Festool MFT Replacement Top with a Twist [video

In this video I finally get around to #replacing the top on my #Festool #MFT worktable, and share a couple of tips that make life with an MFT that much easier. Enjoy!
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349 Hardwood offcuts shop - • The Hardwood Offcuts S...
182 Festool MFT - • Festool MFT #182
183 MFT follow-on - • MFT follow up #183
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Used/featured in this video:-
Festool MFT (new version) - amzn.to/2x49HHE (US: amzn.to/2J25aKy)
Festool TS55 Tracksaw - amzn.to/2pGvzDS (US: amzn.to/2oOgGhw)
Festool CTL26 (current model) - amzn.to/2MaINmt (US: amzn.to/2PDaOoQ)
Festool CTL Midi extractor - amzn.to/2tCIN3Q (US: amzn.to/2rKNIOx)
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Key blades for TS55 - amzn.to/2ryM0Fv (UK only, sorry)
Bessey Duo Klamp - amzn.to/2tsSWQs (US:amzn.to/2sVaRBH)
Cheap F clamps - amzn.to/2tNCU2K (US:amzn.to/2rQHAZj)
Festool Granat abrasive - amzn.to/2A3c1vW (US: amzn.to/2gPAAUz)
Festool RTS 400 - amzn.to/2x6zGZW (US: amzn.to/2i84yXn)
Festool ETS 125 - amzn.to/2RSAEDD (US: amzn.to/2JZy0t5)
Festool ETS 150/5 - amzn.to/2sapsq9 (US: amzn.to/2ssbZgq)
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[@markkoons7488]

Don't know whether you realize that people like myself who live in relative isolation (a Wyoming town of 4,000, 65 miles from a larger town, and 100 miles to a Festool dealer) find your videos the most useful way to learn about shop life with Festool equipment. Without your explanations Festool would remain purveyors of grossly over priced stuff accompanied by useless odds and ends. Thank you.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Wow, thanks Mark! I had no idea they’d be helpful in that way - always kind of assumed that the usual Festool channels on KZbin would have that covered, but I guess not! Pleased to hear that my vids help. Best wishes & Happy New Year from London! 👍👍

[@kaidenahmad8198]

instaBlaster.

[@SMee67]

🎉🎊🎉Wooohooo🎉🎊🎉 What a way to start 2020, 50K subs, congrats mate. 👍🏽 It's always the easiest, but essential jobs we seem to keep putting off the most... Well it's done and dusted for another 10 years. 😆

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Cheers Bill! And at least 10 years, I’d say! 😂👍

[@jaybloggs8699]

Concise, informative, brief quality videos... withoud stupid loud music, camera effects and click bait... great channel! I think you'll hit 100k subs in 2020... maybe more! Cheers :-D

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thank you! Haha, 100k by the end of the year would be impressive! 👍👍

[@mopedmarathon]

All the extrusions used look a lot like the stuff Bosch make. It’s incredibly accurately made and amazingly strong. I bought some from a company in reading called kjn if I remember correctly to make a jig once. There’s loads of optional fittings and fixtures to join it together too. Worth a look if you want something that’s not commercially available.

[@matthewwysocki5019]

Thanks! I just purchased the MFT3 and thus learning to maximize its potential. I like your use of a replaceable insert. I must say it took me a few minutes to get past the resistance to cut into top. As I did the cost of the MFT kept ringing in my ears was overcome by the usefulness of the table. So thanks for video.

[@edwardford3649]

Hello Peter, do you think you will create a 'make a MFT table' video? Putting together a CNC'd top and stock alluminium section etc?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Yes. It’ll be a mobile bench build, but with fence, rail etc... 👍👍

[@huffster6344]

My shop is similar to yours in that it is small, so space is at a premium. I ended up removing the MFT legs and storing them. Now I have a couple of clear plastic tackle boxes under there to hold MFT related and common items. It's very simple to move them if they get in the way of a clamp or other item. Nice video.

[@KeithMinnion]

I remember watching my first video, a "skyview" shot of your bench, and (being, at the time, totally ignorant of Festool work benches) immediately wondered why you were using a battered board of foam to work on-it looked exactly like that!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Haha - yes, they do! 😂👍👍

[@tomwilson5822]

Just discovered your videos and I think they excellent. Only thing now is you don’t have 50,000 viewer anymore it’s over 200,000

[@OldManTony]

Make your own MFT table, now that’s a challenge. I ask myself, can I produce something to the required accuracy hmmmmm !

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

🤔😬😆🤷‍♂️👍

[@MrBobisadog]

Been watching you for about 2 years. I really enjoy your easy manner and wit. We just spent two weeks in London and had a great time. My first time and I will be back. Have a great 2020!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Robert! I’m so pleased you enjoyed your visit to London; having travelled a fair bit myself, its’s always a pleasure to come back to! Best wishes, and Happy Nee Year! 👍👍

[@jamesjamieson8219]

Hi Peter. Where did you get the bracket for your plunge saw rail?

[@tdimccullough]

could you not get aluminium extrusions with similar slotting and make a framework , then you could make use of the mft elsewhere?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Yes, lots of people do this - there's a ton of 'DIY MFT' vids on KZbin - but nobody else does the hinged rail (Festool Patent) and that's what really distinguishes the MFT for the rest. Other ways to skin that cat, but I do like the hinged rail... 👍

[@neilbrackstone1819]

thought you may have done your own on your CNC, or is it still in the box?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

My CNC isn’t big enough. And that’s this months project, to get it up & running. 👍😂

[@NeoMorphUK]

Mike M I bought my Ox about 2 months before the Workbee came out so was pretty gutted. But then again I’ve been modding it loads since that time so it’s not really an Ox anymore either... but it’s still pretty darn useful. I got mine from Ooznest btw. Awesome bunch of guys.

[@markhenrychristensen]

I've considered replacing my top for quite a while now, and much like you, cant really say why I never ever got around to doing it, but after watching this video, you've just helped me make up my mind to get it done. What's more, is that I'll just flip mine over and save some good money too! (I'm from South Africa and Festool pricing is astronomical here.)By the way, I just want to mention that "quite an achievement" part you showed of the previous owner cutting through the aluminum frame, isn't such a mean feat after all... I did that without any trouble after forgetting to adjust my blade depth in the first week after getting my table... nearly drove me to tears. :) Love your work and presentation, Peter... congrats on getting your 50,001 subscribers - I just subscribed! :)Happy New Year to u and the family - Keep up the good work!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Mark, and welcome! I know how easily it’s done - I’ve nibbled away my fair share of aluminium off this MFT! 🤷‍♂️👍

[@markhenrychristensen]

@@10MinuteWorkshop 🤣👍

[@alanfrith6999]

Hi Peter, I have an MFT work station and would like to fit the Festool guide rail system but cannot find any who stocks or knows were to obtain the parts I need, could you advise please.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Do you mean the parts for the hinged rail? Festool MFT hinged rail/ rail support reference numbers are :- 497022 Support - this is the locating pin unit at the front of the MFT 497023 Support unit - this is the hinge part at the back of the MFT for the rail 472862 Profile - this is the MFT/3 aluminium profile If you do a google search for those reference numbers, the spare parts links will pop up at the top of the list. 👍

[@davidbryanwoodworksandmore]

Hey Peter. I bought an mft 800 a little while ago second hand and I’ve never used it. It doesn’t have a top with holes. Just plain ply. But your video is very nice because it’s the same older model as mine. It seems. So the closeups of the rails and connectors is very helpful. I am so grateful to you for making these videos. Thank you.

[@paulyanney3151]

What are the diameter of the holes in the table? I don’t have one but would like to make one for my shop. MDF correct? Thanks

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

20mm. And MR MDF this one. 👍

[@das250250]

use it on a wall and use holes with pegs for shelving

[@animationcreations42]

I just had a look to see how much they charge for a new MFT, and they want £600 for it! I think I'll stick to my Workmate with a bigger sheet of MDF on the top, at least it can also be used as a step!

[@ricos1497]

I have to admit, it's the only one of my festool purchases I regret. I have the newer model. It's too heavy to be really portable and not sturdy enough for anything involving a hand tool, so not that versatile. The top is a fantastic design of course, and Peter's "old style" setup looks much better to use. Once I get round to auctioning off my festool stuff, I'll look to build something more bench like on wheels that's more suited to my usage.

[@DukeofDave]

You can buy a replacement MFT top online for about £30ish (last time I looked)...then make a neat little knock down assembly bench. Pretty sure the place that sells them even has some bench dog packs...you'd do the whole thing for £100. I really should get on and do one 😆

[@jeffstanley4593]

Show us a link to the item you describe.

[@ricos1497]

@@DukeofDave yes, I think I paid £40-45 for my last replacement top, but I could easily have made one too. In hindsight, a knock down table would have been a better option. I'm sure the MFT will still have a healthy enough value on eBay though, so I'll likely do that once I use it to build a replacement!

[@DukeofDave]

@@jeffstanley4593 www.cncdesign.co.uk/replacement-perforated-festool-type-mft3lp-top.html

[@davidbryanwoodworksandmore]

How do I attach my protractor? I don’t see you using yours.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

I don’t have one. I thought they were just for the newer MFT/3? Not something I’ve missed, anyway! 👍

[@DavePawson]

What is the working height of your MFT please Peter? Would you adjust it (were it easy)?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

OK, bench and MFT are at 810mm, just about dead on 32". Hope that helps! 👍

[@bigmonkey999888]

Hi Peter another great video very informative look forward to more in 2020 Steve

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Cheers Steve! Plenty more to come! 👍👍

[@tunnel7]

Great job Pete love that MFT table WILL SOLVE MY PROBLEM OF NO TABLE SAW

[@wob2850]

How often do you need to re square the MFT?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Very rarely, but worth checking once in a while. Different story if you move it around a lot as it makes sense to take the rail assembly off, but if it’s workshop based like mine then I just check it now and then. 👍👍

[@GrahamGphotoParker]

Have you protected the mdf with anything? Paint, varnish ................ And have you chamfered the holes at all. Cheers

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

You didn’t watch all the way to the end, did you Graham? 😆 Yes, it has a coat of hard wax oil on it, and then a coat of stain, because I forgot 😬 and then another coat of oil. No, no chamfers on the holes. 👍

[@GrahamGphotoParker]

@@10MinuteWorkshop That will teach me to leave before the credits !!!!!! And I have actually watched it twice before 🙄

[@WobblycogsUk]

Congratulations on hitting 50k and happy new year. I'm looking forward to another year of great content, cheers.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! 👍👍

[@patrickniedermeyer2112]

The screen shot of you mulling over the build-up after removing the MFT is a great opportunity for a meme contest.

[@FreqBand]

"Hey, there's my reader glasses !"

[@VONDOOM88]

I have a question regarding the MFT tops in general. I know the dog holes are 20mm but is there a reason behind the 96mm spacing? I believe that is how they're spaced correct? Each row is 96mm from the adjacent row Just curious I have a makita tracksaw and the mft is far more than I can justify spending as a hobbyist. I believe I can do a mft like table top was just wondering why 96mm

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

MFT style tops and accessories are widely available, so you shouldn’t have any problem putting together something that functions well. Jigs are also available if you choose to make your own MFT top, but unless you expect to make several, or need an odd size, then I’d buy one ready made. As for the 96mm hole spacing, it’s been the subject of some debate over the years, and the general consensus is that it’s derived from the ‘32mm system’ - links below to posts on the Festool Owners Group on this subject. HTH. P 96mm hole spacing MFT festoolownersgroup.com/index.php?pretty;board=festool-how-to;topic=any-magic-to-mft-hole-spacing.0 festoolownersgroup.com/index.php?pretty;board=ask-festool;topic=96-mm-mft-hole-spacing.msg226612#msg226612 And the 32mm system in general festoolownersgroup.com/index.php?pretty;board=festool-jigs-tool-enhancements;topic=32-mm-system-help.msg157917#msg157917

[@VONDOOM88]

@@10MinuteWorkshop Thank you for the response and the links very interesting! There is a hole boring jig from Woodpeckers that is about the same price as a replacement mft top. So I might go the route as I do need a special size. Unless I can find a cnc router locally that can knock one out for a reasonable price.

[@BischBaschBosch]

Like the idea if a sacrificial cut strip mate. Been looking into replacing my tops funny enough. Will defo incorporate a strip I think. All the best mate and congrats on 50k!!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Cheers Stu! Yeah, sacrificial strip works really well. 👍

[@robwolfbrandt7741]

Hi Peter, do you know if 2 fence clamps will hold the fence securely to an mft-3? I’m considering ordering another clamp vs bolting the fence directly to the top. I don’t use non-90 degree angles on the protractor, and it eats up a fair bit of cross-cut capacity. BTW - its kind of eerie watching this vid today, as it was the first of 2020 when we were all looking forward to the new year unknowing of what was to come!!!! 2021 is looking to be a much better one - hope you and yours are well. Thanks for the great vids!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Rob, and thanks! I don't actually know I'm sorry, as mine's an older MFT/1080, but it only has two fence clamps on it and holds up just fine. Wow, hadn't realised that one was a year ago - last year flew past for me, and yes, here's hoping 2021 get's everything back on track! All well here too, thanks for asking, hope you and yours are all OK as well. 🙌 👍

[@robwolfbrandt7741]

@@10MinuteWorkshop thanks!!

[@ptortland]

Where did you buy the replacement top? Or did you make your own?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

I made my own - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZCtXoOBp7qiZ7s - but you can buy them easily here on eBay and elsewhere. 👍

[@NicoSmets]

I square my MFT the same way as you (by referencing te dog holes). I use a setup block, but that doesn't really matter. I find it unfortunate that festool doesn't market the MFT this way, adding a few accessoires on the way.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

I agree! I do find it odd that people are willing to spend so much on "MFT squares" when the CNCd top is probably the squarest thing they own. 🤷‍♂️

[@garyhermanson2503]

I can answer that one personally. None of the Festool videos show using the dogs to square the rail and track like you do. I just re-squared my MFT today after seeing you do this, thank you. Festool should hire you to do a series of instructional videos for the track saws and dominoes. They do have videos, but you have a talent for clearly explaining and videoing how to use the tools. Thanks.

[@NicoSmets]

@@10MinuteWorkshop To add to that, I don't use the stops that you can set in the side rail. I always realign the rail to the tableholes, even when resetting the heigth of the rail. (I find the heightsetting mechanism not very accurate, it can vary some distance from side to side, depending on how you clamp it). I have no use for that table insert. I always cut in the same line anyway. It does however cost me some extra effort.

[@MeSmeagol]

Hi Peter! I was wondering if it’s possible to use a 22mm mdf sheet for a mft top. I’m guessing it’s not an issue for the bench dogs, but can the festool quick clamps being used?? I like your videos a lot! Thanks

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Yes, 22mm would be fine, just the rail,clamps that need a max of 18mm 👍👍

[@MeSmeagol]

@@10MinuteWorkshop thanks!

[@jamesjamieson8219]

Hi Peter. Where did you get the bracket for your Plunge Saw Rail?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

The hinged rail comes as standard on the MFT, though you can buy it as a spare part:- Festool MFT hinged rail/ rail support reference numbers are :- 497022 Support - this is the locating pin unit at the front of the MFT 497023 Support unit - this is the hinge part at the back of the MFT for the rail If you do a google search for those reference numbers, the spare parts links will pop up at the top of the list. 👍

[@georgecronin3592]

PETER, I found your site a few weeks ago, and have searched throughout your past catalogue with great enjoyment, many thanks. I have worked with tools all my life, since my Dad let me into his shed. I find it very strange that someone who can work to such fine standards, seems so clumsy with hand tools. I see the hand tools you use in your videos, most of which would not get houseroom in my kit. The old adidge if you cant use hand tools, why should you use power tools. I wait in anticipation GEORGE.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

That’s pretty insulting from someone who’s only been watching my channel for a few weeks, wouldn’t you say?? 🤷‍♂️

[@georgecronin3592]

@@10MinuteWorkshopPlease dont take my comment as an insult Peter, it was just an observation with regard to your fine cabinet work, but your lack of basic hand tool skills.

[@sblankin]

Peter, I have a new concept in portable work table. Like to send it to you but not sure how. Steve

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Sam and thanks for the offer. I have my own portable bench build coming through very soon, so in all honesty I’d rather not see what you’re working on, just in case it’s similar. Hope you understand. Thanks again. Peter

[@terryatkins]

Hi Peter, the replacement top you brought what size holes are they? There is a few on eBay but notice some over size to 20.1mm and not sure if this will be an issue, has I hear some bench dogs are milled at 19.9mm. Thanks

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hiya. 20mm is the standard size - mine fits very snugly with all the dogs I have from a variety of makers. 👍👍

[@terryatkins]

Peter Millard thank you for the reply, keep the videos coming 👍

[@hoverparagliding]

2 years on and 171k subscribers, can't be bad at all!

[@Mr_Judge_Benny_Hinn]

You struggle manfully rather well! all the best for 2020... It's a shame your name wasn't listed in the Queens honor list...maybe next year..lol

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Haha, thanks! 👍

[@FreqBand]

If I was installing a new MDF top.... it seems like a great opportunity exists to seal it with shellac (thinned 50/50).... and 2-3 coats, both sides, and edges. To seal the holes, use a skinny "weenie roller" (hotdog paint roller)..... and poke the holes with the soaked roller. The thinned shellac assures that the holes stay the same open diameter. I assume any drying-type oil could be used instead (Watco, etc...). But I like the speed of shellac. Personally, I would not use wax or silicone on the surface for the reasons ....It makes the surface too slippery (movement during cuts), ....and it could transfer wax or silicone onto your project.

[@FreqBand]

Remember, if sealing at all.... you need to always do both sides.

[@lesboyle8583]

Just watched this (again) as I have recently invested in a MFT board raised via two MDF struts held with Button fixings, all ideas from this Chanel The key thing I noticed was at the end when you were quite rightly very proud of hitting 50,000 subscribers and realised in was only been a week or two that you hit 100,000, so it took 3 years to get to 50k and just 1 year to double that to 100k. I think this is testament to you providing us all with great content, often short, sweet and to the point. Keep up the good work and here’s to the next milestone. I think it’s fair to say 10 minutes of Peter Millard is never enough lol Les @mywoodsolutions

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Les! And 10 minutes in my workshop is sometimes more than enough, lol! 😂👍

[@Felix-re5zv]

Hi Peter, I was inspired by your video to also use two identical clamps instead of the original clamp + angle clamp setup for the old mft (video timecode 8:11). I even made a 3d model of the lower plastic part and 3d printed it, as it's not available anywhere anymore. I ran into one issue though: Because the fence is only clamped down on the very edge of one side, the opposite side (down on the video @timecode (8:11) is not stable, but can be moved up and down by about 3mm. I feel like this might to lead to inaccurate cuts. Did you experience a similar issue (it looks stable at 9:18)? Did you glue the fence down with double sided tape or find a different solution? This is a video to demonstrate the issue: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZnLkqSgbLWsg8k . An answer would be much appreciated!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Felix. If you unscrew the knob on the clamp - there's a spring that will want to shoot a washer off and let it roll under the bench, so watch for that - the black plastic part with the lip that clamps the fence down has 2 (sometimes 3) holes in it. By default, the screw is in the hole closest the lip. Move it to the hole furthest from the lip and reassemble it, and it should be fine. 👍 This is from an original post by Paul-Marcel at halfinchshy.com, here - www.halfinchshy.com/2010/05/adding-4-12-to-your-mfts-cross-cut.html

[@jimitrioh]

I started following you and I really enjoy your creations and personality. I have acquired a second hand MFT3 table as you suggested and it does really changes your way of working. “More of that in a minute”. Thanks for sharing your ideas.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! 👍

[@neilgillies6943]

Do you ever adjust the height of the back of the fence from 18mm - looks like it would be awkward against the wall ? What happens with 6/9/15mm sheet ?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

It is awkward to adjust yes, but do-able. Most of the time though I keep it set to 18mm, and use a scrap of 3/6/9/12 to pack out as needed. 👍👍

[@mchilly]

What finish are you applying to the table top at the end of the video? Thanks!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

I’m trialling some hard wax oil by Heidelberg called ProLignum - seems very nice! I may stain and lacquer the top afterwards through, undecided as yet. 👍👍

[@mchilly]

Peter Millard thanks! I keep thinking about putting a finish on my MFT but haven’t gotten around to it, yet.

[@amir040481]

Hi Peter, love your channel. I wanted to know if you bought that MDF bord pre drilled or did you drilled the holes by yourself? I know that there is kit to buy for DIY like the UJK guide system, would you recommend that?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Amir, and thanks! No this was a bought top - there are links in the video description. The UJK system is a good way to get a ‘holey’ top and only needs a drill to do it, but it’s not cheap and takes a long time to make. 👍👍

[@wimn5212]

Great video, as always. Used the video to make up my mind and purchased a mtf work top. Now it's new and still unused is there a product I can or should use to treat it with for longer lasting? The work top in your video's lappears to have a dark brown to black coating? Again as always great video and hope you have the time to respond. Cheers, From the sunny netherlands,

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Wim & thanks! I put a coat of stain on my MFT top because I wanted a darker background for videos. As to a finish, I’ve done all kinds - hard wax oil, varnish, lacquer. I like a water-based flooring lacquer - it dries fast and is hard wearing. Just make sure you clear out the dribble from the MFT holes before it sets. Don’t ask me how I know that! HTH. Peter

[@wimn5212]

@@10MinuteWorkshop Great I'll give that a look. Cheers, Happy Easter. Wim

[@wimn5212]

@@10MinuteWorkshop Hi Peter, As said I have now watched 'almost' all of your videos and these have certainly inspired me Moved recently and where everything should have been ready by now, a contractor who dropped out and then all covid measures left more work than predicted And that's where inspiration comes in handy. The barn which is the last to be renovated, it is connected to the house by a conservatory, used not only as storage but also as a workshop AND now with an MFT worktop according to ideas based on your videos. Raises so that the clamps can be used not only from above but also from all sides and saw guides can be stored underneath. Most small tools and hardware in the drawers, it is starting to become something and already works well. Would like to post a photo but that seems to be impossible with an answer via KZbin. In a moment, the top has been treated with two layers of Brander's primer. This absorbs well, makes the MDF hard and protects well against fat and moisture. Cheers, From the windy and cold Netherlands. Wim

[@RpR_Makes]

As an early adopter to your channel i am really pleased in one way that you have 50,001 subscribers, a great achievement but in another way i am saddened as i thought you did these videos only for me 😀. It was your videos that sealed the deal before Xmas and i purchased an MFT/3, i am just terrified to cut into it though as it just seems wrong to me that you cut it to bits with a track saw.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Richard - and my apologies for the deception, but I’ve become adept at hiding all those other subscribers from you, lol! 😂 The MFT is a fine table - pricey, certainly - but the top is a consumable, albeit one that lasts a while; the inset sacrificial strip helps extend the life of the top by quite a long way. 👍👍

[@TheLastPharm]

One thing I have to say about your videos, Peter, is that they are full of inspiration. There are plenty of things that get me thinking of ways to improve my own work table or workflow. I enjoy watching how you approach and solve your own problems in your limited space. One thing I had to say, try to think about getting your respirator on before sawing or milling that MDF- it's absolutely brutal dust for your health. Take good care and until the next video!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thank you! All wood dust is hazardous - the MDF I use is no more so, and less than many hardwoods - and I use at the tool extraction on tools that were designed with extraction in mind. They don’t come cheap, but then neither do my lungs! 👍

[@frankblack1481]

If not good enough for work holding or squareness, the ‘sloppy’ MFT holes of a top mounted vertically on a wall might be useful to hold spare dogs, clamps, etc. or even just a strip cut from the old top.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Good idea Frank, thanks! 👍👍

[@kiki231000]

Peter, as usual, great video. You are among the few gifted individuals that can make a pedestrian task interesting. I have one question, as a fellow MFT owner , why would you not first "sacrifice" the table itself before installing the strip? Is it due to the fact that the routing is easier before the top is mounted?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Yes, exactly that Chris; I routed the strip in the original after it was fixed in place, and I could never get the sacrificial strip all the way to the other side. 🤷‍♂️👍

[@edwardford3649]

Also wondered if I spotted a different lever clamp you were using, hung up on your shelf? Other than the Festool 491594 ones - thanks

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Yes, they’re older ones medium Axminster. They were about half the price of the festool ones but had a few issues. Then Axminster fixed the issues but raised the price to Festool levels.... 🤷‍♂️👍

[@liamofthornhill]

I have wondered whether you could use an old mft to make a new one, as in flip it over and use it as a drilling jig, would this be in accurate?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

As long as it's in decent condition, yes; I bought a small top way back, specifically for this. 👍

[@liamofthornhill]

@@10MinuteWorkshop thanks Peter, I better make sure the pillar drill is nice and true 🤓

[@je9661]

Thanks Peter from Sunny Naples Florida. I'm surprised you don't have more subscribers but I think that can change overnight from what I've seen. Anyways keep up the good work and happy New Year.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks John, and greetings back at you from London! Happy New Year to you too! 👍👍

[@thedieiscast9729]

Watching this video 2 years on from you posting it, you had just said you had 50,000 subs I note now in 2023 its 200,000 Well done but i can see why your videos are a pleasure to watch.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! 👍

[@CaptWonkyAir]

Excellent video as always .... after listening to you and Andy Mc on measuring up podcast re cost replacement MFT worktop, I will be replacing my bench top with MFT tops whilst reorganising workshop... 😀👍...

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! Sounds like a good plan! 👍

[@grantdavies6081]

Always love your videos peter, I left the UK in 1996 and have been in Atlanta Georgia for 24 years. I get to learn wood working skills from your videos and get to chuckle at the slang and British idioms I miss. I think dingus is my current favorite (and yours) :)

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Grant! 😂👍

[@davidcairns3203]

Always my ‘goto’ for instructional comment and commentary. Thank you for ALL your videos, Peter. So much to be learned enjoyably. I have just replaced my first MDF MFT (warped after 1 winter in an unheated garage) with an MR MDF MFT top. Top sits in a homemade table and I’ll be adding the sacrificial trough/strip shown in your video. Did you use a finish on the top, Peter, and if so which? [Replacement top from LaserSmith in NI. Good people to deal with; fast service]

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks David! I usually just use a water-based lacquer, but I’ve tried all kinds without any issues at all. One thing I did learn was to go round all the holes with a Benchdog to clear out any dribbles *before* the finish sets completely. You can do it afterwards, but it take a whole lot longer! 😂👍👍

[@silverfox8801]

Pete. Currently at work building movie sets (carpenter) listening to your first two podcasts. Thoroughly enjoying them mate!👍👍👍

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Wow, they seem like a long time ago! Glad to hear they’re still holding up! 👍👍

[@22illingworth]

Every day is a School Day... Can I ask what material it is made from and what liquid are you putting on at the very end of the video?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! It’s a ProLignum hard wax oil, like Osmo, but from Heidelberg coatings. Nice oil! 👍👍

[@jeffstanley4593]

Like all Festool products I find it to be vastly overpriced. The ultimate problem for me is that it is designed to be destroyed one saw cut at a time.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Not if you fit a sacrificial strip, as I do in this video. Can’t help you with the price though 🤷‍♂️

[@varano6836]

The reference: wiki-millard

[@warrensmith2902]

Now all you need to get is a Slop Stop for your cross cut rail. Works wonders on old rails where the tab has worn out the aluminum of the rail from bringing it down and engaging the tab.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Had a slop stop on that rail for years, works great! 👍

[@raysmith1992]

An MFT top is my next workshop project as my Lidl Parkside table saw is going

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Nice!👍

[@mitchellkasdin1899]

Keep up the vids! Are you using tung oil or oil based shellac to coat the mft top?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

I used a hard wax oil👍👍

[@mitchellkasdin1899]

@@10MinuteWorkshop Osmo Polyx oil, Festool SurFix oil or Rubio Monocoat?

[@alanmullock381]

Happy New Year and congratulations on hitting 50k Peter!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😎

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Cheers Alan - same to you too! 👍👍

[@davidsneddon2242]

heh Peter what's the oil you are applying, please?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

It's a prolignum hard wax oil; ended up sanding it back, staining it and putting on a water based poly instead. 🤷‍♂️

[@garyhorton6652]

Nice Job, I especially like the way you have it sitting on a table.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! 👍

[@charis128]

Peter Millard I’ll have to do the same! And a nice new top. Must feel good to look at it.

[@Andrew-gu7kf]

That old top is like a Jackson Pollock painting for woodworkers now. Needs to be in the Tate Modern! (Had to look up London museums). 😀👍

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Haha! Actually my nephew want the old bench tops when they’re changed to have as ‘art’ 🤷‍♂️👍

[@Andrew-gu7kf]

I knew it! Sounds like an excellent gift.

[@joeabad5908]

Just subscribed. Now a part of the 150th thousandth subscribers.. Cheers

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks, and welcome! 🙌👍

[@eddiebrockbank6517]

What does MFT stand for ?

[@BigmoRivera]

Great Job Nicely Done 👍🔨📐 And Congratulations To You

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thank you! 👍

[@JohnnyMotel99]

Hi Peter, spray painting question! I have to spray some tall MDF doors and I know that if I'm not careful, the MDF will bow. Any tips? I guess spray the primer coat both sides at the same time?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Have to admit, I’ve never had any MRMDF bow while I’ve been spraying. Try and keep the material as flat as possible - either horizontal, or as near vertical as you can without it falling over. Spraying both sides at once just makes it hard to handle, IME. 🤷‍♂️👍

[@thomasfholland]

Welcome to 2020 Peter!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Thomas! 👍

[@michaelkaye4998]

Sequence of your videos may answer my question but with all your work with bench dogs I would have thought you wouldn’t use the MFT square. ?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

MFT square??

[@michaelkaye4998]

@@10MinuteWorkshop in the video you installed a new table top in the MFT frame and the cross cut track. Your other video showed the use of dogs and fences could be as effective as the MFT. So why not go that route instead?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Because I’ve already made the considerable investment in the MFT! And as good as the dogs and fences are, I find the MFT with it’s hinged rail to be a more convenient option in a small space for lots of quick cuts. 👍👍

[@michaelkaye4998]

@@10MinuteWorkshop thanks

[@fromika]

why not just flip the top?

[@papa5384]

I am new to the MFT World & your videos are very informative & helpful. I just bought my first MFT/3. At the end of this video it looks like you are applying a finish to your top. My first thought was why if you are going to "cut the board up" anyway. What finish are you applying, how many coats etc.? Also the sacrificial strip looks like a great idea. Are you able to keep all of your cuts within the strip? Thanks again for providing such helpful information.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi and thanks! Yes, the sacrificial strip is wide enough to ensure that bevel cuts also hit the strip, and not the MFT top. As for the finish, I’ve used all kinds - hard wax oil, water based polyurethane, stains, lacquers, whatever I have to hand tbh. A couple of coats usually does it, but after you’ve applied it *and before it sets* go around every hole and insert/remove a benchdog, wiping it off between holes. You’ll find it much easier to remove any drips or dribbles from the holes before it sets! 👍

[@papa5384]

@@10MinuteWorkshop I left out part of my question. Is is helpful to put a finish on a new "Factory Fresh" Table Top? Assuming your new table top is unfinished. Should the top be removed & finish applied to the top, bottom, edges & holes? Or only the top. I live a humid area. Thanks again for your educational information.

[@greaser5691]

Interesting additional information to #182 & #183 on how the MFT is implemented. Happy new year to you and yours from down under, Peter.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! Very best wishes to you too! 👍👍

[@ToolsWithAdrius]

What is the finish you are using on the MFT at the end of the video?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

I started with a hard wax oil but didn’t like the colour, so just wiped on a spirit based wood stain, then oiled over that. 👍👍

[@ToolsWithAdrius]

@@10MinuteWorkshop Thank you sir! Have a great holiday season :)

[@ronh9384]

Happy New Year Peter and congratulations on hitting the 50,000 mark! Another excellent video. I like the replaceable insert on the MFT. I have one on my drill press table that I can rotate it 4 times then flip it over and rotate it four more times. I think I will try out the MFT insert idea. Thanks for the tip. Ron

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Ron, and Happy New Year to you too! Hadn’t thought about flipping the sacrificial strip over - very thrifty thinking, I like it! 👍👍

[@bloke875]

Hi Peter, eager follower of your useful video’s. Can you advise what the railing & necessary fittings are to be able to mount the track as you do? I have not been successful in finding anything similar on the Festool site. (International or Australian)

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Peter. The drop-down rail is standard with the Festool MFT; Festool used to sell these as spare parts, but I don't know if they still do. You used to be able to buy them for the older MFT/1080 from here - www.mtmc.co.uk/Spare-Parts/Festool-Spare-Parts/Festool-Workplace-Organisation-Spare-Parts/Festool-MFT-1080-/-490916-Spare-Parts__p-240-13767-12734845-93802.aspx but I haven't looked for a while - you would need a rail to nount them too as well, of course. Hope that helps. Peter

[@bloke875]

Many thanks. I will also contact Festool and ask them directly..

[@painterman8863]

Congratulation on 50,000 subscribers. I bought a mft top from ebay and I had redrill all the holes for the Bench Dog quads dogs to fit .Saying that Ralph was very helpful. Just thought I would put this up for people to be a bit careful, where they buy the top. Happy New Year to you.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! Yes, good point about the top /hole sizes; I know and trust this supplier to make a decent job of it, to make a nice tight fit on the dogs. 👍👍

[@painterman8863]

@@10MinuteWorkshop ,it was only the quad dog,what were a problem.the other dogs i bought fitted fine

[@stevewalker7822]

Your welcome Peter. What you share is a little different from me but still greatly appreciated and instructional!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Steve, much appreciated!👍👍

[@hansdegroot8549]

Best wishes for twenty-twenty (sounds like a draw in a table-tennis game). I'm old school and 'd say two thousand twenty. At least it's clear who wins :-) Congratulations reaching the 50K subscriber's milestone! and to the fact that you are the first YT Channel I'm subscribed to, which released a video this year.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Hans! Best wishes to you too for the coming year! 👍👍

[@wolfreicherter748]

my gawd, Brentwood yay

[@Blobjonblob]

Do you think the price of the new MFT is worth it or would you be better off making your own?

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Honestly, I've never thought the price of the MFT *here in the UK* is worth it - it's expensive for what it is, and with other systems available (eg benchdogs.co.uk) to use dogs, fences and flagstops with a (comparatively) cheap MFT top, it's almost certainly the way I would go, if I didn't already have this one. Having said that, nothing else comes close to being able to simply hinge a rail up out of the way, and instantly have your workbench back. 🤷‍♂️👍

[@florin_i]

Thank you for your very inspiring and instructive videos! Can you please tell me what brand/model is the locking hinge between the MFT and the rail? I am planning to build one table and that bracket I cannot find it.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! They’re Festool parts:- Festool MFT hinged rail/ rail support reference numbers are :- 497022 Support - this is the locating pin unit at the front of the MFT 497023 Support unit - this is the hinge part at the back of the MFT for the rail 472862 Profile - this is the MFT/3 aluminium profile If you do a google search for those reference numbers, the spare parts links will pop up at the top of the list. 👍

[@florin_i]

@@10MinuteWorkshop Thanks!

[@Cradley684]

Ya welcome Peter, and you and your family have a great 2020 !!!.

[@LostWhits]

That dog at 9mins looks well worn.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

‘Well used’ but still surprisingly, round. 👍🤞

[@oneeyedphotographer]

More than 50,000 now.

[@silverfox8801]

Pete. What’s the name of the company you mentioned in a video a while back that does ali extrusion with stops etc?? I’m gonna make a paulk style bench with that system. Love your vids 👍

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

That would be Benchdogs.co.uk. Good people, nice products. 👍👍

[@silverfox8801]

Thanks for the reply Pete. You’re a top geezer👍

[@lobbylobbster]

Well Peter, I believe I subscribed to your channel when you were at around 500 subs, to think you’ve now got a 100 x more ! Absolutely outstanding, very proud of you even though we’ve never met....still by far my favourite youtuber, happy new year and here’s to a great 2020 !

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Haha, thanks Peter! Wow, 500 subs - that was about 3 months in, I think?? We’ve come a long way together, even if we’ve never met! Happy New Year to you too! 👍👍

[@lobbylobbster]

Thanks my friend 👍🏼

[@HolgerBarske]

Thank you Peter,. Very educational, as always. I‘ll definitely borrow that sacrificial strip thing for my MFT. Congrats for 50k, well deserved 👍

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! With the benefit of hindsight, I probably should have asked Tim to cut the groove for me when he had the board on his CNC 👍

[@frankblack1481]

Wonder if the old top, stalwart that is has been, could be hung on a wall in the workshop and used as a large pegboard-style tool holder? Seems too good to throw out.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

That’s a good idea Frank - hadn’t thought of that! I have had someone asking about it, but I do think the holes are a little too loose now to be used accurately as a worktop. 👍👍

[@SometimeWoodworker]

A nice start to 2020. Congratulations on growing your base. I recently found a use for a test section of MFT style top that I made about 10 years ago. Probably not of much use in your workshop but it works well for me and that is a drying rack for finishing. It uses 20mm electrical pipe, a piece of plywood as a base and is held in place with a couple of building tapered shims so it can be taken down when not needed. It can hold 18 Boards and can be seen at flic.kr/p/2i9tQJJ

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks! That’s a really neat idea love it! 👍

[@SometimeWoodworker]

Thanks for that. I was prompted by your video to post. If there is any Interest I can add a few more pictures and detail so it will be easy to reproduce the idea.

[@davegreen1866]

Hi Peter, Happy New Year 🍻 And hearty congratulations for the deserved 50k milestone 🏆 Thanks for this timely video 👍 and showing how you fitted the sacrificial strip! Looking forward to more of your extremely in informative content. Best wishes for 2020!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Hi Dave, and thanks so much! Very best wishes to you too! 👍👍

[@toolmanlh]

Really appreciate your videos. Congrats on the 55k subscribers. Is a single thickness (3/4”) of MDF enough for a mft? Wanting to have a go at making one. Thanks!

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks. So you mean for the MFT top, or are you making a portable MFT bench? If it’s just the top then yes - any be any thicker than 18mm for the rail clamps to work. If it’s for a bench, I’d go with birch ply, personally. 👍

[@toolmanlh]

@@10MinuteWorkshop portable ...something I can setup and break down to store. Hopefully. 🙂

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

In that case, do I have the videos for you! 👍 :- 426, Portable Bench kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYDUo5-gf62Cl9k 427, lightweight trestles kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKe9nIV7a9d2e9U 434, Ultralight portable bench kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXbMmol3nqepqpI

[@NomadMakes]

What a nice video! And happy new year, and congratulations with reaching 50k! Looking forward to more vids and more podcasts with you hand Andy.

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Goran! Happy New Year to you too! Lots more to come in 2020 👍👍

[@toddstrope157]

Another well composed video, and thanks. I was going to ask whether you treat your MDF top like I’ve seen on some other channels, and if so, with what. But I see you treating your top at the end of the video, so all I need to ask is “with what?”😀

[@10MinuteWorkshop]

Thanks Todd! This was just a coat of hard wax oil - I’m trialling some ProLignum from Heidelberg coatings, seems to work well. Though I may stain it and lacquer it. 🤷‍♂️👍

[@dalailager]

Peter Millard no problems with dogs fitting or accuracy after applying the finish? Just curious. Like other posters I'll be finally getting round to making a Paulk style bench based around the tracksaw + benchdogs system sometime soon. Inspired by your vids over the years of course 👍