I have a 48" National finger break. I have a problem with it and was wondering if anyone has actually adjusted their break. When I bend a 90 with one side large and the other only about 1" wide it is not straight. If both side are wide say 4" then it is straight. I have adjusted the clamp pressure thinking that I might be putting too much clamp force on it but that didn't change it. There is one adjustment on the bending bar, two adjustments on the clamp bar and one on the bed. Plus the clamp pressure adjustment. I don't want to just start turning things because I could really screw it up. I don't need guesses....I can do that myself.
well start guessing because it will take some experimentation to develop expertise in setting it up for every job...
Does the top die have a fore and aft adjustment on each side? If so, make slight adjustments, like the end with the most bend, try moving that side back, it should lessen the bend. Also, do you have the angle iron that bolts to the lower die? I think your bends will be more consistent using one. I keep a layer of duct tape on my angle, to keep from scratching the workpiece. I remove mine when making "close together" bends, as needed.
If you want the straightess bends with that machine utilizing the full width you must put the angle on the lower bar and get the straight 1 peice blade from National, the small fingers flex to much.