manual or any artwork contained herein may be reproduced in any shape or form
without the express written consent of Harbor Freight Tools.
For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Page 2
SPECIFICATIONS
Motor:115V/60Hz. 2.2 HP
Cuts per Minute:16,000
No Load RPM’s:8000
Cutting Knives:2, Bi-Metal, M-2 edge
Feed Rate:23 feet per minute
Table Dimension:12-9/16”L x 11-1/2”W
Table w/ Extension:23-1/8”L
Sound Level:98 DB
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
Open end box wrench (8mm x 10mm)
3mm, 5mm, and 6mm hex wrenches
FEATURES
1.Adjustable extensions to support long workpieces.
2.Anti-kickback safety devices to prevent workpiece from being ejected toward the operator.
3.Two hardened bi-metallic blades are fully adjustable and replaceable for powerful cutting performance.
4.Compact and lightweight machine which can plane workpieces up to 12-1/2” wide and 6” thick.
5.Positive adjusting table with crank handle and easy to read thickness gauge.
6.ON / OFF switch has removable safety lock device to prevent unauthorized use of the machine.
7.Integral circuit breaker protects the motor from burn out.
Cutting Capacity:
Length of unbutted stock:8” minimum
Width of stock:12-1/2” max.
Thickness of stock:1/4” - 6”
Depth of Cut:1/8” max.
Power Cord:3-pole, UL approved
Overall Dimensions:22” x 19-1/2” x 19”
Net Weight:100 Lbs.
Carbon Brush set
Blade / Knife Gauge
SAVE THIS MANUAL
You will need the manual for the safety warnings and cautions, assembly instructions, operating
procedures, maintenance procedures, trouble shooting, parts list, and diagram. Keep your invoice
with this manual. Write the invoice number on the inside of the front cover. Keep both this manual
and your invoice in a safe, dry place for future reference.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS TOOL!
NOTICE
The Warnings, Cautions, and Instructions discussed in this instruction manual cannot
cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must be understood by
the operator that common sense and caution are factors which cannot be built into this
product, but must be supplied by the operator.
Page 2 SKU # 41831
Page 3
SAFETY WARNING & CAUTIONS
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS TOOL!
1. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered areas invite injuries.
2. OBSERVE WORK AREA CONDITIONS. Do not use tools in damp, wet, or poorly lit locations.
Don’t expose to rain. Keep work area well lit. Do not use electrically powered equipment in the presence
of flammable gases or liquids.
3. KEEP CHILDREN AWAY. Children must never be allowed in the work area. Do not let them handle
machines, tools, or equipment.
4. STORE IDLE EQUIPMENT. When not in use, tools must be locked up in a dry location to inhibit
rust. Always lock up tools and keep out of reach of children.
5. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL. It will do the job better and more safely at the rate for which it was
intended. Do not use inappropriate attachments in an attempt to exceed the tool’s capacities.
6. USE THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB. Do not use a tool for a purpose for which it was not
intended.
7. DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry, as they can be caught in moving parts. Nonskid footwear is recommended. Wear restrictive hair covering to contain long hair. Always wear appropriate
work clothing.
8. USE EYE, EAR AND BREATHING PROTECTION. Always wear ANSI approved impact safety
goggles if you are producing metal filings or wood chips. Wear an ANSI approved dust mask or
respirator when working around metal, wood, and chemical dusts and mists. Use ANSI approved ear
protection when working in a loud or noisy environment.
9. DO NOT ABUSE THE POWER CORD. Protect the power cord from damage, either from impacts,
pulling or corrosive materials. Do not yank machine’s cord to disconnect it from the receptacle.
10. DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Do not reach over or across
running machines.
11. MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools sharp and clean for better and safer performance.
Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Inspect power cord periodically and, if
damaged, have it repaired by an authorized technician. Inspect all hydraulic seals for leaks prior to use.
Control handle and power switch must be kept clean, dry, and free from oil and grease at all times.
Page 3 SKU # 41831
Page 4
12. REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES. Be sure that keys and adjusting wrenches are
removed from the tool or machine work surface before operation.
13. AVOID UNINTENTIONAL STARTING. Be sure that you are prepared to begin work before turning the
start switch on.
14. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing. Do not operate this machine when you are tired.
15. DO NOT OPERATE THIS MACHINE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, DRUGS,
OR PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES.
16. CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS. Before using any tool, any part that appears damaged should be
carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for
alignment and binding of moving parts, any broken parts or mounting fixtures, and any other condition that may
affect proper operation. Any part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by a qualified
technician. Do not use the tool if any switch does not turn on and off properly.
17. REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES. When servicing, use only identical replacement parts
intended for use with this tool. Replacement parts are available from Harbor Freight Tools. Use of any other
parts will void the warranty.
SPECIAL WARNINGS WHEN USING THIS PLANING MACHINE
Using this Planer may create special hazards.
Take particular care to safeguard yourself and those around you.
Electrical Safety. Never operate any tool if there is an electrical hazard. Never operate an electrical
tool in wet conditions. Never operate a tool with an improper electrical cord or extension cord. Never operate
an electrical tool unless it is plugged into a properly grounded outlet, which
recommend you use a circuit which is protected by an appropriate circuit breaker.
Ejected Material.Use safe practices to avoid injury from ejected material. Because the Planing tools
turn at high speed, there is a danger of being injured by materials that may be ejected. Always wear ANSIcertified eye protection. Always stand to one side of the line in which the materials are being inserted or
extruded, to avoid being hit if particles are ejected. Never allow bystanders to be in the proximity of the Planer
while in operation.
Jamming.Avoid causing the planer to bog down or jam by avoiding the following situations. Do not
attempt to plane more than 1/8” at a time, or less if the wood is very hard. Do not attempt to feed more than the
stated feed rate, or less if the wood is very hard. Be sure your knife blades are kept sharp. Check all
workpieces for knots and foreign objects before planing. If the workpiece jams, it is likely the circuit breaker
will break to protect the motor.
supplies 110-120 Volts at 60Hz. We
Entanglement.Use extreme caution to prevent loose materials from being caught in the machine.
Never operate this Planer with loose clothing, long hair, jewelry, or other items which may become caught in the
blades or workpieces. In case of entanglement, press the OFF switch immediately.
NOTICE: No list of warnings can be all inclusive.
The operator must supply common sense, and operate this tool in a safe manner.
Page 4 SKU # 41831
Page 5
UNPACKING
1.Remove protective crating and materials carefully. In the event of damage in transit, contact
Harbor Freight Tools. Be sure you have all small parts accounted for before discarding packing
materials.
2.Check to be sure all parts are present. In addition to the planer, you should receive the accessories
noted on page 2. You should also receive a crank handle, 2 carrying handles, and 2 table extensions,
with their related hardware. If the 4 base brackets are not installed, they should be included, together
with attaching hardware.
INSTALLATION
1.It is important that the machine be located on a solid, level platform. Find a location
that has easy access to 110-120 Volt electrical service. Make sure this machine is
located in a well lighted and well ventilated area. The floor should be resistant to
vibration. There must be adequate room to insert and remove workpieces through
the planer.
2.To permanently install the machine, check the platform to be sure it is even and
level. Make any required corrections to the platform. If the base brackets are not
attached to each lower corner of the machine, attach them using the supplied
hardware. Mark and drill holes in the platform, and mount the machine using bolts and nuts.
2.If the machine will not be permanently installed, it is advisable to attach it to wooden skids by means of
the base brackets. The skids should be solid hard wood at least 1” in thickness and 2” in width. Route
these skids along each side of the machine from front to back. Each skid should extend several inches
beyond the machine to allow them to be firmly clamped to the work surface before using the machine.
Fig 1. Base Bracket
WARNING: Never operate this machine if it is not firmly attached to a work surface.
Unattached, the machine may move along the work surface possibly falling over,
ejecting the work piece, or creating other hazards which can cause serious injury.
ELECTRICAL POWER
This machine requires a 110-120V 60Hz grounded power supply. This power is available in most common
household or workshop outlets in the United States. Please observe the following safety precautions.
1.Route the power cord in a way that avoids damage to the cord from other tools or machinery, and
isolates the cord from exposure to wet or corrosive conditions.
2.Avoid routing the cord along the floor, walkways, or corridors, where it may cause a tripping hazard.
3.Be sure the outlet is grounded and protected with an appropriate circuit breaker. Check with a qualified
electrician if you have any doubts or concerns about your electrical service.
4.If you will use an extension cord, be sure to use a 3-prong, grounded cord. Preferably the cord will be
UL approved. Know that long extension cords cause a noticable power drop. It is necessary to use
cords of the proper gauge to avoid excessive resistance or power drop within the cord. Please comply
with the following table.
Extension Length:0-50ft.Use minimum 12 AWG cord
50-100ft.Use minimum 10AWG cord
over 100 ft.Not Recommended
Note: Voltage variations of more than + or - 10% from the specification will result in noticable reduction
of service, and may cause damage to the motor.
Page 5 SKU # 41831
Page 6
COMPLETING ASSEMBLY
WARNING: Be sure the machine is unplugged before attempting any assembly or adjustment operation.
Attaching the Carrying Handles
1.Locate the two carrying handles (#349), and their hardware, Screws (#327).
2.Attach the handles to the top of the machine using the screws. Be sure the handles are firmly attached.
Installing the table extensions
1.With the roller up, place each table extension bracket
(#157) onto the table (#125) and attach using two
cap screws (#164). Be sure the bracket assemblies are
firmly attached, but are able to rotate up for storage.
2.Adjust each table extension so that a workpiece
supported by the roller is level and in the same plane
with the table. Do this by adjusting the cap screws
(#1) in or out as required. See Figure 2. Check
the adjustment by placing a straight edge at least 24” long through the machine, and resting on the table
and both extension rollers. When the extension is properly adjusted, lock the cap screws in place with
the lock nuts (#2).
Figure 2. Table Extension Adjustment
Setting the Cutting Depth
1.Place the Table Adjustment Handle (#150) over the square-ended
Control Screw (#130) which protrudes throught the top of the machine.
2.Turn the Table Adjustment Handle to raise or lower the Table to
the desired cutting thickness.
3.Read the cutting depth reading on the scale on the right of the
machine.
4.Remove the Table Adjustment Handle before operating the machine.
Operating the Power Switch
1.The power switch is located on the lower right front of the machine.
2.The Safety Switch Cover may be installed or removed by pressing
it onto or pulling it off of the power switch.
3.The Safety Switch Cover must be
in place to operate the Power Switch.
You can remove the Cover and store it in
a safe place to prevent unauthorized use
of the machine.
4.Press the Switch UP to turn the
machine ON, and DOWN to turn the
machine OFF.
Integral Circuit Breaker.
1.The circuit breaker will automatically break if more than 10AMPS
reaches the motor. This will help prevent motor burn out in case the planer
Fig. 4 Power Switch and
Integral Circuit Breaker
Page 6 SKU # 41831
jams, or there is a power surge through the power cord.
2.To reset, correct the error condition, and press the button back in.
Fig. 3 Crank and
Cutting Depth Scale
Page 7
SAFETY CHECK PRIOR TO OPERATION
WARNING: Be sure the machine is unplugged and the power switch turned OFF when inspecting the machine.
1.Check to be sure all parts and fasteners are properly attached and tight.
2.Be sure the blade is properly installed and adjusted.
3.Check the operation of theTable Adjustment Handle (#150). One rotation of the handle will raise or
lower the table by 2mm (0.0787”).
Plug in the machine to prepare to check the motor and blade function.
1.Turn ON the machine by moving the switch up.
Note: The safety switch cover must be in place for the switch to operate.
2.Do not insert any work materials into the planer. Allow it to spin up to full speed. Determine if the
machine is operating smoothly, not making any excessive noises or vibrations. If not, the machine is
ready to operate.
WARNING: CHECK BLADE SETTING AND TIGHTNESS BEFORE INITIAL USE.
OPERATION
WARNING: Be sure to wear ANSI-approved eye protection, and observe other safety precautions
before starting this machine.
1.Measure your workpiece to determine its current thickness, and the amount you desire to plane off.
Remember the maximum depth of cut is 1/8”. If you need to remove more than this, you will make
repeated cuts.
2.Set the cutting depth by turning the Table Adjustment Handle (#150) until the pointer indicates the
correct depth on the scale.
3.Be sure the machine is OFF and the power cord unplugged. Insert the workpiece into the planer and
visually check your setting to assure that no more than 1/8” will be planed off the workpiece.
WARNING: Attempting to plane more than 1/8” at a time may cause the planer to jam; potentially
causing the workpiece to splinter and be ejected from the machine, or the motor to jam and possibly
burn out. Never attempt to plane more than 1/8” at a time.
4.When you are satisfied the cut is properly set up, remove the workpiece from the machine. Plug in the
planer, and turn the power switch ON, by flipping it up. Allow the planer to spin up to full speed.
5.Position the workpiece on the extension roller and table so that it is level. If you are planing a long
board, you may need support tables on both sides of
the planer to keep the workpiece level as its full length
passes through the planer.
6.Feed the workpiece into the planer, no faster than the
stated feed rate (23 feet per minute). The planer
should maintain its speed. If the planer slows down
noticably, reduce the feed rate. If the planer still bogs
down, remove the workpiece and adjust for a
shallower cut.
WARNING: Do not allow your hands to move any closer
to the planer than the rollers on the table extensions.
Never allow your hands to enter the machine while it is
turned ON. Severe injury can result.
7.Use a wooden pusher tool to push the board through
the planer. You can also grip the finished portion of the
workpiece, and pull it out of the planer.
Fig 5. DO NOT Place Your Hand
Inside the Extension Rollers
Page 7 SKU # 41831REV 12/06
Page 8
SUGGESTIONS FOR BETTER PLANING
This tool is ideal for finishing wood boards. You can use it to level or remove veneers. You can level
warped boards. You can convert rough boards into finished wood. You can shape boards to a desired size.
Select your wood with care.
1.Be sure your wood is dry and properly cured. Green or wet wood will continue to shrink and may warp
after planing.
2.Do not use splintered wood, or wood which may splinter while being worked. Some species such as
Eucalyptus or Bamboo are prone to splintering and are not suitable for planing.
3.Do not use any boards with loose knots, or knots which are significantly harder than the surrounding
wood. These can break out or come loose during planing, which can jam the machine.
4.Check your workpiece for foreign objects, such as nails, screws or stones which may be embedded in
the wood. Remove any foreign objects before planing, or select another workpiece. Foreign objects
may come loose and be ejected from the machine causing a hazard. Foreign objects may also damage
the knife blades.
Plan the best way to handle warped and bowed boards.
1.Boards which are warped across the width of the board
(“cupped” boards) should have the top planed flat first,
then turned over and the bottom planed flat.
2.Depending on the width of the board, you can reduce
waste in planing cupped boards by ripping them
lengthwise first, then planing both resulting pieces.
3.Boards which are warped lengthwise (“bowed” boards)
are difficult to succesfully straighten out. The feed rollers
in the planer will effectively straighten out bowed boards
as they pass through. But the board will remain bowed
when freestanding. If the bowed board cannot be used as
is, it is best to select another board.
Figure 6. A Cupped Board
It is important to consider wood grain when planing.
1.It is best to cut in such a way that the planer’s knife
blades are cutting with the grain. This will reduce
chipping, and result in a smoother finished surface. You
can identify the grain direction by looking at the edge or
end of the board. You can also often feel the grain with
your fingers.
2.In some boards, the grain direction reverses part way
along the board. If possible, cut such boards at the
transition point, and plane each piece separately.
Avoiding Kickback.
1.Always insert boards for planing into the front of the
machine. The insertion direction is indicated by the arrow
on top of the left belt cover.
2.Anti-kickback devices are installed along the top edge of
the front opening of the planer.
WARNING: Avoid kickback by never overloading the machine.
Page 8 SKU # 41831
Figure 7. A Bowed Board
Figure 8. Feed the Board so the Knife
Blades cut WITH the Grain
Figure 9. Boards Whose Grain Changes
Direction in the Middle.
Page 9
MAINTENANCE
When not in use, keep the machine unplugged and covered. Store it in a dry place. Store the safety switch
cover in a safe place to prevent unauthorized use. Unplug the machine before doing any maintenance.
Regular lubrication is required to keep your planer in good condition, and assure a long service life.
1.Keep the table guide rods clean, and coated with a light coat of grease.
2.Occasionally remove the top and apply a light grease to the bearings at each end of the cutter head.
3.Remove the panels on both sides of the planer, and apply a light grease to the chains.
Note: Do not apply grease to the belts.
4.Apply a light coat of grease to the chain on the underside of the machine.
The motor and electrical controls should be maintained.
1.Keep the motor and electrical controls dry and clean. Do not expose the electrical portions of the
machine to water or wet conditions.
2.Keep the motor free of chips, sawdust, grease, and debris.
3.The motor bearings are sealed and do not require additional lubrication.
ADJUSTING THE CUTTING KNIVES
WARNING: Be sure the machine is turned OFF and UNPLUGGED before attempting any adjustments.
The Cutter Head assembly can be accessed by removing
the cover from the top of the machine.
1.Remove the top cover (#326) from the top of the machine
by removing the bolts which hold it in place.
2.Please refer to Figure 11. when checking knifeadjustment. Position the knife Gauge (E) on the cutter
head and knife blade as shown. The gauge must contact
the knife blade and the cutter head at all three points
shown. The blade is adjusted too low if there is a visible
space between the blade edge and the gauge.
The knife blade is too high when the gauge rocks from
side to side on the cutter head when contacting the knife blade.
3.To adjust the blade setting, loosen the locking nuts (A) just enough
to allow the blade (C) to move against the Lock Bar (B). To raise
the knife blade, turn adjustment screw (D) counterclockwise. To
lower the knife blade, turn the adjustment screw clockwise and
press down on the blade.
NOTE: The blade must be adjusted at both ends. It is important that
you adjust the blade along its entire length, so the blade has an even
depth along its entire length.
4.When the knife blade is properly adjusted, tighten the locking nuts
(A) firmly to lock it in place. Be sure these nuts are on tight.
Figure 10. Checking the Knife Blade
Re-check to be sure the knife blade did not slip during tightening.
Page 9 SKU # 41831
Figure 11. Knife Blade Gauge
Page 10
TROUBLESHOOTING
If you follow the instructions in this book, and adequately maintain and lubricate your Planer, it
will give you many years of good service.
Unplug the machine before attempting any repairs.
If the Planer runs rough or has excessive vibration:
1.Check the Knife Blades to be sure they are not chipped, are securely installed, and are adjusted
properly.
2.Check all chains and belts to be sure they are properly routed on their pulleys and sprockets, and are
not loose.
3.Check to be sure the Table is not damaged, and operates smoothly.
4.Be sure the Crank is removed from the Planer before operation.
If the Planer will not operate at all:
1.Check to be sure the planer is plugged in, the main circuit breaker in the power source is operational,
and the integral circuit breaker on the machine is operational. If either circuit breaker is open, investigate
further to determine and repair the cause of the fault.
2.Check to see if the Planer is jammed.
3.Inspect the carbon brushes in the motor to determine if they are in good condition.
4.Look for broken, damaged, or loose electrical connections. Repair any faults before continuing.
If the Motor runs rough or slowly:
1.Check for debris in the cutting assembly or in the chains or belts.
2.Inspect the carbon brushes, replace if necessary.
3.Check the power source to be sure you are receiving the correct Voltage and Amperage.
If the Planer cuts unevenly, poorly, or produces a rough or chipped finish:
1.Inspect the Knife Blades to be sure they are properly installed
and adjusted.
2.Remove the Knife Blades and have them sharpened by a
professional sharpening service.
3.Review the suggestions for selecting a workpiece, and
adjusting the depth of cut.
4.Be sure you are cutting with the grain of the wood.
Changing the Carbon Brushes.
1.Check the motor carbon brushes after each 10-15 hours
of operation.
2.These can be accessed by turning the machine on its side.
The motor is located on the underside of the machine.
The brush holders are on each side of the motor. The
brush holders can be removed by turning a coin in the slot.
3.Each brush has a max wear line marked on its side. When
the brush has worn to the line, or if it is cracked or
chipped, replace it. Be sure to replace carbon brushes in pairs.
133Wood Screw1
134Base Bracket4
135Cap Screw, m6 x 168
136Nut, m68
137Scale1
138Washer, m68
139Screw, m6 x 168
140Washer, m88
141Right Cover1
142Bolt Screw, m8 x 502
143Screw, m8 x 168
144Switch Cover1
145Switch1
146Power Cord1
147Belt Cover1
148Washer, m62
149Nut, m62
150Table Adjustment Handle1
151Left Cover1
152Cap Screw, m8 x 208
153Cap Screw, m8 x 164
154Motor Cord1
155Circuit Breaker, 230V/10Amp 1
156Strain Relief Bushing1
157Table Extension Bracket2
158Roller2
159Block4
160Cap Screw, m6 x 164
161Pin, m8 x 204
162Cap Screw, m6 x 204
163Nut, m64
164Screw, m8 x 164
132Screw, m6 x 101
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY
THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR HAS PROVIDED THE PARTS DIAGRAM IN THIS MANUAL AS
A REFERENCE TOOL ONLY: NETHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE BUYER THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO MAKE ANY REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT OR THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO REPLACE ANY PARTS OF THE PRODUCT:
IN FACT THE MANUFACTURER A ND/OR DISTRIBUTOR EXPRESSLY STATES THATALL REPAIRS AND
PARTS REPLACEMENTS SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSED TECHNICIANS AND NOT
BY THE BUYER. THE BUYER ASSUMES ALL RISK AND LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER REPAIRS TO
THE ORIGINAL PRODUCT OR REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO, OR ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER INSTALLATION OF REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO.
Page 11 SKU # 41831REV 08/01
Page 12
#41831 12-1/2” AUTO PLANER PARTS DIAGRAM, MAIN UNIT
Please refer to Parts List on Page 11
Page 12 SKU # 41831REV 08/01
Page 13
#41831 12-1/2” AUTO PLANER, ADDITIONAL PARTS LIST
Please refer to Parts Diagrams on Page 14 and 15
P/NDescription QuantityP/NDescription Quantity
Motor Assembly
201 Motor Housing1
202Stator1
203Washer, m51
204Fan Casing1
205Screw, m5 x 852
206Bearing, 6201ZZ1
207Silicone Steel Sheet1
208Bearing, 6029ZZ1
209Motor Pulley1
210Brush Holder2
211Carbon Brush2
212Brush Cap2
213Motor Box1
214Cap Screw, m5 x 124
215Washer, m54
216Pad Head Screw, m5 x 502
217Pad Head Screw, m5 252
218Cover1