Motors and bits – Castle TSM-21 Serial 61064 and lower (Mead) Operator Manual User Manual
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Motors and Bits
The life of the machine is directly related to the care of the motors used to cut the pocket and
pilot hole. Because the motors are enclosed in the machine where they can over heat if used
beyond their operating range, it is important that the maintenance guidelines provided in the
Porter-Cable instruction manual be strictly followed.
Periodically during operation, blow out the air passages on both motors with compressed
air. Caution: always wear safety goggles when using compressed air.
Do not run the motor for more than two hours at a time.
To prolong motor life, and avoid costly downtime, it is recommended that a dust
collection system be connected to the machine. A port has been provided on the left side
of the machine for this purpose. An air inlet vent on the rear door works with the dust
collector to keep the motors cool.
To ensure safe and effective operation, make certain that there is at least 85 PSI air
pressure to the machine. Check cycle time of machine for proper duration. A typical
cycle will last from 1 to 1 1/2 seconds. A cycle significantly longer than this may
indicate low router feed rate, or low internal air pressure. This will lead to excessive bit
wear and shortened motor life.
It is suggested that a two flute, carbide tipped CUR-38 Castle bit be used when pocketing
in materials where glues are used in binding the stock. For example, particleboard,
Melamine, MDF, etc. This bit leaves a clean cut and offers good life when cutting in
these materials. This bit should NOT be used in solid woods because it will leave an
unclean and ragged pocket.
When cutting pockets exclusively in hard woods such as maple, oak, ash or alder we
recommend the RM-38, the cobalt bit which is shipped with your machine. The RM-38
will cut in any material, although the exposure to the glue found in certain materials like
those listed above will lead to premature wear on the bit.
If pockets are being cut in both types of materials, (i.e., particleboard and hard wood)
then it is suggested that the RM-38C, a solid carbide bit, be used. Because glues do not
break down carbide as rapidly as cobalt, the RM-38C will last four times longer than the
RM-38 when cutting alternately in both composites and hard wood.
The pilot hole is cut with a 9/64” drill bit, CDB-964. This size drill bit comes with your
machine. Also available are the 7/64” and 3/16” size drill bit.
All of the tooling is available through Castle, Inc. Feel free to contact your local Castle
dealer or our parts department TOLL FREE at 800-282-8338 for information and pricing
on tooling and accessory products for your TSM-21.