WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer Instruction Manual

June 6, 2024
WEN

WEN logo

13-INCH
THICKNESS PLANER
Instruction Manual

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer

To purchase accessories for your tool, visit WENPRODUCTS.COM
Multi-Purpose Planer Stand (Model No. 6588T)
Planer Miter Saw Stand (Model No. MSA658)
Replacement Thickness Planer Blades (Model No. 6552-043)

IMPORTANT: Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability, ease of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you with years of rugged, trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings, and cautions. If you use your tool properly and for its intended purpose, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.

INTRODUCTION

Thanks for purchasing the WEN Thickness Planer. We know you are excited to put your tool to work, but first, please take a moment to read through the manual. Safe operation of this tool requires that you read and understand this operator’s manual and all the labels affixed to the tool. This manual provides information regarding potential safety concerns, as well as helpful assembly and operating instructions for your tool.
Indicates danger, warning, or caution. The safety symbols and the explanations with them deserve your careful attention and understanding. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or personal injury. However, please note that these instructions and warnings are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.
NOTE: The following safety information is not meant to cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur.
WEN reserves the right to change this product and specifications at any time without prior notice.
At WEN, we are continuously improving our products. If you find that your tool does not exactly match this manual, please visit wenproducts.com for the most up-to-date manual or contact our customer service at 1-800-232-1195.
Keep this manual available to all users during the entire life of the tool and review it frequently to maximize safety for both yourself and others.

SPECIFICATIONS

Model Number 6552, 6552T
Motor 120V, 60 Hz, 15A
Number of Blades 3 Blades
Cutterhead Speed 8,500 RPM
Cuts Per Minute 25.500
Feed Rate 26 FPM
Max Depth of Cut 3/32 in. (for workpieces under 6 in. wide)

1/32 in. (for workpieces over 6 in. wide)
Table Size| 13-1/4 in. x 9-1/2 in.
Extension Table Size| 13-1/4 in. x 7-1/2 in.
Base Size| 21-3/4 in. x 12-1/2 in.
Max Workpiece Width| 13 in.
Max Workpiece Thickness| 6 in.
Dust Chute Port Size| 2 in       2-1/2 in., and 4 in.
Weight| 66 lbs.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert and knowing how your item works. The term “power tool”in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
SAVE THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.

WORK AREA SAFETY

  1. Keep work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
  2. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks that may ignite dust or fumes.
    3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

  1. Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce the risk of electric shock.
  2. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.  There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
  3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
  4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling, or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.  Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
  5. When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. The use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
  6. If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply.
    The use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.

PERSONAL SAFETY

  1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.

  2. Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as a respiratory mask, non-skid safety shoes, and hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce the risk of personal injury.

  3. Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to a power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.

  4. Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.

  5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.

  6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts.
    Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
    WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
    Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your item works. The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains- operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

  7. If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. The use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.

POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

  1. Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate at which it was designed.

  2. Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

  3. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing
    power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.

  4. Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.

  5. Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.

  6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.

  7. U se the power tool, accessories and tool bits, etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

  8. Use clamps to secure your workpiece to a stable surface. Holding a workpiece by hand or using your body to support it may lead to loss of control.

  9. KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and in working order.

SERVICE

  1. Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities may contain chemicals, including lead, known to the State of Califor- nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Some examples of these chemicals are:

  • Lead from lead-based paints.
  • Crystalline silica from bricks, cement, and other masonry products.
  • Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.

Your risk from these exposures varies depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals, work in a well-ventilated area with approved safety equipment such as dust masks specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.

PLANER SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING! Do not let comfort or familiarity with the product replace strict adherence to product safety rules.
Failure to follow the safety instructions may result in serious personal injury.

PLANER SAFETY

  1. Whenever adjusting or replacing any parts on planer, turn switch OFF and remove plug from power source.
  2. Make sure all guards are properly attached and securely fastened.
  3. Make sure all moving parts are free from interference.
  4. Always wear eye protection or a face shield.
  5. Make sure blades are properly aligned and properly attached to the cutter head.
  6. Do not plug in the planer unless the switch is in the off position. After turning the switch on, allow the planer to come to full speed before operating.
  7.  Keep hands clear of all moving parts.
  8. Do not force cut. Slowing or stalling will overheat the motor. Allow automatic feed to function properly.
  9.  Use quality lumber. Blades last longer and cuts are smoother with good quality wood.
  10.  Do not plane material shorter than 15”, narrower than 3/4”, wider than 12-1/2”, or thinner than 1/2”.
  11. Never make planning cut deeper than 3/32”.
  12. For workpieces longer than 24”, use material support stands.
  13.  Always feed from the infeed side to the outfeed side, and do not attempt to reverse the direction of the workpiece being planed while it is being fed through the planer.
  14. Take precautions against kickback. Do not permit anyone to stand or cross in line of cutterhead’s rotation. Kickback or thrown debris will

travel in this direction.

  1. Turn the switch off and disconnect power whenever the planer is not in use.
  2. Replace knives if damaged or dull.
  3. Keep planer maintained. Follow maintenance instructions.
  4.  Don’t plane against the grain of the wood. (Refer to Operation Section, Page 14)

These safety instructions can’t possibly warn of every scenario that may arise with this tool, always make sure to stay alert and use common sense during operation.

ELECTRICAL INFORMATION

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides the path of least resistance for an electric current and reduces the risk of electric shock. This tool is equipped with an electric cord that has an equipment grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug MUST be plugged into a matching outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with ALL local codes and ordinances.

  1. Do not modify the plug provided. If it will not fit the outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a licensed electrician.
  2.  I mproper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in electric shock. The conductor with the green insulation (with or without yellow stripes) is the equipment grounding conductor. If repair or replacement of the electric cord or plug is necessary, DO NOT connect the equipment grounding conductor to a live terminal.
  3. Check with a licensed electrician or service personnel if you do not completely understand the grounding instructions or whether the tool is properly grounded.
  4. Use only three-wire extension cords that have three-pronged plugs and outlets that accept the tool’s plug. Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.

CAUTION! In all cases, make certain the outlet in question is properly grounded. If you are not sure, have a licensed electrician check the outlet.

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer
-fig

GUIDELINES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EXTENSION CORDS
When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating.
The table below shows the correct size to be used according to cord length and ampere rating. When in doubt, use a heavier cord. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

AMPERAGE REQUIRED GAUGE FOR EXTENSION CORDS
25 ft. 50 ft.
15A 14 gauge
  1. Examine the extension cord before use. Make sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good condition.
    Always replace a damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified person before using it.

  2. Do not abuse the extension cord. Do not pull on the cord to disconnect from the receptacle; always disconnect by pulling on the plug. Disconnect the extension cord from the receptacle before disconnecting the product from the extension cord. Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat, and damp/wet areas.

  3. Use a separate electrical circuit for your tool. This circuit must not be less than a 12-gauge wire and should be protected with a 15A time-delayed fuse. Before connecting the motor to the power line, make sure the switch is in the OFF position and the electric current is rated the same as the current stamped on the motor nameplate. Running at a lower voltage will damage the motor.

UNPACKING & PACKING LIST

UNPACKING
With the help of a friend or trustworthy foe, such as one of your in-laws, carefully remove the planer from the packaging and place it on a sturdy, flat surface. Make sure to take out all contents and accessories. Do not discard the packaging until everything is removed. Check the packing list below to make sure you have all of the parts and accessories. If any part is missing or broken, please contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST),
or email techsupport@wenproducts.com.

PACKING LIST

ComponentsWEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer
-fig1

Accessories

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer
-fig2

KNOW YOUR PLANER

TOOL PURPOSE
Resurface boards, flatten workpieces, and much more with your WEN Thickness Planer. Refer to the diagram below to become familiarized with the parts and controls of your thickness planer.

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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ASSEMBLY & ADJUSTMENTS

ATTACHING THE DEPTH ADJUSTMENT HANDLE

  1. Secure the depth adjustment handle (Fig. 2 – 1) to the top of the planer using the included socket head bolt (Fig. 2 – 2) and washer (Fig. 2 – 3).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
4

  2.  Place the handle cap (Fig. 2 – 4) on top of the depth adjustment handle, covering the socket head bolt and washer.
    NOTE: With each full rotation of the depth-adjustment handle, the planer’s height adjusts 1/16”. For example, 1/4 of a rotation is 1/64”, 1/2 of a rotation is 1/32”, and 1 full rotation is 1/16”.

PREPARING THE TABLES

  1. Lower the infeed and outfeed tables (Fig. 3).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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    Remove the foam insert located between the main table and the blade drum. Peel back the protective film insert from the main table.

ATTACHING THE DUST CHUTE

  1.  Mount the dust chute (Fig. 4 – 1) to the roller case using the two thumbscrews (Fig. 4 – 2).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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    NOTE: The dust chute can be mounted in either direction to direct the flow of chips to either side of the planer.

  2. After mounting, connect a dust collection system to the dust chute.
    Use the dust chute adapter if needed. Be sure to turn the system on before operating the planer.
    NOTE : If you do not plan on using a dust collection system of any kind, we recommend removing the dust chute so that the wood chips and debris can fly freely from the back of the planer. This will, however, make a mess in your shop. The other option would be to leave it on and then regularly clean the wood shavings and dust out of the planer and chute during operation. Any damage or other problem caused by a failure to keep the planer clean (by not using dust collection, removing wood chips, etc.) is not covered under the warranty.

MOUNTING THE PLANER TO A WORK SURFACE
The planer should always be mounted to a stable, level bench or table in a well-lit area. Make sure there is plenty of room for moving the workpiece
through the entire cut. Neither the operator nor bystanders should stand in line with the workpiece while the tool is operating.

  1. Mount the planer to a workbench or tool stand using four bolts, four flat washers, and four hex nuts (not included) through the mounting holes on the base (Fig. 5).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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    NOTE: We recommend the WEN 6588T Rolling Planer Stand for both stability and easy transportation around the workshop.

OPERATION

WARNING! Do not connect the planer to the power source until all assembly steps have been completed.

ON / OFF SWITCH
The ON / OFF switch (Fig. 6 – 1) is located on the front of the planer motor. To turn the planer ON, flip the switch to the up position. To turn the
planer OFF, flip the switch to the down position.
SWITCH LOCK
Remove the yellow tab to engage child-safety lock and prevent unwanted start- ups. To lock the switch, flip the switch to the OFF position and disconnect the planer from its power source. Pull the yellow portion of the key out (Fig. 6 – 2). The switch cannot be turned on with the key removed. To turn the machine back on, slide the key into the slot on the switch until it snaps into place.

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
78
NOTE: The key can be removed from the switch while in the ON position.
This allows for the device to be turned off but prevents it from being turned back on.

CIRCUIT BREAKER
This planer is equipped with a circuit breaker to protect the motor (Fig. 6 – 3). The breaker will automatically shut the planer off when excessive current is drawn. If the breaker is tripped, turn the planer off, wait a moment to allow the breaker to cool down, and reset the circuit by pressing the button. If the button pops back out, wait a few more minutes to allow it to cool down more. Reduce the depth of cut.
CAUTION: Be sure to turn the planer off prior to resetting the circuit breaker to avoid the unintentional start-up of the planer.
AVOID DAMAGE TO BLADES
Thickness planers are precision woodworking machines and should be used on quality lumber only. Do not plane dirty boards; dirt and small stones are abrasive and will wear out blades.
WARNING! REMOVE NAILS AND STAPLES. Use a planner to cut wood only. Avoid knots. Heavily cross-grained wood makes knots hard. Knots can come loose and jam the blade.
WARNING! Any article that encounters planer blades may be forcibly ejected from the planer, creating a risk of injury. Make sure the wood is free from foreign materials before attempting to plane.

HEIGHT OF CUT
Rotate crank handle (Fig. 7 – 1) to adjust the height of cutterhead. The depth scale (Fig. 7 – 2) shows the height of the cutter head above the main table. The quality of the planed wood depends on the operator’s experience and judgment about the depth of the cut. The depth of cut depends on the width, species, hardness,  moisture content, grain direction, and grain structure of the wood. The maximum thickness is 3/32” for planning operations.
A spring-loaded depth-of-cut gauge (Fig. 7 – 3) is attached to the front of the roller case. The pointer on the depth-of-cut gauge accurately displays the depth of cut per pass when the workpiece is positioned below the gauge.

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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WARNING! Never plane against the grain direction of the wood. Do not plane end grain, as the wood could splinter or possibly explode.
WARNING! Do not plane any board shorter than 14-1/2”; the force of the cut could split the board and cause kickback.

DEPTH OF CUT
The front of the rollercase features two small (1/16”) depth-limiting lips on either side of the cutter head body to establish the maximum cutting depth as 1/32”, instead of 3/32”, for boards wider than 6”.
While the planer could handle a 3/32” cut on 13” wide boards, it will not only shorten the lifespan of the motor and cutting blades, but also will give an imperfect finish. The smaller the cutting depth, the better the finished product will be. It is best to take multiple shallow passes on a workpiece, rather than one deep pass.
NOTE: Each full rotation on the depth-adjustment handle changes the height by 1/16”. For example, 1/4 of a rotation is 1/64”, 1/2 of a rotation is 1/32”, and 1 full rotation is 1/16”.

  • For optimum planning performance, the depth of cut should be 1/32” or less per pass. Run the board a few times before adding depth to ensure the best possible cuts.
  • Boards should be planed with shallow cuts until the work has a level side (or alternatively the use of a power jointer can be employed). Once a level surface has been created, flip the lumber and create parallel sides.
  • Plane alternate sides until the desired thickness is obtained. When half of the total depth of cut is taken from each side, the board will have a uniform moisture content. Any additional drying should not cause it to warp.
  • Depth of cut should be shallower when work is wider.
  • When planing hardwood, make light cuts or plane the wood in thin widths.
  • Make a test cut with a test piece and verify the thickness produced.
  • Check accuracy of test cut prior to working on the finished product.

PREPARING WORK
Thickness planers work best when at least one side of the lumber is flat. Use a surface planer or a jointer to create a flat surface. Twisted or severely warped boards can jam the planer and should not be used. Rip lumber in half to reduce the magnitude of warp.
Work should be fed into the planer in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Sometimes the grain will change direction in the middle of the board. In such cases, if possible, cut the board in the middle before planning, so that the grain direction is correct.
WARNING! Never plane against the grain direction of the wood. Do not plane end grain, as the wood could
splinter or possibly explode.
WARNING! Do not plane any board shorter than 14-1/2”; the force of the cut could split the board and cause kickback.
CHECK FOR WORN BLADES
The blades’ condition will affect cutting precision. Observe the quality of the cut that the planer produces to check the condition of the blades. Dull blades will tear wood fibers and produce fuzzy surfaces. Raised grain will occur when dull blades pound on wood that has varying density. Raised edges will also be produced where the blades have been nicked. Blades on this planer are reversible and should always be reversed or replaced as a matched set. Keeping a spare set of blades on hand is recommended. Replacement blades can be ordered from wenproducts.com.
AVOIDING SNIPE
Thickness planers tend to leave a small bit of snipe at the end of the planed boards, particularly for longer workpieces. Snipe is a small dip that is caused by the board’s own weight pulling one end downwards as the board enters or exits the planer, thus pushing the other end into the cutter head and creating an uneven finish. Snipe will occur when boards are not supported properly or when only one feed roller is in contact with the work at the beginning or end of
cut.
The best way of avoiding snipes is to cut your lumber long enough that you can saw off the snipe after the board has been planed. Leave 1-2” on both ends so it can be removed later. Other less efficient ways include gently pushing the board up while feeding the work until the outfeed roller starts advancing it. Then, move to the rear and receive the planned board by gently pushing it up when the infeed roller loses contact with it. The third option is to have another dummy board flush against the beginning and end of the workpiece. That way, this piece of scrap wood will be the recipient of all of the snipe. Snipe is more apparent when deeper cuts are taken. Lower depths help prevent snipes.
It is also recommended to have the infeed and outfeed extension tables slightly inclined upwards to form a V shape, with the difference between the outermost edges of the extension tables and the center of granite tables being about 1 mm.

THE DO’S AND DONT’S OF GRAIN DIRECTION
Always plane with the grain of the wood (in the same direction as the grain). There are six sides to every board: two face grains, two side/edge grains, and two end grains. Never plane with the end grain facing upwards. Only plane side and face grains. Otherwise, the board has a chance of splintering and exploding inside of the planer, which could cause serious injury and damage.
When planing the face and side/edge grain, always plan in the direction of the grain. Do not plan perpendicular to the grain, otherwise, the board also has a chance of splintering and exploding.

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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WARNING! Never plane against the grain direction of the wood.
Do not plane end grain, as the wood could splinter or possibly explode.

FEEDING WORK
The planer is supplied with planing blades mounted in the cutter head with the infeed and outfeed rollers pre-adjusted to the correct heights. The feed rate is automatic but will vary slightly depending on the type of wood (feed rate refers to the rate at which the lumber travels through the planer). To feed the
workpiece:

  1. Align the work perpendicular to the roller case so that the work feeds through the planer straight, making sure that the board is traveling in the same direction as the grain and that you are only planing either side or face grain.
    Boards longer than 24” should have additional support from free-standing material stands. Position the workpiece with the face to be planed on top.

  2. Raise/lower roller case to produce the depth of cut desired.

  3. Stand on the side of the planer. Do not stand directly in front or behind the planer.

  4. Turn the planer on and direct the board into the planer. Gently slide workpieces into the infeed side of the planer until the infeed roller advances the workpiece. Let go of the workpiece and allow the automatic feed to advance the board through the planer.

  5. Do not push/pull on the workpiece. Catch the planned lumber by grasping it in the same manner as it was fed as it comes out the backside. Make sure not to stand directly behind the planer while catching fed lumber. Do not grasp any portion of the board that has not gone past the out-feed roller.
    CAUTION: To avoid the risk of injury due to kickback, do not stand directly in line with the front or rear of the planer.

  6.  Repeat as needed. The planer has two return rollers on top so an assistant can pass the work back to the operator.
    Keep in mind that multiple shallow cuts result in smoother surfaces than a single deeper cut.
    NOTE: Assistant must follow the same precautions as operator.

MAINTENANCE

CHANGING BLADES
WARNING! Always turn the planer OFF and disconnect it from the power source before starting any maintenance work.
For video instructions, visit: http://bit.ly/planerblades
NOTE: Although the instructions in the video depict model 6550,the procedure is very similar for model 6552.
Blades should always be reversed or replaced as a matched set (at the same time).

  1. Remove the dust chute (Fig. 9 – 1) by unscrewing the thumbscrews (Fig. 9 – 2).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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  2. Loosen and remove the four hex screws (Fig. 10 – 1) from the blade guard on the rear side of the cutter head. Remove the blade guard.
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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  3.  Carefully turn the cutter head by hand until it is stopped by the self-engaging latch.

  4. Loosen and remove the six bolts from the gib (Fig. 11).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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  5. Remove the gib using the provided magnets (Fig. 12).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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    CAUTION: Blade edges are extremely sharp. Keep fingers away from the blades at all times.

  6. The blade is located in position by two pins. Gently lift the old blades from the cutter head using magnets. Do not make contact with the blade using fingers. Use magnets only.

  7. Reverse or replace the blade and carefully position it on the two pins using magnets.

  8. Replace the gib and align the holes on the gib with holes on the blade using the magnets.

  9. Secure the gib to the cutter head using the six bolts removed earlier.

  10. Depress the latch to release the cutter head and turn the cutter head by hand until it is stopped by the self-engaging latch.

  11.  Repeat the steps above for changing the second and third blades.

  12.  Replace the blade guard and secure it using the four screws removed earlier. Replace the dust chute.

WARNING! Turn the planer off and disconnect from the power source before performing any maintenance.

BRUSH INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT
Brush life depends on the load of the motor. Regularly inspect brushes after 100 hours of use. Brushes are located on either side of the planer motor, on both the front and rear sides of the planer.
Loosen brush cap (Fig. 13 – 1) and carefully remove brush from the motor. Replace brushes if the spring is damaged. Replace brushes if the carbon is worn down to 3/16” long or shorter. Tighten brush caps after replacement.
WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
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LUBRICATION
The motor and cutter head bearings are sealed and need no lubrication. Keep the elevation leadscrews and elevation gears (located under the planer base) free of dust and debris. Use a dry lubricating agent (such as PTFE) to grease these components as needed.

CLEANING THE PLANER
Keep the planer clean of any wood chips, dust, dirt, or debris. debris. We strongly recommend always using a dust collection system. After 10 hours of operation, the chains and gears should have wood chips, dust, and old grease removed. Use common automotive bearing grease to lubricate all chains and gears. Be sure all chains and gears have plenty of greases. Clean the granite table and infeed/outfeed rollers using a soft, damp cloth. Do not use any waxes, oils, or solvents on the table.
NOTE: the buildup of dust, wood shavings, and other debris can significantly shorten the planer’s useful life. Keep your planer clean! Failure to do so will void the warranty.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

ADJUSTING INFEED / OUTFEED EXTENSION TABLE
We recommend setting your infeed and outfeed tables so that the ends of the table extensions are approximately 1mm above the top of the granite table.

  1. Locate the table elevation adjustment screw and nut on both sides of the planer, next to the hinge (Fig. 14).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
54444

  2. Raise the extension table to expose the screws (Fig. 15).
    WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
478

  3. Using two 10 mm wrenches or a suitable Phillips screwdriver, loosen the screw by holding the nut with a wrench and turning the screw head counterclockwise.
    NOTE: Keep track of the number of turns you apply to each screw. Make sure that both the left- and right-hand screws on the table are turned the same number of times.

  4. When both screws are adjusted to the height you want the table to be, tighten down the nut against the base of the planer by holding the screw head with a wrench or Phillips screwdriver and turning the nut clockwise. Repeat for the other screw.

  5. Test the table height. If adjustments need to be made, repeat steps 3 to 4 as needed, ensuring that both screws have been turned the same number of times.

  6. Repeat steps 1-5 on the other table until you are satisfied with the height.

  7. Test the adjustments on a scrap piece of wood, making further adjustments as necessary until you are satisfied.

EXPLODED VIEW & PARTS LIST

WEN 6552T 13 inch 3 Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer -fig
tabal

EXPLODED VIEW & PARTS LIST

No. Part No. Description Qty
1 6550-105 Handle Assembly 1
2 Cap 1
3 Socket Head Screw 1
4 Flat Washer 1
5 6552-005 Roller 2
6 6552-006 Roller Cap 4
7 6552-007 Flat Head Screw 4
8 6552-008 Top Cover 1
9 6552-009 Grip 2
10 6552-010 Flat Head Screw 4
11 6552-011 Lett Cover 2
12 6552-012 Retaining Ring 3
13 6550-215 Chain 2
14 6550-216 Sprocket 4
15 6552-015 Socket Head Screw 4
16 6550-217 Spacer 1
17 6550-219 Gear Box Assembly 1
18 6550-220 Pinion 1
19 6550-221 Ball Bearing
20 6550-139 Elevating Nut (LH) 2
21 6550-233 Set Screw 4
22 6552-022 Cable Clamp 1
23 6550-228 Socket Head Screw 1
24 6552-024 Chain Cover 1
25 6552-025 Pan Head Screw 2
26 6552-026 Lock Washer
27 6552-027 Serrated Washer 2
28 6552-028 Socket Head Screw 2
29 6552-029 Belt Cover 1
30 6550-108 Elevating Nut (RH) 2
31 6552-0318 Pan Head Screw, M5 2
32 6550-259B Depth Indicator, M5
Holes 1
33 6552-033C Roller case 1
34 6552-0348 Motor Pivot Rod 1
35 6552-035 Rod Clamp 2
36 6552-036 Set Screw 2
37 6552-037 Lock Washer 4
38 6552-038 Pan Head Screw 4
39 6552-039 Depth-Of-Cut Gauge 1
40 6552-040 Pan Head Screw 3
41 6552-041 Cutterhead 1
42 6552-042 Key 1
No. Part No. Description Qty
--- --- --- ---
43 6552-043 Blade 3
44 6552-044 Blade Clamp 3
45 6552-045 Socket Head Screw 16
46 6552-046 Ball Bearing 1
47 6550-250 Bearing House 1
48 6552-048 Pan Head Screw 3
49 6552-049 Cutterhead Pulley 1
50 6552-050 Motor Pulley 1
51 6550-246 Belt 1
52 6550-245 Hex Nut 1
53 6550-202 Screw 2
54 6550-201 Dust Exhaust Port 1
55 6552-055 Connecting Port 1
56 6552-056 Socket Head Screw 4
57 6552-057 Flat Washer 4
58 6552-058 Dust Chute 1
59 6552-059 Chute Plate 1
60 6552-060 Flat Head Tap Screw 4
61 6550-137 Hex Wrench 1
62 6550-138 Magnet 2
63 6552-063 Spring 4
64 6550-252 Bearing Block 4
65 6550-257 LH Retainer 2
66 6552-066 Flat Washer 8
67 6552-067 Lock Washer 8
68 6552-068 Socket Head Screw 8
69 6552-069 Ouffeed Roller 1
70 6552-070 Rh Retainer 2
71 6552-071 Infeed Roller 1
72 6552-072 Power Cord 1
73 6552-073B Motor 1
74 6550-210 Switch 1
75 6550-260 Circuit Breaker 1
76 6550-211 Brush Holder 2
77 6550-212 Brush 2
78 6550-213 Brush Cap 2
79 6552-079 Spacer 1
80 6552-080 Flat Washer 1
81 6552-081 Socket Head Screw 1
82 6552-082 Socket Head Screw 1
83 6552-083 Flat Washer 1
84 6550-112 Elevating Screw (LH) 1
85 6552-085B Flat Washer 2
No. Part No. Description Qty
--- --- --- ---
86 6552-086B Ball Bearing 2
87 6552-087B Bearing Retainer Plate 2
88 6552-088B Socket Pan Head Screw 4
89 6552-089B Flat Washer 2
90 6552-090B Column 4
91 6552-091 B Socket Head Screw 4
92 6552-092 Guide 2
93 6552-093 Table 1
94 6552-094 Socket Head Screw 8
95 6552-095 Flat Washer 8
96 6552-096 Offered Extension Table
Assembly 1
97 6552-097 Flat Washer 12
98 6552-098 Lock Washer 12
99 6552-099 Socket Pan Head Screw 12
100 6550-117 Elevating Screw (RH) 1
104 6552-104B Base 1
105 6552-105 Infeed Extension Table 1
106 6550-129 Bushing 4
107 6550-130 Wavy Washer 4
108 6552-108 Table Support 4
109 6552-109 Lock Washer 4
110 6552-110 Socket Head Screw 4
111 6552-111 Extension Table 2
112 6552-112 Hex Head Bolt 4
113 6552-113 Hex Nut 4
114 6550-134 Bevel Gear 4
115 6552-115B Socket Head Screw 2
116 6550-131 Shaft 1
117 6552-117B Flat Washer 2
118 6550-132 Support 2
119 6552-119 Socket Head Screw 4
120 6552-120 Retaining Ring 2
121 6552-121 Plunger 1
122 6552-122 Spring 1
123 6552-123 Cutterhead Lock Latch 1
124 6552-124 Washer 1
125 6552-125 Socket Head Screw 1
126 6552-126B Flat Washer 4

WARRANTY STATEMENT

WEN Products is committed to building tools that are dependable for years. Our warranties are consistent with this commitment and our dedication to quality.

LIMITED WARRANTY OF WEN PRODUCTS FOR HOME USE

GREAT LAKES TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (“Seller”) warrants to the original purchaser only, that all WEN consumer power tools will be free from defects in material or workmanship during personal use for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase or 500 hours of use; whichever comes first. Ninety days for all WEN products if the tool is used for professional or commercial use. The purchaser has 30 days from the date of purchase to report missing or damaged parts.

SELLER’S SOLE OBLIGATION AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY under this Limited Warranty and, to the extent per­mitted by law, any warranty or condition implied by law, shall be the replacement of parts, without charge, which are defective in material or workmanship and which have not been subjected to misuse, alteration, careless handling, misrepair, abuse, neglect, normal wear and tear, improper maintenance, or other conditions adversely affecting the Product or the component of the Product, whether by accident or intentionally, by persons other than Seller. To make a claim under this Limited Warranty, you must make sure to keep a copy of your proof of purchase that clearly defines the Date of Purchase (month and year) and the Place of Purchase. Place of Purchase must be a direct ven­dor of Great Lakes Technologies, LLC. Purchasing through third-party vendors, including but not limited to garage sales, pawnshops, resale shops, or any other secondhand merchant, voids the warranty included with this product. Contact techsupport@wenproducts.com or 1-800-232-1195 with the following information to make arrangements: your shipping address, phone number, serial number, required part numbers, and proof of purchase. Damaged or defective parts and products may need to be sent to WEN before the replacements can be shipped out.

Upon the confirmation of a WEN representative, your product may qualify for repairs and service work. When re­turning a product for warranty service, the shipping charges must be prepaid by the purchaser. The product must be shipped in its original container (or an equivalent), properly packed to withstand the hazards of shipment. The product must be fully insured with a copy of the proof of purchase enclosed. There must also be a description of the problem in order to help our repairs department diagnose and fix the issue. Repairs will be made and the product will be returned and shipped back to the purchaser at no charge for addresses within the contiguous United States.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO ITEMS THAT WEAR OUT FROM REGULAR USAGE OVER TIME,
INCLUDING BELTS, BRUSHES, BLADES, BATTERIES, ETC. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES SHALL BE LIMITED IN
DURATION TO TWO (2) YEARS FROM DATE OF PURCHASE. SOME STATES IN THE U.S. AND SOME CANADIAN
PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION
MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IN

NO EVENT SHALL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LIABILITY FOR LOSS OF PROFITS) ARISING FROM THE SALE OR USE OF THIS PRODUCT.
SOME STATES IN THE U.S. AND SOME CANADIAN PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE IN THE U.S., PROVINCE TO PROVINCE IN CANADA, AND FROM COUNTRY TO COUNTRY.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY TO ITEMS SOLD WITHIN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA

AND THE COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO. FOR WARRANTY COVERAGE WITHIN OTHER COUNTRIES, CONTACT THE WEN  CUSTOMER SUPPORT LINE. FOR WARRANTY PARTS OR PRODUCTS REPAIRED UNDER  WARRANTY SHIPPING TO ADDRESSES OUTSIDE OF THE CONTIGUOUS UNITED STATES, ADDITIONAL SHIPPING
CHARGES MAY APPLY.

NEED HELP? CONTACT US!

Have product questions? Need technical support? Please feel free to contact us:
1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8AM-5PM CST)
TECHSUPPORT@WENPRODUCTS.COM
V. 2020.02.12

References

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

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