SYS-GRP AnchorPod Troubleshooting – The Forge

Common issues, diagnostics, and solutions for vacuum workholding problems

AnchorPod Won't Hold

Workpiece doesn't hold or holds weakly even with vacuum applied.

Debris on surfaces

Check: Inspect work surface, gasket, and pod face for dust or chips

Solution: Clean all contact surfaces thoroughly

Surface porosity

Check: Is the work surface porous (unfinished plywood, particleboard)?

Solution: Use a sealed spoilboard or upgrade to AnchorPod Edition pods for better contact

Workpiece warping

Check: Place straightedge across workpiece to verify flatness

Solution: Flatten workpiece or add spacers to support high spots

Insufficient vacuum

Check: Listen for pump running; check gauge if available

Solution: Verify vacuum source is working properly; see Vacuum Sources for AnchorPod

Worn gasket

Check: Inspect gasket for permanent compression, cuts, or tears

Solution: Replace gasket

Dog hole damage

Check: Inspect dog hole for wear, oversizing, or damage

Solution: Repair work surface or use a different dog hole location

Workpiece Slipping During Operation

Workpiece shifts or rotates during cutting, routing, or sanding.

Insufficient pod count

Check: Are you using enough AnchorPods for the workpiece size?

Solution: Add more AnchorPods; see Multi-Pod Layouts: Positioning for Large Parts

Poor pod placement

Check: Are pods positioned to resist the cutting direction?

Solution: Triangulate pod layout for anti-racking stability

Excessive side-load

Check: Are you taking aggressive cuts or using high feed rates?

Solution: Reduce cutting depth and feed rate; take lighter passes

No mechanical stops

Check: Is there anything preventing rotation?

Solution: Add bench dogs, fences, or stops for anti-rotation

Contaminated surfaces

Check: Are surfaces clean and dry?

Solution: Wipe down all contact areas before clamping

Vacuum Underperforms

Vacuum gauge shows low pressure or pump runs continuously.

Clogged filters

Check: Inspect inline filter and pump filters

Solution: Clean or replace filters

Hose leaks

Check: Inspect vacuum hose for cuts, cracks, or damage

Solution: Replace damaged hose sections

Loose connections

Check: Verify all push-to-connect fittings are fully seated

Solution: Push fittings in firmly; replace o-rings if worn

Hose too long

Check: Measure hose length from pump to pod

Solution: Shorten hose or use higher-CFM pump for longer runs

Inadequate vacuum source

Check: Does your pump meet minimum vacuum requirements?

Solution: Upgrade to higher-capacity vacuum source; see Vacuum Sources for AnchorPod

Air Leaks (Audible Hissing)

You hear air leaking when vacuum is applied.

Poor gasket seal

Check: Is workpiece making full contact with gasket?

Solution: Verify flatness; add spacers if needed; check for debris

Damaged gasket

Check: Inspect gasket for cuts or tears

Solution: Replace gasket

Loose fitting

Check: Are push-to-connect fittings fully seated?

Solution: Reseat fittings; apply thread sealant if needed

Perforated surface

Check: Are there adjacent dog holes or perforations near the gasket?

Solution: Seal nearby holes or use a spoilboard; see AnchorPod Compatibility Guide

Dog hole seal failure

Check: Is the AnchorPod internal bolt tight?

Solution: Tighten internal M6 bolt with 4 mm hex or Argos

Gasket Not Sealing Properly

Gasket doesn't make consistent contact with workpiece.

Workpiece warping

Check: Verify workpiece flatness with straightedge

Solution: Flatten workpiece or add balancing spacers under high spots

Uneven surface

Check: Is the work surface itself flat?

Solution: Use a spoilboard or upgrade work surface

Compressed gasket

Check: Does gasket spring back when pressed?

Solution: Replace gasket if permanently compressed

Wrong gasket for application

Check: Are you using the correct gasket type?

Solution: Upgrade to AnchorPod Edition pods for better contact on challenging surfaces

Workpiece Moves When Vacuum Releases

Workpiece shifts position when you release the vacuum.

Sudden release

Check: Are you releasing vacuum too quickly?

Solution: Use inline valve or SYS-GRP Hub for controlled release

No support during release

Check: Are you supporting the workpiece while venting?

Solution: Hold workpiece with your hand as you release vacuum

Unbalanced workpiece

Check: Is workpiece cantilevered or unbalanced on the surface?

Solution: Support workpiece edges before releasing vacuum

Diagnostic Checklist

If you're experiencing holding issues, run through this checklist:

All contact surfaces are clean and dry

Gasket is in good condition (no cuts, tears, or permanent compression)

Workpiece is flat (no warping or cupping)

Vacuum source is running and producing adequate vacuum

All hose connections are tight and leak-free

Inline filter (if installed) is clean

Dog hole is in good condition (not worn or oversized)

Internal M6 bolt is tight (seals pod to dog hole)

Sufficient pod count for workpiece size

Pod layout resists the cutting direction

When to Contact Support

Contact FORG3D support if:

AnchorPod is damaged or defective

You've tried troubleshooting steps without success

You need replacement parts or warranty service

How to reach support:

Store contact form: forg3d.store

Order confirmation email

Include in your message:

Description of the problem

Troubleshooting steps you've already tried

Photos of setup (if relevant)

Order number (for warranty claims)

Next Steps

→ Need maintenance guidance? See AnchorPod Maintenance Guide

→ Questions about setup? See AnchorPod Setup: Installation Guide

→ Want best practices? See Best Practices: Working with AnchorPod