There comes a time when you’ll need to change the blade on your craftsman table saw. It might be because the old one is dull and no longer cutting cleanly, or maybe you’re just wanting to upgrade to a new blade for better results. In any case, it’s important that you know how to do it properly so that you don’t injure yourself in the process. Here’s a quick guide on how to safely and easily change your table saw blade.
Materials:
Here is a list of materials you will need to change your blade: –
- Craftsman table saw
- Hex wrench (about 5/32″) –
- New blade
Here are some important steps:
Prepare the Blade and Table Saw
Before you do anything, make sure the power cord on your table saw is disconnected! When it’s off, you can then proceed to remove the old blade. While on some models it is easy enough to use pliers and a straight edge, on many other models there are quick-release mechanisms that must first be properly engaged before you can remove your blade. Read more here How to change blade on ridgid table saw
So before you do anything else, make sure the saw is turned off and unplugged! This is a very important safety step.
Loosen the Blade and Remove it from the Table Saw
Now, you can slowly turn on your table saw and begin loosening the blade with the hex wrench that came with it (usually about 5/32″). Make sure not to tighten or loosen too quickly, as this might cause damage to the saw itself. Once the blade is no longer tight, slowly turn off your table saw again and remove it with your hands.
Cleaning Up
You can now wipe down your table saw’s metal frame so that there are no loose materials for you to accidentally cut yourself on while installing the new blade! You may also choose to blow off any excess sawdust that may have accumulated on your frame over time.
Installing the New Blade
Now, take off the old blade and set it aside. You’re now ready to transfer the new blade onto your table saw! This is where you’ll need that hex wrench from before, but if you don’t have it then make sure to use the proper replacement tool for your specific table saw.
Make sure that the new blade is seated properly with the pinion gears by turning it on and slowly lowering it into position. Once everything seems to be in order, you can now turn off your table saw again and plug in the power cord.
Test Cutting
Now that you’ve inserted your new blade into your table saw, it’s time to test out its capabilities! Carefully hold a piece of wood against the fence and slowly lower it into contact with the blade. Make sure not to just drop or throw the board onto the blade, as this might result in injury. Read more here How to change a table saw blade.
Once everything seems to be in order, you can now turn off your table saw again and plug in the power cord. Congratulations! You should have a new blade installed for your table saw, hopefully, one that will last you a long time to come!
Tips and warnings:
- Make sure that the power cord to your table saw is disconnected whenever you’re fixing or replacing anything on it.
- If at any point during the changing process you notice unusual resistance, turn off your saw immediately and contact an expert! You may have very well installed something incorrectly, or there may be another problem with the equipment.
- When sawing, always keep your hands away from the blade. If you happen to bump into it with even the smallest amount of force, it might send your hand flying toward the saw and cause injury!
- Make sure that most of your body parts are behind the table saw before turning it on. This will help prevent injury should something go wrong.
- Take your time and stay patient. Don’t try to rush or force anything, as this might result in an injury like the one mentioned before.
- Use an appropriate hex wrench (if you don’t have one, make sure to ask for help before proceeding). If you end up using a tool that is either too large or has the wrong type of socket, then it might scratch/damage your blade and table saw inside. Read more here How to change a roybi table saw blade.
- Find your table saw’s owner’s manual before attempting to install or change its blade. It should have instructions that are specific to your model, which you should carefully follow for the sake of safety.
- If at any point during the changing process you notice unusual resistance, turn off your saw immediately and contact an expert! You may have very well installed something incorrectly, or there may be another problem with the equipment.
- When replacing a blade on a table saw, make sure to only use one made specifically for that model. If it is not custom-made for this type of machine then the results might not be what you’re hoping for!
- When using your table saw, always wear proper protective gear such as gloves and safety goggles/glasses. Although this might not prevent injury entirely, it can help in most cases and is recommended by experts in the field of work.
- When sawing, always keep your hands away from the blade. If you happen to bump into it with even the smallest amount of force, it might send your hand flying toward the saw and cause injury!
- Make sure that most of your body parts are behind the table saw before turning it on. This will help prevent injury should something go wrong.
- Take your time and stay patient. Don’t try to rush or force anything, as this might result in an injury like the one mentioned before.
Final Thoughts
The blade can be changed by unscrewing the nut that holds it in place, then pulling the old one out. A new blade is slid into position and screwed back down until tight to secure it. Make sure not to overtighten or you could risk damaging your table saw’s motor. You should also check for any loose pieces before using your table saw again after changing blades so they don’t get caught up in the spinning of the blade.
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