Can I cut metal or other non-wood materials with this planer?

Although planers will physically cut a variety of materials, they are designed only to cut natural wood.
Using the machine to cut anything else may:

• Cause serious injury to the operator or bystanders

• Reduce the lifespan of the machine

• Void the warranty

Can I still use my planer without connecting it to a dust collector?

Yes, but we don’t recommend it. Without a dust collector:

• Dust accumulates quickly around and inside the machine

• Cleanup time increases significantly

• Fine dust can pose a serious respiratory hazard

We recommend connecting your planer to a properly designed dust collection system that meets or exceeds the minimum CFM rating for your machine’s dust port.

How do I know what size motor I’ll need for my planer?

Motor size depends on:

1. Average stock width

2. Wood type

3. Expected cutting frequency

Things to consider:

• All planers can cut to their full width with a slow enough feed rate

• Too slow a feed rate can cause ripples or chipping

• Too fast a feed rate can bog down the motor, leading to overheating and failure

A larger motor runs cooler under load and handles demanding cuts more effectively.

General guideline:

• 1.5 HP motor: Handles 6" wide hardwoods at an aggressive feed rate

• 3 HP motor: Handles approximately double the stock width under the same conditions

Select a motor that aligns with your regular workload, not just occasional heavy jobs.

I see some machines advertised for 110V, some for 115V, and some for 120V. Aren’t these all the same?

Yes and no.

• All three operate on the same nominal power supply in most homes

• The label variation is due to regional voltage standards:

  • USA: 120V

  • Taiwan: 110V

  • China: 115V

Manufacturers must design motors to operate within a ±10% voltage range, and utilities supply within ±5% of the nominal voltage.

We list the exact voltage shown on the motor’s nameplate to avoid confusion when the machine arrives.

What’s the difference between the DW734 and DW735X planers?

• DW734:

  • 12-1/2" cutting width

  • Single-speed feed rate

• DW735X:

  • 13" cutting width

  • Two-speed feed rate

  • Spiral cutterhead conversion available