The DeWalt DW735X Thickness Planer is used to reduce the thickness of lumber and create smooth, parallel surfaces. It is commonly used to prepare boards for woodworking projects. The planer features a three-knife cutterhead, two feed speeds, and a maximum cutting width of 13 inches.
To operate, the desired cutting thickness is adjusted before a board is fed into the machine. Powered rollers move the wood beneath the rotating cutterhead, which removes a thin layer from the upper surface. Multiple shallow passes are typically used to achieve the desired thickness. Unlike a jointer, which creates a flat reference surface, a thickness planer makes the opposite face parallel to the face resting on its bed.
Compatible Materials
The DW735X is designed for solid wood, including common hardwoods and softwoods. Boards must be free of nails, screws, staples, and other foreign objects. Avoid plywood, MDF, particleboard, and other manufactured wood products unless specifically approved for the machine. Never plane lumber shorter than 12 inches or thinner than 1/8 inch, as these dimensions fall outside the manufacturer's operating limits.
Before You Begin
Thickness planers contain powerful rotating cutters and feed rollers that present serious blade-contact, entanglement, and kickback hazards. Wear PPE, keep hands away from the infeed and outfeed openings, and never reach inside the machine while it is operating. Secure loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair.
Support long boards as they enter and exit the machine, and stand to the side rather than directly behind the material. Use the required dust collection system to manage wood chips and debris. Disconnect the power before clearing jams, changing blades, or performing maintenance, and allow the cutterhead to stop completely before approaching the cutting area.
New to using a thickness planer? Start with a flat, adequately sized piece of solid wood and practice making shallow passes to gradually reduce its thickness. Become familiar with depth adjustments, feed speeds, and proper material support before working with rough or uneven lumber.
Knowledge Test and Skills Waiver
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
