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A Makita planer can be an extremely useful tool for quickly removing material and producing a smooth, even finish on timber. However, like any power tool, a planer can develop problems over time.
If your Makita planer is not working properly, is producing an uneven finish, struggling to remove material or making unusual noises, the problem could be caused by anything from a worn blade to a damaged internal component.
The good news is that many common Makita planer problems can be diagnosed and, depending on the model and fault, repaired using replacement parts.
In this guide, we'll look at some of the most common Makita planer faults, what causes them and which Makita parts may need replacing.
Some of the most common problems reported with Makita planers include:
Before replacing any parts, it's important to identify what is actually causing the problem.
If your Makita planer is not cutting properly, the first thing to check is the blades.
Planer blades become blunt with use, particularly when working with hardwood or timber containing knots.
A blunt blade can result in:
If the blades are damaged, excessively worn or blunt, replacing them may restore the performance of the planer.
Always use blades that are suitable for your specific Makita planer model.
If your planer is leaving an uneven or inconsistent surface, there are several possible causes.
The blades may not be correctly installed, or one blade could be sitting slightly differently from the other.
The planer shoe can also affect the quality of the finished surface.
Check that:
If the problem remains after fitting new blades, there could be excessive movement in the cutter mechanism or another internal component may be worn.
Ridges or lines left in timber are often an indication of a blade problem.
A damaged or incorrectly positioned blade can produce an inconsistent cut across the width of the timber.
This can be particularly noticeable when making finishing passes.
Check the blades carefully and make sure they are fitted correctly.
If you're still getting ridges with correctly installed new blades, inspect the cutter assembly and other components for damage or excessive movement.
If you're constantly replacing the blades on your Makita planer, consider what material you're working with and how you're using the tool.
Planing hardwood, reclaimed timber or wood containing nails and other debris can quickly damage cutting blades.
Before planing reclaimed timber, carefully check it for nails, screws, staples and other objects.
It's also important to avoid forcing the planer through the material.
Let the blades do the work and use a suitable cutting depth for the job.
If your Makita planer isn't removing enough material, check the cutting-depth adjustment.
A very small depth setting will naturally remove less material.
If changing the depth setting doesn't make a noticeable difference, inspect the blades.
Blunt blades can make the planer appear significantly less effective.
If the blades are sharp and the depth adjustment is functioning correctly, a mechanical problem may be preventing the cutter from operating correctly.
Some vibration is normal when using a power planer, but excessive vibration can indicate a problem.
Possible causes include:
Start by inspecting the blades and making sure they are correctly installed.
If the planer continues to vibrate excessively with correctly fitted blades, further investigation may be required.
A sudden change in the sound of your Makita planer shouldn't be ignored.
Grinding, rattling, squealing or unusual mechanical noises can indicate a problem with the internal components.
Potential causes include:
If the noise appeared suddenly, stop using the planer and investigate the cause rather than continuing to operate it.
Continuing to use a tool with a damaged internal component can potentially cause further damage.
Some Makita planer models use a drive belt as part of their internal drive system.
A worn, damaged or broken belt can prevent the cutter from operating correctly.
Signs of a possible belt problem include:
If your particular Makita planer uses a replaceable drive belt, replacing the belt may restore normal operation.
Always check the exact model before ordering a replacement belt, as belts aren't interchangeable between every Makita planer.
Power tools can become warm during normal use, particularly under heavy load.
However, excessive heat can indicate a problem.
Possible causes include:
If your planer becomes unusually hot or develops a burning smell, stop using it and allow it to cool.
Check the blades and make sure the tool isn't being pushed beyond its intended capacity.
Persistent overheating may indicate an internal fault.
If your Makita planer won't turn on at all, the problem could be electrical or mechanical.
Start with the basics.
If you're using a corded planer, check the power supply, plug and cable.
For cordless models, make sure the battery is charged and correctly installed.
If the power supply is working correctly, possible causes include:
A faulty switch is one example where replacing an individual spare part could potentially restore the planer without replacing the entire tool.
Planer blades need to be securely installed and correctly positioned.
If a blade appears loose or moves during operation, stop using the planer immediately.
Check the blade installation and the components responsible for securing the blade.
Do not continue using a planer if the blade isn't being held securely.
If the blade holder or associated components are damaged, Makita replacement parts may be required.
Depending on the model, a range of replacement components may be available for Makita planers.
Commonly replaced parts can include:
Not every part is available for every model, so it's important to identify the exact model number before searching for replacement parts.
If your Makita planer has developed a fault, replacing the entire tool isn't always necessary.
A relatively inexpensive component such as a blade, belt, switch or brush may be responsible for the problem.
For older planers, it can be worth checking the availability and cost of replacement parts before deciding to buy a new machine.
However, more serious faults can sometimes make replacement more economical, particularly if multiple major components have failed.
Makita has produced a wide range of planers, and parts can vary considerably between models.
When searching for Makita planer spare parts, always check the model number of your machine.
You may also need to check the exploded parts diagram to identify the correct component and part number.
This is particularly important for internal components, as similar-looking parts aren't necessarily interchangeable.
If you're experiencing Makita planer problems, work through the following checklist:
1. Check the blades
Look for blunt, damaged or incorrectly fitted blades.
2. Check the cutting depth
Make sure the depth adjustment is set correctly.
3. Inspect the planer shoes
Make sure they are clean, flat and undamaged.
4. Check for excessive vibration
Unusual vibration can indicate a blade or mechanical problem.
5. Listen for unusual noises
Grinding, rattling or squealing can indicate internal damage.
6. Check the power supply
Make sure the cable, plug or battery is working correctly.
7. Inspect the drive system
If the cutter isn't operating correctly, a belt or internal component could be responsible.
8. Look for overheating
Excessive heat or burning smells should be investigated immediately.
9. Identify the exact model
Use the model number when searching for replacement parts.
The most common cause is blunt, damaged or incorrectly fitted planer blades. Incorrect cutting depth, excessive pressure or a mechanical fault can also affect cutting performance.
Ridges can be caused by damaged or incorrectly positioned blades. If replacing and correctly fitting the blades doesn't solve the problem, inspect the cutter assembly and other components.
Excessive vibration can be caused by damaged blades, incorrect blade installation, loose components, worn bearings or other mechanical problems.
Blunt blades, excessive load, blocked ventilation, worn bearings or motor problems can cause a planer to overheat. If it becomes unusually hot or produces a burning smell, stop using it.
Depending on the model, replacement Makita planer parts can include blades, belts, switches, bearings, gears, brushes and other components.
Always identify the exact model number of your Makita planer and use the corresponding Makita parts diagram or part number to find a compatible replacement.
Most Makita planer problems don't necessarily mean you need to replace the entire tool.
Start by checking the simplest things, particularly the blades, cutting depth, blade installation and power supply. If the problem is more serious, components such as belts, switches, bearings, gears and other internal parts may need to be inspected or replaced.
Using the correct Makita planer spare parts can often extend the life of your tool and get it back to producing the smooth, accurate finish it's designed to achieve.
Always disconnect the planer from its power source or remove the battery before inspecting, cleaning or replacing components, and make sure any replacement part is compatible with your exact Makita model.
