1. Introduction
This manual is a reproduction of the original Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Owner's, Instructions, and Parts Manual. It provides comprehensive and in-depth guidance on how to set up, operate, and maintain your Shopsmith planer attachment. The manual includes detailed instructions for proper knife replacement and adjustment, feed roller and chain adjustments, and helpful wood planing tips. Additionally, it features a complete set of exploded view diagrams illustrating all parts of the Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer.

Figure 1: Cover page of the Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Attachment manual, showing an illustration of the planer.
2. Safety Information
WARNING:
- Always read the Safety section thoroughly and complete all Setup procedures before operating the Shopsmith Professional Planer.
- Mount the Professional Planer exclusively on Shopsmith equipment.
- Use only Shopsmith parts and accessories with your Professional Planer.
- Mounting the Professional Planer on non-Shopsmith machinery or using non-Shopsmith parts can create hazardous conditions and will void your product warranty.
Refer to page 3 of the original manual for additional safety guidelines.
3. Setup and Installation
This section details the steps required to properly install and prepare your Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Attachment for use.
3.1. Install the Switch Box
- Remove the planer from its big box as illustrated in Figure 2. Set it on a flat, stable surface.
- Hold the control box (53) in position and attach it to the planer with three machine screws (52), as shown in Figure 3.
3.2. Install the Feed Motor
- Place a lock washer (44) on each of four socket head screws (43), then set the close to the planer.
- Hold the feed motor in position, as shown in Figure 4.
- Attach the feed motor to the planer with the socket head screws and lock washers, as seen in Figure 5.
- Use a 3/16" Allen wrench to securely tighten all four screws, as shown in Figure 6.
3.3. Install the Planer on the Stand
- Firmly grasp the planer and lift it into position on the stand. Carefully place the planer on the stand so the feed motor is on the same side as the top panel on the large opening, as shown in Figure 7.
- See Figures 8 and 9. Note the hole in the middle of the top panel (on both ends). Make sure these holes are aligned with the two mounting holes located in the bottom of the planer.

Figure 2: Removing the planer from its box. Figure 3: Attaching the control box. Figure 4: Holding the feed motor in position. Figure 5: Attaching the feed motor. Figure 6: Tightening feed motor screws. Figure 7: Placing the planer on the stand. Figure 8 & 9: Aligning mounting holes for planer installation.
4. Operation
This section provides guidance on operating your Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Attachment for optimal performance and results.
- Cuts Per Inch Formula: Understand how to calculate the appropriate number of cuts per inch for various wood types and desired finishes.
- Feed Rate Chart: Consult the provided chart to select the correct feed rate for different materials and planing tasks.
- Moisture Content Formula: Learn about the importance of wood moisture content and how it affects planing results.
- Wood Planing Guide: Follow best practices and tips for effective and safe wood planing, ensuring smooth and accurate finishes.
Detailed operational instructions can be found starting on page 19 of the original manual.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Attachment. This section covers essential maintenance procedures.
- Knife Mounting System: Instructions for inspecting and maintaining the planer's knife mounting system.
- Checking Knife Positions: Procedures for verifying and adjusting knife positions for optimal cutting.
- Removing, Installing & Adjusting Knives: Step-by-step guide for safely replacing and fine-tuning the planer knives.
- Adjusting Thickness Scale: How to calibrate and adjust the thickness scale for accurate planing depth.
- Adjusting Chain Tension: Instructions for maintaining proper chain tension for the feed mechanism.
- Synchronizing Table: Guidance on synchronizing the planer table for consistent results.
- Mounting Posts: Maintenance and inspection of mounting posts.
- Adjusting Roller Pressure: How to adjust the pressure of the feed rollers.
- Regrinding Planer Knives: Information on regrinding dull planer knives to extend their life.
- Lubricating Planer: Recommended lubrication points and schedule.
- Waxing Planer: Tips for waxing the planer bed to reduce friction and improve material flow.
- Storing Planer: Guidelines for proper storage to protect the planer when not in use.
- Maintenance Schedule: A recommended schedule for routine maintenance tasks.
Detailed maintenance procedures begin on page 28 of the original manual.
6. Troubleshooting Guide
This section provides a guide to help diagnose and resolve common issues you might encounter with your Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Attachment.
Refer to page 38 of the original manual for a comprehensive troubleshooting guide.
7. Specifications
Key specifications for the Shopsmith 12-inch Professional Planer Attachment manual:
- Product Type: Planer Attachment
- Planer Size: 12 inches
- Manual Print Length: 43 pages
- Manual Item Weight: Approximately 5 ounces
- Language: English

Figure 10: Quick Reference Index from the manual, listing various sections and their corresponding page numbers.
8. Warranty Information
The use of non-Shopsmith machinery or non-Shopsmith parts with your Professional Planer Attachment will void its warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the original documentation that accompanied your Shopsmith product or contact Shopsmith customer service.
9. Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to order genuine Shopsmith replacement parts and accessories, please refer to the contact information provided with your original Shopsmith equipment or visit the official Shopsmith website.