[Hamlin]

If you have the Oak Park raised panel system, then you needn't worry about depth setting. It's all done as you set in the fence for the cutter. If you don't have the system, then a regular fence will do.

 

[Hamlin]

Mike, check the compression pins that are in the fence, see if they've moved or the holes in the plates are slightly over round. If either case, that will not allow for proper depth of cut.

"The bit does have a height adjustment, it is set so the lowest cutter is 1/8" above the table. If this is not done all the geometry would be off. I picked up this information today from Rick."
Are we still talking about the depth of cut or the height or am I simply misunderstanding?

 

[Hamlin]

I've done some rereading here.... so I apologize if I came across wrong earlier.
Mike, I totally agree with proper setup procedures. (Thumbs up here)
Brian, I wonder if your friend is making sure things are clamped down securely and, am also wondering if perhaps chip buildup may be the cause? I know every once in awhile I'll catch myself trying to "hurry" up on a project, then I step back, take a breather.
I have yet to encounter any problems with my OP setup.