Blades are the most important part of circular saws. A nice sharp blade can work wonders when it comes to woodworking. On the other hand, a rough blade can create several problems.
We understand that changing the blade of your circular saw blade might sound intimidating, however, it doesn’t have to be.
Follow the steps given in this guide so that you can safely change the blade on your circular saw.
Quick Summary
By the end of this guide, we will go through
- How to change the blade on a circular saw
- Safety tips
- Benefits of a fresh blade
Without further ado, let’s get into it.
How to Change Blade on Circular Saw?
We will explain in multiple steps how you can change a circular saw blade. You need to follow each step carefully to avoid any technical problems.
Step 1
The first and foremost step is to unplug any source of power your saw is connected to.
There are corded circular saws and cordless circular saws.
For corded circular saws, you can simply just remove the AC input cord and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
This will remove any static current from the saw and you’ll be able to remove the saw blade easily.
For cordless circular saws, you need to remove the battery from your saw. The battery is usually located on the right-hand side of cordless circular saws.
If you are facing difficulties, read the circular saw manual on how to remove the battery.
This step is quite crucial to keep yourself safe from any hazards. It will make sure to keep the blade in place and avoid any spinning movements while you are working on it.
Step 2
The next step is to find the blade wrench. A lot of circular saws come with their own blade wrench located at the bottom-center area.
It is usually fixed inside the blade guard for easy access. Locate it and simply pull it out.
It is important to note that the blade wrench is only available for a corded circular saw.
How to locate the wrench if I have a cordless circular saw?
For cordless circular saws, you’ll be provided an Allen wrench by the company. In most cases, it is colored red and located on the middle part of the circular saw.
Step 3
Now, you have to safely unscrew the blade. But before you do that, there are two things to keep in mind.
- Place your saw horizontally on a stable surface.
- Engage the safety lock located on the right-hand side of the blade guard.
These two safety precautions can help you keep the center of the blade from moving.
Why do I need a horizontal surface?
The horizontal surface will allow you to hold the blade properly without a lot of movement. Besides that, it will keep the blade from falling down once you completely remove the bolt.
How to unscrew the blade?
In order to remove the old blade of your saw, you will have to loosen up the nut bolt located in the middle. Use the tools with your saw for an effective replacement.
Once you loosen the nut bolt, grab the blade and remove the bolt from the shaft. You will notice that the old blade has a nut bolt and a washer with it. Safely put them away.
Step 4
Now it is time to clean your saw. Over time, the blade guard can gather a lot of dust and wood splinters. In some cases, this can hinder your blade’s proper rotation.
It can make your blade dull and damage the teeth of your blades. To make sure this doesn’t happen, you have to thoroughly clean the blade guard with an anti-dust material.
Do I need to clean the shaft?
Yes, it is absolutely necessary that you pay close attention to the lock button, the shaft, and the washer as well.
Since these are the things that keep saw blades in their proper place and keep their direction straight. It is especially important to check that your washer is up to the task.
Do I need to use oil for these components?
You need to use oil only for the shaft hole and your washer/nut bolt. Be sure to check if the shaft hasn’t worn out due to use.
In order to oil your components, slowly apply a small amount around the shaft. Use a metal brush to apply it clockwise and counterclockwise.
Once you do that, let the saw sit for a couple of moments before you replace the blade.
Step 5
The next step of the procedure includes mounting the new blade properly on the shaft hole. Before you install the blade, place your tools horizontally on a table.
After that, insert your blade over the motor shaft and press it. Make sure that the arrow on the blade aligns properly with the direction of your motor rotation.
Why is it important to align the blade?
If you don’t align the blade’s arrow direction with your motor, it will not run properly. It can also cause a total breakdown and cost extra money to fix it.
Step 6
Once you have made sure that the arrow is aligned with the motor, it is time to tightly screw your nut bolt and washer.
Gently place the washer first and then screw the nut with your hand. After you install the bolt, use your wrench to tighten the saw blade. Make sure to press it gently so you don’t damage the blade.
Keep doing it until your nut doesn’t tighten any further. This is the optimal grip your need between your blades and the screw.
What happens if I tighten the screw too much?
If you force the screw to tighten up more than it should be, it will interfere with the supposed movement of the blade.
It is a general rule to tighten the screws to the point where you have to apply extra force.
Especially if you are using a washer for your blades.
Step 7
After you insert the blade and tighten it up, the next step is to make sure that your blade’s rotation is smooth and unobstructed.
How do I make sure that my circular saw blade will spin smoothly?
In order to do that, place your circular saw in a vertical orientation on your table and try to give it multiple rotations with your hand.
It is important to note that the power cable of your circular saw is not plugged in and you are wearing protective gloves.
How do I know that my circular saw blade is spinning smoothly?
Your circular saw blade should spin even if you apply a small force. This would indicate that your blade has no issues with rotation.
This is all you need to know when it comes to changing a blade on a circular saw.
Let’s take a look at some of the other things you need to keep in mind when you change a circular saw blade.
Safety Measures
Even though it is pretty simple to change a circular saw blade. You still need to keep yourself safe from any possible hazard.
Following is a list of safety precautions you need to follow:
- Always wear protective gear. The protective gear includes a mask, safety goggles, and a pair of hardened gloves. It will keep you from cutting your fingers from the blade tips.
- Do not remove the blade until you’ve placed it in your circular saw. This will keep you safe and your saw blades from getting dull due to external factors.
- Always use lubricant for the center of the blade. Once you change the blade, the old lubricant will serve no purpose and can hinder your blade’s proper movement.
- In order to change a circular saw blade, you need to follow the manual. Each circular saw blade has a unique method to install a new blade.
- You should always hold the blade firmly and make sure that the lock button is pressed down.
- Always pay attention to the arrow markings on your new blade. Saw blades come with their own markings which indicate their rotation.
- You need to properly dispose of your old blade. It might cost you an extra amount of money but it is better than just throwing it away.
- Once you replace your blade, make sure that you tighten the blade properly. It is a good practice to loosen it a couple of times before you firmly tighten it.
- Keep your saw wrench safe. It is designed to work with saw blade material. A third-party wrench can sometimes damage your blade.
- Follow the proper procedure step-by-step to avoid any technical issues. It will save you time and the headache of consulting a professional.
- Avoid pressing your blade against the upper shaft. Keep a firm hold and gently place it between the shaft when you replace your blade.
Final Thoughts
We hope that this article helps you to change a circular saw blade with ease. We have explained everything thoroughly for your convenience.
This sort of information can go a long way in times of an emergency. Moreover, it saves you the headache of going back and forth to the workshop. It will not only save you time but also enhance your working skills with the saw.
Do let us know if we missed anything about changing a circular saw blade.