Wen 6552 User Manual
Wen 6552 User Manual
Wen 6552 User Manual
THICKNESS PLANER
Model # 6552
4005911 bit.ly/wenvideo
IMPORTANT:
Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability,
ease of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you years
of rugged, trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings,
and cautions. If you use your tool properly and for intended purpose, you will enjoy years of safe,
reliable service.
TECHNICAL DATA
Model Number: 6552
Motor: 120 V, 60 Hz, 15A
Cutterhead Speed: 8500 RPM
Number of Blades 3 blades
Cuts Per Minute: 25500 cuts per minute
Feed rate: 26 FPM
Max. Depth of Cut (for boards 6 inches or less): 3/32˝
Max. Depth of Cut (for boards 6 to 13 inches): 1/32˝
Table Size: 13-1/4 x 9-1/2˝
Infeed & Outfeed Table Size: 13-1/2 x 7-1/2˝
Base Size: 21-3/4 x 12-1/2˝
Workpiece Width (max.): 13˝
Workpiece Thickness (max.): 6˝
Dust Port Sizes: 2˝, 2-1/2˝, & 4˝
Weight: 77 lbs
2
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert and knowing how your item works. SAVE THESE SAFE-
TY INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING: To avoid mistakes and serious injury, do not plug in your tool until the following steps
have been read and understood.
1. READ and become familiar with this entire instruction manual. LEARN the tool’s applications, limitations, and
possible hazards.
2. AVOID DANGEROUS CONDITIONS. Do not use power tools in wet or damp areas or expose them to rain.
Keep work areas well lit.
4. ALWAYS keep your work area clean, uncluttered, and well lit. DO NOT work on floor surfaces that are slippery
with sawdust or wax.
5. KEEP BYSTANDERS AT A SAFE DISTANCE from the work area, especially when the tool is operating.
NEVER allow children or pets near the tool.
6. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL to do a job for which it was not designed.
7. DRESS FOR SAFETY. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties, or jewelry (rings, watches, etc.) when op-
erating the tool. Inappropriate clothing and items can get caught in moving parts and draw you in. ALWAYS wear
non-slip footwear and tie back long hair.
8. WEAR A FACE MASK OR DUST MASK to fight the dust produced by sawing operations.
WARNING: Dust generated from certain materials can be hazardous to your health. Always oper-
ate the tool in a well-ventilated area and provide for proper dust removal. Use dust collection systems
whenever possible.
9. ALWAYS remove the power cord plug from the electrical outlet when making adjustments, changing parts,
cleaning, or working on the tool.
11. AVOID ACCIDENTAL START-UPS. Make sure the power switch is in the OFF position before plugging in
the power cord.
12. REMOVE ADJUSTMENT TOOLS. Always make sure all adjustment tools are removed from the saw before
turning it on.
13. NEVER LEAVE A RUNNING TOOL UNATTENDED. Turn the power switch to OFF. Do not leave the
tool until it has come to a complete stop.
14. NEVER STAND ON A TOOL. Serious injury could result if the tool tips or is accidentally hit. DO NOT store
anything above or near the tool.
3
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
15. DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Wear oil-resistant rubber-soled foot-
wear. Keep the floor clear of oil, scrap, and other debris.
16. MAINTAIN TOOLS PROPERLY. ALWAYS keep tools clean and in good working order. Follow instruc-
tions for lubricating and changing accessories.
17. CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS. Check for alignment of moving parts, jamming, breakage, improper
mounting, or any other conditions that may affect the tool’s operation. Any part that is damaged should be properly
repaired or replaced before use.
18. MAKE THE WORKSHOP CHILDPROOF. Use padlocks and master switches and ALWAYS remove start-
er keys.
19. DO NOT operate the tool if you are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication that may affect your
ability to properly use the tool.
20. USE SAFETY GOGGLES AT ALL TIMES that comply with ANSI Z87.1. Normal safety glasses only have
impact resistant lenses and are not designed for safety. Wear a face or dust mask when working in a dusty environ-
ment. Use ear protection such as plugs or muffs during extended periods of operation.
WARNING: Operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into eyes which
can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety goggles complying with United States ANSI Z87.1
(shown on package) before commencing power tool operation.
2. Make sure all guards are properly attached and securely fastened.
6. Do not plug in planer unless the switch is in the off position. After turning the switch on, allow the planer to
come to full speed before operating.
4
SPECIFIC RULES FOR THE PLANER
7. Keep hands clear of all moving parts.
8. Do not force cut. Slowing or stalling will overheat motor. Allow automatic feed to function properly.
9. Use quality lumber. Blades last longer and cuts are smoother with good quality wood.
10. Do not plane material shorter than 15”, narrower than 3/4”, wider than 13” or thinner than 1/2”.
12. For workpieces longer than 24", use material support stands.
14. Take precautions against kickback. Do not permit anyone to stand or cross in line of cutterhead’s rotation.
Kickback or thrown debris will travel in this direction.
15. Turn switch off and disconnect power whenever planer is not in use.
ELECTRICAL INFORMATION
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
IN THE EVENT OF A MALFUNCTION OR BREAKDOWN, grounding provides the path of least resistance
for an electric current and reduces the risk of electric shock. This tool is equipped with an electric cord that has an
equipment grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug MUST be plugged into a matching outlet that is
properly installed and grounded in accordance with ALL local codes and ordinances.
DO NOT MODIFY THE PLUG PROVIDED. If it will not fit the outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a
licensed electrician.
IMPROPER CONNECTION of the equipment grounding conductor can result in electric shock. The conduc-
tor with the green insulation (with or without yellow stripes) is the equipment grounding conductor. If repair or
replacement of the electric cord or plug is necessary, DO NOT connect the equipment grounding conductor to a
live terminal.
CHECK with a licensed electrician or service personnel if you do not completely understand the grounding instruc-
tions or whether the tool is properly grounded.
CAUTION: In all cases, make certain the outlet in question is properly grounded. If you are not sure, have a li-
censed electrician check the outlet.
5
ELECTRICAL INFORMATION
WARNING: This tool is for indoor use only. Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Guidelines for using extension cords
Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy
enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating. The table below shows the correct size to be used according to cord length and
nameplate ampere rating. When in doubt, use a heavier cord. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.
Make sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good condition. Always replace a damaged extension cord
or have it repaired by a qualified person before using it.
Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat and damp/wet areas.
Use a separate electrical circuit for your tools. This circuit must not be less than a #12 wire and should be protected
with a 15 A time-delayed fuse. Before connecting the motor to the power line, make sure the switch is in the OFF
position and the electric current is rated the same as the current stamped on the motor nameplate. Running at a
lower voltage will damage the motor.
WARNING: This tool must be grounded while in use to protect the operator from electric shock.
CIRCUIT BREAKER
This planer is equipped with a motor pro-
tection device-circuit breaker. The breaker
will automatically shut the planer off when
excessive current is consumed. If the break-
er is tripped, turn the planer off and reset
the circuit by pressing the button.
Circuit
Breaker
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KNOW YOUR PLANER
Roller Extensions
Crank Handle
Circuit Breaker
Carrying Handle
Infeed Table
Dust Chute
Adapter
Hex
Wrench
Crank Socket
Handle Head Flat
Bolt Washer
Fig. 1
UNPACKING (Fig. 1)
The body of the planer comes assembled as one unit. All additional parts pictured above should be located and
accounted for before assembling. Do not discard the packaging until you have done so.
WARNING: Do not attempt assembly if parts are missing. Use this manual to order replacement parts.
7
ASSEMBLY AND ADJUSTMENTS
1
ATTACHING THE CRANK HANDLE (Fig. 2) 2
It’s time to put this thing together! First, place the washer
3
(Fig. 2 - 3) over the socket head bolt (Fig. 2 - 2) and feed
the bolt into the handle (Fig. 2 - 4). Tighten the bolt to se-
cure the handle in position on top of the planer. Place the 4
handle cap (Fig. 2 - 1) onto the handle as shown in Fig. 2.
Fig. 2
Fig. 3 Fig. 4
Remove the foam insert located between the main table and the blade drum (Fig. 5). Peel back the protective film
insert from the main table.
Fig. 5 Fig. 6
8
ASSEMBLY AND ADJUSTMENTS
ATTACH DUST CHUTE (Fig. 7)
Thickness planers are best used with the aid 1
of a dust collector. To install the dust chute,
simply mount it to the rollercase using the two
thumb screws (Fig. 7 - 1). The dust chute can
be mounted in either direction to direct the
flow of chips to either side of planer.
NOTE: If you do not plan on using a dust collection system of any kind, we recommend removing the dust chute
so that the woodchips and debris can fly freely from the back of the planer. This will however make a mess in your
shop. The other option would be to leave it on and then regularly clean the wood out of the dust chute throughout
operation. Maybe you should just get a dust collector.
The base of the planer has four mounting holes. Mount the planer to the workbench or to the tool stand using bolts,
flat washers and hex nuts (sold separately). Fig. 8 shows the base dimensions, mounting holes and required space to
allow for installation to a work table. Securely mount the planer to the work table by bolting it through the holes.
Make sure the planer does not rock and that the work table is level.
NOTE: We recommend the WEN 6588 Rolling Planer Stand for both stability and easy transportation around the
workshop.
Hole for
Mounting
Fig. 8 Fig. 9
9
OPERATION
WARNING: Do not connect planer to the power source until all assembly steps have been completed.
NOTE: The key can be removed from the switch while in the ON posi-
tion. This allows for the device to be turned off but still prevents it from
being turned back on.
Fig. 11
AVOID DAMAGE TO BLADES
Thickness planers are a precision woodworking machine and should be used on quality lumber only. Do not plane
dirty boards; dirt and small stones are abrasive and will wear out blade.
WARNING: REMOVE NAILS AND STAPLES. Use planer to cut wood only. Avoid knots. Heavily
cross-grained wood makes knots hard. Knots can come loose and jam blade.
WARNING: Any article that encounters planer blades may be forcibly ejected from planer creating risk of
injury. Make sure the wood is free from outside materials before attempting to plane.
WARNING: NEVER PLANE AGAINST THE GRAIN DIRECTION OF THE WOOD. DO NOT
PLANE END GRAIN, AS THE WOOD COULD SPLINTER OR POSSIBLY EXPLODE.
CAUTION: Do not plane board which is less than 14-1/2” long; force of cut could split board and
cause kickback.
10
OPERATION
DEPTH OF CUT (Fig. 12 - 1)
Two small 1/16-inch lips have been added to either side
of the front of the planer. This is in order to decrease the
maximum cutting depth from 3/32 of an inch to 1/32 of an
inch for boards over 6 inches wide. Of course, this planer
could handle the removal of 3/32 of an inch on 13-inch
wide boards. However, not only will this shorten the lifes-
pan of the motor and the cutting blades, but also will not
provide the best finish to the board.
• For optimum planing performance, the depth of cut should be less than 1/64 of an inch per pass. Run the board
a few times before adding depth to ensure the best possible cuts.
• Boards should be planed with shallow cuts until the work has a level side (or alternatively the use of a power
jointer can be employed). Once a level surface has been created, flip the lumber and create parallel sides.
• Plane alternate sides until the desired thickness is obtained. When half of the total depth of cut is taken from each
side, the board will have a uniform moisture content. Any additional drying should not cause it to warp.
• When planing hardwood, make light cuts or plane the wood in thin widths.
• Make a test cut with a test piece and verify the thickness produced.
Work should be fed into the planer in same direction as the grain of the wood. Sometimes grain will change direc-
tions in the middle of the board. In such cases, if possible, cut board in middle before planing so grain direction is
correct.
11
OPERATION
THE DO’S AND DONT’S OF GRAIN DIRECTION
It is important that the cutterhead always cuts in the same
direction as the grain. There are six sides to every board: two
n
face grains, two side/edge grains, and two end grains. Never
rai
G
plane with the end grain facing upwards. Only plane side and
of
face grains. Otherwise, the board has a chance of splintering
on
Face
cti
and exploding inside of the planer.
re
Grain
Di
When planing side and face grain, always plane in the direc-
tion of the grain. Do not go against the grain, otherwise the Side/Edge
board also has a chance of splintering and exploding. Grain
FEEDING WORK
The planer is supplied with planing blades mounted in the cutterhead with the infeed and outfeed rollers pre-ad-
justed to the correct heights. The feed rate is automatic but will vary slightly depending on the type of wood (feed
rate refers to the rate at which the lumber travels through the planer). To feed the workpiece:
1. Align the work perpendicular to the rollercase so that the work feeds through the planer straight, making sure
that the board is travelling in the same direction as the grain and that you are only planing either side or face grain.
Boards longer than 24” should have additional support from free standing material stands. Position the workpiece
with the face to be planed on top.
3. Stand on the side of the planer. Do not stand directly in front or behind the planer.
4. Turn the planer on and direct the board into the planer. Gently slide workpieces into the infeed side of the
planer until the infeed roller advances the workpiece. Let go of the workpiece and allow the automatic feed to
advance the board through the planer.
5. Do not push/pull on workpiece. Catch the planed lumber by grasping it in same manner as it was fed as it
comes out the backside. Make sure not to stand directly behind the planer while catching fed lumber. Do not
grasp any portion of board which has not gone past the out-feed roller.
CAUTION: To avoid risk of injury due to kickbacks, do not stand directly in line with the front or rear of planer.
6. Repeat as needed. Planer has return rollers on top so an assistant can pass the work back to operator. Keep in
mind that multiple shallow cuts result in smoother surfaces than a single pass with a larger cutting depth.
12
OPERATION
AVOIDING SNIPE
Thickness planers tend to leave a small bit of snipe at the end of the planed boards, particularly for longer work-
pieces. Snipe is a small dip that occurs from the weight of the board tilting downwards, thus pushing the other
end of the board into the cutter head, creating an uneven finish. Snipe will occur when boards are not supported
properly or when only one feed roller is in contact with the work at beginning or end of cut.
The best way of avoiding snipe is to cut your lumber long enough that you can saw off the snipe after the board
has been planed. Other less efficient ways include gently pushing the board up while feeding the work until the
outfeed roller starts advancing it. Then, move to the rear and receive the planed board by gently pushing it up
when the infeed roller loses contact with it. The third option is to have another dummy board flush against the
beginning and end of the workpiece. That way, this piece of scrap wood will be the recipient of all of the snipe.
Snipe is more apparent when deeper cuts are taken. Lower depths help prevent snipe.
13
MAINTENANCE
CHECK FOR WORN BLADES
Condition of blades will affect the precision of cuts. Observe the quality of the cut that the planer produces to check
the condition of the blades. Dull blades will tear, rather than sever wood fibers and produce fuzzy appearances.
Raised grain will occur when dull blades pound on wood that has varying density. Raised edges will also be produced
where the blades have been nicked. Blades on this planer are reversible and should always be reversed or replaced
as a matched set. Keeping a spare set of blades on hand is recommended. Replacement blades can be ordered from
wenproducts.com.
2. Loosen and remove the four screws from the blade guard Screws
on the rear side of the cutterhead. Remove the blade guard
(Fig. 13)
Fig. 13
3. Carefully turn the cutterhead by hand until it is stopped
by the self-engaging latch (Fig. 14).
4. Loosen and remove the six bolts from the gib (Fig. 14).
8. Replace the gib and align the holes on the gib with holes
on the blade using the magnets.
10. Depress the latch to release the cutterhead and turn cut-
terhead by hand until it is stopped by the self-engaging latch.
11. Repeat the steps above for changing the second and
third blades.
Fig. 15
12. Replace blade guard and secure it using four screws.
Replace the dust chute.
14
MAINTENANCE
WARNING: Turn planer off and disconnect from power source
before performing any maintenance.
LUBRICATION
Motor and cutterhead bearings are sealed and need no lubrication. Gears and elevation screws should be cleaned
of debris and greased as needed.
TROUBLESHOOTING
IF THE MATERIAL DOES NOT FEED PROPERLY, CHECK FOR:
• dull blades: rotate or replace as necessary (refer to Changing Blades section).
• excess clogging in the dust hood (refer to Attach Dust Chute in the Assembly and Adjustments section).
• a broken V-Belt (refer to Replacing V-Belt in the Maintenance section).
16
EXPLODED VIEW AND PARTS LIST
No. Part No. Description Qty No. Part No. Description Qty No. Part No. Description Qty
1 Handle Assembly 1 48 6552-048 Pan Head Screw 3 95 6552-095 Flat Washer 8
2 Cap 1 49 6552-049 Cutterhead Pulley 1 Outfeed Extension Table
6550-105 96 6552-096 1
3 Socket Head Screw 1 50 6552-050 Motor Pulley 1 Assembly
6 6552-006 Roller Cap 4 53 6550-202 Screw 2 99 6552-099 Socket Pan Head Screw 12
7 6552-007 Flat Head Screw 4 54 6550-201 Dust Exhaust Port 1 100 6552-100 Elevating Screw (RH) 1
9 6552-009 Grip 2 56 6552-056 Socket Head Screw 4 102 6552-102 Socket Head Screw 4
10 6552-010 Flat Head Screw 4 57 6552-057 Flat Washer 4 103 6552-103 Lock Washer 4
12 6552-012 Retaining Ring 3 59 6552-059 Chute Plate 1 105 6552-105 Infeed Extension Table 1
13 6550-215 Chain 2 60 6552-060 Flat Head Tap Screw 4 106 6550-129 Bushing 4
15 6552-015 Socket Head Screw 4 62 6550-137 Hex Wrench 1 108 6552-108 Table Support 4
17 6550-219 Gear Box Assembly 1 64 6550-252 Bearing Block 4 110 6552-110 Socket Head Screw 4
19 6550-221 Ball Bearing 1 66 6552-066 Flat Washer 8 112 6552-112 Hex Head Bolt 4
20 6552-020 Elevating Nut (LH) 1 67 6552-067 Lock Washer 8 113 6552-113 Hex Nut 4
21 6552-021 Hex Nut 2 68 6552-068 Socket Head Screw 8 114 6552-114 Bevel Gear 4
25 6552-025 Pan Head Screw 2 72 6552-072 Power Cord 1 118 6550-132 Support 2
26 6552-026 Lock Washer 2 73 6552-073 Motor 1 119 6552-119 Socket Head Screw 4
28 6552-028 Socket Head Screw 2 75 6550-260 Circuit Breaker 1 121 6552-121 Plunger 1
30 6552-030 Elevating Nut (RH) 1 77 6550-212 Brush 2 123 6552-123 Cutterhead Lock Latch 1
31 6552-031 Pan Head Screw 2 78 6550-213 Brush Cap 2 124 6552-124 Spacer 1
17
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY
WEN Products is committed to building tools that are dependable for years. Our warranties are consistent with
this commitment and our dedication to quality.
LIMITED WARRANTY OF WEN CONSUMER POWER TOOLS PRODUCTS FOR HOME USE
GREAT LAKES TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (“Seller”) warrants to the original purchaser only, that all WEN con-
sumer power tools will be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of two (2) years from date of
purchase. Ninety days for all WEN products, if the tool is used for professional use.
SELLER’S SOLE OBLIGATION AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY under this Limited Warranty and, to
the extent permitted by law, any warranty or condition implied by law, shall be the repair or replacement of parts,
without charge, which are defective in material or workmanship and which have not been misused, carelessly
handled, or misrepaired by persons other than Seller or Authorized Service Center. To make a claim under this
Limited Warranty, you must make sure to keep a copy of your proof of purchase that clearly defines the Date of
Purchase (month and year) and the Place of Purchase. Place of purchase must be a direct vendor of Great Lakes
Technologies, LLC. Third party vendors such as garage sales, pawn shops, resale shops, or any other secondhand
merchant void the warranty included with this product. Contact techsupport@wenproducts.com or 1-800-232-
1195 to make arrangements for repairs and transportation.
When returning a product for warranty service, the shipping charges must be prepaid by the purchaser. The prod-
uct must be shipped in its original container (or an equivalent), properly packed to withstand the hazards of ship-
ment. The product must be fully insured with a copy of the warranty card and/or the proof of purchase enclosed.
There must also be a description of the problem in order to help our repairs department diagnose and fix the
issue. Repairs will be made and the product will be returned and shipped back to the purchaser at no charge.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO ACCESSORY ITEMS THAT WEAR OUT FROM
REGULAR USAGE OVER TIME INCLUDING BELTS, BRUSHES, BLADES, ETC.
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES SHALL BE LIMITED IN DURATION TO TWO (2) YEARS FROM
DATE OF PURCHASE. SOME STATES IN THE U.S., SOME CANADIAN PROVINCES DO NOT AL-
LOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITA-
TION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE
OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE IN THE U.S., PROVINCE TO PROVINCE
IN CANADA AND FROM COUNTRY TO COUNTRY.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY TO PORTABLE ELECTRIC TOOLS, BENCH POW-
ER TOOLS, OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT AND PNEUMATIC TOOLS SOLD WITHIN THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA AND THE COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO. FOR
WARRANTY COVERAGE WITHIN OTHER COUNTRIES, CONTACT THE WEN CUSTOMER SUP-
PORT LINE.
18