Wood keeps splitting...help please

[CB]

I just bought a Kreg Jig over the weekend and was excited to get building. My first project is a face frame for a cabinet I had already started. I'm using poplar, 1x2's for the sides and a 1x3 for the botttom. I drilled 2 pocket holes into the top and bottom of my 1x2 and tried to attach it to the 1x3. Unfortunately the wood keep splitting and I'm becoming less excited about the Kreg Jig. According the the booklet it says for 3/4" thickness to use 1 1/4" screws and for softer woods like poplar to use coarse thread. What am I doing wrong?

[KregRep]

Here you go!
http://kregjig.ning.com/forum/topics/tips-to-avoid-wood-splitting?c...

[Paula Geihs]

Make sure you have your depths set right. You have to set a depth on the actual drill bit and also on your jig. You didn't say which jig you have but they all need to be set. I use poplar all the time and don't usually have issues with it or my jig. I also use fine thread screws, not coarse.

[CB]

I have the regular Kreg Jig, not sure what model it is but it was $99.

I'm using Kreg 1 1/4" screws but they are coarse and I also believe they are washer head. I probably need a better clamp and I'll have to double check the depth settings.

[CB]

Do you think I should use fine thread instead?

[Paula Geihs]

I always use fine thread and have not had any issues so far. The only splitting problems I have had were for a totally different reason. I don't think it really matters which jig you have, you MUST check depth setting on the jig AND the drill bit. There is a collar on the drill bit and your kit should have come with a small allen wrench for adjusting it. I almost feel like if you did not set the depth before drilling on both things that is what the problem is.

CB said:

Do you think I should use fine thread instead?

[trevor stafford]

Hi if your drilling holes too lose to end of timber your screwing into this is probably the reason. If its the wood your screwing through thats splitting it is probably because tour have the torque on your drill driver set too high or your screwing with the drill/driver set to drill rather than screwing mode. One last thing, is the timber joinery grade as cheaper unsuitable timber probably will split


Hope this helps
Kind regards
Trevor