Want to fit a helical cutterhead to a Triton TPT125 thicknesser? This guide covers the installation and the tools you’ll need.
FindBuyTool kindly supplied the helical cutterhead used in this video, with no specific obligations. We couldn’t find specific installation instructions for the TPT125, so we documented the process to help anyone planning the same upgrade.
The video shows the full installation process. I also share my first impressions, including noise, surface finish, chip extraction and motor load.
Watch the Installation
The video shows the full installation process. This includes removing the original cutterhead, fitting the new one and checking the alignment.
I also share my first impressions. This includes noise, surface finish, chip extraction and motor load.
The video also includes our first impressions of the upgrade, including the noise level, surface finish, chip extraction and effect on the motor.
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What You'll Need
The installation requires quite a bit of disassembly, so it’s worth having everything ready before you start.
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- FindBuyTool Helical Cutterhead:
https://geni.us/HelicalCutterhead - Triton TPT125 Thicknesser:
https://geni.us/Planer - 22 mm Socket:
https://geni.us/22mmSocket - Bearing Puller:
https://geni.us/BearingPullers
The bearing puller is particularly useful. I first tried removing the bearing with a vice and hammer. It wouldn’t budge.
Installation Overview
The basic process is:
- Remove the handle, casing and extraction components.
- Roll the machine onto its back and remove the axle underneath the machine.
- Remove the original cutterhead using a 22 mm socket. Note that the retaining nut has a left-hand thread, so it loosens clockwise.
- Remove the original bearing and pinion. Transfer the required components to the new cutterhead.
- Install the new cutterhead and reassemble the machine.
- Check the cutterhead alignment from left to right so that the finished timber is the same thickness across its width.
- Install the carbide cutters, making sure they’re all facing the same way and seated properly.
- Reassemble the casing and extraction components.
The video shows the full process. It also covers the parts that are hard to explain in writing.
Other TPT125 Upgrades
We’ve also made a couple of other modifications to our TPT125 which have made a noticeable difference.
Improved Extraction
We’ve fitted an aftermarket extraction hood which is a significant improvement over the original.
https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/4565607860/improved-extraction-hood-for-triton
I’m not sure if this particular version is still available, but the link is here if you’d like to check.
Infeed Table
We’ve also made a simple DIY infeed table which significantly reduces the amount of snipe we get from the machine.
It’s a free upgrade and something you can make yourself.
Is the Helical Cutterhead Worth It?
After putting several boards through the machine
The improvements I’ve noticed:
- Significantly quieter operation
- Excellent surface finish
- Improved chip extraction
- Easier future cutter maintenance
The main downside is that the machine seems to work harder with the helical cutterhead, so I’m now taking shallower passes. In my experience, that’s a worthwhile trade-off for the improved finish, lower noise and easier maintenance.
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