Tormek KJ-45 adjustable retrofit

Looking for an SVM-45, you can't find one but you already have a KJ-45? This is for you!

NOTE: Retrofit kit only contains the BLUE pieces in the image, knobs screws and jaws are from the original KJ45. Note, Blue and Silver models are exactly the same functionally. 

The retrofit also works with the KJ-140.

I’ve developed a retrofit for the KJ-45/140 to bring back the adjustable attribute of the SVM-45 and given it a longer shaft to accommodate larger and smaller blades.   

NOTE: KJ-45/140 is not included, only the retrofit parts.

Problems with the KJ-45/140

1. It’s not adjustable, you can’t make micro adjustments easily, rendering the wood block, fixed distance technique less useful.
2. Tool rest handle is too small, long blades pull the knife towards you, it's less comfortable.
3. Occasionally you inadvertently use the “shortstop” without realizing.
4. The self-centering aspect is generally solving allow priority problem – we’ve never-ever had a customer complain about  it.
5. Plastic shaft is not as sturdy as it needs to be.
6. Smaller torque screw is hard to get tight.

Problems with the SVM-45

1. Shaft is slightly too short to accommodate very thin/wide blades without adjusting tool rest height.
2. Plastic tool-rest wears out, we wrap electricaltape around the treads to establish tension… after three years it is now stripped.
3. Not “centered” – though we have not found this to be a real problem.
4. It’s no longer being produced (boo!)