Frequently Asked Questions
  1. Can I use the Electro-FileTM in place of my scroll saw?
  2. No, the Electro-FileTM is not designed to take the place of a scroll saw. The Electro-File’s saw blades are not designed to make sharp turns like a scroll saw. The Electro-FileTM should be used in conjunction with the scroll saw to finish imperfections caused during the scrolling process.
     

  3. How does the tool work on scroll-sawn projects?
  4. In areas where the scroll saw blade cut too far, did not cut far enough or snapped and left a gouge in the work piece, the Electro-FileTM uses a reciprocating (back and forth) action along with a needle file or sanding paddle to smooth and finish those areas with precise accuracy.

  5. How do I change attachments?
  6. The attachments are changed by first locking the slide switch so that it does not accidentally engage while adding, removing or changing attachments. Locate and remove the allen wrench secured in a built-in spot at the rear underside of the Electro-FileTM. Insert one end of the wrench into the locking screw; rotate counter-clockwise a few turns. Do not remove the screw. If the screw is removed accidentally, re-insert it. Insert one of the attachments into the front end of the housing. The accessory should be orientated so that the pressure during operation is directed downward. There is a specially designed "stop" inside the chuck so that either the saw blades or needle files stop at a predetermined location (#126 Miniature Files - refer to the instruction sheet provided for exact placement of this item in the Electro-File TM). Once the attachment is in place, use the allen wrench to tighten the screw, turning clockwise, just until the screw is snug. There is no need to over-tighten this screw. The accessory will be held securely with just a short snug.
     

  7. Where can I get accessories?
  8. Accessories are available directly from Precision Hobby Tools; a re-order form is included with every tool. As more dealers and retailers start carrying the tool the accessories will become available locally.
     

  9. Are there any extra accessories I should buy with the tool when I purchase it?
  10. Many people elect to purchase one or two extra sanding paddles with the tool so that they can set each sanding paddle up with different sanding grits on each and on each side. This makes it even faster to finish projects.

    Additional adhesive back sanding strips is always something that will be needed as the tool is used more. The sanding strips are available in 10 packs or volume packs of 50 pcs.

    Another valuable accessory for the Electro-FileTM has been the addition of the 10 pc. Needle Rasp Set (1/8" diameter x 5-1/2" long). This set is available in only one cut "coarse cut" , and has individually cut teeth for rapid removal of wood and soft materials. These cut on the forward stoke only.

    Our newest addition is the 10 pc. Miniature File Set (1/16" diameter x 4" long). This set is available in a No. 3 cut for finish work and cut on the forward stroke only. This set is really dynamite for people working on scroll and fretwork to get into even smaller holes than the 1/8" diameter files.
     

  11. Is the Electro-FileTM variable speed?
  12. At this time the Electro-FileTM in all models is strictly one speed. There may be a time in the future, if there is enough interest to develop a variable speed version.
     

  13. Will my rotary bits work with the Electro-FileTM?
  14. No, rotary bits/accessories are specially designed to work with a rotary or circular action. The Electro-File's reciprocating (back and forth) action performs many functions not available with rotary tools.
     

  15. Will the tool cut hardwoods?
  16. The Electro-FileTM generally works best with softwoods because they are easier to saw, sand or file. The grains of softwood separate much easier and are removed faster than hardwood.
     

  17. Will the tool cut gourds?
  18. Yes, we have many customers who use the Electro-FileTM to cut dried gourds. They use the saw blades in place of razor knives and have a greater amount of control. The Electro-FileTM is much safer because you do not have to worry about the blade slipping and cutting yourself.
     

  19. How will the tool help me with my carving projects?
  20. The Electro-FileTM will help smooth and finish in tight corners or recesses, which you are not able to reach by hand. We have many carvers who use the tool with the rasp set for fast removal of excess material.
     

  21. Will the tool cut soapstone?
  22. Soap Stone is actually steatite or more commonly known as a soft talc in a solid mass rock form. Since this is a soft material it is easily formed or shaped using the Electro-FileTM.
     

  23. Can I file metal objects with the needle files?
  24. Yes, needle files are also designed to work with soft metals.
     

  25. Do you have dealers in Canada?
  26. Yes, please contact: 
    Ford Enterprises 800-585-5965, Fax 519-652-5781, London Ontario
    PMS Hobby Craft Ltd. 403-291-2733, Fax 403-291-5324 Calgary, Alberta
    Elmwood Hobby Works 204-669-2167, Fax 204-668-7190 Winnipeg, Manitoba
     

  27. How quickly do you ship orders?
  28. All items are in stock for immediate shipment. We ship within 24 hours of receiving the order.
     

  29. How are items shipped?
  30. All tool orders for destinations within the contiguous U.S.A. and Canada are shipped via United Parcel Service as long as we have a street address.

    Orders for post office boxes are shipped via U.S. Mail Express and do cost a little more.

    Orders outside the U.S.A. and Canada are shipped via U.S. Mail Express.

    All accessories shipped separate of tools are shipped via U.S. Mail Express.

    We can ship orders UPS 3-day, 2nd day or next day for rush orders. The cost for these services are added to the cost of the order.
     

  31. If I live in Hawaii, Alaska or other countries outside the contiguous USA how are items shipped to me?

Items to these locations can be shipped via Express U.S. Mail or other expedited methods. Please call us for shipping quotes or see the order form for further information.
 

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