.


Q: How do you obtain uniform results across the length of a board?

The stock being planed must have one face that has already been machined perfectly flat (usually on a jointer) and the stock should be fed with this flat face against the table.


Q: What materials should the planer be used with?

This planer is intended for use with solid woods or MDF only, and should not be used to plane or mold any other materials.


Q: What should you inspect before feeding lumber through the planer?

Before being fed through the planer all lumber should be inspected for debris and foreign objects such as staples or nails.


Q: What can happen if foreign objects are stuck to or embedded in your work-piece?

Foreign objects stuck to, or embedded in your work-piece can be ejected from the machine at high speed and cause serious injury or damage cutter knives.


Q: What type of lumber should you avoid using in the planer?

Select lumber carefully and avoid workpieces with loose or protruding knots. Workpieces that are twisted, severely deformed or warped should also be avoided.


Q: What are the risks of using warped, twisted, damaged, or fragile stock?

Warped, twisted, damaged or fragile stock runs an increased risk of jamming in or damaging the machine or cutters. There is also a much greater risk of injury to the operator or bystanders from kickback, where the workpiece is forcefully or violently ejected from the machine due to a jam, whenever working with such damaged or warped wood.


Q: What are the minimum and maximum dimensions for a workpiece?

  • Maximum planing width: 20”
  • Maximum workpiece thickness: 8”
  • Minimum workpiece thickness: 3/16”
  • Minimum workpiece length: 8 1/4”

Q: What can happen if you ignore the rated limits of the machine?

Ignoring these limits and feeding non-compatible stock into this planer can lead to serious injury to the user or shop bystanders, and cause damage to the workpiece and/or the machine.


Q: What should you do if the stock you wish to plane does not meet the listed limitations?

If the stock you wish to plane does not meet or comply with the limitations listed above, find another safer way to perform the required task.


Q: What should you make sure of before starting a project?

  • Make sure the board has been inspected and is suitable for planing.
  • Make sure you and any assistants are wearing safe appropriate workshop attire. Roll up long sleeves, secure long hair and remove any jewelry: watches, rings, bracelets or anything that could become caught in the moving parts, potentially causing serious injury.
  • Make sure to have on safety glasses as well as hearing and respiratory protection at all times when using the planer.

Q: What safety checks should be done before each use?

To reduce the risk of damage to the planer or the workpiece, as well as a potential for personal injury, after initial set-up as well as before each use, make sure that everything is securely installed and that all fasteners and moving parts on this machine are locked in place before starting the machine.


Q: What should you do with multiple boards that are to be planed?

If multiple boards are to be planed, collect all workpieces together and set them nearby on a table or bench within easy reach. To limit the potential for injury in the event of a kickback, avoid having to step or reach in front of the machine to pick up the next workpiece.


Q: How do you adjust the depth of cut?

The depth of cut is adjustable by using the handwheel.


Q: What is the maximum depth of cut on full width planing?

The maximum depth of cut on full width planing is 1/8”.


Q: What is recommended for both hard and soft wood when planing?

It is recommended that for both hard and soft wood: removing less material per pass and taking multiple passes is always preferred to more aggressive planing.


Q: How do you adjust the cutting depth?

  1. Turn off the machine.
  2. Position the board under the infeed roller and adjust the position of the table work with the handwheel so that the infeed roller is in contact with the board.
  3. Remove the board and adjust the cutting depth using the scale by turning the handwheel clockwise.

Q: How do you adjust the feed speed?

The feed speed adjustment knob is located on the right hand side of the machine. * To increase the feed rate at 28 fpm, pull the knob out. * To decrease the feed rate at 22 fpm, push the knob back. * For zero speed, set the knob in neutral position.


Q: When should speed changes be made?

To avoid damage to the gearbox, speed changes should only be made while the machine is running.


Q: What is the first step when planing a board?

With the planer turned off, position the workpiece on the infeed table with the flat face down and the face to be planed facing up.


Q: What is the second step when planing a board?

Adjust the depth of cut (see section “Adjusting depth of cut”).


Q: What is the third step when planing a board?

Set the board aside, then turn the planer on. Adjust the speed.


Q: What is the fourth step when planing a board?

Stand to one side of the machine and set the board back on the infeed table with the face to be planed facing up.


Q: What is the fifth step when planing a board?

Align the board laterally so that it will be fed through the planer in the general direction of the grain, and allow the workpiece enough clearance to feed properly without rubbing or catching on either side of the machine.


Q: What is the sixth step when planing a board?

Slowly slide the workpiece forward until the infeed roller “grips” the board.


Q: What is the seventh step when planing a board?

Release the board allowing the feed roller to automatically feed the board through the planer.


Q: What is the eighth step when planing a board?

Step to the rear of the machine and recover the planed board on the outfeed table once it has cleared the outfeed roller and has stopped advancing.


Q: What should you never do with the workpiece once it is in control of the automatic feed rollers?

Never push, pull or otherwise try to move or re-position the workpiece once it is in the control of the automatic feed rollers.


Q: What should you avoid when a board is engaged in the cutter head?

To limit the potential for injury in the event of a kickback, avoid standing directly in line-with the front or back of the planer whenever a board is engaged in the cutter head.


Q: What can you use a gauge block for?

You may use a homemade gauge block made of hardwood. If you prefer, precision aluminum gauge blocks are available.


Q: Is the cutter head pre-set parallel to the table?

The cutter head has been pre-set parallel to the table at the factory, therefore, except in some rare cases (important maintenance, transport handling) no further adjustments are required.


Q: How do you adjust the cutter head parallel to the table?

  1. Disconnect the machine from the power source.
  2. Place the gauge block on the table directly under the cutter head. Lower the cutter head until it just touches the gauge block.
  3. Move the gauge block to the opposite end of the table and make sure it just touches the cutter head at the other end as well.
  4. If not, leave the gauge in place and under the table, loosen the three screws using a 6 mm Allen key, insert a screwdriver in the hole located in the lead screw housing, and then turn the shaft clockwise or counterclockwise so that the gauge block just touches the cutter head.
  5. Position the gauge block to the other side to make sure the table is now parallel to the cutter head.

Q: What components should you take note of in order to make required adjustments?

A infeed roller; B chipbreaker; C cutter head with knife/insert; D out-feed roller.


Q: How do you adjust the infeed and outfeed rollers?

  1. Place the gauge block under the knife/insert, adjust the table height until you can only slide a 0.02” feeler gauge between the block and the cutter.
  2. Place the block under the end of the infeed roller. Loosen the nut, turn the screw until the roller touches the top of the block, and then re-tighten the nut. Repeat for the other end.
  3. Place the block under the end of the outfeed roller. Loosen the nut, turn the screw until the roller touches the top of the block, and then re-tighten the nut. Repeat for the other end.

Q: How do you adjust the chipbreaker?

  1. Place the block under a knife/insertion and adjust the table height until you can slide only a 0.004” feeler gauge between the block and the knife/insertion. Then place the block under the chipbreaker.
  2. Remove the dust chute, remove the two bolts with a 10 mm wrench, and then lift the chip deflector cover in order to access the cutter head.
  3. Loosen the two jam nuts using a 10 mm wrench.
  4. Turn the set screws using a 4 mm Allen key in the direction required so that the chipbreaker touches the top of the block. Note: Start with the set screw located on the same side as the gauge block, then move the block to the other end and adjust the other set screw.
  5. Retighten the two jam nuts using a 10 mm wrench. Re-install the chip deflector and the dust chute before starting the machine.

Q: How do you align the table rollers?

  1. Disconnect the machine from the power source. Place a straight edge across the rollers in up position.
  2. Using a 10 mm wrench, loosen the jam nuts located at each end table roller under the table, then turn the bolts to the direction required to raise or lower the roller. Retighten the bolts and repeat with the other roller. Note: Always make sure the rollers are parallel to the table and at the same height.

Q: How do you level the extension roller to the table rollers?

  1. Place a straight edge across the table rollers and the extension roller in up position.
  2. Verify visibly that the extension roller is leveled to the table rollers.
  3. To level: Loosen two eccentric blocks using a 4 mm Allen key, then turn the eccentric blocks in the direction required until the extension roller is leveled to the table rollers.

Q: What periodic maintenance should be performed?

  • Inspect/test the ON/OFF switches before each use. Do not operate the planer with a damaged switch; replace a damaged switch immediately.
  • Keep the machine as well the table clean and free of saw dust, woodchips, pitch or glue. Vacuum or brush off any loose debris and wipe down the machine and the table occasionally with a damp rag.
  • An occasional light coating of paste wax can help protect the table surface and reduce workpiece friction.
  • Avoid using silicon based products that may affect or react with wood finishing products such as oil, solvent or water-based stains, varnishes and lacquers.
  • Periodically inspect the power cord and plug for damage. To minimize the risk of electric shock or fire, never operate the planer with a damaged power cord or plug. Replace a damaged power cord or plug at the first visible signs of damage.
  • The drive gears, chain and elevation screws should be cleaned of woodchips, dust, debris and old grease. After cleaning, re-apply a generous coating of any common automotive bearing grease.
  • Regularly inspect planed workpieces for signs of knife/inserts damage or wear and replace damaged or worn knives immediately.
  • Wipe the chains with a lubricated cloth for medium to slow speed operation.
  • If excessive build-up of dust, dirt or wood shavings occur; coat chain with a light film of oil (never pour directly on chain). Over oiling defeats the purpose of the lubrication, the chain will overly accelerate, and will require constant replacement.
  • The bearings on the cutter head are factory lubricated and sealed, therefore they require no further attention.

Q: How do you know when to replace the knives or inserts?

Observing planed workpieces as they come out of the machine and looking for signs of knife damage or wear is the best method to help you to determine when knives/insertions are due to be changed.


Q: What are some signs of damage or wear to look for?

  • A raised ridgeline in the workpiece that runs a straight line from beginning to end of the board. This is generally an indication that one or all of the knives/inserts has been nicked or damaged by a foreign object such as a nail, staple or other hard object hidden or embedded in the workpiece.
  • A slight washboard or chatter effect, which can be an indication of uneven knife wear/insertions or causing one knife/several inserts to cut just deeper than the other.
  • Rough, irregular, torn or fuzzy grain on a freshly planed surface may be a sign of worn or dull blades/inserts causing the wood to tear out.

Q: What can cause fuzzy grain, other than dull blades/inserts?

Fuzzy grain can also be a sign of high moisture content in the workpiece.


Q: What should you do if you suspect that moisture content is the cause of fuzzy grain?

Set the workpiece aside and test by planing other boards with known or acceptable moisture content. If the planed results using a different workpiece are smooth, then moisture content in your wood is the problem – no adjustments can be made to the machine for this. Set the “wet” stock aside and simply work with drier wood.


Q: How do you maintain even knife wear?

To maintain even knife wear always replace all knives each time knife replacement is required (only for the model 30-360).


Q: What do you use to check if the knives are properly adjusted?

To make sure the knives are properly adjusted, use the jig provided to check each of the four knives.


Q: How do you inspect the cutter head knives?

  1. Unscrew the 6 screws and remove the left panel using a 4 mm Allen key.
  2. Remove the dust chute and the chip deflector bolts using a 10 mm wrench. Then tilt up the chip deflector cover.
  3. Remove the chip deflector using a 4 mm Allen key.
  4. Position one of the four knives on top by manually turning the cutter head belt and setting the gauge on the cutter head. Ideal knife position has the gauge sitting flush on the cutter head and the knife barely touching the center reference pads on the gauge.
  5. Make sure the other knives are positioned properly and in a good condition. Should any (or all) of the knives need adjusting, follow the instructions in the section “Knife setting or replacement”. Once the verifications are done, re-install the chip deflector, chip deflector cover and the left panel before starting the machine.

Q: What should I do before performing any maintenance or adjustments on the machine?

Make sure the machine has been turned off and unplugged from the power source before performing any maintenance or adjustments.


Q: What is essential to achieving accurate results when setting the knives, and how does it affect their lifespan?

Properly setting all four knives is essential to achieving accurate results. Properly set knives will last longer and also keep their edge (sharpness) longer by equally sharing the cutting workload.


Q: What can I use to help set the knives to the correct height?

You may use the supplied knife setting jig to help you set the knives to the correct height whenever re-setting or changing knives.


Q: What are some alternative options for knife setting tools?

You may find other “aftermarket” gauges, jigs or knife setting tools that are to your liking – ask your local tool distributor for information on any such tools that may be available in your market.


Q: What are the two options provided for setting the knives?

The cutter head is supplied with both adjustment springs and jack screws providing you with two options for setting the knives.


Q: What should I do when changing knives to avoid downtime?

To avoid potentially costly downtime, consider having a spare set of replacement knives/inserts on hand and ready for use when needed.


Q: What should I do before following the instructions for setting the knives?

Refer to the section “Inspecting cutter head knives” and perform steps 1 to 3 before following the instructions.


Q: How do I prepare the cutter head to access a knife?

Turn the cutter head pulley by hand to rotate the cutter head to access one of the knives.


Q: What tool should I use to loosen the gib bolts, and how should I do it?

Loosen the 6 gib bolts using a 10 mm wrench – start in the center and alternate sides.


Q: What should I do if replacing an old or damaged knife?

Loosen the bolts until the knife can be removed and install a new sharpened knife.


Q: How do I use the adjustment springs to set the knife height?

Push the knife down with the jig so that the edge of the knife is touching the center reference pads on the jig. Hold the jig down and tighten the bolts to secure the knife in place. Repeat for the 3 other knives.


Q: How do I use the Jack Screws to set the knife height?

Use a 4 mm Allen key to turn the three screws to raise or lower the knife as needed until the knife touches the center reference pads with the jig sitting flush on the cutter head and the knife barely touching the center reference pads on the jig. Repeat for the 3 other knives.


Q: What should I do after setting the knives?

Re-check the height on all the knives and reset if necessary. Re-install the left panel, the chipbreaker, the chip deflector and the dust chute.


Q: What should I do after changing or resetting the knives?

After changing or resetting the knives, the depth cut must be readjusted.


Q: How can I check if the inserts are in good condition?

To be sure that the inserts are in good condition, simply make a visual inspection by manually turning the cutter head.


Q: How many reversible carbide inserts (knives) are installed in the helical cutter head?

There are 58 reversible carbide inserts (knives) installed in the helical cutter head at the factory.


Q: What should be done to maintain even insert wear?

To maintain even insert wear always reverse or replace all 58 inserts each time knife replacement is required.


Q: Where can I order replacement inserts?

Replacement inserts can be ordered through your local General International distributor under part #30-443 (sold by sets of ten).


Q: Is the disassembly of the cutting head required for insert reversal or replacement?

The disassembly of the cutting head is not required for this operation.


Q: How do I remove the knife-holder/chip breaker and insert?

Using one of the two supplied Allen keys, loosen but do not remove the nut and screw and remove the knife-holder/chip breaker and insert.


Q: What should I do after removing the knife-holders/chip breakers and inserts?

Thoroughly clean the knife-holders/chip breakers and inserts using a lacquer thinner and small brush.


Q: How do I re-install the knife-holder/chip breaker and insert?

Reverse or replace the insert and re-install it along with the knife-holder/chip breaker into the slot, then partially retighten the nut and screw.


Q: How do I complete the re-installation of the knife-holder/chip breaker and insert?

Center the knife-holder/chip breaker with the flat edge of the nut and fully tighten the nut and screw. Repeat with all other 57 inserts.


Q: What should I do before reinstalling the knife-holder/chip breaker and insert?

Thoroughly clean the housing before reinstalling a knife-holder/chip breaker and insert.


Q: What is important to prevent knife height discrepancies?

The knife holders /chip breakers and inserts must be clean and free of debris to prevent knife height discrepancies.


Q: Is it necessary to remove the nut and screw that secures the knife-holder/chip breakers and inserts in the cutter head for blade reversal/replacement?

The nut and screw that secures the knife-holder/chip breakers and inserts in the cutter head does not have to be removed for blade reversal/replacement, only loosened.


Q: What should I do if the nuts and screws have to be replaced or if they have been removed instead of loosened?

If the nuts and screws have to be replaced or if they have been removed instead of loosened, follow the instructions to make sure that the knife-holder/chip breakers are all secured at the same height into the cutter head.


Q: How do I re-install the screw and nut if they have been removed?

Place the screw in the threaded hole but don’t start tightening it yet. Place the nut on top of the screw but don’t start tightening the screw yet. Holding nut with, tighten the screw. This will tighten both the screw and nut simultaneously.


Q: What should I not do when re-installing the nut and screw?

Do not thread the nut onto the screw before tightening the screw into the threaded hole in the cutter head.


Q: How often should the gear box oil be replaced?

The gear box oil should be replaced every 2500 hours of operation.


Q: What should I do before replacing the gear box oil?

Make sure the machine has been turned off and unplugged from the power source before performing any maintenance or adjustments.


Q: How do I access the gear box?

Remove the depth of cut handwheel. Unscrew and remove the feed speed knob. Remove the right panel to access the gear box.


Q: How do I drain the gear box oil?

Place a container under the plug and remove it with a 14 mm wrench. Once the gear box is drained, re-install the plug and then remove the plug using a 14 mm open wrench.


Q: How do I refill the gear box oil?

Fill the gear box with a 80W/90 oil until it reaches the hole, then re-install the plug. Re-install the panel, the handwheel and the feed speed adjustment.


Q: What type of lubricant should be used on the elevation screws and how often should they be lubricated?

Use all purpose grease on the elevation screws once a month.


Q: What should I do before applying lubricant to the elevation screws?

Remove old lubricant and dust deposits by wiping with a dry rag, then apply generous dabs of the lubricant required.


Q: What type of lubricant should be used on the sliding surfaces and how often should they be lubricated?

Use all purpose oil on the sliding surfaces once a month.


Q: What type of lubricant should be used on the chains and how often should they be lubricated?

Use all purpose grease on the chains once a month.


Q: What type of lubricant should be used on the roller springs and how often should they be lubricated?

Lubricate the spring rollers with all purpose oil every 30 hours of service via the four set screws.


Q: Why are anti-kickback fingers on the planer designed and what should be done to ensure they work correctly?

The anti-kickback fingers on this planer are designed to reduce the risk of injury due to kick-back by preventing the workpiece from being violently ejected from the machine. In order for the anti-kickback fingers to move freely and operate correctly, you must clean off any dust, particles or residue left behind.


Q: What should I do before aligning the belts?

Remove the left panels using a 4 mm Allen key.


Q: How do I verify that the pulleys are properly aligned?

Using a straight edge, verify that the pulleys are properly aligned.


Q: How do I align the pulleys?

Open the motor access door. Loosen the two nuts and the four nuts using 24 mm & 14 mm wrenches, then slide the motor on its mounting plate so that the pulleys are aligned. Retighten the four nuts and the belt tension nuts.


Q: How do I check the belt tension?

Check tension by pushing the belt with your finger. The belt should not move more than 1/2”.


Q: What should I do after aligning the belts?

Close the motor access door and re-install the panels before starting the machine.


Q: How do I adjust the belt tension?

Remove the left panel using a 4 mm Allen key. Check the belt tension by pushing the belt with your finger. The belt should not move more than 1/2”. If not, open the motor access door. Loosen the two jam nuts and then raise or lower the two nuts with a 19 mm wrench to tighten or loosen the belt as needed. Retighten the jam nuts against the motor mounting plate. Close the motor access door.


Q: How do I change the belts?

Remove the left panels. Remove the nuts. Place a piece of wood under the motor base. Step on the wood to pivot the motor up, and then remove the belts from the upper pulley. Install new belts starting with the lower pulley. Re-install the nuts. Follow steps to adjust the tension belt. Re-install the left panels and close the motor access door before starting the machine.


Q: How often should the belts be inspected and when should they be replaced?

Inspect the belts after every 100 hours of use. Belts that show visible signs of wear such as cracks or fraying at the edges should be replaced immediately.


Q: What are some of the recommended optional accessories for this product?

The PDF lists the following recommended optional accessories:

  • Dust collectors
  • Roller stands
  • Cutter head alignment blocks
  • Dial-gauge micrometer for planer knife alignment
  • Replacement knives for model 30-360
  • Heavy-duty polyethylene flexible hoses
  • Magnetic, micro-adjustable knife alignment gauge
  • “Magnum” Helical Cutter Head for model 30-360HC
  • Replacement carbide inserts for model 30-360 HC
  • Screw for carbide inserts for “Magnum” helical head

Q: What is the part number for the dust chute?

The part number for the dust chute is 30360-01.


Q: What is the part number for the knife (Item #30-364 or #30-362)?

The part number for the knife is 30360-42.


Q: What is the part number for the cutter head for the 30-360 or #360H for 30-360HC?

The part number for the cutter head is 30360-48.


Q: What is the part number for the knife setting jig bar (30-360 only)?

The part number for the knife setting jig bar is 30360-276.


Q: What is the part number for the knife setting jig pad (30-360 only)?

The part number for the knife setting jig pad is 30360-277.


Q: What is the part number for the insert screw (Item #30-444)?

The part number for the insert screw is 360H-02.


Q: What is the part number for the carbide insert (Item#30-443)?

The part number for the carbide insert is 360H-05.


Q: What should I always provide when ordering replacement parts?

When ordering replacement parts, always give the model number, serial number of the machine and part number. Also, a brief description of each item and the quantity desired.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD GENERAL 30-360 (01) PDF MANUAL


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