1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Scheppach HMS850 Planer & Thicknesser. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine and keep it for future reference. The Scheppach HMS850 is a compact and powerful woodworking machine designed for both planing (surface jointing) and thicknessing operations, ideal for small workshops and DIY enthusiasts.

Figure 1: Scheppach HMS850 Planer & Thicknesser
2. Safety Instructions
Always prioritize safety when operating power tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or damage to the machine.
- Read and understand all instructions before use.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and dust mask.
- Ensure the workpiece is properly secured before beginning any operation.
- Keep hands and fingers away from moving parts and cutting blades.
- Disconnect the machine from the power supply before making adjustments, changing blades, or performing maintenance.
- Ensure adequate ventilation and dust extraction when operating the machine.
- Do not operate the machine in damp or wet conditions.
- Keep the work area clean and well-lit.
3. What's in the Box
Upon unpacking, ensure all components are present and undamaged:
- Scheppach HMS850 Planer & Thicknesser Unit
- 2 x High-Speed Steel Planer Blades (pre-installed or included separately)
- Jointer Fence
- Dust Extraction Hood
- Instruction Manual
4. Setup
Before first use, assemble the necessary components and prepare your workspace.
4.1 Workspace Preparation
- Place the machine on a stable, level workbench. The four stable feet ensure machine stability.
- Ensure sufficient space around the machine for safe operation and handling of long workpieces.
- Connect a suitable dust extraction system to the dust port for efficient chip removal.
4.2 Jointer Fence Assembly
Attach the jointer fence to the planing table. The fence is crucial for accurate planing operations.

Figure 2: Machine set up for planing with jointer fence
5. Operating Instructions
The Scheppach HMS850 offers two primary functions: planing (surface jointing) and thicknessing. The machine is equipped with precision adjusters for accurate settings.
5.1 Planing (Surface Jointing)
Planing is used to flatten one face of a workpiece and square an edge to that face.
- Ensure the machine is configured for planing mode. This involves positioning the dust extraction hood and securing the jointer fence.
- Adjust the infeed table height using the precision adjusters to set the desired chip removal depth. The maximum chip removal for planing is 2 mm.
- Adjust the jointer fence angle. The fence can swivel from 0-45 degrees, allowing for planing angles between 90 and 130 degrees relative to the table. The jointer fence dimensions are 520 x 102 mm.
- With the machine running, feed the workpiece smoothly across the planing table, keeping it firmly against the fence and table.

Figure 3: Planing function in action

Figure 4: Adjusting the planing table swivel angle (0-45 degrees)
The planing table size is 737 x 210 mm.
5.2 Thicknessing
Thicknessing is used to bring a workpiece to a uniform thickness, parallel to a previously planed face.
- Convert the machine to thicknessing mode by adjusting the dust extraction hood and raising the planing tables.
- Adjust the thicknessing table height using the crank to set the desired final thickness. The maximum passage height is 120 mm, and the maximum planing width is 204 mm. The thicknessing table size is 350 x 204 mm.
- The maximum chip removal for thicknessing is 2 mm.
- Feed the workpiece into the thicknesser. The anti-kickback claws will help prevent the wood from being ejected.

Figure 5: Thicknessing function in action

Figure 6: Side view of the machine in thicknessing configuration
5.3 General Operation Tips
- The machine is powered by a 1250W motor.
- The planer blades operate at a speed of 8000 min⁻¹.
- Always ensure the dust extraction system is active during operation to maintain a clean work environment and prevent chip buildup.
- For best results, take multiple shallow passes rather than one deep pass.
5.4 Official Product Video
Watch the official product video for a visual guide on the machine's features and operation.
Video 1: Scheppach HMS850 Planer & Thicknesser Overview. This video demonstrates the key features and operation of the HMS850, including its planing and thicknessing capabilities, adjustments, and safety features.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your machine.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the machine, especially the tables and blade area, from sawdust and chips. Use a brush or compressed air.
- Blade Inspection: Inspect the planer blades for sharpness and damage before each use. Dull or damaged blades should be replaced immediately.
- Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts as indicated in the detailed service manual (if applicable) to ensure smooth operation.
- Storage: Store the machine in a dry, clean environment when not in use.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor surface finish (e.g., tear-out, uneven cuts) | Dull or damaged blades; incorrect feed rate; excessive chip removal per pass; wood grain issues. | Replace blades; adjust feed rate; reduce chip removal depth; adjust feed direction relative to grain. |
| Machine not starting | No power supply; emergency stop engaged; thermal overload. | Check power connection; disengage emergency stop; allow machine to cool down. |
| Excessive vibration or noise | Loose components; unbalanced blades; worn bearings. | Check and tighten all fasteners; inspect and replace blades if damaged; contact qualified service personnel. |
| Chips not clearing effectively | Dust extraction system not connected or insufficient; clogged dust port. | Connect or upgrade dust extraction; clear dust port and hose. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Scheppach |
| Model | HMS850 |
| Power | 1250 Watts |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Planing Width | 204 mm |
| Passage Height (Thicknessing) | 120 mm |
| Max. Chip Removal (Planing) | 2 mm |
| Max. Chip Removal (Thicknessing) | 2 mm |
| Blade Speed | 8000 min⁻¹ |
| Planing Table Size | 737 x 210 mm |
| Thicknessing Table Size | 350 x 204 mm |
| Jointer Fence Dimensions | 520 x 102 mm |
| Jointer Fence Swivel Range | 0-45 degrees |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Item Weight | 23 Kilograms |
| Product Dimensions | 74L x 36W x 49.5H cm |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or spare parts, please refer to the contact details provided with your purchase documentation or visit the official Scheppach website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





