Benchdogs Quad MFT Hinge System

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, calibration, and use of the Benchdogs Quad MFT Hinge System. This system is designed to enhance precision and versatility when working with Festool, Makita, Triton, and Evolution tracks on your MFT (Multi-Function Table) or similar workbench setups.

What's in the Kit

• 1. Hinge Adaptor: The primary component for attaching the system.
• 2. Alignment Adaptor: Used for precise alignment during setup.
• 3. Spare O-rings (8x): Replacement rubber rings for various components.
• 4. Spare Fibre Washers (2x M9.1mm): For use with specific bolts.
• 5. Quad Base Bolts: Bolts to secure the base components.
• 6. Quad Base: The main structural base of the hinge system.
• 7. Hex Key: Tool for tightening bolts.
• 8. Track Bolts: Bolts designed to interface with track saw rails.
• 9. Alignment Pin: A pin used for aligning the track.
• 10. Track Bolts Thumb: Thumb-operated bolts for track adjustment.
• 11. Fibre Washers (M8): Additional washers.
• 12. Hex Key: A second hex key, possibly for different sizes or applications.

Installation Instructions

1. Step 1: Locate the alignment adaptor as pictured.
2. Step 2: Using the supplied countersunk screws, place them in the countersunk holes (x2).
3. Step 3: Thread the screws into the quad bases (x2).
4. Step 4: Locate the Hinge adaptor plate.
5. Step 5: Using the supplied countersunk screws, place them in the countersunk holes and attach the quad bases as per the previous alignment adaptor instruction.
6. Step 6: With your pre-drilled holes in your MFT top, ensure the holes are a maximum distance of 35mm from the edge of the table. If using the Benchdogs 346 hole jig, it is advised the holes are 48mm from a row of holes.
7. Step 7: Locate and insert the hinge adaptor plate into the 2x 20mm holes.
8. Step 8: Using the supplied hex key, tighten the quad bases evenly until solid and no movement is made with the hinge system.
9. Step 9: Locate and insert the hinge support plate into the 2 x 20mm holes.
10. Step 10: Using the supplied hex key, tighten the quad bases evenly until solid and no movement is made with the hinge system.
11. Step 11: Using the supplied track bolts, insert these into the labelled track brand holes (FMTE - Festool, Makita, Triton, and Evolution).
12. Step 12: Using the supplied fibre washers, attach the track bolt with the knurled female thumbscrew. Ensure there is play left to allow the track to slide in.
13. Step 13: Set the 2nd Track bolt with the knurled female thumbscrew.
14. Step 14: Ensure there is play left to allow the track to slide in.
15. Step 15: Slide the track bolts into the track.
16. Step 16: Line up the edge of the track with the edge of the hinge plate.
17. Step 17: Locate the supplied alignment pin which fits your brand of track; this was selected when purchasing your system.
18. Step 18: Insert this in the hole in line with the brand you have ordered (FMTE - Festool, Makita, Triton, and Evolution).
19. Step 19: Check hinge lifts into a vertical position and stays in place with the hinge in its upright or lowering position. There will be some lateral movement; this is normal and will not move once located in the alignment pin.
20. Step 20: Adjust tension to achieve the desired force to allow the track to hold itself.
21. Step 21: When lowering the track, ensure the track locates in the pin as shown above.
22. Step 22: Final Set Up: Ensure the track is correctly positioned and secured.

Calibration Instructions

1. Step 1: If your MFT is not square, you can still achieve square cuts by moving 2 parts and calibrating to your fence or Benchdogs. Move the alignment pin into the long slot and leave loose.
2. Step 2: Move the inner track bolt.
3. Step 3: Place into the calibration slot and leave loose.
4. Step 4: Line up your track with the track bolts.
5. Step 5: Slide in your track.
6. Step 6: Once square, tighten the thumbscrew and hex bolt on the alignment pin and recheck for squareness.
7. Step 7: Using a known accurate square, like the Benchdogs precision triangle, use this to square up your track with the fence or Benchdogs.
8. Step 8: With the alignment pin still loose, place the pin in the track slot.
9. Step 9: Final check for squareness and alignment.

Adjusting Height Instructions

1. Step 1: Loosen the knurled thumb screw on both ends.
2. Step 2: Lift and slide in a piece of material you are going to cut and lay the track flat on the surface.
3. Step 3: Place your hand on the track.
4. Step 4: Tighten the knurled thumbscrew on the hinge part.
5. Step 5: Lift the support/alignment pin into the track slot.
6. Step 6: Tighten the knurled thumbscrew.

Checking Precision

The system allows for checking precision with both Benchdogs and metric fence systems. Follow the visual guides for ensuring your setup is perfectly square and aligned for accurate cuts.