: You will find that the inexpensive saws
: have a screw down insert that leaves a gap between the saw blade and fence
: that is nearly as great as the strip width. My first WRC project was to
: cut a filler piece and epoxy it to the underside of the insert to close
: the gap. This is necessary to keep the strip from hanging, but also to
: keep the strip from being bent or twisted in the unsupported area.

You might want to just make an entire new insert from 1/8th inch hardboard and cut a slot in it. These "zero clearance" inserts are very nice when ripping thin strips as they prevent the problems you mention.

I worry about gluing an addition to the underside of your current insert. Most glues soften when they get warm. I have no idea how warm that area gets on your saw, but keep an eye on it. Should the glue weaken it is possible for the blade to rip that insert off. If that doesn't jam the saw , then it will be thrown about with great force. You don't want to get hit with this!

PGJ