Important Disclaimer
This article references a model that is no longer in production. Please note that the availability of replacement parts or discussed accessories is not guaranteed.

Can I cut metal or other non-wood materials with your planers?
Our planers are designed specifically for natural wood. While they may physically cut other materials, doing so can result in serious injury, machine damage, and will void the warranty. Never use a woodworking planer to cut materials it wasn’t designed for.

Can I still use my planer without connecting it to a dust collector?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Without a dust collector, debris will quickly accumulate around and inside your planer, requiring extra cleanup and potentially impacting performance. Fine dust can also pose health risks. For best results, use a dust collection system that meets the minimum CFM rating of your machine.

How do I know which size motor I’ll need for my planer?
Motor size depends on:

1. Average stock width
2. Wood type (hardness/density)
3. Frequency and intensity of use

Any planer can cut its full width with a slow enough feed rate, but too slow may cause chipping or ripples, and too fast may cause motor overload. Overloading leads to thermal breakdown and permanent damage.

• A 1.5 HP motor can typically cut 6" wide hardwood at an aggressive feed rate.
• A 3 HP motor can cut approximately twice that width under the same conditions without bogging down.

Choose a motor size that can handle your typical workload without strain.

I see that this machine is rated for 220V or 440V. Does that mean it will work with either voltage automatically?
No. Although rated for both voltages, the machine is factory-prewired for 220V. To operate on 440V, it must be rewired and have some electrical components replaced.

• If you need 440V, Grizzly must perform this conversion at the time of purchase for warranty coverage.
• The conversion adds a $250 fee and may increase shipping time.
• A conversion kit is also available for “as-is” or second-hand machines.

⚠️ Important: Only a qualified electrician or service technician should perform a 440V conversion. Improper wiring could lead to electrocution, severe injury, or death.

If this machine is converted to 440V, can it run on 480V?
Yes. Most motors operate safely within ±10% of their rated voltage. This machine should work reliably from 396V to 484V.
Note: Operating near the lower end of this range may increase motor temperature, which can reduce component lifespan over time.

What are the benefits of a spiral cutterhead?
Spiral cutterheads offer several advantages over traditional straight-knife cutterheads:

• Longer edge life – Carbide inserts last up to 10x longer than HSS knives.
• Easy maintenance – Each insert has four edges and can be rotated when dull.
• Superior finish – The constant contact of the cutters with the workpiece reduces ripples and tear-out.
• Faster cutter changes – No need to sharpen or precisely align knives.
• Quieter operation – Reduces machine noise in your workspace.

This results in better cuts, less sanding, and less downtime.

What is the difference between the G9740Z and G9740?

• The G9740Z comes with a spiral cutterhead.
• The G9740 comes with four 1/8" thick HSS straight knives.

Other than the cutterhead and appearance, the two models are functionally identical.