Table Saw Maintenance

[WingDing]

Just got a new table saw, my old one did not have a cast iron top. What are folks using to keep the top protected? I've read a variety of options, but not sure which is the best route to go.

What are you using to protect your cast iron top from rust?

Thanks!

 

[ALV]

WD40 is not so good. Rockler sell Bostik TopCote, which has good reviews.

 

[WingDing]

Thanks, ALV. No, WD40 is not a good choice. Neither is anything else with silicone in it, as it could transfer to the stock you're cutting... or so I've read.

I think I might pick up some paste wax and coat it liberally with that.

 

[Dak]

I use a carnauba paste and buff it after drying.

 

[busterswoodshop]

I don't really have a rust problem where I live. Dust is what plagues us.
With that said it rained here all day yesterday.

I use spray silicone on my saw table. I spray it on and then wipe it dry. If you use the saw when the silicone is wet then it can stain some wood.

When I am on a job sight and am cutting large beams with a beam saw I will also spray the blade with silicone to help it cut smoother.

If I have to store a saw for a long period of time I will go to the motorcycle shop and buy some motorcycle chain wax. It is made for motorcycle chains with O rings. It has lubricant and wax in it. I will spray my table real good with it and let it dry. When I need to use it again I just clean it off with paint thinner.
It also works good for blades on handsaws if you want to store them.

 

[woadwunner]

I use Bostick Topcote and have no rust

 

[jack of all trades maste]

i just use an old can of floor paste wax - makes the wood really glide. I live in the San Francisco Bay area so don't have much humidtiy or moisture . Works works fine for me - First steel wool, then a light application of wax, let it sit for 15 minutes and then buff any residue away.