A table saw is a precise wood cutting tool. But, if the throat plate isn’t flushed, the cuts won’t be accurate. We understand it’s a frustrating issue someone can face.
So, what to do when the table saw throat plate not flush?
Firstly check the blade grip. If it’s loosely attached, you must tighten it. Another reason could be sawdust. If the sawdust is accumulated near the area, it won’t be properly calibrated. Another common reason is not having a zero clearance table saw. You need to insert the zero clearance table saw.
These are the basic things. You need to dive deeper for a better understanding of the solutions.
So, let’s begin!
4 Common Reasons Behind Table Saw Throat Plate Not Being Flushed
Let’s first answer, what is a throat plate on a table saw? The throat plate on a table saw works as a guard for the blade. It generally helps to cover and make the work safer.
If your table saw’s throat plate isn’t flushed, you may not notice at first. As most of the throat plate comes factory flushed.
However, you may notice inaccurate cuts, improper splits of wood, or kickback. If that’s the case, your table saw throat plate isn’t flushed. You can also face similar problems with Steel city table saw.
4 common issues can cause the table saw not to be flushed. These issues are given below.
Problem 1 of 4: Loose Blade Grip
Table saw blade grip is an important factor. If the table saw blade is loosely attached, the issue can happen.
You won’t be able to properly calibrate the blade with the table saw throat plate. Hence, the issue will arise.
Problem 2 of 4: Wood Splinters or Sawdust
Trimming a wood will produce sawdust. The sawdust can produce many problems.
Every woodworker knows how annoying sawdust is. If sawdust is gathered at a large scale, the throat plate will lose its calibration. Even exposure to wood dust can be injurious to health.
Problem 3 of 4: No Zero Clearance
Zero clearance in the table saw means the proper alignment of the throat plate. Without this, the throat plate won’t be level with the surface.
So, if zero clearance hasn’t been done, the throat plate won’t be flushed.
Problem 4 of 4: Worn Metal Parts
If the throat’s place metal parts (screw, leveler, etc.) are worn, it won’t be flushed. It can get rusted over time due to oxygen.
These are the issues behind why a table saw throat plate can’t be flushed. Your table saw can also face similar problems. For instance, malfunctioning table saw blade, table saw not turning on, etc. can occur.
Let’s move on!
Troubleshooting the Issues of Table Saw Throat Plate Not Flush
You may be wondering how to fix the table saw throat plate that isn’t flushed? Well, don’t worry! In this section, I have briefly troubleshooted the issues and provided solutions.
Let’s see those step by step.
Troubleshooting 1 of 4: Loose Blade Grip
At this point you know how important it is to have a perfect blade grip. The grip has to be not too tight or loose.
So, let’s see how you can solve this issue.
Solution:
If your blade has a loose grip, you must tighten it. The steps to do this are outlined below.
Firstly, remove the table saw from the power outlet.
Secondly, inspect the blade for flatness. It should lie flat on the ground when placed on a flat surface.
Thirdly, tighten the arbor nut and bolts beneath the tabletop. Also, double-check all of the nuts on the tilt and depth adjustments.
Finally, see if the blade has a secure grip. If this isn’t the case, you’ll need to replace it.
Troubleshooting 2 of 4: Wood Splinters or Sawdust
Wood splinters or sawdust can also cause table saw throat plate not to flush. Sawdust gathered around the throat plate can create shakiness. Hence, it won’t stay calibrated.
But, how can you control sawdust? Let’s see the possible fixes.
Solution:
If you see sawdust in the throat plate area you have to clean it. Just unscrew the throat plate’s screw and remove the throat plate. Then use a vacuum cleaner to remove sawdust.
Using a dust collector or dust port can be a smart way to eliminate sawdust.
Troubleshooting 3 of 4: No Zero Clearance
Having a zero clearance throat plate is necessary. But how to do that? Basically, you need to adjust the throat plate. That way, you can achieve zero clearance throat plate insertion.
Let’s see the steps to do so.
Solution:
First, clean the area where the table saw throat plate will be set.
Then. align it with the line.
Thirdly, place the screw in the hole of the table saw and throat plate. Then, tighten the screw using a screwdriver. You should do the corners first.
That way, you can level your throat plate and achieve zero clearance. You can also make zero clearance throat plate inserts for table saw on your own.
Troubleshooting 4 of 4: Worn Metal Parts
Table saw throat plates are made out of metal, plastic, or wood. The issue arises with the metal throat plate.
Let’s see what can be done to avert the situation.
Solution:
If the metal parts of a throat plate are worn, you need to change it. For only around $25-30, you can get a brand new throat plate.
However, there are many throat plates on the market. So, choosing one can be a tough choice. So, I made a list of the best throat plates available.
That’s all regarding the troubleshooting of the issue. Hopefully, by following the mentioned solutions, you can fix the issue.
FAQs
Can You Use a Table Saw without the Throat Plate?
Yes, you can use a table. Every table saw has a throat plate for better cut quality. A throat plate assists to trim wood accurately and makes the work safer. You can use the table saw without it, but it will be very unsafe.
What Is the Rip Capacity of a Table Saw?
When cutting wood, a table saw’s rip capacity is an important aspect. It’s the distance between the device’s edge and the fence’s edge. It can be adjusted to your need.
Is It Possible to Cut Metal with a Table Saw?
Yes, it is possible to cut metal sheets with a table saw. However, you need a proper blade that can cut metal. On top of that, you should cut it slowly as it involves risk.
Parting Words
That’s all about table saw throat plate not flush.
Remember to always keep the working surface clean for use. Using a dust collector extension will help you to keep the work area clean.
Have a good day.

Robert S. Dehner is an experienced content writer at Power Tool Institute. He has a wealth of experience in the field and is committed to providing you with up-to-date information and advice on the effective and safe use of power tools.