Author Topic: MFTC portable workshop (Read 990207 times)

Timtool · « **on:** March 08, 2013, 10:23 AM »

Well it's finally here after 10 months of planning, testing, building, replanning rebuilding etc... the MFTC or multi function tool cart!

By far my most exhaustive and complex project, the MFTC is a workshop on wheels, folds up and can be transported like a hand truck.
I started designing this right after i finished my MFTB tool box, because i needed something for bigger site jobs.
But you can read the whole story and see more pics here on my site.

When i was designing this Festool had not yet brought out their sys roll, when it came out i got really scared because the MFTC seems like a logical follow up on what many brands are now doing in making tool boxes on wheels.
The MFTC works somewhat like an MFT table, it has the same length but is a bit narrower to go through doors easily. But it houses a sysport,a shelf and has many more clamping options on the legs. The bottom shelf is great for keeping tools out of the way and keeping the vac underneath out of the way. The shelf also makes the whole bench very stable.

It can also hold 2 1400 rails!
and i made two extension tables so that the MFTC can be adapted to the size you need, by placing the two tables on one side you can cut down entire panels on it with ease!

On my site i am selling the plans for those interested, they are in metric, but i plan on adapting them for imperial sized sheet goods. If anybody wants to help with that i am open to suggestions!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5YzIwK-g0E&feature=youtu.be

Bob Gerritsen · « **Reply #1 on:** March 08, 2013, 10:54 AM »

Ohhh, this is nice Tim!! Would love to see this live. I'm very pleased with my present setup but I did notice I started thinking of a way to implement this in my system.

Big thumbs up, now go finish that video!

Cheers, Bob.

Bob Gerritsen · « **Reply #2 on:** March 08, 2013, 10:57 AM »

Tim, can those drawers be locked? I'm thinking it would be brilliant if you could roll this, laying down that is, into the back of an estate car. You would need some sort of ramp to roll it in but that shouldn't be a problem.

Timtool · « **Reply #3 on:** March 08, 2013, 11:14 AM »

Hi Bob, the drawers have push locks, so they wont open when you tilt it or put in in your trailer. On the front there are some reinforcements that allow you to pull the MFTC up into a van or trailer without damaging it. You can lay it in a car, i put mine a few times in my truck bed, but i removed the systainers so it was lighter to lift.

What i forgot to mention is that i designed this for site work, but i like to use it on my shop as well as a second workbench. And i imagine that people who have limited space or work in a garage can profit from this design as well, placed against a wall it is no deeper than 19,7 inches or 50cm and about 60cm wide or 23 inches wide and still functions as a sysport. Unfolding it takes less than 10 seconds and requires no tools.

RL · « **Reply #4 on:** March 08, 2013, 11:47 AM »

Looks good Tim, I'm going to check out your website now...

Note: I could not see the price for the plans on your website until I clicked on the pay now button, but E7.44 is a great price and I hope loads of people download your plans...I just did.

johninthecamper · « **Reply #5 on:** March 08, 2013, 12:17 PM »

waaay cooool

ericbuggeln · « **Reply #6 on:** March 08, 2013, 12:29 PM »

Tim, you have out done yourself. I remember the prototype you showed me. This piece is equally beautiful and functional.

I bought Tim's MFTB plans and while I have been busy with other projects, the plans are amazingly detailed and easy to follow. I'm gonna talk to my friend with the CNC and maybe make both at the same time. I'm working solo now and need all the help I can get. Could you hoist this into a box van solo?

Nice work and nice saw in the background, Eric

Frank Pellow · « **Reply #7 on:** March 08, 2013, 12:31 PM »

Great! It's away too big for the space I have, but I can admire it and lust after it.

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #8 on:** March 08, 2013, 12:55 PM »

Bravo Tim!

Timtool · « **Reply #9 on:** March 08, 2013, 01:04 PM »

Quote from: ericbuggeln on March 08, 2013, 12:29 PM

I'm working solo now and need all the help I can get. Could you hoist this into a box van solo?

I hoist it into my trailer, but for that i remove the systainers as they make up at least half the weight. I just roll it against the back, go into the trailer and pull it up with the handle.
My first prototype was at least twice as heavy and way to clumsy to move around. I will try to show it all when i make the video, i still have the prototype sitting here and i used it for a good 7 months but too many things were not right about it, and it took me at least half a year to find the right solutions.

ericbuggeln · « **Reply #10 on:** March 08, 2013, 01:08 PM »

That's called persistence, Tim, it paid off, Eric

SRSemenza · « **Reply #11 on:** March 08, 2013, 01:17 PM »

Awesome! I like the drawer for the MFT stuff instead of a Systainer.... instant access.

Seth

Bob Gerritsen · « **Reply #12 on:** March 08, 2013, 01:48 PM »

Man, I don't need this but I'm already trying to come up with an excuse that will tell me otherwise.

Would love to see some detail on those push locks, not really sure how those work.

Timtool · « **Reply #13 on:** March 08, 2013, 02:00 PM »

Quote from: Bob Gerritsen on March 08, 2013, 01:48 PM

Would love to see some detail on those push locks, not really sure how those work.

They are simple cheap drawer push locks, this was one of the great challenges of keeping the drawers closed while moving it around. And it was only when i mentioned my problem to a hardware salesman that he pointed out to me they had these locks i never used before.
When you close the drawer the locks hook the drawer, and to open the drawer again you have to give it a little inward push and the lock springs open.
Similar to the mechanism of a ballpoint pen!

Bob Gerritsen · « **Reply #14 on:** March 08, 2013, 02:06 PM »

Sorry, me again. This thing keeps getting better the longer you look at it. I love the possibilities of the two extensions, really simple but it covers everything you could wish for on site. I'm gonna look up my Paypal details and get these plans.

Only thing I don't like about this thread is the amount of pics. Would looooove to see some more details.

rnt80 · « **Reply #15 on:** March 08, 2013, 02:54 PM »

Great job. It looks like your persistence paid off.

andyman · « **Reply #16 on:** March 08, 2013, 02:57 PM »

That will be great for working on site great design

Michael_Swe · « **Reply #17 on:** March 08, 2013, 03:53 PM »

That is a really nice setup. Nicely done!
I'm not a portable kind of guy. But I can see the greatness of this setup if you're on the road.
//Michael

bmwproboi05 · « **Reply #18 on:** March 08, 2013, 06:13 PM »

That is one great invention you have there! Tool storage and a work surface!

irishroey · « **Reply #19 on:** March 08, 2013, 06:34 PM »

This looks great Tim and I could do with one of these, I will get the plans and get started ASAP on it

MrToolJunkie · « **Reply #20 on:** March 08, 2013, 06:53 PM »

Outstanding!

Scot

neilc · « **Reply #21 on:** March 08, 2013, 07:16 PM »

I just ordered the plans.

Really excellent job. I can see you put a LOT of thought into it.

neil

Guilliaume woodworks · « **Reply #22 on:** March 09, 2013, 01:00 AM »

Tim, fantastic ! What dollar figure would you estimate this project? And is there anything you would add or modify?

Timtool · « **Reply #23 on:** March 09, 2013, 04:01 AM »

Quote from: Guilliaume woodworks on March 09, 2013, 01:00 AM

Tim, fantastic ! What dollar figure would you estimate this project? And is there anything you would add or modify?

Thank you,

It's hard to put a price tag on it, there isn't that much material in one, and in my case i made half of it with scraps. The only thing i had to buy was 2 sheets of ply, the T-tracks, wheels, slides and some hardware. There is a list of everything needed in the plans.

Things i would change? Well nothing that wouldn't add more problems than it could solve. The first prototype has 25m of electric cable on board, connected to a socket with 4 outlets on the MFTC, it was really practical but it added way too much weight. The cord of the CT vac is long enough in 80% of cases to reach an outlet.
I gave this allot of thought and spent dozens of hours on sketchup making all possible combinations, shapes and mechanisms to try and find the best i could. Countless times i started from zero on a new idea and be stuck in the end because there is an tremendous amount of interaction of all the parts.
I changed a few things after building the final model, like putting adjustable feet in the MFTC base as well, and not only on the table legs, which has greatly improved stability.

In the future i might add a miter saw table extension, where the table of the saw sits flat with the surface. The extension table design is highly customizable and simple, and the legs fold into the base taking minimal space when not in use.

moody · « **Reply #24 on:** March 09, 2013, 11:14 AM »

Looking really good! How much for the plans?

bpitch · « **Reply #25 on:** March 09, 2013, 11:56 AM »

Quote from: moody on March 09, 2013, 11:14 AM

Looking really good! How much for the plans?

Quote from: Richard Leon on March 08, 2013, 11:47 AM

Looks good Tim, I'm going to check out your website now...

Note: I could not see the price for the plans on your website until I clicked on the pay now button, but E7.44 is a great price and I hope loads of people download your plans...I just did.

GhostFist · « **Reply #26 on:** March 09, 2013, 12:35 PM »

I bought plans as well

jobsworth · « **Reply #27 on:** March 09, 2013, 12:47 PM »

I wish I had the time to build all these projects…

Maybe when I retire from my day job Ill have time.

Reiska · « **Reply #28 on:** March 09, 2013, 03:10 PM »

Don't know if I'll ever find time to build this but bought the plans to show my support for this sort of great community design just like I did with the MFTB and UWB plans. Maybe one day I'll actually build these.

Keep on innovating Tim!

mohrab · « **Reply #29 on:** March 09, 2013, 05:15 PM »

Great job Tim. Will order the plans!

Just used my MFTB this weekend for the first time that I built from your plans. I clamped it to the fender of a wood chipper (doing work for an Arborist friend) to cut small pieces of oak baseboard for the kitchen. Found it easy to clamp small pieces to cut with my dovetail saw.

Alan m · « **Reply #30 on:** March 09, 2013, 07:16 PM »

Quote from: mohrab on March 09, 2013, 05:15 PM

Great job Tim. Will order the plans!

Just used my MFTB this weekend for the first time that I built from your plans. I clamped it to the fender of a wood chipper (doing work for an Arborist friend) to cut small pieces of oak baseboard for the kitchen. Found it easy to clamp small pieces to cut with my dovetail saw.

come on we want pics.
iv got a few half built since the plans came out. i really need to finish them

JayStPeter · « **Reply #31 on:** March 09, 2013, 08:06 PM »

Very cool

Timtool · « **Reply #32 on:** March 10, 2013, 07:08 AM »

Added the video to the first post!

@Mohrab it would be great if you could send me some pics of your MFTB
on my site there are a few as well, and as i promised in the MFTB thread the first two who sent me pics of the MFTB got MFTC plans for free.

Alan m · « **Reply #33 on:** March 10, 2013, 07:40 AM »

great looking bench tim.
you can really see the thought put into it

Deansocial · « **Reply #34 on:** March 10, 2013, 07:51 AM »

Looks pretty handy

Dan1210 · « **Reply #35 on:** March 10, 2013, 09:58 AM »

excellent work! you should work for festool the toolbox looks quite handy!

HausWorks · « **Reply #36 on:** March 10, 2013, 10:00 AM »

great job! would be nice to see a video of the transformation.

Tinker · « **Reply #37 on:** March 10, 2013, 11:24 AM »

Great job, Tim.

I have a very small/very cluttered shop. Something like this could solve many of the problems i am trying to solve.

Tinker

Jalvis · « **Reply #38 on:** March 10, 2013, 01:00 PM »

After watching the Video you can really see the function.....would be very handy for my business.....I'll take two!

epicxt · « **Reply #39 on:** March 10, 2013, 03:50 PM »

Wow! This would fit into my workflow perfectly since I pretty much do all work on site. Please update this thread when you have the sketch up file available in imperial units!

Timtool · « **Reply #40 on:** March 10, 2013, 03:58 PM »

Quote from: epicxt on March 10, 2013, 03:50 PM

Wow! This would fit into my workflow perfectly since I pretty much do all work on site. Please update this thread when you have the sketch up file available in imperial units!

About that, could anybody help me out a little?
I was thinking about adapting the model to imperial size sheet goods and see how that impacts the rest, but keep all the rest in metric. Otherwise if i want to avoid impossible dimensions i would need to redo the whole model to get rounder imperial measurements.

Would that be acceptable?

And are 1/2 and 3/4 the common plywood and mdf thicknesses?

Peter Halle · « **Reply #41 on:** March 10, 2013, 04:19 PM »

1/2" and 3/4" are the most common plywoods here.

Peter

RL · « **Reply #42 on:** March 10, 2013, 07:10 PM »

Saw the video on youtube, nice one Tim.

Alan m · « **Reply #43 on:** March 10, 2013, 07:22 PM »

damb you tim.
i had just talked my self out of this. now im not su sure

VesaS · « **Reply #44 on:** March 11, 2013, 09:44 AM »

What type/brand of T-track is compatible with Festool clamps?
I have only very small ones, clamps don't fit.

Vesa

mohrab · « **Reply #45 on:** March 11, 2013, 10:04 AM »

http://www.ptreeusa.com/ttrackproducts.htm #1018

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #46 on:** March 11, 2013, 10:12 AM »

Quote from: Peter Halle on March 10, 2013, 04:19 PM

1/2" and 3/4" are the most common plywoods here.

Peter

Make that 31/64" and 23/32"

MDF is usually closer to nominal thickness ie. 3/4" is actually 19mm

Don't have any 1/2" MDF on hand.

Tinker · « **Reply #47 on:** March 11, 2013, 10:20 AM »

Quote from: VesaS on March 11, 2013, 09:44 AM

What type/brand of T-track is compatible with Festool clamps?
I have only very small ones, clamps don't fit.

Vesa

I checked two different tracs.
Incra does work
Kreg does not work
Tinker

Greg Powers · « **Reply #48 on:** March 11, 2013, 01:04 PM »

jonny round boy · « **Reply #49 on:** March 11, 2013, 01:15 PM »

I was very impressed with this from the pictures - having just watched the video, even more so.

Even though I don't do much site work, I'm toying with the idea of building one anyway, just to give a bit more versatility to my small workshop!

SRSemenza · « **Reply #50 on:** March 11, 2013, 01:50 PM »

Quote from: VesaS on March 11, 2013, 09:44 AM

What type/brand of T-track is compatible with Festool clamps?
I have only very small ones, clamps don't fit.

Vesa

Here you go T Track Compatibility

If anyone has any additions to the list please post them in that thread for handy reference.

Seth

andyman · « **Reply #51 on:** March 11, 2013, 06:41 PM »

What a great set up, huge bonus being able to have multiple extension tables for site work

jimbouk · « **Reply #52 on:** March 11, 2013, 07:17 PM »

I'm trying to work out how to adapt a sys roll into one of these!

Tinker · « **Reply #53 on:** March 12, 2013, 09:40 AM »

I have been toying with the idea of making a narrower table with systainer shelves under the entire unit. A portable/colapsible extension like Ron Paulks table set up. I really like the idea of putting n open shelf under one end of the portable/colapsible table. Tim's ideas are even better fit in my shop.
Tinker

sean_hogan · « **Reply #54 on:** March 16, 2013, 09:28 AM »

Any one built one yet? I would love too see the pictures, defo on my too do list it's perfect for me

Guilliaume woodworks · « **Reply #55 on:** March 17, 2013, 01:59 AM »

Just watched video. It's perfect

HausWorks · « **Reply #56 on:** March 17, 2013, 11:07 AM »

just bought. thanks Tim.

Timtool · « **Reply #57 on:** March 17, 2013, 11:36 AM »

Quote from: sean_hogan on March 16, 2013, 09:28 AM

Any one built one yet? I would love too see the pictures, defo on my too do list it's perfect for me

It's only been out for a week, but a few buyers already told me they were gonna start next week, some even told me they were gonna have the parts CNC'd with he sketchup file!
I'm still working on an imperial add-on, is it true 1/2 inch mdf is not commonly available?

SRSemenza · « **Reply #58 on:** March 17, 2013, 10:50 PM »

Quote from: Timtool on March 17, 2013, 11:36 AM

Quote from: sean_hogan on March 16, 2013, 09:28 AM
Any one built one yet? I would love too see the pictures, defo on my too do list it's perfect for me

It's only been out for a week, but a few buyers already told me they were gonna start next week, some even told me they were gonna have the parts CNC'd with he sketchup file!
I'm still working on an imperial add-on, is it true 1/2 inch mdf is not commonly available?

The big boxes and at least one independent near me do not carry stock 1/2". But I have no trouble getting it if I order through my primary independent lumber dealer.

Seth

mohrab · « **Reply #59 on:** March 17, 2013, 11:00 PM »

Tim,

I have been practicing building things with metric instead of imperial and am starting to like metric better. However, I still think in terms of feet and inches and often have to look at my tape measure that shows both to know how they correlate.

Not sure it is necessary to put out plans in imperial? Wonder how many FOG users would not buy the plans if they are only metric?

fritter63 · « **Reply #60 on:** March 18, 2013, 12:37 AM »

Frickin brilliant Tim!

Metisse · « **Reply #61 on:** March 18, 2013, 07:02 AM »

Quote from: epicxt on March 10, 2013, 03:50 PM

Wow! This would fit into my workflow perfectly since I pretty much do all work on site. Please update this thread when you have the sketch up file available in imperial units!

You may well be aware of this so forgive me if I'm teaching you to suck eggs!

In Sketch Up select the menu item Window. Then select Model info. In the pop-up box select the units tab and you can adjust the measurements used to whatever you like. Fractional and Architectural will render imperial measurements and you can also adjust the precision.

It will still leave you with the problem of a drawing that effectively uses materials in metric sizes but you may be able to tweak it to use the closest imperial size available to you.

Regards

Peter

Timtool · « **Reply #62 on:** March 18, 2013, 07:37 AM »

Yup the problem is the sheet material, that is what i want to adapt my plans for. I want to keep everything in metric but adapt the parts made with imperial sheet goods.
The difference isn't big as it usually less than a mm, but still!

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #63 on:** March 18, 2013, 07:53 AM »

Quote from: SRSemenza on March 17, 2013, 10:50 PM

Quote from: Timtool on March 17, 2013, 11:36 AM
Quote from: sean_hogan on March 16, 2013, 09:28 AM
Any one built one yet? I would love too see the pictures, defo on my too do list it's perfect for me

It's only been out for a week, but a few buyers already told me they were gonna start next week, some even told me they were gonna have the parts CNC'd with he sketchup file!
I'm still working on an imperial add-on, is it true 1/2 inch mdf is not commonly available?

The big boxes and at least one independent near me do not carry stock 1/2". But I have no trouble getting it if I order through my primary independent lumber dealer.

Seth

1/2" plywood is readily available in small quantities but 1/2" MDF is often only available as a special order, unless there is a distributor nearby.

Tinker · « **Reply #64 on:** March 18, 2013, 07:56 AM »

I am trying, little by little to use metric when building to match up with my MFT's. I use a tape with both mm & imperial on it.
I cannot picture in my head in mm's so the double scale tape is still a necessity for me.
Whether a plan is in mm's or imperial has no significance to whether i buy or not.
for me it is whether the plan is adaptible to my shop or to a project I have in mind.
i am sure it is easier to adapt an idea to whatever the measurements on the plans are.
I am even more certain that it is a LOT of work to change the scale on a plan.
Especially after so much thought and work went into the original plans and construction.
Tinker

fastbike · « **Reply #65 on:** March 18, 2013, 12:21 PM »

I can walk into my local Lowes and Home Depot and get 1/2" mdf. I know there are regional differences.

irishroey · « **Reply #66 on:** March 19, 2013, 07:31 PM »

Just purchased the plans and can't wait to get started will post pics of the progress

Timtool · « **Reply #67 on:** March 21, 2013, 07:45 PM »

Just finished the plans and sketchup model adapted to imperial sheet goods! I also fixed a detail in the standard plans.
I will send the imperial version to all US residents who have already bought the plans. And the fixed version to the others
Someone is also working on a German translation!

epicxt · « **Reply #68 on:** March 21, 2013, 07:58 PM »

Sweet! Will get on purchasing these plans!

Gary N. · « **Reply #69 on:** March 22, 2013, 01:50 AM »

These are really great plans Tim but I have a question. Is the 1/2" MDF heavy enough for the top? Would it be too heavy if it had a 3/4" top. I plan to use this bench as my 3rd MFT in my shop or take it on-site when a bench is required.
Gary

dlyons41 · « **Reply #70 on:** March 22, 2013, 07:31 AM »

Tim, The plans are much appreciated and I look forward to receiving the imperial version. You make reference to the template but I haven't been able to find the template as an attachment or part of the original PDF. Thanks again, Doug

colevalleytim · « **Reply #71 on:** March 26, 2013, 05:25 PM »

Well done, I bought the plans, really helpful

thanks

Timtool · « **Reply #72 on:** March 26, 2013, 06:13 PM »

Quote from: dlyons41 on March 22, 2013, 07:31 AM

Tim, The plans are much appreciated and I look forward to receiving the imperial version. You make reference to the template but I haven't been able to find the template as an attachment or part of the original PDF. Thanks again, Doug

You are right! I overlooked that, the template i planned to make was just to draw the curved lines on the sides. I will add it and post a link here.

Quote from: Gneyenhuis on March 22, 2013, 01:50 AM

These are really great plans Tim but I have a question. Is the 1/2" MDF heavy enough for the top? Would it be too heavy if it had a 3/4" top. I plan to use this bench as my 3rd MFT in my shop or take it on-site when a bench is required.
Gary

I used 1/2 purely because of weight reduction, i tried to grabble every gram i could left and right. I have no issues with this thickness and it works out fine, possibly for the benchdogs you may want to have more depth for accuracy. But i am not convinced it will make a grand difference.
But i looked under mine, and technically nothing stops you from making the rabbet deeper to hold 3/4th material. It won't interact with any other parts.

sean_hogan · « **Reply #73 on:** March 29, 2013, 05:24 PM »

Tim not sure if its been asked, do you know the total weight of the mft withouth the systainers and exstension tables ?

some1 like me · « **Reply #74 on:** March 30, 2013, 03:44 AM »

I also bought plans (Combo) and by this chance may I mention the price. 18€ including VAT.
Tim put a lot of time, knowledge and effort into those plans and I would pay even more for them, because they are worth every $ or €.

Thanks again Tim for great plans.

Marko

jeep jake · « **Reply #75 on:** March 30, 2013, 04:52 PM »

Has anyone in the US had issues getting material/hardware for this? I want to make one bad but just want to make sure I could find all the hardware easily.

Timtool · « **Reply #76 on:** March 30, 2013, 05:31 PM »

Quote from: jeep jake on March 30, 2013, 04:52 PM

Has anyone in the US had issues getting material/hardware for this? I want to make one bad but just want to make sure I could find all the hardware easily.

There is someone in the US about halfway through the build and sending me pics almost daily, when he is done i will post an article on my website detailing the hardware he used.
Does anyone know of a cheap T-track source besides the incra? Over here i can just get them at a local hardware store where they sell them cheaply as curtain rails.

I forgot to take weighing device to the workshop today to check the weight, but i will find out tomorrow!

downtheroad · « **Reply #77 on:** March 30, 2013, 11:12 PM »

Quote

Does anyone know of a cheap T-track source besides the incra?

I got 3 48" t-tracks from McMaster-Carr that fit the Festool screw clamps fine. They were $11.55 a piece. I also got my wheels from them at $15.20 a piece. They were 8" x 2" polypropylene core with rubber treads for a 3/4" axle.

Michael Garrett · « **Reply #78 on:** March 30, 2013, 11:35 PM »

What about the axles? I see they carry those also.

downtheroad · « **Reply #79 on:** March 31, 2013, 12:04 AM »

Quote

What about the axles? I see they carry those also.

I haven't decided whether to use a rod or tube yet. Tubes would be less weight. I would use self-locking external retaining rings to hold wheels in place.

livelygv · « **Reply #80 on:** March 31, 2013, 11:15 PM »

The plans you prepared are brilliant. I have already completed the basic cart and given it a coat of white (boring) paint. The top will be 30 mm shorter since I boo booed on the ripping up of the valuable bbirch ply. As for the rest of the material, it was already "in inventory". The t track (from Lee Valley) does not fit the festool clamps so the clamps will be modified to fit the track. I don't believe the accuarcy of a MDF top drilled with ANY technology will hold up to the rigors of constant insertion of bench dogs. Your table will by used in conjuction with a fence system similar to the one Ron Paulk designed for his cross cut table.

Connollyir · « **Reply #81 on:** April 08, 2013, 09:43 AM »

Quote from: sean_hogan on March 29, 2013, 05:24 PM

Tim not sure if its been asked, do you know the total weight of the mft withouth the systainers and exstension tables ?

Tim,

I would also be interested in the loaded/unloaded weight. Is the height the same as the MFT, and will they connect together the same way?

This design is literally a godsend for me and I already purchased your complete plan package. I currently have a barn that I use for a shop and will be moving everything to a basement soon (forced move unfortunately). I use a hand truck to move my sys stacks and tools onto the job or shop and I am always interested in making fewer trips!

Do you think the unit will stand up to repeated moves up and down stairs and loading in the back of a truck? I will probably keep it loaded and use in conjunction with my MFT as my shop workbench as well.

The design is brilliant and very well thought out - would be hard to make it any better. Will probably make a secondary modified to carry the extentions instead of a work top.

I am also making my own sysports to keep things mobile and organized in the shop. Ill be sure to send you pictures of the results for your website.

Thanks again

-Ian

Timtool · « **Reply #82 on:** April 08, 2013, 05:30 PM »

Sorry about that, i forgot to post the weight!
Mine weighs about 32kg empty, about 70lbs, more than i thought because of the wheels it feels very light.
I don't know the loaded weight though, and it's the same height and length as an MFT.
If i would be loading it in the bed of my truck and up/down stairs i would probably take the systainers out to make it more convenient and make the support pieces on the front higher and maybe cover them with something soft to avoid scuffing stairs

I also got pics from the first finished MFTC from someone in the US!

I'm waiting to hear more details and write more info on how he did it and the hardware he used on my website to help others.

Connollyir · « **Reply #83 on:** April 08, 2013, 10:35 PM »

Quote from: Timtool on April 08, 2013, 05:30 PM

Sorry about that, i forgot to post the weight!
Mine weighs about 32kg empty, about 70lbs, more than i thought because of the wheels it feels very light.
I don't know the loaded weight though, and it's the same height and length as an MFT.
If i would be loading it in the bed of my truck and up/down stairs i would probably take the systainers out to make it more convenient and make the support pieces on the front higher and maybe cover them with something soft to avoid scuffing stairs

I also got pics from the first finished MFTC from someone in the US!

I'm waiting to hear more details and write more info on how he did it and the hardware he used on my website to help others.

Tim,

Taking the tools out wouldn't help me, I am trying to find a solution for having to move my tools in and out of my shop on a daily or bi-daily basis. I do this already, which is not too bad because I have a loading bay, but where I will be moving I have about 100' (~30m) from where I park to the door and a flight of stairs to negotiate with all my tools and material.

The good news is its a straight shot, but probably 12-15 treads. I am going to build a V shaped trough fitted to the stairs to slide the sheet goods down, it will be made out of 4' (~1m) sections for storage. I like your idea because it combines tool, work surface, and mobility to move anywhere.

The weight doesn't concern me too much, its roughly 15lbs (~7kg) heavier than a stock MFT, my load would probably include a CSX (2lbs, ~1kg), RO 90 (3.3lbs ~1.5kg), 4-drawer sortainer with nailer (10lbs, ~4.5kg), and compressor (25lbs, ~11.5kg). Total load about 110lbs, which I can easily lift or slide onto my bedslide.

I plan on attaching UHMW plastic to the wheel side of the supports to help it slide better.

-Ian

timberwolf · « **Reply #84 on:** April 15, 2013, 10:56 PM »

Anyone in the US making this have a source for hardware? Specifically, the push-push locks.

GBCarpentry · « **Reply #85 on:** April 16, 2013, 03:22 PM »

Well I've done most of the woodwork on the MFTC but I'm having problems with finding the ironmongery as well, but I'm in the UK. Ttrack and push catches and 100mm adjustable legs. Any help? Any other UK members making this?

Timtool · « **Reply #86 on:** April 16, 2013, 06:32 PM »

For the latches you should find them in your country by googling "salice push latch"
For the tracks and levelers it's harder for me to help, you can do with any type of leveler if you adjust the plans where necessary. I used what i could find locally.
Glad to see more MFTC's are in the build!

nyman_666 · « **Reply #87 on:** April 23, 2013, 12:13 PM »

Going to buy the ts55 next week so this would be a nice project!

rickbw · « **Reply #88 on:** May 06, 2013, 12:26 PM »

Tim,

I'm in the begining stages of building the MFTC. The plans are great - Thanks. Did you ever post the template referenced in an earlier post? I cannot seem to find it and I am ready to cut out the sides.

Timtool · « **Reply #89 on:** May 07, 2013, 05:06 PM »

Quote from: rickbw on May 06, 2013, 12:26 PM

Tim,

I'm in the begining stages of building the MFTC. The plans are great - Thanks. Did you ever post the template referenced in an earlier post? I cannot seem to find it and I am ready to cut out the sides.

Hi Rick,
I attached the template to this post, i keep making improvements to the plans so any previous buyers who want the "latest" can always mail me to get them. But it would be silly to keep sending the latest version to everybody every couple weeks!
The German translation is now also available, i am going to send it to all previous Germanic buyers in the coming week.

there are also new images of user made MFTC's on my site!

rickbw · « **Reply #90 on:** May 08, 2013, 02:40 PM »

All,

Has anyone found a link to purchase the salice push push drawer locks in the US? I cannot seem to find them anywhere.

Rick

GarryMartin · « **Reply #91 on:** May 08, 2013, 02:48 PM »

I don't know whether it helps, but I've been investigating using drawer slides with a catching mechanism built-in. I haven't purchased them yet, but something like the Accuride 3832TR or 3832HDTR "Touch Release" drawer slides should do the same thing as Tim's slides combined with the salice catch.

http://www.accuride.com/Resources/PDF/3832TR-R2-0709.pdf

Timtool · « **Reply #92 on:** May 08, 2013, 02:50 PM »

Quote from: rickbw on May 08, 2013, 02:40 PM

All,

Has anyone found a link to purchase the salice push push drawer locks in the US? I cannot seem to find them anywhere.

Rick

While helping out someone with the same question i stumbled upon these touch open drawer slides that render the separate locks unneccesary.
They seem to have the same function.

Edit, Garry beat me to it!

rickbw · « **Reply #93 on:** May 08, 2013, 04:02 PM »

Here is another link I found after searching for Acurride;

http://www.cabinetparts.com/p/accuride-side-mount-drawer-slides-glides-AC383212TR#!prettyPhoto

crpaulk · « **Reply #94 on:** May 09, 2013, 12:25 PM »

Looks great. It is amazing how long it takes to plan, design, prototype, make adjustment, and finalize the design so someone else can build it.

fshanno · « **Reply #95 on:** May 10, 2013, 03:30 PM »

How about developing a version that could mount a standard MFT with the legs removed? Then you could have the normal profiles for mounting the Festool fence and crosscut bridge. And whatever else.

It might have 4 caster wheels instead of 2 wagon wheels. Like a suitcase. That way it could go through a fairly narrow doorway edgewise.

VirtuaLogic · « **Reply #96 on:** May 15, 2013, 05:30 AM »

This is madness!

....I want one very badly now

GBCarpentry · « **Reply #97 on:** May 21, 2013, 06:26 PM »

I'm sooooooooo close to completion. Well I've thought that a few times but there's a lot in the detail on this project. Still could do with some advice from the uk lot about purchasing the t track that works with the festool system?! Am also considering a bigger diameter wheel like perhaps 260mm or maybe even bigger. I've got a lot of adjustment in my 100mm m12 bolt height adjusters (don't ask ). Can't decide on its colouring either but I've started putting the acrylic varnish on. Any thoughts on the larger diameter wheel? I also hade to take 15 or 20 mm off the height of the bottom draw so that I could fit a sys3 at the bottom, a df500 in the middle and the domino systainer at the top. Only three draws. I'm also thinking of putting t track round the whole top of the mftc, so that you can end to end the extension tables with the mftc in the middle. I've got 4 meter work tops to contend with soon and that would be the perfect setup for in their garage. As you can see, I think that your design is great Tim and thanks for sharing.

GarryMartin · « **Reply #98 on:** May 22, 2013, 02:03 AM »

Quote from: GBCarpentry on May 21, 2013, 06:26 PM

Am also considering a bigger diameter wheel like perhaps 260mm or maybe even bigger... Any thoughts on the larger diameter wheel?

A lot of sack trucks use 10" wheels, so I guess 260mm wouldn't be a problem. The wheels on my Dewalt Tough System Trolley are 220mm. I suppose you'd have to try it and see how it affects maneuverability and the centre of gravity. What do you hope the larger wheels will do for you?

Quote from: GBCarpentry on May 21, 2013, 06:26 PM

I'm also thinking of putting t track round the whole top of the mftc, so that you can end to end the extension tables with the mftc in the middle.

From the video and plans, the only thing I can see that doing that will affect is the storage of rails. If you can live with losing that capability, then I don't see that adding a track to the fourth side will cause any issues.

GBCarpentry · « **Reply #99 on:** May 22, 2013, 05:02 AM »

The idea of the larger wheel was to give a bit more clearance underneath the mftc for when I'm moving it over gravel and rough terrain. I was going to use the same pivot point on the mftc to mount the wheel, although I know that means that the wheel will stick out further out the front. But I should still keep the original stability.

Timtool · « **Reply #100 on:** May 22, 2013, 02:48 PM »

You can use any size of wheel you like, i used a 200mm wheel because i initially used the sysroll wheels, same as on the CT vacs. But they are from hard plastic, giving you a rough and noisy travel. So i had to buy similar sized rubber wheels. My first prototype had 260mm inflatable wheels, but they were too heavy and maintenance intensive requiring frequent pump ups.
If you want more ground clearance i would suggest raising the bottom of the carcass, this only impacts the height of the bottom drawer. the MFTC has a standard workbench height of 900mm, same as an MFT so i would avoid making it much taller!

GBCarpentry · « **Reply #101 on:** May 22, 2013, 08:35 PM »

Oh!

Well I was in the hardware store today with work and they had 260mm inflatable wheels, so I bought them and just fitted them. Oh by the way, I'm 6 ft 2 and I don't own an mft. I'm so happy that it's mobile. I can always change them if it also becomes a problem for me. Thanks for your input.

JoggleStick · « **Reply #102 on:** May 22, 2013, 11:24 PM »

Quote from: Timtool on May 22, 2013, 02:48 PM

<cut>... the MFTC has a standard workbench height of 900mm, same as an MFT so i would avoid making it much taller!

Hmmm, I don't know about this 'standard bench height' comment.

Yes, 900 mm is an ideal working height for people of a specific height- but that ain't me... You see, I'm 6' 2" tall and as a working height 900 mm (roughly 35 3/8") is just plain uncomfortable. At 900 mm I find I am in a constant stoop and develop a back ache or strain over an extended period of time. I decided long ago I would not stoop to work, if I didn't have to. Everyone has their own ideal work height; a work height that is comfortable to work at for an extended period of time without undue strain. And it is a very personal choice.
For me I have settled on 1050 mm as my standard bench height.
This is both for the workshop and on site.

Every bench, infeed and outfeed table, etc in my workshop is at 1050 mm. This uniformity of height has greatly improved my workflows and at this height I can work comfortably for much longer and do not 'tire' for an extended period of time.

I have a love/hate relationship with my MFT. I love the concept, and really love the design elements- being the top itself and T rail extrusions and of course the interaction of clamps, etc... but for me the table is too flimsy to be at true workbench, it is too small to handle sheetgoods, it is too low to be comfortable to work at for an extended period... So I have taken the design elements and incorporated them into all my other (self-built) work surfaces.
And indeed, that is what Timtool has done with this magnificent bench.
It is a cracker of an idea- but I just wanted to say if you are going to build your own workbench- of any type- you should build the bench to your preferred work height....
Not the other way round and try an conform your work practices to a 'standard' height that may not be ideal for you...
Sorry, I got a bit long winded getting to my point....

Timtool · « **Reply #103 on:** May 23, 2013, 02:58 AM »

@Jogglestick, it's very true that each has their own ideal height. On a workbench i was told that that height is about at your wrist height, on average 900mm is the ideal standard height that works with most people. But if you are the only one working on it then you may as well adapt it to yourself, i build goldsmith workbenches for a living, there is a standard height but people frequently ask custom heights. They sit at it all day and the worktop must be at shoulder height when sitting down, otherwise you destroy your back.

Quote from: GBCarpentry on May 22, 2013, 08:35 PM

Oh! Well I was in the hardware store today with work and they had 260mm inflatable wheels, so I bought them and just fitted them. Oh by the way, I'm 6 ft 2 and I don't own an mft. I'm so happy that it's mobile. I can always change them if it also becomes a problem for me. Thanks for your input.

Actually inflatable wheels are a fine choice, the problem i had was that the supplied axle rod was heavy duty full steel, weighing close to 2kg! Now i got an axle from Festool that is hollow and weighs close to nothing. Every gram counts!

SRSemenza · « **Reply #104 on:** May 23, 2013, 03:53 AM »

Quote from: Timtool on May 23, 2013, 02:58 AM

@Jogglestick, it's very true that each has their own ideal height. On a workbench i was told that that height is about at your wrist height, on average 900mm is the ideal standard height that works with most people. But if you are the only one working on it then you may as well adapt it to yourself, i build goldsmith workbenches for a living, there is a standard height but people frequently ask custom heights. They sit at it all day and the worktop must be at shoulder height when sitting down, otherwise you destroy your back.

OK, now that sounds interesting ......

Top of the shoulder? So they raise their arms up on top and rest their chin?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OK, just googled it. Looks like it is designed so that the work is directly in front of their eyes , and they sit in a curved cut out. I was picturing them having to hold their arms up on the surface.

Seth

Paul G · « **Reply #105 on:** May 24, 2013, 12:01 PM »

Timtool, Love your design and will buy plans, but I'm curious if I can get both imperial and metric plans? I can get either and am undecided yet which materials I would like to build this from (which impacts the imperial or metric decision).

Also I noticed the tool list on your site, can I do without the table saw and use my track saw? Also are there specialized router bits I need? Looking forward to building this.

Timtool · « **Reply #106 on:** May 24, 2013, 03:10 PM »

Quote from: Paul G on May 24, 2013, 12:01 PM

Timtool, Love your design and will buy plans, but I'm curious if I can get both imperial and metric plans? I can get either and am undecided yet which materials I would like to build this from (which impacts the imperial or metric decision).

Also I noticed the tool list on your site, can I do without the table saw and use my track saw? Also are there specialized router bits I need? Looking forward to building this.

Sure you can get both versions, just add a message in paypal.
The track saw can replace the table saw, i used my track saw for some parts that required plunge cuts, but as i built it in my workshop it was just faster to use the panel saw.
And then i built the MFTC so i could use my track saw more, before that i had no real set up to use a track saw efficiently.

Tinker · « **Reply #107 on:** May 25, 2013, 07:35 AM »

Quote from: SRSemenza on May 23, 2013, 03:53 AM

Quote from: Timtool on May 23, 2013, 02:58 AM
@Jogglestick, it's very true that each has their own ideal height. On a workbench i was told that that height is about at your wrist height, on average 900mm is the ideal standard height that works with most people. But if you are the only one working on it then you may as well adapt it to yourself, i build goldsmith workbenches for a living, there is a standard height but people frequently ask custom heights. They sit at it all day and the worktop must be at shoulder height when sitting down, otherwise you destroy your back.

OK, now that sounds interesting ......

Top of the shoulder? So they raise their arms up on top and rest their chin?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OK, just googled it. Looks like it is designed so that the work is directly in front of their eyes , and they sit in a curved cut out. I was picturing them having to hold their arms up on the surface.

Seth

That type of workbench would work for me if i had the space.
I have rearranged my shop several times, each time giving me just a little more space.
Of course, more space means "room for more toys"
I dare not create more space just so i can make more use for my Trion.
if i make space for a bench like that, i would load it with toys before it was finished.
If i build it first, it would have to be built in the kitchen

oh well, my lastt post spoke of using a crutch.
That is safer than building in the kitchen.

Tinker

SnowOwl50 · « **Reply #108 on:** June 09, 2013, 12:00 AM »

RickBW

After much difficulty and many searches I was able to find a link to a company that sells the latches (push push latches by Salintina).

<http://www.louisandcompany.com/storefront/catches-locks/touch-latches/cLAC04000000,cLAC04120000,p1.html>

There is this online site that sells them:

<http://www.homedecorhardware.com/hafele-hinges-and-stays-concealed-hinges-latches-for-push-system.html>

The latches are two pieces and requires you to buy the parts separately. Or so it appears.

Here is the catch:

<http://www.homedecorhardware.com/hafele-329-44-3-432.html?utm_source=googlepepla&utm_medium=adwords&id=47729434878&utm_content=pla&gclid=CMm75_TV1LcCFRSVMgodrEEA2Q

I hope this is helpful.

If you get a chance post some pictures.

Did you you find T-tracks that the Festool clamps fit into? Can you share the link.

Timtool · « **Reply #109 on:** June 09, 2013, 05:55 AM »

For all those having trouble finding the adjustable legs i managed to track down the brand.
It's an Italian brand "Camar" and here are the legs, they only sell to large distributors who then distribute them to individual stores. If you google camar legs you can find stores that sell them more easily, if not you could mail camar and find out who distributes them in your country! I like these legs because you can adjust them by hand and they are rather cheap here around €1 a piece.

Fesnewb · « **Reply #110 on:** June 09, 2013, 09:07 AM »

Hi guys. This is my first post here. I have zero carpentry experience but am fairly handy and am a quick study. I have absolutely tons of projects lined up for our house renovation. The more I planned for the house the more custom my ideas became, to the point where it would take longer to tell a tradesman exactly what I wanted than to do the jobs myself. I really got very 'into' the design process of each piece of custom joinery I was coming up with in my head. I got such a kick out of it. I have always taken great pleasure out of other non carpentry items I built and/or pride at coming up with innovative solutions. I quickly realised that I would love to make carpentry/joinery a hobby. I guess I never really did grow out of Lego or meccano after all, so to speak

If only I had had the opportunity to study carpentry or metal work in school then I might have found a passion for creating things much earlier in my life and ended up in a different career altogether. Needless to say, once I start acquiring the powertools, Festool will feature heavily.

I found Tims Youtube video for the MFTB weeks ago and subscribed straight away. Loved the idea and its execution.

Besides all the projects in the house I have another woodworking project in the pipeline for my other hobby, Astronomy. I'll be building a new BB Plywood base for my telescope and wanted to make it easily transportable in the car and easily movable across rough ground when observing the stars in some field up the mountains or easily movable up and down kerbs and steps when showing the public the stars at public outreach events in urban areas.

Part of the solution I settled on to achieve those aims is something that I think might be usable on the MTFB for getting it up and down stairs on jobsites more easily. Here it is:

The important part of the video is not the handtruck itself but the stair climbing tri-wheel system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=ULWRV_N9ugY&feature=endscreen

Alan m · « **Reply #111 on:** June 09, 2013, 11:13 AM »

welcome to the fog.
what part of the country are you in.
i like that cart. very good design

Fesnewb · « **Reply #112 on:** June 09, 2013, 02:16 PM »

Hi Alan,

I'm from Bray in Wicklow.

I picked that particular Vid from Youtube because it showed heavy loads on the hand-truck. Neither the trolley chassis itself nor the side-slip rollers of the wheels were the parts of the design that I thought possibly useful for the MTFB. Just the Tri-Wheel system. I think it might give the MTFB when collapsed up and being moved, a wider surer footing with the bottom two wheels in contact with the ground and its benefits for climbing steps is obvious. I've seen triangular tri-Wheel hub made out of pieces of solid wood in other vids.

kostello · « **Reply #113 on:** June 09, 2013, 03:41 PM »

Rutlands 1/2" track fits the festool clamps

JerrySats · « **Reply #114 on:** June 13, 2013, 11:31 PM »

I just ordered the plans , can't wait to build this . Are the extension table plans included too ?

Timtool · « **Reply #115 on:** June 14, 2013, 07:28 AM »

Quote from: JerrySats on June 13, 2013, 11:31 PM

I just ordered the plans , can't wait to build this . Are the extension table plans included too ?

Yup the extensions are included, by the way are you driving a tractor on your profile pic?

JerrySats · « **Reply #116 on:** June 14, 2013, 04:54 PM »

Quote from: Timtool on June 14, 2013, 07:28 AM

Quote from: JerrySats on June 13, 2013, 11:31 PM
I just ordered the plans , can't wait to build this . Are the extension table plans included too ?
by the way are you driving a tractor on your profile pic?

Good eye , your the second person to catch that , it's a Case wheel loader .

Ohj123 · « **Reply #117 on:** June 17, 2013, 02:08 PM »

Anyone know of a UK stockist of the camar legs?
Thanks

Toto · « **Reply #118 on:** June 20, 2013, 05:52 PM »

Hi Tim, just to say that I have received the plans for the MFTC and just amazed at the detail and clarity of the whole document, I am now looking forward to building and will let you know how I get on, Thanks again Tony

threedots · « **Reply #119 on:** July 10, 2013, 04:11 PM »

Hi Tim,

I think you're looking more often in the FOG forum than the german ones. So I will ask my questions here.

I've some trouble to find a german dealer for the Camar legs. A request to Camar is still unanswered since several weeks.
Furthermore I'm still seeking for a cheap source for the T-tracks.

I hope you can give some hints for some european sources.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #120 on:** July 14, 2013, 06:55 PM »

Hey, I'm wondering if there's a US parts list yet...I've been digging everywhere and I'm trying to put together my own before I begin the build.

So far I've got

T track for ptreeusa.com #1018

Slides leevalley.com touch open slides

Feet

I've found one camar distributor petermeier.com but they don't carry the 323 series. They carry the 343 and 345 series but I can't seem to find the diameter for either of them.

Wheels?

Maybe someone can fill in the blanks

threedots · « **Reply #121 on:** July 15, 2013, 01:36 PM »

@elimelech12,

the wheels shouldn't be a problem. In worst case you can use the orignal festool wheels for the ct vacs from frestool ekat.

The Camar legs of series 323 are also a problem in germany. A request to the german camar division is still unanswered. As an alternative I'm focussing M8 height adjustable feet with corresponding stop nuts (this is the goolgle translation for the german Schlagmutter).

mohrab · « **Reply #122 on:** July 15, 2013, 04:00 PM »

I just bought some 8" wheels from ACE hardware. However, I don't plan to use my MFTC that much off-site, so weight isn't that much of a concern. You might try Grainger Supply

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/wwg/search.shtml?searchQuery=8%22+Wheels&op=search&Ntt=8%22+Wheels&N=0&GlobalSearch=true&sst=subsetfor wheels

It might be best to call them and ask for help finding the lightest 8" wheel - they have too many choices!

I found that the Peach Tree T-track is deeper and wider than the MFTC plans call for. Therefore I would use a wood/metal glue when installing the T-track to provide additional surface area for gluing.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #123 on:** July 16, 2013, 08:03 PM »

Quote from: threedots on July 15, 2013, 01:36 PM

@elimelech12,

the wheels shouldn't be a problem. In worst case you can use the orignal festool wheels for the ct vacs from frestool ekat.

The Camar legs of series 323 are also a problem in germany. A request to the german camar division is still unanswered. As an alternative I'm focussing M8 height adjustable feet with corresponding stop nuts (this is the goolgle translation for the german Schlagmutter).

I was able to find a camar dealer here in the US but I believe they only sell in bulk 345-10-02 are the ones I wanted to use and they are all 28mm OD.

Also has anyone tried building the carcass out of 12mm mdf? I know there was a question about the availability of it in the US. If any one is in NY/NJ, Larkin Lumber carries Ultralite MDF in metric.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #124 on:** July 16, 2013, 08:21 PM »

Quote from: mohrab on July 15, 2013, 04:00 PM

I found that the Peach Tree T-track is deeper and wider than the MFTC plans call for. Therefore I would use a wood/metal glue when installing the T-track to provide additional surface area for gluing.

Thats a good point....hmmm... $:-\$ ...what are you using?

mohrab · « **Reply #125 on:** July 16, 2013, 09:59 PM »

I did use the Peachtree T-track but routed the 3/4" rail first for the added depth and then glued the 1/2" outer piece in two pieces. I did not use wood/metal glue to attach the rail but just wished I had afterwards. Seems pretty solid but I haven't attached the top yet. Just finished drilling holes. I cut it oversize and will trim it to fit the frame opening.

You can find the Camar legs at cabinet parts.com.

I plan to try something different from Lee Valley: http://www.leevalley.com/US/hardware/Page.aspx?p=70815&cat=3,40993,41283

Haven't received them yet, if they don't work I plan to use some standard levelers that I purchased from Woodcraft.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #126 on:** July 17, 2013, 02:57 PM »

Does anyone think building the carcass out of 12mm Mdf would present problem?

GhostFist · « **Reply #127 on:** July 17, 2013, 04:35 PM »

http://www.closet-masters.net/camarcomoleg2diaadjustablefoot.aspx

elimelech12 · « **Reply #128 on:** July 17, 2013, 04:53 PM »

Quote from: GhostFist on July 17, 2013, 04:35 PM

http://www.closet-masters.net/camarcomoleg2diaadjustablefoot.aspx

I saw those but they are way too wide...the other camar are 28mm

threedots · « **Reply #129 on:** July 19, 2013, 12:37 PM »

Hi elimelech12,

here's an alternative which only needs 14mm (equals 0.55") holes.

Peter Meier furniture legs

elimelech12 · « **Reply #130 on:** July 19, 2013, 03:09 PM »

those would do but seems like a pain to adjust.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #131 on:** July 19, 2013, 10:01 PM »

I actually got in contact with the guys at Peter Meier and although they sell bulk they said they would send me 8...I'm gonna go with the camar 443-10-p2...they are $1.60 a piece

Timtool · « **Reply #132 on:** July 20, 2013, 06:46 AM »

Sorry for not being active lately, the harvest has begun so i spend most of my time driving a combine!

Quote from: elimelech12 on July 17, 2013, 02:57 PM

Does anyone think building the carcass out of 12mm Mdf would present problem?

I have both an imperial and metric version of the MFTC plans,
In the imperial plans i adapted everything to use imperial sized sheet goods, so instead of 12mm you have 12.7mm, so you can use imperial materials.
if however you got the metric plan for some reason then just mail me and i can send you the imperial version (the imperial version is still expressed in metric numbers, just adapted to imperial sheet thickness)

james burrus · « **Reply #133 on:** August 01, 2013, 04:48 PM »

[ Attachment Invalid Or Does Not Exist ] [ Attachment Invalid Or Does Not Exist ] [ Attachment Invalid Or Does Not Exist ] The push push locks I can not find then I looked every where I went to the Home Depot to get some push lock but it did not hold the drawer in

downtheroad · « **Reply #134 on:** August 01, 2013, 07:12 PM »

Here's what I found:

Push-Push Latch

Knock-In Catch

elimelech12 · « **Reply #135 on:** August 26, 2013, 06:06 PM »

So my carcass has been done for a while but it's a side project as I don't have the time to fully dedicate to it. I made the legs out of 2x4 but I'm not to happy with them. I also built the carcass out of Mdf and I don't think it will be able to handle the drawers or constant moving to and fro. Also the T-track from peachtree is a little to thick so i'll most likely redo the top frame and use 3/4 all around. Here's what I've built so far.

Timtool · « **Reply #136 on:** August 27, 2013, 03:15 PM »

Quote from: elimelech12 on August 26, 2013, 06:06 PM

So my carcass has been done for a while but it's a side project as I don't have the time to fully dedicate to it. I made the legs out of 2x4 but I'm not to happy with them. I also built the carcass out of Mdf and I don't think it will be able to handle the drawers or constant moving to and fro. Also the T-track from peachtree is a little to thick so i'll most likely redo the top frame and use 3/4 all around. Here's what I've built so far.

Looks nice to me, i wouldn't worry about mdf not holding the drawers. I didn't use it because of the weight, but it is more resistant than you initially think.
Sometimes i trash damaged or surplus MDF carcass type assemblies which are just nailed and glued together, and often smashing them on the concrete doesn't do any damage. I need to take out a hammer.

Good luck with the continuation!

Tinker · « **Reply #137 on:** September 03, 2013, 06:28 AM »

Quote from: Timtool on July 20, 2013, 06:46 AM

Sorry for not being active lately, the harvest has begun so i spend most of my time driving a combine!

Tim,
you might get a kick out of this. A little off topic, but you are familiar with farm equipment.

When i was in HS, i was working on a small dairy farm. It was owned by a New York City newspaper guy who was using the farm as a tax write off. i had lived on a real working farm for several years before that, so i knew a little about poor operating procedures when i saw them. This owner had bought a one row seeder for sowing the corn crop. the farm was very hilly and he seemed to have directed the manager to plant the corn on the hilliest piece of ground on the farm. He later bought a harvester machine that cut and bundled the corn to be loaded onto wagons and hauled to the silo.

now, with very hilly ground that was loaded with stones of all sizes (Connecticut ground seems to grow new stones every year. a never ending chore of removing same), and a planter capable of only one very crooked row at a time, you, i am sure, can picture the fallacy of using an 4 row harvester to cut the corn.

Need I say more?
Tinker

Awesomo · « **Reply #138 on:** September 23, 2013, 06:40 PM »

A massive Thank you to Timtool for this. Ive been testing my beloved MFTC for the past couple of weeks now and love it!

I made a couple of small changes to mine, I don't own a domino (yet) so bored 20mm holes in the legs with a router to allow me to use the parf dogs as supports. This meant changing the dimensions of the rails at the drawer end to match the width of the folding legs.

I could not locate any decent adjustable feet so opted for M8 feet on pronged tee nuts. I wanted a solid surface for the extension tables so used the same method for the top of the main MFTC and extended the legs to full length (I keep a selection of plastic shims in the drawer in case I need to level it up). I got the T Tracks and toggle bolts (used to connect the extension tables) from http://www.rutlands.co.uk/

The drawer slides have a built in 'push to open' mechanism and are made by a firm called 'GTV'. I purchased them (along with the wheels and feet) from Ebay.

Thanks again to Tim.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #139 on:** September 23, 2013, 11:05 PM »

Now you have to fill it up with some systainers

NYC Tiny Shop · « **Reply #140 on:** September 24, 2013, 07:02 AM »

This is really clever! If I worked outside of my home, then I would want one! Looking forward to your next innovation, Tim.

badtastex · « **Reply #141 on:** September 25, 2013, 06:53 AM »

AwesomeO: Looks really nice. What dimension of plywood did you use for the extension tables? Are they heavy?

John2Stage · « **Reply #142 on:** October 06, 2013, 09:32 AM »

Hi Tim.

Where did you get the t-tracks. I'm from the netherlands so i think i can order them at the same place as you did.

Silverlight68 · « **Reply #143 on:** October 15, 2013, 03:30 PM »

I've been following this post for a couple weeks now, and I was wondering about those tracks. If I look at different suppliers, I notice some sell miter tracks, t-tracks, and mini t-tracks.
Which is which?
Are the tracks that the Festool clamps fit into called miter tracks or t-tracks?
I'm assuming the mini t-tracks are the same size as the track found on the Festool fence, am I correct?

elimelech12 · « **Reply #144 on:** October 17, 2013, 08:49 AM »

Quote from: John2Stage on October 06, 2013, 09:32 AM

Hi Tim.

Where did you get the t-tracks. I'm from the netherlands so i think i can order them at the same place as you did.

If I remember correctly, Tim mentioned picking them up in a big box store. They are curtain tracks.

Richard/RMW · « **Reply #145 on:** October 17, 2013, 10:09 AM »

Quote from: Silverlight68 on October 15, 2013, 03:30 PM

I've been following this post for a couple weeks now, and I was wondering about those tracks. If I look at different suppliers, I notice some sell miter tracks, t-tracks, and mini t-tracks.
Which is which?
Are the tracks that the Festool clamps fit into called miter tracks or t-tracks?
I'm assuming the mini t-tracks are the same size as the track found on the Festool fence, am I correct?

McMaster Carr sells t slot track that fits the Festool clamps # 1850A19 48" $12. There is also a guy on eBay selling identical track.

RMW

Silverlight68 · « **Reply #146 on:** October 18, 2013, 01:06 PM »

Yeah, it's bit of a downer living as an ex-pat over here in the Netherlands and trying to get my paws on stuff that's easily available in the US or Canada. A lot of the stuff on Ebay won't ship overseas, some will, but not everything, and it always seems like the stuff you would like to have the most won't ship.
I have found some suppliers here that sell some T-track that will work, but it's still a far cry from something yummy like Incra.

badtastex · « **Reply #147 on:** October 18, 2013, 01:23 PM »

You can check out www.motedis.de, they sell a lot of different profiles and some of them are definately compatible with the Festool clamps. I have used the 40 I-type Slot 8 and they are perfect with the clamps. I know that the clamps are also compatible with the B-type slot 10 but they will rattle a bit in the slot.

Boejholm · « **Reply #148 on:** October 18, 2013, 05:46 PM »

Another possibility is this German Company. I ordered routerlift and plate from them, they seem to have a large selection of Incra Goodies

www.feinewerkzeuge.de/werkstatt.html
Lars

Richard/RMW · « **Reply #149 on:** October 19, 2013, 09:57 AM »

Quote from: Silverlight68 on October 18, 2013, 01:06 PM

Yeah, it's bit of a downer living as an ex-pat over here in the Netherlands and trying to get my paws on stuff that's easily available in the US or Canada. A lot of the stuff on Ebay won't ship overseas, some will, but not everything, and it always seems like the stuff you would like to have the most won't ship.
I have found some suppliers here that sell some T-track that will work, but it's still a far cry from something yummy like Incra.

Sorry, my post was from a tablet and I had not noticed you were overseas. I ship some stuff via USPS International, feel free to email me if I you need a relay point for something.

RMW

elimelech12 · « **Reply #150 on:** October 23, 2013, 05:09 PM »

So close to being done.

elimelech12 · « **Reply #151 on:** October 23, 2013, 05:50 PM »

***Can a MOD flip my photos please***

Peter Halle · « **Reply #152 on:** October 23, 2013, 06:08 PM »

I can't help out right now. Just downloaded new Mac operating system and am installing. If Shane or Seth doesn't do it before I can get to it, I will.

Sorry,

Peter

Alan m · « **Reply #153 on:** October 23, 2013, 06:31 PM »

looking good.
i would love to see a video of someone using one of these out in the real world and showing what they might tweek

Jesse Cloud · « **Reply #154 on:** October 23, 2013, 06:46 PM »

Quote from: Peter Halle on October 23, 2013, 06:08 PM

I can't help out right now. Just downloaded new Mac operating system and am installing. If Shane or Seth doesn't do it before I can get to it, I will.

Sorry,

Peter

Hey Peter,
Let us know what you think of Mavericks!
Jess

Peter Halle · « **Reply #155 on:** October 23, 2013, 07:05 PM »

Quote from: Jesse Cloud on October 23, 2013, 06:46 PM

Quote from: Peter Halle on October 23, 2013, 06:08 PM
I can't help out right now. Just downloaded new Mac operating system and am installing. If Shane or Seth doesn't do it before I can get to it, I will.

Sorry,

Peter

Hey Peter,
Let us know what you think of Mavericks!
Jess

I'll save that for another thread. Waiting for the APP site to cooperate. Give away software and they will come.

Peter

Rusty Miller · « **Reply #156 on:** October 24, 2013, 09:01 AM »

Must be something wrong on the forum, I took the pics and rotated them right side up and put them in a message three times and they keep showing upside down. There is a problem here somewhere, or with the pics.

Rusty

Rusty Miller · « **Reply #157 on:** October 24, 2013, 09:06 AM »

Just tried something! If you right click on the image and pick "open image in new tab" (on a Mac) it will open right side up, or at least it did for me.

Rusty

You have to click on the image first to make it bigger then right click. If the new tab title is MFTC-portable-workshop then you're good but if it says index.php (200 x 149) then you didn't click on it first to enlarge. Clear as mud, right.

Rusty Miller · « **Reply #158 on:** October 24, 2013, 12:26 PM »

Trying this on a PC. Well it worked.

Rusty

elimelech12 · « **Reply #159 on:** October 24, 2013, 07:10 PM »

Quote from: Rusty Miller on October 24, 2013, 12:26 PM

Trying this on a PC. Well it worked.

Rusty

Thanks rusty...now if only I could rotate the attached files in my post

Peter Halle · « **Reply #160 on:** October 24, 2013, 07:36 PM »

Quote from: elimelech12 on October 24, 2013, 07:10 PM

Quote from: Rusty Miller on October 24, 2013, 12:26 PM
Trying this on a PC. Well it worked.

Rusty

Thanks rusty...now if only I could rotate the attached files in my post

Sorry, my upgrade to Mavericks hit a little snag and I couldn't get to Photoshop until today. I took the liberty of adjusting them so others could see more details of your fine work. Here are your images:

Peter

Rusty Miller · « **Reply #161 on:** October 24, 2013, 08:09 PM »

Peter,
My update went smooth as silk. Only thing I've run into was Textexpander needed to be upgraded to work with Maverick's. Liking it so far. Not near the drastic change as with ios7.

Rusty

neilc · « **Reply #162 on:** October 24, 2013, 10:33 PM »

elimelech12

Really nice job. It looks great!

While it's fresh in your mind, could you summarize in a post the parts you ended up going with and the part # and source? Thinking that would help others on this side of the pond who are looking for a bill-of-materials.

I have the plans. Just need to get on with building a unit when I get other things done.

Thanks for sharing!

neil

elimelech12 · « **Reply #163 on:** October 24, 2013, 11:41 PM »

Quote from: neilc on October 24, 2013, 10:33 PM

elimelech12

Really nice job. It looks great!

While it's fresh in your mind, could you summarize in a post the parts you ended up going with and the part # and source? Thinking that would help others on this side of the pond who are looking for a bill-of-materials.

I have the plans. Just need to get on with building a unit when I get other things done.

Thanks for sharing!

neil

T track -ptreeusa.com #1018. If you decide to go with these I recommend bringing the outside frame from 1/2inch to 3/4. I like the look also. Because I widened the top frame by a 1/4 you will need longer bolts. I went with 5/16 x 3 inch.

Slides -leevalley.com touch open slides

Feet -I've found one camar distributor petermeier.com but they don't carry the 323 series. They carry the 343 and 345 series. I was fortunate to have then send me a few, but they only sell bulk.

Other than that its straight fwd

CSF · « **Reply #164 on:** November 24, 2013, 05:43 PM »

I keep looking at this tread and really want to make one but in this country we all work from vans and atm mines not the biggest haha
Maybe i can make one up to keep in my shed and take to sites where im going alot of work.

Hmmm

wow · « **Reply #165 on:** November 27, 2013, 02:00 AM »

Seems like Tim's website is down right ow. I sent him a PM...

wow · « **Reply #166 on:** November 27, 2013, 09:56 AM »

Tim's website is back up.

Sparky · « **Reply #167 on:** November 27, 2013, 10:25 AM »

Just wondering if anyone kept track of the total cost of building one. I would love to build one for my garage so I can take it down when I want to park inside.

CSF · « **Reply #168 on:** November 27, 2013, 05:07 PM »

I to would like to know this also? Material only as time is no real problem atm for me!

atlr · « **Reply #169 on:** November 27, 2013, 09:44 PM »

Here's a summary of the amount of wood from the English imperial unit instructions:

1 sheet of 1 /2 inch plywood
1 sheet of 3 /4 inch plywood
1 sheet of 1 /2 inch mdf

The MFTC instructions have a detailed cutting diagram for the sheet goods but the total amount of hardwood and softwood is not documented.

I went through the plan and added up the board feet to be:
hardwood 2.3 board-feet
softwood 5.2 board-feet

I am not sure what kind of multiplier one would use to account for board waste. At any rate, these numbers can be used for a rough estimate of the cost of wood.

I am hoping Timothy might follow up with complete materials list from his MFTC instructions.

Massemannen · « **Reply #170 on:** December 05, 2013, 09:10 AM »

I was thinking about actually replacing your flip top with the real MFT-3 table since the length are almost identical and then adjusting the width to the base. Making some kind of Pivot-plate on the inside of the MFT3 extrusion shouldn´t be to hard I think...

bmh · « **Reply #171 on:** December 05, 2013, 09:42 AM »

This is going to be my next project. I need to order some T Track for my current project how much extra for this project?

Thank you

stevep · « **Reply #172 on:** December 08, 2013, 05:24 PM »

For anyone in the UK, I used Eurofit for the drawer runners - much cheaper than anything else I looked at on line at 4.38 a pair inc vat, free postage and quick delivery. http://www.eurofitdirect.co.uk/46mm-ball-bearing-slides

Massemannen · « **Reply #173 on:** December 10, 2013, 05:44 PM »

Something like this... A little bit bulkier than Tim´s slick design

CJ'60 · « **Reply #174 on:** December 10, 2013, 06:06 PM »

A dutch guy has extended the MFTC into the MFTC-XL.

Massemannen · « **Reply #175 on:** December 10, 2013, 06:13 PM »

Sounds cool, but the pictures are for registered members only

CarolinaNomad · « **Reply #176 on:** December 10, 2013, 06:31 PM »

Quote from: Massemannen on December 10, 2013, 06:13 PM

Sounds cool, but the pictures are for registered members only

And, I don't know how to register CarolinaNomad in Dutch.

Maybe someone could post pics here.

I like the MFTC-MFT/3. Don't mean to infringe on product name, but I have added this to my to do list.

CJ'60 · « **Reply #177 on:** December 10, 2013, 06:33 PM »

Quote from: Massemannen on December 10, 2013, 06:13 PM

Sounds cool, but the pictures are for registered members only

Oops. Didn't think of that.
I've asked the author to post some pictures here.

Best, Karel

CarolinaNomad · « **Reply #178 on:** December 10, 2013, 06:35 PM »

Quote from: Massemannen on December 10, 2013, 05:44 PM

Something like this... A little bit bulkier than Tim´s slick design

(Attachment Link)

Massemannen, With that sexy Google Sketchup illustration, I nominate you as the builder of this great idea!

epicxt · « **Reply #179 on:** December 10, 2013, 06:40 PM »

I like this idea as well, although wheels on the narrow would make getting through doorways easier.

CarolinaNomad · « **Reply #180 on:** December 10, 2013, 07:09 PM »

Quote from: epicxt on December 10, 2013, 06:40 PM

I like this idea as well, although wheels on the narrow would make getting through doorways easier.

The table alone is 31" wide. Your stuck with exterior doors at best. All interior doors are 30" finished.

Timtool can correct me, but I think he designed it to be narrow for interior doors. But there is no reason why one couldn't drag the MFTC-XL (Or I like to call it, MFTC-MFT/3

) through an interior door that is less than 30" wide.

GhostFist · « **Reply #181 on:** December 11, 2013, 01:04 AM »

No I kinda get what he is saying and was thinking the same thing myself. Sometimes its just easier to control rolling on 4 wheels, not as fast but in those moments it's nice to be able to do it.

Bosquet · « **Reply #182 on:** December 11, 2013, 03:26 AM »

Quote

A dutch guy has extended the MFTC into the MFTC-XL.

That Dutch guy will be me...

A member of the Dutch Woodworking Forum brought your questions to my attention. So here I am...

Quote

And, I don't know how to register CarolinaNomad in Dutch. Huh? Maybe someone could post pics here.

That can be arranged ofcourse! I'll try to figure out how this works and post some pics here. Unfortunately my MFTC-XL is not finished yet (due to lack of time...) but I will keep you posted once I continue building it.

Bosquet · « **Reply #183 on:** December 11, 2013, 03:39 AM »

OK, here we go... Let's start by posting some of the renderings of my MFTC-XL

Bosquet · « **Reply #184 on:** December 11, 2013, 03:52 AM »

At the moment the project has come to this point (see pictures below...). Next year I will continue building it. I will keep you posted...

PS: Merry Christmas and a happy 2014 !!!

Massemannen · « **Reply #185 on:** December 11, 2013, 05:12 AM »

That is just awesome, Bosquet!

Alan m · « **Reply #186 on:** December 11, 2013, 05:19 AM »

welcome to the fog ekko.
i realy like that.

CarolinaNomad · « **Reply #187 on:** December 11, 2013, 08:03 AM »

Very nice!

neilc · « **Reply #188 on:** December 11, 2013, 08:05 AM »

Nice design. Nice Sketchup and photography skills.

Welcome!

Neil

GhostFist · « **Reply #189 on:** December 11, 2013, 10:08 AM »

I was at first considering doing exactly that! Interesting to see.

Bosquet · « **Reply #190 on:** December 11, 2013, 04:49 PM »

Thanks for all the positive reactions !!!

Bosquet · « **Reply #191 on:** December 14, 2013, 02:58 PM »

I forgot to tell: the MFTC-XL can hold 7 systainers:

1 systainer 4 **
2 systainers 2
4 systainers 1

** The space for the systainer 4 can also be filled with a systainer 3 (ofcourse...) but also with another two systainers 2 (for instance: the Festool DF-500 attached to the systainer 2 filled with the domino's).

g1_lo · « **Reply #192 on:** December 19, 2013, 04:20 PM »

Just when I thought people wouldn't be impressed on site anymore, when I setup my festool rigs.
This workbench is going to be a game changer for me. Very impressed.

Might be the New Years Resolution.

Michael Kellough · « **Reply #193 on:** December 20, 2013, 12:13 PM »

It's been a while since I saw the first post of this thread. This is a great design!

NDM · « **Reply #194 on:** December 20, 2013, 11:42 PM »

Quote from: Bosquet on December 11, 2013, 03:52 AM

At the moment the project has come to this point (see pictures below...). Next year I will continue building it. I will keep you posted...

PS: Merry Christmas and a happy 2014 !!!

You beat me to the punch!!

I have a somewhat different desin that is kind of a rework of your design and the original MFTC. It will be an MFTC XL too! Hopefully I can get cracking on it during this christmas break.

Bosquet · « **Reply #195 on:** December 22, 2013, 05:42 AM »

Another picture, this time from the other side of the MFTC-XL

elimelech12 · « **Reply #196 on:** December 26, 2013, 08:49 PM »

That is awesome and would definitely be a future build for me...at the very bottom some sys-mini's would look nice

stevep · « **Reply #197 on:** December 27, 2013, 12:24 PM »

Built one from scraps, odds and sods and leftovers from jobs. The only expenditure was on drawer runners, which cost about £17, plus the usual glue, screws, doms, paint etc. Had to make some changes as I only had 10mm ply. I also had a cnc'ed top (made some time ago as a spare for the bench) which was 18mm, and a slightly different size to the one specified in the drawings.

Apart from the ply thickness, the main changes were to the wheels (mine are from an old concrete mixer that died, and are about 240mm dia), and the locking bar thing I added to stop the drawers opening (I couldn't find a sensible source for the catches suggested, and in any case I wanted something more positive).

Made the top frame from solid rather than built up from ply. I haven't used T-track as it's bloody expensive in the UK, and I haven't made the extension tables anyway. Can always be added in the future.

Solid rubber wheels. Still got concrete and mortar snots on from their previous use - must clean them up a bit sometime. This shot also shows the bottom of the locking bar, which slots into a bit of ply fixed to the underside of the cabinet.

Detail of the top bit of the drawer lock (underside) - a bit of ply with a slot in it, a spacer and a couple of aluminium tabs to hook onto the cabinet top:

Same again, but in place - it just slides onto the ply top

The batten to hold the drawers in place is just a length of beech, shown here removed. The bottom drawer is very useful

Drawer bases made from 10mm ply are too thin, so I had to glue a bit of softwood on the sides so I had something reasonably solid to screw the runners onto.

Making changes resulted in a few surprises - the original drawings are absolutely spot on of course, and changing a component size usually means that something else has to be changed to suit. I've used it on site a couple of times and it's very useful.

I think I'd like to put a couple of small locking castors on the front instead of the feet, and I'm not sure that the handle is up to the job, especially when I pull it up into the van (my version is probably a bit heavier than the standard because of the 18mm top). The skids are essential if you want to lift it into a van, and I feel happier removing the three Systainers first, mainly because I'm doubtful about the strength of the handle. It stands up ok in my VW T4, with a few inches headroom to spare.

Timtool · « **Reply #198 on:** December 28, 2013, 07:46 AM »

Nice one Steve, i like the assembly of the worktop you did there. My first prototype was similar but for the final version i went for plywood because it could be made with basic tools easily.
Can i use the pics on my site?

Timothy

stevep · « **Reply #199 on:** December 28, 2013, 09:46 AM »

Of course Tim. Thanks for the work you put into the drawings.
For anyone in the UK, the drawer runners were from http://www.eurofitdirect.co.uk, sku no DS53502, 46mm ball bearing slides 350 mm full extension.