Compass MG-36/MG-36PRO Miter Gauges: Micro-Adjust Knob Installation

Created by Gabriel Izzo, Modified on Thu, 21 May at 10:00 AM by Gabriel Izzo

Compass Miter Gauges · Maintenance

Micro-Adjust Knob Installation

Applicable Models

Compass MG-36

Compass MG-36PRO

When Is This Needed?

If the adjustment knob for the flip stop is unthreading and not properly adjusting the stop back and forth, the set screw requires adjustment. Follow the steps below to securely fasten the silver micro adjustment knob (Part #854) and prevent it from becoming loose.

Parts Referenced

Part #854 Silver Micro Adjustment Knob

Part #853 Set Screw

Installation Procedure

Securely Attach the Silver Knob

Fully thread on the silver micro adjustment knob (Part #854).

To keep it from rotating while you work, grip it with a pair of joint pliers or secure it in a vise. Use padding such as a soft cloth between the tool and the knob to protect its surface. A wood vise is ideal as it grips more gently.

Step 1 — Silver Knob Held in Vise / Pliers

Silver micro adjustment knob held in vise for set screw tightening

Tighten the Set Screw

With the silver knob held firmly, use a hex wrench to tighten the set screw (Part #853) found at the end of the knob. This set screw acts as a jam nut and prevents the knob from unintentionally unthreading when the adjustment is reversed.

Important — Prevent Shaft Over-Tightening

As you tighten the set screw, ensure that the entire shaft does not rotate along with the knob. If the shaft tightens along with the set screw, it creates excessive pressure that squeezes the adjustment shaft and knob too tightly together — causing binding in reverse motion, which leads to the knob unthreading and coming loose during use. Keep the knob stable and prevent shaft rotation while securing the set screw.

Step 2 — Tightening the Set Screw with Hex Wrench

Tightening set screw on micro adjustment knob with hex wrench

✓

Final Check and Test

Once the set screw is adequately tightened, release the knob from the pliers or vise and test the adjustment — turn the knob both directions to confirm it moves smoothly in both directions and stays secure without unthreading.

If the knob still unthreads or binds after this procedure, the set screw tension may need fine-tuning — loosen the set screw slightly and retest until smooth bidirectional travel is achieved.

For further help with the micro-adjust knob or to order replacement parts, please contact our support team.