How To Install A Blade On A Porter Cable Circular Saw?

When your circular blade goes dull, you need to replace it. But how do you go about installing a new one? In this guide, we’ll show you how to install a blade on a Porter Cable circular saw. We’ll also provide some tips on how to get the most out of your new blade. So, if you’re in need of a new blade or just want to learn more about installation, read on.

Steps to Install A Blade On A Porter Cable Circular Saw?

STEP 1: Preparing the Saw 

Before installing the new blade, make sure that the saw’s power is turned off and unplugged. Then remove the battery if your saw is cordless. This will ensure your safety during installation.

Next, you’ll want to remove the blade cover. If you have an orbital action saw that utilizes a dust bag, you will need to detach this first by releasing it from the hook on the top of the cover. Then simply place the dust bag to one side.

Once this is done, take your screwdriver and unscrew any screws holding the black blade cover in place. You may need an electrical or hex wrench for this step. Gently remove them so they do not fall into your saw’s insides (if there are no removable screws or bolts holding it down then skip this step).

Be careful when removing the blade guard as it has several interlocking components that can fall apart if not handled properly.

STEP 2: Removing the Old Blade 

Now that your old blade has been loosened, you can detach it by pulling on it until it comes out of the saw’s drive slot. If it is too tight to remove by hand, place a rag below its teeth and use pliers to pull it out of place. Then carefully lay your blade aside for re-use or disposal. You may need to oil any parts that are stuck before trying again.

Once the blade is removed, lift off any guards surrounding the motor housing (if applicable). These do not need to be removed unless they’re in the way of accessing something later on; some circular saws require them to be removed before re-installation.

Step 3: Installing the New Blade

Place your new blade in the drive slot and push it all the way to the back of your saw. You will hear it click into place. If you cannot find where to secure it, turn it over so that the teeth are facing down towards the table saw’s surface. Then pull down on them until they catch on a tooth below them. 

Check again to make sure they are secured properly by trying to lift them out of their home without applying pressure upwards or sideways (too much force can cause the blade to detach). Lower your guard if you have one covering your saw blade, then replace any protective guards that were previously removed during this process once you’re done.

STEP 4: Finishing Up 

Your new blade should now be inserted and secured (make sure it’s turned off before reassembling your saw). Replace the black blade cover on top of the saw, making sure all parts are interlocked before screwing them back in place. Replace any screws or bolts you had to remove with an electrical/hex wrench if necessary. 

If using a bag, attach this to your saw’s dust port by hooking it on first then pulling down its clamp until it attaches securely. Replacement is as simple as removing one screw to detach the old one and sliding the new one into place. Finally, replace the battery with cordless models after cleaning off any excess or grease present on the housing.

You’ve now finished installing a new blade on your circular saw. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the tension of the blade as well as its depth which can be done by turning a bolt or nut with an electrical/hex wrench at the front of the saw. 

1. Remove the old blade

Take your screwdriver and unscrew any screws holding the black blade cover in place. You may need an electrical or hex wrench for this step. Gently remove them so they do not fall into your saw’s insides (if there are no removable screws or bolts holding it down then skip to step 2).

Be careful when removing the blade guard as it has several interlocking components that can fall apart if not handled properly.

2. Install the new blade

Place your new blade in the drive slot and push it all the way to the back of your saw. You will hear it click into place. If you cannot find where to secure it, turn it over so that the teeth are facing down towards the table saw’s surface. Then pull down on them until they catch on a tooth below them.

Check again to make sure they are secured properly by trying to lift them out of their home without applying pressure upwards or sideways (too much force can cause the blade to detach). Lower your guard if you have one covering your saw blade, then replace any protective guards that were previously removed during this process once you’re done.

3. Tighten the screws

Your new blade should now be inserted and secured (make sure it’s turned off before reassembling your saw). Replace the black blade cover on top of the saw, making sure all parts are interlocked before screwing them back in place. Replace any screws or bolts you had to remove with an electrical/hex wrench if necessary. 

If using a bag, attach this to your saw’s dust port by hooking it on first then pulling down its clamp until it attaches securely. Replacement is as simple as removing one screw to detach the old one and sliding the new one into place. Finally, replace the battery with cordless models after cleaning off any excess or grease present on the housing.

4. Test the saw

You’ve now finished installing a new blade on your circular saw. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the tension of the blade as well as its depth which can be done by turning a bolt or nut with an electrical/hex wrench at the front of the saw. 

Tools:

  • Blade wrench (it’s the same tool that comes with most new circular saws)
  • A rag for cleaning off excess grease or dust on your saw.

Materials: Light lubricating oil (you can use WD-40)

A video guide on how to install a porter cable circular saw

Conclusion:

So there you have it! You are now ready to install a blade on your Porter Cable circular saw. Remember to always read the manufacturer’s instructions, and be sure to use caution when using any power tool. With a little practice, you will be able to change blades like a pro. Have fun with your new skills, and be safe while using them!