Kreg plugs that don't fit

[Andrew Pensavalle]

I've just started to notice that many of the plugs I try to insert into the pocket holes do not want to slide in freely as they did once. Anyone know of a reason this might be happening? With wear does the drill bit get narrower?

[Dan F.]

The plugs can vary a little bit depending on the moisture content. I've found if you put them in the microwave for a few seconds it sucks the moisture right out making them shrink a little. Sounds odd but it works great.

[Kerry Drake]

I totally agree, they are probably "wet" from humdity in the air and they just swelled a tiny bit.

[Andrew Pensavalle]

Thanks, guys. Makes sense. I'll try it.

[David Dean]

mr. pensavalle

Why use kreg plugs i'm not trying to be a smart #$% but i have been useing wood pouty for a long time but there is a down side that i have learned after sanding and stain i have to get the plyurethane on or some time's it well fall out.
dave

[Andrew Pensavalle]

I'm not sure I understand your question, David. I think the plugs are the neatest and most efficient way to fill the pocket holes. Do you mean that when you use the plugs they have a tendency to fall out during final finishing? Are you using glue when inserting the plugs? I have not done a comparison, but it seems to me that the amount of filler you need to close the pocket holes would be time consuming and expensive.....plus you have the possibilty of shrinking depending on what filler you use.

By the way to the earlier posts regarding the plugs that would not go into th holes, moisture must have been the problem. I tried the microwave trick and it worked. Funny how some plugs wll absorb moisture more than others.



David Dean said:

mr. pensavalle

Why use kreg plugs i'm not trying to be a smart #$% but i have been useing wood pouty for a long time but there is a down side that i have learned after sanding and stain i have to get the plyurethane on or some time's it well fall out.
dave

[David Dean]

no i have always used wood putty and never used plugs at all next time when I'm at lowe's i'll get some and see hal well they work.
thanks dave

[Andrew Pensavalle]

Dave,

See my topic "using the Kreg plugs". I found out that the plugs come in one length and that length is to allow them to be use in 2 x 4 lumber. If you are using anything like the normal 3/4" lumber, you have to lop off about 3/16 to 1/4 inch off the blunt end or be prepared to use a chisel or a lot of sanding. I found the easiest way for me was to use my stationary scroll saw to do the trimming. Watch the fingers......LOL. Another down side is that you might not be able to find plugs in matching wood or wood that will stain up the same as your project wood. However if your plugs are placed well, it can add an appealing look to your project. I don't think that Kreg offers it, but there are commercially available plug cutter jigs for pocket holes if you plan to do a lot of pocket hole joinery or if you want to guarntee that your plugs are from the same wood as you are using.

I hope the added information helps.

Andy

[Paul Hughes]

Dave:
I agree with you about "WATCHING THE FINGERS" when cutting off the blunt end of plugs. I cut plugs on my band saw using a pair of pliars to firmly grip the tapered end of the plug. I also make sure the entire plug is laying flat on the band saw table when cutting it to keep it straight during the cutting process. Finally, It is a good idea to wear eye protection because the part being cut off can snap and fly back towards your face.
Paul H.

Andrew Pensavalle said:

Dave,

See my topic "using the Kreg plugs". I found out that the plugs come in one length and that length is to allow them to be use in 2 x 4 lumber. If you are using anything like the normal 3/4" lumber, you have to lop off about 3/16 to 1/4 inch off the blunt end or be prepared to use a chisel or a lot of sanding. I found the easiest way for me was to use my stationary scroll saw to do the trimming. Watch the fingers......LOL. Another down side is that you might not be able to find plugs in matching wood or wood that will stain up the same as your project wood. However if your plugs are placed well, it can add an appealing look to your project. I don't think that Kreg offers it, but there are commercially available plug cutter jigs for pocket holes if you plan to do a lot of pocket hole joinery or if you want to guarntee that your plugs are from the same wood as you are using.

I hope the added information helps.

Andy

[Jesse McNew]

Have you guys seen the video where they trim the plugs (after gluing them in the hole) with a trim router and a flush bit? To get into tight corners, you need an offset trim router, which I don't have (yet). Looks pretty easy, though.

[Andrew Pensavalle]

I did see that but just never tried it. I can see where tight corners could be a problem. I wonder if one of the new oscilating "Multi Tools " would work?

[KregRep]

Jesse McNew said:

Have you guys seen the video where they trim the plugs (after gluing them in the hole) with a trim router and a flush bit? To get into tight corners, you need an offset trim router, which I don't have (yet). Looks pretty easy, though.

Here it is, Jesse!

[Brian Loucks]

I built a small miter box that is held in y bench vise by a T shaped tongue. I use a small flush trim saw to trim the plugs down to size. Very smooth, fast and safe!

Paul Hughes said:

Dave:
I agree with you about "WATCHING THE FINGERS" when cutting off the blunt end of plugs. I cut plugs on my band saw using a pair of pliars to firmly grip the tapered end of the plug. I also make sure the entire plug is laying flat on the band saw table when cutting it to keep it straight during the cutting process. Finally, It is a good idea to wear eye protection because the part being cut off can snap and fly back towards your face.
Paul H.

Andrew Pensavalle said:

Dave,

See my topic "using the Kreg plugs". I found out that the plugs come in one length and that length is to allow them to be use in 2 x 4 lumber. If you are using anything like the normal 3/4" lumber, you have to lop off about 3/16 to 1/4 inch off the blunt end or be prepared to use a chisel or a lot of sanding. I found the easiest way for me was to use my stationary scroll saw to do the trimming. Watch the fingers......LOL. Another down side is that you might not be able to find plugs in matching wood or wood that will stain up the same as your project wood. However if your plugs are placed well, it can add an appealing look to your project. I don't think that Kreg offers it, but there are commercially available plug cutter jigs for pocket holes if you plan to do a lot of pocket hole joinery or if you want to guarntee that your plugs are from the same wood as you are using.

I hope the added information helps.

Andy