Many carpentry tools, workbenches and tables are equipped with T-tracks. This is a very convenient solution, but it is not always possible to find a special aluminum profile to implement it. In its absence, you can get out of the situation differently.
Method 1. Using pads
This method involves gluing layers of plywood of different thicknesses with gaps so as to form a T-track between them.
To do this, you need to measure the width of the bolt that will be used for sliding. The diameter of the threaded part and the head is required.
Next, 4 strips are cut out of thin plywood.
Of these, 2 should, when glued to the base, form a gap equal to the width of the cap. The remaining strips will immediately be glued to them, but with a smaller indent equal to the diameter of the threaded part.
To maintain the gaps, 2 bolts need to be covered with 1 layer of electrical tape.
Then the strips are smeared with glue and glued together. The bolts are left between them to maintain the accuracy of the gaps.
The strips are tightened with clamps.
After the glue has set, the workpiece is trimmed along the edges and the electrical tape is removed.
Method 2. Using a hand router
This is an easier and faster way. To do this, you need to attach a guide to the workpiece.It is milled using a regular groove cutter, the width of which is equal to the threaded part of the bolt.
After this, a T-shaped cutter is used along the already selected groove.
The depth of its extension is adjusted so that it simply widens the bottom under the bolt head.
Method 3. Using a circular saw and pads
Markings along the width of the bolt are applied to the base. Then the groove is cut with a circular saw. You just need to make a cut to the required depth in steps equal to the thickness of the saw blade.
To complete the T-track, plywood overlays are glued onto the resulting groove.
At the same time, to maintain the gaps between them, bolts wrapped with electrical tape are placed.
