If you’re like most DIYers, then your Bosch reciprocating saw is one of your go-to tools. And like any other tool, it’s important to keep it in good condition by changing the brushes regularly.
In general, to change the brushes, remove the blade. Then, remove the two screws that hold the brush caps in place. After that, pull out the old brushes and insert the new ones. Finally, replace the brush caps and screw them back in place.
In this post, I’ll show you how to do just that. So read on for step-by-step instructions on how to change the brushes on a Bosch reciprocating saw.
Tools and materials you’ll need
- Bosch reciprocating saw (of course)
- 2mm hex key
- flathead screwdriver (if necessary)
How to Change the Brushes on a Bosch Reciprocating Saw:
Here are some steps to change the brushes:
1. Remove saw blade guard
By lifting up the upper part of the blade guard, then pulling outwards.
2. Locate brush housing cap
The housing cap is located under the blade guard. It’s secured by two screws, one on each side of the saw.
3. Remove cap
Using your screwdriver, if necessary, unscrew both retaining screws.
4. Pry off housing cover
Once the screws are removed, you’ll be able to remove the cover by prying it off.
5. Locate brush housing
The brushes are housed in the brass part of the tool, which is held down by two screws on either side.
6. Unscrew housing retaining screws
Remove both retaining screws before attempting to pull out the housing.
7. Remove old brushes
Carefully remove old brushes from the housing, then discard them.
8. Position new brushes
Before positioning any new brush, make sure that the end of the wire lead is touching the brass part of the housing. For added security, use a flathead screwdriver to hold down the rear of each brush as you push it into place. Ensure that both brushes are securely in place before moving on.
9. Replace brush housing
Before replacing the brush housing, make sure that the gasket is seated correctly in its groove. You don’t want to have to go back in for this again! As you slide the housing back into place, you might notice that the tool becomes harder to push and pull this is normal, as new brushes take a little while to wear in.
10. Replace cap and blade guard
Once the housing is back in place, lock it down with the retaining screws. Then, replace your saw’s blade guard and you’re good to go!
You might be interested in How To Disassemble A Reciprocating Saw
What are the benefits of changing the brushes on a reciprocating saw?
Now that you know how to change your Bosch reciprocating saw’s brushes, it’s time to think about the benefits of making this small but important upgrade. A new set of brushes can help improve tool performance and extend its lifespan, so it’s always worth looking into as an option.
As mentioned above, keeping your reciprocating saw in good condition means regularly replacing its worn-out parts. With this simple upgrade, you’ll be able to breathe new life into your Bosch reciprocating saw and see an increase in the lifespan of your tool!
How to remove the old brushes from the saw?
If you notice that your reciprocating saw is starting to lose power, it might be time to change its brushes. But first, here’s how to remove the old ones:
1. Remove the blade guard and cap as described in steps one and two of our guides above.
2. Using a screwdriver (if necessary), remove both screws holding the brush housing in place.
3. Unplug the power supply cord from your saw, and lay it down to one side you don’t want to trip over this.
4. With a small flathead screwdriver, pry off old brushes from the brass part of the tool that holds them in place. Repeat for the other side if necessary. Learn about How To Rotate Reciprocating Saw
5. Once you’ve removed both brushes, discard them and prepare your new ones according to my instructions above.
How to install new brushes in the saw?
In order to change your reciprocating saw’s brushes, you’ll first need to know how the old ones got in.
Follow these simple steps:
1. Ensure that your new Brushes are seated correctly the end of the wire lead should be touching the brass part of the housing. Use a flathead screwdriver if necessary to hold down the rear of each brush as you push it into place.
2. Ensure that both brushes are securely in place before moving on to the next step.
3. Replace the old gasket with your new one, ensuring that it’s seated correctly in its groove
4. Before replacing the brush housing, make sure to lock it down with the retaining screws.
5. Replace your saw’s blade guard and you’re good to go!
Tips for maintaining your reciprocating saw:
- Always wear safety gear including eye protection when using power tools.
- Make sure you have a secure grip on your saw before powering it on, to avoid personal injury.
- Use blades cut for the material you are working with so that they don’t fly off while in use.
- Keep an eye on your blade’s condition and install new ones as necessary.
- Don’t force or push too hard while cutting let the reciprocating saw do its job instead of straining yourself!
- Remember to unplug your saw when not in use, and always keep the power cord out of the reach of children. Learn here How To Oil Your Reciprocating Saw
Safety Precautions for Reciprocating Saw
- Keep your eye protection on at all times during operation.
- Make sure the blade housing is tightly closed to avoid dust particles flying around and contaminating your work area.
- Avoid using blades designed for other tools, as this can cause them to fly off while in use.
- Don’t be tempted to force or push too hard while cutting let the reciprocating saw do its job instead.
- Always shut down your tool before opening up the blade housing, and unplug it before changing blades.
- Keep the power cord away from the reach of children at all times.
- When not in use, keep your reciprocating saw stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Keep your reciprocating saw away from moisture and other foreign bodies to prevent corrosion.
- If you are cutting through any materials containing wires or connectors, make sure that the power supply is disconnected beforehand.
- Before beginning work on a new task, inspect your reciprocating saw to check for loose parts or damage to the blade housing.
- Always keep your power cord away from heated surfaces to avoid insulation damage, and never run it under carpets or across doorways.
- Use blades cut for the material you are working with using universal blades can cause them to fly off while in use.
- If your reciprocating saw is clogged with dust, debris, or other foreign bodies, it may lead to overheating and a shorter product lifespan. Learn here how to choose reciprocating saw blades
Conclusion
I have shown you how to change the brushes on a Bosch reciprocating saw. This is a very simple process that should only take a few minutes of your time.
I hope you found this tutorial helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them in the comment section below.