DeWalt is a trusted name in the industry when it comes to power tools such as single and compound miter saws.
Their equipment is highly durable, user-friendly, and also quite affordable. Hence, their tools are the tools of choice for many woodworkers out there.
Quick Summary
In this post, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how you can change the blade on a DeWalt compound miter saw with ease.
We’ll also list some safety precautions you should take.
So without further ado, let’s get started.
Some Safety Precautions
Before you get started with actually changing the blade on a DeWalt miter saw, it’s important to take some safety precautions.
These precautions will ensure that you have an easy time while changing the saw and that you stay safe during changing.
Some safety precautions you should take before you change a DeWalt Compound Miter Saw blade are:
- Before you handle the blade to change it, make sure to wear thick gloves so you don’t accidentally cut yourself.
- Be sure to wear safety goggles throughout the changing process.
- Make sure to take it slow during changes. Don’t rush the process as that can lead to improper fitting as well as injuries.
- Make sure to apply the appropriate amount of force when changing blades on the saw. If you apply too much, you could end up damaging the equipment.
- Go through the instruction manual thoroughly.
- If you feel you are running into too many issues and it could be unsafe for you to continue, seek the help of a professional.
Now that you’re aware of all the safety precautions you should take, let’s get started with the actual changing process for the blade of the DeWalt compound miter saw.
Changing the Blade on a DeWalt Compound Miter Saw (Step-by-Step Guide)
As you’ll find out in this section, it’s really not that difficult to change the blade on a DeWalt miter saw. Read through the entire process and then take your time while doing it yourself.
It’s crucial that you take it slow with the process if this is the first time you’re doing it.
Inspect everything thoroughly so that you get acquainted with the different components and parts of the miter saw.
Follow these steps to change the blade on your DeWalt compound miter saw:
Step 1: First of all, you should ensure the miter saw is unplugged. Even if the miter saw is not functional at the moment, it’s still a good idea to make sure it’s not plugged into a power socket.
You don’t want it to accidentally turn on while you attempt to change the blade. Hence, plug it out before you do anything else.
Step 2: Next, you need to adjust the blade guard so that it does not get in the way when you change the blade inside.
The blade guard protects your hands and fingers from the blade itself when the miter saw is operational.
To adjust the blade guard, identify the screws holding it in place first. You can find out the location of the screws by studying the blade guard or by reading through the instruction manual.
Once you’ve identified the locations of the screws for the blade guard, you can loosen them with either a screwdriver or a wrench.
After the screws have been loosened, you can lift the blade guard upwards with your hands in order to move it out of the way.
Step 3: After the blade guard has moved aside, you must find the spindle lock.
The spindle lock typically is located on the right side of the miter saw. It’ll be the case for you as well for most DeWalt miter saws.
After locating the spindle lock, push it with your fingers all the way down.
Step 4: Once the spindle lock is released, the only thing holding the blade in place will be the bolt cover.
Rotate the blade guard and look for the bolt cover that contains the screw that is holding the blade in place.
Once you find the bolt cover, you may need to remove the outer covering with a wrench depending on the model of the miter saw.
After removing the cover, use a regular screwdriver to unscrew the screw holding the old blade in place.
Once the screw has been removed, you can simply take the blade out of the miter saw itself. Make sure to use gloves during removal.
Now you have the space to add your new blade to the DeWalt compound miter saw.
Step 5: Hold the new blade and gently add it to the same spot the old one was removed from.
Adjust the blade inside the miter saw and move it around until the spindle lock locks into place. You will hear an audible click when the spindle lock is secured properly.
Next, add the screw back into the blade and use your screwdriver to securely lock it into place.
Make sure not to apply too much force when you tighten at this stage as that can damage both the screw as well as the blade itself.
Step 6: After securing the blade to the miter saw, you need to move the blade guard back into its proper place.
Adjust the blade guard so that it’s at its proper location so that your fingers are protected from the blade during operation.
Add the screws back and tighten them up.
Again, be cautious not to exert too much force at this stage as that can damage the blade guard and even the screws themselves.
After the blade guard is secured, you’re pretty much ready to go.
Step 7: Test out the miter saw to see if it’s functioning properly. Plug it in and gently press the trigger to start up the saw.
Gently increase the speed to ensure everything is working as it’s supposed to.
Wrapping Things Up…
That’s how to change the blade on a DeWalt compound miter saw.
Just be sure to take things slowly if this is your first time. You just have to find the right screws and make the change so ensure you work with the proper screw locations.
If you have any confusion regarding the process, feel reach out in the comments below.
Check out Tools Advisor Pro for more information on Dewalt miter saws.