Using the Delta T-2 to replace the Ridgid 4511 fence - Willaim's blog
A few weeks ago I started a forum topic about fixing the lame fence system that came with the Ridgid 4511 Granite top table saw. The problem is, while the Delta fence is sold as a replacement fence, it’s not a universal replacement, and there are not suitable adjustments to raise and lower the fence to accommodate different table saw dimensions. There are basically two adjustments (after setting the fence height), setting the fence angle parallel to the miter slots, and perpendicular to the table surface. But I also looked into replacing the whole fence system and came across the Biesmeyer fence system. The tube is exactly the same size as the Ridgid tube (cross section) but it’s a full length tube, no joint in the middle. The problem with the Ridgid’s fence is that the guide tube is split and joined in the middle with a cheap plastic part. So you, as the installer, need to make all the measurements and adjustments or the fence will sit 1/4” to 1/2” above the table top. From my forum post, Cato suggested I look into the Delta T-2. I did, and found that for $150, I could get a pretty nice fence as well as fix the split guide tube problem. The plastic part forces one of the tubes to be slightly offset from the other making it impossible to adjust the fence angle. I was not able to lower the rear rail like I had the front so without modification the fence would have ended up 1/4” above the table surface. When the fence slides from one tube to the other the angle will change slightly. Sliding the combination square up and down the miter slot, you can just listen for the end of the ruler to brush against the fence face. Adjusting those slightly changes the fence angle. You can also see the tiny gap between the ruler and the fence – it should remain constant from one end of the table to the other.