How to Change Blade On Dewalt Miter Saw: Easy Step-by-Step

Yes, you can change the blade on your DeWalt miter saw! This guide provides easy-to-follow instructions for Dewalt miter saw blade replacement so you can safely and efficiently install a new blade.

Changing the blade on your DeWalt miter saw is a necessary maintenance task. Whether your current blade is dull or you need a different blade for a specific project, knowing how to safely and properly swap it out is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently perform a Dewalt miter saw blade change.

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Safety First: Preparing for Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Replacement

Safety should always be your top priority when working with power tools. Before beginning any Dewalt miter saw blade change steps, take these precautions:

• Disconnect the Power: Always unplug the miter saw from the power outlet. This prevents accidental starts while you’re working on it.
• Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris that might fly off during the blade removal or installation process.
• Wear Gloves: Gloves will improve your grip and protect your hands from sharp blade edges.
• Read the Manual: Refer to your DeWalt miter saw’s manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines relevant to your model. Different models may have slight variations in the blade changing process.
• Clear the Work Area: Ensure your workspace is clean and free of obstructions. This will give you enough room to maneuver and avoid accidents.

Tools Needed for Replacing Miter Saw Blade Dewalt

Before you start, gather these tools:

• New Miter Saw Blade: Choose the right blade for your project. Consider the material you’ll be cutting (wood, metal, plastic) and the desired cut quality (fine, rough).
• Miter Saw Blade Wrench: This wrench is specifically designed for loosening and tightening the arbor bolt that holds the blade in place. The Dewalt miter saw blade wrench size often ranges from 13mm to 22mm, but refer to your saw’s manual to know for sure.
• Optional: Block of Wood: A small block of wood can be helpful for securing the blade during removal and installation.
• Optional: Work Gloves: Offers additional hand protection

Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Removal: Step-by-Step

Once you have prepared your workspace and gathered the necessary tools, follow these steps for Dewalt miter saw blade removal:

Step 1: Locate the Arbor Bolt

The arbor bolt is located in the center of the blade, holding it securely in place. You’ll need to access it to remove the blade.

Step 2: Engage the Arbor Lock

Most DeWalt miter saws have an arbor lock button or lever. Press and hold the arbor lock. This will prevent the blade from rotating, making it easier to loosen the arbor bolt. You might need to rotate the blade slightly until the arbor lock engages completely.

Step 3: Loosen the Arbor Bolt

• Important: The direction to loosen the arbor bolt can vary depending on your miter saw model. Check your manual! Some saws have a standard right-hand thread (loosen counter-clockwise), while others have a left-hand thread (loosen clockwise).
• Use the miter saw blade wrench to loosen the arbor bolt. Apply firm, steady pressure. You might need to use a little force to break the initial tightness.
• If the blade rotates while you’re trying to loosen the bolt, make sure the arbor lock is fully engaged.

Step 4: Remove the Arbor Bolt, Washer, and Outer Flange

Once the arbor bolt is loose, fully unscrew it. Remove the bolt, along with any washers or outer flanges. Keep these parts together in a safe place, as you’ll need them for the new blade.

Step 5: Remove the Old Blade

Carefully remove the old blade from the saw. Be mindful of the blade’s teeth, as they can be sharp.

Installing New Blade Dewalt Miter Saw: A Simple Guide

Now that the old blade is removed, you can install the new one. Follow these steps for proper Dewalt miter saw blade installation:

Step 1: Clean the Flanges

Before installing the new blade, inspect and clean the inner and outer flanges. Remove any sawdust or debris that might interfere with proper blade seating.

Step 2: Position the New Blade

Place the new blade onto the arbor, ensuring it sits flush against the inner flange. Important: Pay attention to the blade’s rotation direction arrow. The arrow on the blade should match the direction of rotation indicated on the saw’s housing or blade guard. Installing the blade backward will result in poor cutting performance and potential safety hazards.

Step 3: Reinstall the Outer Flange, Washer, and Arbor Bolt

Place the outer flange, washer (if applicable), and arbor bolt back onto the arbor in the correct order. Make sure the flange is seated correctly and flush against the blade.

Step 4: Tighten the Arbor Bolt

• Engage the arbor lock again.
• Use the miter saw blade wrench to tighten the arbor bolt. Tighten it firmly, but avoid overtightening. Refer to your saw’s manual for the recommended torque specification.
• A good rule of thumb is to tighten it snug, then give it a final, firm tightening.

Step 5: Verify Blade Rotation

Before plugging the saw back in, manually rotate the blade (with the arbor lock disengaged) to ensure it spins freely and doesn’t rub against any parts of the saw.

Step 6: Test the Saw

Plug the saw back in and perform a few test cuts on scrap wood to ensure the new blade is properly installed and cutting correctly.

Changing Blade Dewalt Compound Miter Saw: Specific Considerations

The steps outlined above generally apply to most DeWalt miter saws, including compound miter saws. However, here are a few specific considerations for changing blade Dewalt compound miter saw:

• Bevel and Miter Settings: Ensure the saw is set to 0 degrees bevel and 0 degrees miter before changing the blade. This will provide a stable platform and prevent accidental movement.
• Blade Guard: The blade guard on a compound miter saw may require you to retract it manually to access the blade. Familiarize yourself with the blade guard mechanism before starting.

Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Installation Guide: Additional Tips

• Blade Compatibility: Always use a blade that is the correct size and arbor hole diameter for your DeWalt miter saw. Using an incompatible blade can be dangerous and damage the saw.
• Blade Type: Choose the appropriate blade for the material you’ll be cutting. Different blades are designed for wood, metal, plastic, and other materials. Using the wrong blade can result in poor cuts, blade damage, or safety hazards.
• Sharpness: Regularly inspect your miter saw blade for sharpness. A dull blade can cause splintering, tear-out, and increased cutting time. Replace the blade when it becomes dull.
• Storage: Store your miter saw blades in a safe and dry place to prevent rust and damage. Use a blade case or wrap the blade in cloth or paper.
• Disposal: Dispose of old miter saw blades properly. Wrap them securely to prevent injury and dispose of them in a designated metal recycling container.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues During Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Change

Here are some common issues you might encounter during a DeWalt miter saw blade change and how to resolve them:

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Arbor bolt won’t loosen	Arbor lock not fully engaged, wrong thread direction, bolt is too tight	Ensure the arbor lock is fully engaged. Double-check your saw’s manual for the correct thread direction. Use a longer wrench for more leverage, but be careful not to damage the bolt.
New blade doesn’t fit on the arbor	Wrong blade size or arbor hole diameter	Verify that the new blade is the correct size and has the appropriate arbor hole diameter for your saw.
Blade vibrates or wobbles during cutting	Blade not seated correctly, flanges are dirty, bent arbor	Ensure the blade is seated flush against the flanges. Clean the flanges thoroughly. Inspect the arbor for damage.
Saw cuts poorly after blade change	Blade installed backward, wrong blade type, dull blade	Verify the blade’s rotation direction. Choose the appropriate blade for the material you’re cutting. Ensure the new blade is sharp.

Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Wrench Size: Find the Right Fit

Identifying the correct Dewalt miter saw blade wrench size is vital for a smooth blade change. The size can vary depending on the specific model of your miter saw. To determine the correct size, follow these steps:

• Consult Your Owner’s Manual: This is the most reliable source of information. The manual should specify the exact wrench size needed for your saw.
• Check the Arbor Bolt: Examine the arbor bolt directly. Sometimes, the size is stamped on the bolt itself.
• Trial and Error (Carefully): If you can’t find the information elsewhere, carefully try different wrench sizes until you find one that fits snugly on the arbor bolt without slipping.

Keep in mind that forcing an ill-fitting wrench can damage the arbor bolt, making future blade changes more difficult. Using the correct Dewalt miter saw blade wrench size prevents damage and ensures a safe and effective blade replacement.

FAQ: Answering Your Questions about Miter Saw Blade Changes

• How often should I change my miter saw blade? The frequency depends on how often you use the saw and the materials you cut. Replace the blade when it becomes dull or damaged.
• Can I use any miter saw blade on my DeWalt saw? No. Make sure the blade is the correct size and has the appropriate arbor hole diameter.
• What type of blade should I use for cutting aluminum? Use a non-ferrous metal cutting blade specifically designed for aluminum. These blades have a different tooth geometry and are made from materials that can withstand the heat generated when cutting metal.
• What is the best way to store my miter saw blades? Store them in a dry place, protected from moisture and impact. Using blade cases or wrapping them in cloth or paper is recommended.
• What do I do if the arbor bolt is stuck? Try using a longer wrench for more leverage. You can also try applying penetrating oil to the bolt to help loosen it. If it’s still stuck, consult a qualified repair technician.
• Is it normal for the blade to spark when cutting metal? Yes, sparking is normal when cutting metal with a miter saw. However, make sure you are using a blade specifically designed for cutting metal to avoid damage to the saw or blade.
• How important is it to match the blade rotation direction to the saw’s direction? It is extremely important. Installing the blade backward can be dangerous and result in poor cutting performance, kickback, and potential damage to the saw.

By following these steps and tips, you can confidently and safely perform a Dewalt miter saw blade change. Remember to prioritize safety, consult your saw’s manual, and use the correct tools and blades for the job.