Safe to rip 1/4” from 2x4s? Any tips?

[RyanE]

I would have absolutely no qualms running a 60" 2x4 through my table saw (old contractor Rockwell Beaver 10") and ripping off 1/4". I do this all the time? 5 minute job, no screwing around notching anything. Go slow, use a run out table and some push sticks?

 

[pondo]

For that few 2x4s, I'd use an electric hand planer and knock 1/4" off where the 2x4 meets each joist. You could even use a jig saw to cut in 1/4" and a chisel to knock out 1-1/2" wide section.

 

[milkovich]

I rip cut entire 2x4s with a 15a saw and a modified Kreg accucut all the time. A track saw is where it's at for any cut over 5' in my opinion. It's practically a glue edge cut with a 40T. The thicknesser is also a great idea but after having to clean the pitch out of mine, I HATE running pine through it.

 

[sjvicker]

just notch them where they go over the joists and be done with it. It's a quick cut and can be done with just about any saw you have laying around.

 

[Walkers]

Just use 2x3s instead.