I purchased a used Unisaw and started cleaning it up today. To get at the surface rust on the edges of the top and level a slightly out of alignment wing I decided to take the Biesemeyer rails off. The first bolt I took out was the bolt on the rear rail on the far right (when standing behind the saw). The bolt never got finger tight so I had to wrench it all the way out. As soon as I got the bolt out that end of the rail shifted down dramatically while the majority of the rail stayed firmly attached to the table. Removing the other bolts, there was a third bolt installed by the previous owner in the opposite end of the rail. Once the front rail and guide rail were removed I had the opportunity to compare front and rear rails. The difference was dramatic as the rail dipped down 3/4" and inward 5/8".
I can't really tell how this may have occurred. There are no visible signs anywhere on the top or cabinet that indicate the saw was dropped or run into. But what is strange is that the bend is in a portion of the rail that is in complete contact with the top. That the rail could bend inward is really puzzling. The only thing I can guess at is that perhaps this used equipment seller took the Biesemeyer from a damaged saw he was parting out and put it on this saw. I won't spend much time trying to solve this mystery, time to move forward.
My choices seem to be: Do nothing, Bend the rail as close to straight, or buy (or make) a new rail.
My question is this, should I bother doing anything with this other than maybe trying to straighten it? While on the table the rail appeared straight, so apparently the bolts were doing a heroic job of keeping the rail in place. If this were the front rail I'd be more concerned but as this rail will only serve my placing a home made extension to the right of the blade it seems less consequential especially since the damage is on the opposite side of the saw from where I'll be placing an extension.
Any input is appreciated, thanks,
Stuart
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