Circular saw blades are arguably the most reliable and versatile saw in the market today. One of the things that makes them attractive to most workshop owners is that they are easy to install, making their maintenance easy for its users.
Sharp saw blades make clean cuts but with time they become dull, and when this happens, they start to cut slowly and might even harm the motor. Luckily, it is possible to install a new or sharpened blade in just a few minutes.
Here are tips on how to install a circular saw blade-
Get the right blade
Circular saws come in various types and various sizes of blades. There are cross-cut, rip cut, combination, framing blades, and other types of saw blades. With that in mind, always make sure you get the one that meets your cutting needs. Size is also essential, and so you need to make sure you check the current blade to make sure you use the ideal one. In general, the blade’s size is written on the blade, and you can see if it’s 7 and a quarter-inch, 10 inches or any other size.
Another thing that you need to consider when getting a blade is an arrow on the blade to know where the blade should face during the installation process. This is important since a blade facing the wrong way is very dangerous.
Bottom-line
The right blade means the right cuts! As long as you have the right blade, you are sure to get clean and safe cuts.
Take safety precautions
Before installing the blade, makes sure you first switch off the source powering the blade and then unplug it from the wall socket. You don’t want to power up the saw during the installation process accidentally.
Also, leave it for some minutes, to make sure that the entire power drains from the machine. After unplugging the machine, it is good to wear protective gloves and goggles to avoid harming your eyes or hands.
Bottom-line
Saw blades are very dangerous if not handled with care. While Accidental blade turning can even chop off your fingers, dirt and dust can find their way into your eyes if you are not careful. With the right safety measures, you will cut your materials safely and confidently.
Getting started
Many circular saws come with Allen type wrench incorporated on their body which is essential when installing the blade or when making other adjustments. Make sure you find this wrench!
If by any chance the blade you intend to install doesn’t come with directional markers, look at the direction of the teeth to make sure they are facing on the saw. They should face forward!
Bottom-line
Make sure you find an arbor lock also known as the brake button and is usually found on the top of your saw but is good to check on the user manual just for certainty. Engage the lock and spin the blade to make sure that it is locked to its right place before you go ahead.
Removing the older blade
With the blade locked, loosen or remove the arbor nut with the use of a wrench. To correctly loosen it, turn it to the blade’s teeth direction. Once you remove it, place it aside.
Bottom-line
You cannot install a blade before removing an older blade. That is why you need first to remove it to create room for another one. Unless your circular saw is new and came with no blade on it.
Installing the new blade
To successfully install the blade, lay it over the spindle with the arrow or teeth pointing forward. After that, put back the vibration collar in its rightful place and then tighten the screw by hand. Return the guard to its original position.
After that release an arbor lock or the brake to make sure the blade is loose and spins easily. With the use of a wrench, complete the tightening process to lock screw, making it snug and not too tight so that it will be possible to remove it next time.
Bottom-line
Once you install the saw blade, you are now able to try cutting some wood to see if the machine is working perfectly fine. After that, you can get down to work with your circular saw.
It’s easier to work on any project, as long as you have a sharp and fully working saw blade. Now that you know how to install circular saw blade, it’s now time to explore various project possibilities and install various blades available for circular saw blades.
