Rbi Hawk

[Rivari]

I have been limping my stock blade clamps through recent projects and I finally got off my butt to call RBI and ask what is going on with these things. Thinking I would have to try to explain what the problem was and beg for help I was pleasently surprised that this was not the case.

I spoke with Tony there at Hawk and it was a hassle free exchange and I have new clamps in route today. There is alot to be said for good customer service and product support like this.

As a final note, the blade clamps for the G4 have changed...again (that might be old news). The stock clamps I received were the aluminum block type with the hex head screws on the side, the new ones look completely different. I highly suggest anyone having any issues give them a call, they are fast, friendly and leave you with a good feeling.

[BobD]

Todd,
Can you post a photo of the new clamps? I want to check and see which ones I've got!

Bob

[Rivari]

Here is the picture of the new style...keep in mind I have been gone awhile so they might not be as new as I think.

I couldn't find a picture of the type I have but I know we had talked about this in a previous thread about a month ago and someone had posted some pics.

[BobD]

That's what I've got now..Thanks Todd!

Bob

[Rivari]

How are they working for you Bob, any issues with the set screw stripping out or blades coming loose for no apparent reason?

Lastly, does this clamp utilize a wedge type set up like the old ones where the set screw has zero contact with the blade?

[BobD]

The main problem I have with them is getting the blade the whole way into the clamp. When I'm top feeding, especially with spiral blades, I've found that I need to loosen the thumbscrew up quite a bit to make sure the blade doesn't catch in the threads and not go down the hole. The set screw does come into direct contact with the blade, so once you get it situated, it holds really well!

I think my problems may be related to my inexperience at top feeding!

Bob

[workin for wood]

Is that a x handle or a flat T like handle? mine is an x handle ...more like a 3 way x, and it's hard to grip. I can feel the threads stripping out in the top blade holder too, but I know they will send me another one, like they always do, they have great customer service.

Has anyone had to replace a spring yet? Mine has broke twice and it's not picnic to replace. There is a metal plate glued over the access hole ! If you pry off the plate, the plate is destroyed...although they will send you a new plate. I drilled out the plate after the first time and now have permanent access to the access hole...I mentioned this to hawk, but they don't seem to care. Guess they like sending out free parts ??? Wish I had all that money to burn.

Bob...I'm waiting for you to think you have it in the hole, but you don't and then you pull back the tensioner and get whacked in the head. Had a few of those experiences myself.

[Rivari]

The ones I was having issues with were the x handles and your right about stripping, every hour or so I found myself cleaning the threads up on the set screw.

I haven't had a spring break...yet...and I hope never. Nothing is more fustrating than a piece of equipment that expensive failing.

[PeteB]

The new style looks a heck of a lot like the old style (like on my 220 which is a couple of years old).

I use the same couple of clamps over and over without a problem.

If I muff a blade change, it's usually the upper (not tight enough, blade not all the way in, etc.)

Pete

Edit: Would also like to chime in that RBI service is great. They will take all the time you need to answer your questions to your satisfaction.

[will8989]

Not to brag, but I am still using the same 3 holders I got with my hegner 6 years ago!! In fact, the only down time I had was one day when I broke something, some little thingy that makes the arm go up and down. Called Advanced Mach, made at trip up 95 the next morning and was back in business by noon.

Betty