Circular saws are effective tools used by carpenters and cabinet makers when making specific cuts on wood and furniture. The blade of the saw is round with razor-sharp metal teeth.
In case your circular saw has lost its effectiveness and the results are no longer acceptable, then there is a chance that the blade of your saw is either damaged or gone dull.
If this is the case, then you need to change the blade on your circular saw. Stick around and learn the proper way of changing the blade on your Skilsaw Circular saw.
Quick Summary
The following information will be discussed in the article:
- How to change the blade on your Skilsaw circular saw
- Things to look for when buying a new circular saw blade
- Tips to make your circular saw blade last longer
How to Change the Blade on Skilsaw Circular Saw?
The process to change a blade on the Skilsaw circular saw is pretty simple and requires only a few minutes.
The following procedure is very safe and is tried by our team multiple times for more authenticity.
Quick steps to change a blade on the Skilsaw circular saw:
- Unplug the saw
- Press the red blade lock button on the saw
- Lift the safety blade guard and remove the blade
- From the center of the old blade remove the retaining bold using a ¾ inch wrench
- Place the new blade on the saw
- Replace the retaining bolt with a blade wrench to lock the new blade into position
Step by step guide on how to change a blade on the Skilsaw circular saw:
Step 1
The first step requires you to remove the circular saw from any power source. If the Skilsaw circular saw is battery powered then it is recommended to remove the batteries from the circular saw.
Step 2
Then for the second step, you have to press the blade lock button on your circular saw.
To engage this locking mechanism rotate the blade of the saw until it stops spinning. Put the circular Skilsaw on a wooden surface and press the arbor lock button.
Step 3
Then use a wrench to remove the arbor nut that is holding the blade. Turn the circular saw blade in the direction the blade rotates to loosen the nut.
Make sure to press the arbor lock button when unscrewing the nut. After you are done with these steps the blade guard should be retracted to remove the old blade on the circular saw.
Step 4
On the saw’s arbor place the new blade. Make sure that the teeth of the circular saw blade are facing in the correct direction. If you are unable to determine the right direction you can take the help of the arrow engraved on the blade.
It is advised to do this laying on two pieces of wood. The center should be hanging between these two pieces of wood. Then using a hammer punch out the arbor.
Step 5
Then finally, use a blade wrench to tighten the arbor nut once it is replaced.
Please ensure that you tighten the nut with the blade wrench until it fits properly.
Pro tip: Avoid over-tightening it as you can face difficulties when changing the blade the next time.
Now put the blade guard in place and plug your Skilsaw circular saw back into a power source or place the batteries back inside if you are using a battery-powered saw.
Make some test cuts and your saw is ready for use.
Things to Look for When Buying a New Blade for Circular Saw
You need to understand the dimensions before you change the old blade of your circular saw.
The most important dimension you need to consider is the diameter of the blade. This is measured from one side of the circular saw blade to the center of the blade.
Moreover, you need to understand the bolt size of your saw.
Arbor Diameter
The slot that is in the center of the circular saw blade has to fit in the shaft. This measurement is very important that one must check before buying the blade. You can check the size of the arbor from the corner of your blade.
If the size is not printed on the blade then either measure it yourself or take it to the shop with you.
Size of the Blade
The size of the circular saw blade is also printed on the circular saw. This makes it easier for you to buy the correct size for your saw.
If you are unable to see the print on the saw or it has faded away, you can remove the blade using the steps mentioned above and then measure it manually.
Once the correct size is determined then you can purchase the new one and put the blade in place.
RPM
RPM stands for revolutions per minute. It is very important to understand the RPM of the new circular saw blade so it does not exceed that of the saw. The package of each blade has the RMP written on it.
The electric motors in non-geared saws run from 1,725 RPM or 3,450 RPM. On the other hand, the worm handheld drive circular saws run from 4,000 to 5,000 RPM.
Tips to make Blades Last Longer
If you want your saw blade to give satisfactory results and stay sharp for a long time then you need to take proper care of it.
You need to make sure that the blade is clean and is lubricated often for better performance.
Lubricate the Blade
Lubrication on a blade is not necessary but is highly recommended for a smooth rotation that produces accurate cuts.
Proper lubrication reduces the friction between the blade and the material and there is less stress on the blade now.
Important: Failing to do the steps mentioned above can cause a heat build-up or even the material getting stuck in the blade.
Cleaning the Blade
It is essential to clean your blade properly before you use it. A dirty saw will require more power to make the same cuts and the quality of these cuts will be highly poor as well.
By doing proper cleaning you can prevent resin and pitch build-up on your circular saw blade.
Most people use a citrus cleaner which can damage the tip of the saw blade.
We recommended that you use a concentrated cleaner that is biodegradable and non-toxic.
Note: To remove the extra dirt in the corners and center of the blade use a toothbrush.
Using the Right Blade
You need to understand that each blade is designed for a specific material only. A blade designed to cut wood will not cut metal the same way. Moreover, you will have to resharpen the blade more often which could cost you additional charges.
Before buying a blade check the material you have to cut. When shifting from one material to another remove the old blade and put the new blade in place
Letting the Blade do its Work
If you force a blade not only will it decrease its life but also give you poor results. Before working on a material check the force required to cut.
Applying extra pressure will only add stress to the blade and damage it. For better outcomes let the blade do its work and use it with materials it is designed for.
Wrapping Things Up
We hope that you have now learned the way of changing the blade on your Skilsaw circular saw. This is the safest way and saves you a lot of time.
In addition to this, you have also learned what to check for when planning to buy a new blade for your saw.
We hope the information we provided was helpful. Let us know if you have any further questions.