Problem with Automaxx

[Marcus Blacklow]

I recently purchased a 6" clamp. It takes two hands to close it and the adjustment has little effect. It was manufactured in China and displays in a grey plastic clip for hanging in the shop. Another in the shop has the same problem. Is this a batch problem?

[KregRep]

Your clamps may be defective, Marcus. Please contact Technical Support at toll-free 800-447-8638 or [e-mail] for help troubleshooting. 

[Marcus Blacklow]

KregRep said:

Your clamps may be defective, Marcus. Please contact Technical Support at toll-free 800-447-8638 or [e-mail] for help troubleshooting. 

[Marcus Blacklow]

Thanks KregRep. I live in SW Australia (Perth). Carba-Tech is a local distributor. They will replace it when I demonstrate the problem when next in their store. All my other Automaxx clamps work to specifications including a 6" one. I like to adjust so that it is a one-hand operation. Currently I'm working on the rails and balusters around a 7x4m deck using pocket holes screws. Lots of holes and screws! Is there a recommendation for lubrication of the clamps?

KregRep said:

Your clamps may be defective, Marcus. Please contact Technical Support at toll-free 800-447-8638 or [e-mail] for help troubleshooting. 

[Ken Darga]

Marcus,

Have you tried "Dri-Lube"?

A spray-on material---dries rapidly and leaves a thin dry film of lubricant.

It works for me and has many uses in my shop.

[Mike Reese]

I just received one Automaxx clamp included with the Mobile Center. I've tried clamping it down, but literally can't do it. Also tried adjusting the black screw all the way, both ways, with no effect.

I've got half a dozen other style Kreg clamps and know these work differently, but this just doen't see right.

I've even watched YouTube videos hoping I would find something I was not doing properly, but it seems awfully simple. 

Any thoughts?

[KregRep]

Mike- Your clamp may be defective. Please contact Technical Support at toll-free 800-447-8638 or [e-mail] for help troubleshooting.

Thanks,

KregRep

Mike Reese said:

I just received one Automaxx clamp included with the Mobile Center. I've tried clamping it down, but literally can't do it. Also tried adjusting the black screw all the way, both ways, with no effect.

I've got half a dozen other style Kreg clamps and know these work differently, but this just doen't see right.

I've even watched YouTube videos hoping I would find something I was not doing properly, but it seems awfully simple. 

Any thoughts?

[Doc JL]

I have the 90 degree automax, and recently built a furniture, Using solid 2x6 pine, I too am unable to clamp. Actually, I managed to clamp it only once using EXTREME force, only to destroy the pocket hole. My lumber is 1 5/8" thick as opposed to the more common 1 1/2". Could the extra 1/8" in thickness cause the problem?

[Mike Reese]

Kreg customer service contacted me and sent out a new clamp. I slid the replacement into the rail, and it clamped down just as it shows. Works great and I am totally impressed with Kreg Co. and their customer service!

Mike Reese said:

I just received one Automaxx clamp included with the Mobile Center. I've tried clamping it down, but literally can't do it. Also tried adjusting the black screw all the way, both ways, with no effect.

I've got half a dozen other style Kreg clamps and know these work differently, but this just doen't see right.

I've even watched YouTube videos hoping I would find something I was not doing properly, but it seems awfully simple. 

Any thoughts?