Question 1

Can you do FF work with this joiner using the stock 4" blade that comes with it, or do you have to purchase the 2" blade?

Accepted Answer

As far as I can tell you need a Porter Cable 2" blade for FF work. Amazon's price is $50.00.I've owned a PC557 version 3 for over 5 years and it is an excellent tool with one exception. When using the dust bag, the tool is prone to sawdust clogging the dust port.Frustrated by having to use a coat hanger wire to unclog the machine every 4 cuts, I came up with a modification that has eliminated this problem for me.All you need is Rockler item #42251 ($7.00) and an 8" plastic wire tie.Discard the removable tube that normally connects the dust port to the bag. Cut off the small first step on the Rockler #42251 hose adapter. The new opening now matches the diameter of the dust port. Unzip the dust bag. Insert the hose adapter into the bag with the small end protruding from the spring clip opening. Loop the wire tie behind the spring clamp and tighten. Attach the protruding end of the Rockler adapter to the dust port.Using this fix, I have gone from 4 cuts and a clog to 20 cuts and no clogs on pine, popular, and red oak.I offered this solution to Dewalt/Porter Cable and they showed no interest.

Question 2

Is this biscuit joiner available with 240V as well?

Accepted Answer

This jointer is not available in 240V.

Question 3

hard to find the 2 inch  cutter, showing discontinued at most sites, including  porter cable, does this render useless the FF biscuit

Accepted Answer

The 2 inch cutter is Porter Cable part #883099. The part #5559 is discontinued with replacement #883099.

Question 4

how do you fix dust collection on model 557 from getting clogged ?

Accepted Answer

I've owned a PC557 version 3 for over 5 years and it is an excellent tool with one exception. When using the dust bag, the tool is prone to sawdust clogging the dust port.Frustrated by having to use a coat hanger wire to unclog the machine every 4 cuts, I came up with a modification that has eliminated this problem for me.All you need is Rockler item #42251 ($7.00) and an 8" plastic wire tie.Discard the removable tube that normally connects the dust port to the bag. Cut off the small first step on the Rockler #42251 hose adapter. The new opening now matches the diameter of the dust port. Unzip the dust bag. Insert the hose adapter into the bag with the small end protruding from the spring clip opening. Loop the wire tie behind the spring clamp and tighten. Attach the protruding end of the Rockler adapter to the dust port.Using this fix, I have gone from 4 cuts and a clog to 20 cuts and no clogs on pine, poplar, and red oak.I offered this solution to Dewalt/Porter Cable and they showed no interest.

Manufacturer	Porter Cable
Item model number	557
Product Dimensions	40.44 x 26.04 x 19.48 cm; 5.21 kg
ASIN	B00004YKUO

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PORTER-CABLE 557 7 Amp Plate Joiner Kit

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