This guide walks you through mounting BenchGrip pods to aluminum extrusion rails, connecting to your vacuum source, and running your first test hold.
Step | Do this | Pass check |
1 | Choose orientation (horizontal vs vertical) | Pod layout matches the operation + access |
2–3 | Install rail inserts + mount pods | Pods stable, sealing surface level |
4 | Connect vacuum hose | No kinks, fittings seated |
5 | Test seal with flat scrap | Strong hold, no steady hiss |
6 | Fine-tune spacing with real workpiece | Zero interference, enough pods for distributed hold |
What You'll Need
Included | You supply |
BenchGrip pod(s) in your chosen size
Rail inserts compatible with MFT, Dashboard PWS, Bench Dogs, 15/30/40/45-series extrusion
AnchorDogs (depending on configuration)
Mounting hardware | Aluminum extrusion rail system (MFT, Dashboard PWS, or compatible bench with extrusion)
Vacuum source: pump or Grabo Pro-Lifter 20 / DeWalt Grabo via Nexus Baseplate
Vacuum hose with push-to-connect fittings
Hex keys (typically included with mounting hardware) |
Step 1: Choose Your Mounting Location
BenchGrip pods work in two orientations:
Horizontal (flat on benchtop):
- Best for sanding, routing, edge banding, and assembly work
- Position pods along extrusion rails wherever your material will sit
- Leave space between pods for clamps, stops, or measuring tools if needed
Vertical (side-mounted):
- Best for upright panel work, cabinet doors, edge operations
- Mount pods to extrusion on the side of your bench, cabinet, or custom fixture
- Use Minimus Offset configuration if your mounting rail is raised above the work surface
Step 2: Install Rail Inserts
- Slide the insert into the extrusion channel at your desired pod location
- Loosely position — don't tighten yet; you may need to adjust spacing after test-fitting your workpiece
Step 3: Attach the Pod
- Align the pod over the rail insert
- Insert mounting hardware through the pod base into the rail insert
- Hand-tighten the fasteners with a hex key
- Check alignment — the sealing surface should be level and free of obstructions
- Final tightening — secure firmly, but avoid over-torquing (you want the pod stable, not stressed)
For Minimus Dual pods: If you're daisy-chaining multiple pods, orient the pass-through port toward the next pod in the series.
Step 4: Connect Vacuum Hose
- Attach push-to-connect fitting to the vacuum inlet on each pod
- Route hose to your vacuum source:
- Pump system: Connect directly to the vacuum outlet
- Grabo Pro-Lifter 20 / DeWalt Grabo: Connect via Nexus Baseplate for mobile workholding
- Hub (if installed): Connect to a Hub outlet for centralized vacuum control, isolation, and safe release
- Check for kinks — vacuum hose should have smooth bends, not sharp angles that restrict airflow
Multiple pods? You can:
- Run individual hoses from each pod to your vacuum source
- Use Minimus Dual pods to daisy-chain in series
- Connect through Hub for centralized routing and control
Step 5: Test the Seal
- Activate your vacuum source
- Place a test workpiece on the pod sealing surface — use a flat piece of scrap wood, plywood, or MDF for your first test
- Check for strong hold — the piece should feel securely attached with no sliding or lifting
- Listen for leaks — a steady hiss indicates air escaping around the seal
If the seal is weak or leaking:
- Ensure the sealing surface and gasket edge are clean and free of debris
- Check that your workpiece is flat (cupped, warped, or heavily textured material won't seal)
- Verify vacuum source is producing adequate suction (see SYS-GRP Vacuum Source Options for pump sizing)
- Inspect hose connections for loose fittings
Step 6: Fine-Tune Your Layout
Now that you've confirmed the pods are working:
- Test with actual workpieces — place the material you'll be working with and adjust pod spacing if needed
- Reposition as necessary — loosen rail inserts, slide to new positions, re-tighten
- Add additional pods if your material needs more distributed hold or if you're working with larger panels
Working vertically? Test the hold with the material in the actual working orientation before starting your operation.
Tips for Best Results
- Start simple: Set up one or two pods, test the hold, then expand your array
- Flat is fast: The flatter your workpiece, the better the seal and the faster the pump pulls vacuum
- Material matters: Smooth plywood and MDF seal easily; rough-sawn lumber, open-grain wood, or heavily textured surfaces may require more pump capacity or multiple pods
- Safe release: Always break the vacuum seal (via Hub release valve or by turning off the pump) before attempting to remove your workpiece
Next Steps
- Maintenance: See SYS-GRP BenchGrip — Maintenance & Troubleshooting for gasket care and common issues
- Vacuum setup: See SYS-GRP Vacuum Source Options for pump recommendations and Grabo integration
- System integration: See SYS-FIT Hub Guide for centralized vacuum control across multiple pods
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