For best performance, the table of a paper cutter requires both initial and periodic maintenance.

To prepare a new machine's table
Table preparation is required before the table's first use.

1. Remove the rust-protective coating from the table with a solvent.
2. Remove all solvent residue from the table with a dry cloth. Continue until the cloth shows no sign of residue.
3. Apply a light coating of an SAE 10-weight nondetergent motor oil or equivalent to the table, and allow it to penetrate for a least one hour.
4. Remove all excess oil from the table with a paper towel (not cloth), until the paper towel shows no signs of the oil.
5. Apply a paste wax to the table to seal the pores of the metal.
   Note: Do not use a wax that contains a cleaning compound. A cleaner contains microscopic abrasive particles that will cause wear between the table and the bottom of the backgauge. A silicone spray will show the same type of wear as the cleaner if the excess silicone is not removed, causing a black, gummy build-up under the backgauge. If a silicone spray is used, a paper towel must be used to remove the excess to prevent this wear and build-up.

Periodic maintenance
Polishing the cutter's table removes surface oxidation and provides a smooth surface for paper to move freely. The frequency of this maintenance will be determined by a number of factors. Among these are the humidity, environmental dust, handprints, liquid spills, and paper stock type.

1. Pour a small quantity of an SAE 10-weight motor oil onto the table. Using a Scotch-Brite Pad or a 400-grit sand paper, polish the table following the "grain" of the metal until all oxidation is removed.
2. Remove all of the oil from the table until the cloth you are using shows no sign of residue.
3. Apply a light coating of an SAE 10-weight nondetergent motor oil or equivalent to the table and allow it to penetrate for a least one hour.
4. Remove all excess oil from the table with a paper towel (not cloth), until the paper towel shows no signs of the oil.
5. Apply a paste wax to the table to seal the pores of the metal.
   Note: Do not use a wax that contains a cleaning compound. A cleaner contains microscopic abrasive particles that will cause wear between the table and the bottom of the backgauge. A silicone spray will show the same type of wear as the cleaner if the excess silicone is not removed, causing a black, gummy build-up under the backgauge. If a silicone spray is used, a paper towel must be used to remove the excess to prevent this wear and build-up.