How To Change A Blade On Dewalt Miter Saw: The Ultimate Guide

Changing the blade on your Dewalt miter saw is essential for optimal performance and safety. Yes, you can change the blade on a Dewalt miter saw yourself! This guide provides detailed miter saw blade change instructions, covering everything from Dewalt miter saw blade removal to Dewalt miter saw blade installation. You’ll learn the best way to change miter saw blade Dewalt saws.

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Essential Tools and Safety Measures

Before starting your Dewalt miter saw blade replacement, gather the necessary tools and prioritize safety.

Tools You’ll Need

• New Miter Saw Blade: Choose a blade appropriate for the material you’ll be cutting (wood, metal, etc.).
• Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Wrench: This wrench is usually included with your saw. If you’ve lost it, check the saw’s manual or Dewalt’s website for the correct size.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp blade edges.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris.
• Cleaning Brush: To remove sawdust and debris.
• Soft Cloth: For wiping down the saw and blade.
• Optional: Blade Stabilizer: Helps reduce vibration and improve cut quality.

Prioritizing Safety

• Disconnect the Power: Always unplug the miter saw from the power outlet before any maintenance or blade changes.
• Wear Safety Gear: Gloves and safety glasses are a must.
• Read the Manual: Refer to your Dewalt miter saw’s manual for specific safety instructions.
• Secure the Work Area: Ensure the area is well-lit and free from obstructions.
• Be Mindful: Stay focused and avoid distractions while working on the saw.

Step-by-Step Guide: Changing Your Dewalt Miter Saw Blade

Follow these steps for successful changing saw blade on Dewalt miter saws:

Step 1: Preparation and Securing the Saw

1. Unplug the Saw: This is the most crucial safety step.
2. Position the Saw: Place the miter saw on a stable surface with enough clearance to work comfortably.
3. Engage the Spindle Lock: Locate the spindle lock button (it’s usually near the blade). Press and hold it. This will prevent the blade from rotating while you loosen the arbor bolt. You might need to slightly rotate the blade until the spindle lock engages fully.

Step 2: Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Removal

1. Locate the Arbor Bolt: This is the bolt that holds the blade in place. It’s usually in the center of the blade.
2. Determine the Bolt’s Direction: On most Dewalt miter saws, you’ll need to turn the bolt clockwise to loosen it. This is because Dewalt uses a left-handed thread on the arbor bolt to prevent it from loosening during operation. Consult your saw’s manual to be absolutely sure about the correct direction.
3. Loosen the Arbor Bolt: While holding the spindle lock button, use the Dewalt miter saw blade wrench to loosen the arbor bolt. It might require some force initially.
4. Remove the Arbor Bolt, Washer, and Outer Flange: Once the bolt is loose, completely remove it along with the washer and the outer flange (the metal disc that sits between the bolt and the blade). Keep these parts in a safe place, as you’ll need them for reassembly.
5. Raise the Blade Guard: Carefully lift the Dewalt miter saw blade guard removal. Some guards lift easily; others require a specific motion. Refer to your saw’s manual.
6. Remove the Old Blade: Carefully slide the old blade off the arbor. Be cautious of the blade’s teeth, as they can be very sharp.

Step 3: Cleaning and Inspection

1. Clean the Arbor and Flanges: Use a cleaning brush and a soft cloth to remove any sawdust or debris from the arbor (the shaft the blade mounts on), the inner and outer flanges, and the arbor bolt.
2. Inspect the Flanges: Check the flanges for any signs of damage or wear. Damaged flanges can cause the blade to wobble, leading to inaccurate cuts and potential safety hazards.
3. Inspect the Blade Guard: Ensure the blade guard moves freely and is not damaged.

Step 4: Dewalt Miter Saw Blade Installation

1. Mount the New Blade: Carefully slide the new blade onto the arbor, ensuring it’s seated correctly against the inner flange. Pay close attention to the blade’s rotation direction. There should be an arrow on the blade indicating the correct direction. This arrow must match the arrow or symbol on the saw’s blade guard or motor housing. Incorrect installation can be extremely dangerous.
2. Reinstall the Outer Flange, Washer, and Arbor Bolt: Place the outer flange against the blade, followed by the washer and the arbor bolt.
3. Tighten the Arbor Bolt: While holding the spindle lock button, use the Dewalt miter saw blade wrench to tighten the arbor bolt. Remember to tighten it in the opposite direction you loosened it (usually counter-clockwise). Tighten it securely, but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the bolt or the saw.
4. Release the Spindle Lock: Release the spindle lock button.
5. Test the Blade: Manually rotate the blade to ensure it spins freely and doesn’t wobble.
6. Lower the Blade Guard: Ensure the blade guard moves freely and covers the blade properly.

Step 5: Final Checks and Power Up

1. Double-Check All Connections: Make sure the arbor bolt is tightened securely and all parts are in place.
2. Inspect the Blade Guard: Verify that the blade guard functions correctly.
3. Plug in the Saw: Connect the miter saw to the power outlet.
4. Test the Saw: Perform a few test cuts on scrap material to ensure the new blade is cutting accurately and smoothly.

Choosing the Right Blade: A Detailed Guide

Selecting the right blade is crucial for achieving optimal cutting performance and prolonging the life of your Dewalt miter saw. Here’s what to consider:

Blade Diameter and Arbor Size

• Diameter: Miter saws use various blade diameters, typically 10-inch or 12-inch. Always use a blade that matches the diameter specified for your specific Dewalt miter saw model. Using a blade with an incorrect diameter can be dangerous and damage the saw.
• Arbor Size: The arbor is the central hole in the blade that mounts onto the saw’s spindle. Common arbor sizes are 5/8 inch and 1 inch. Ensure the blade’s arbor size matches your saw’s arbor size.

Tooth Count and Grind

• Tooth Count: The number of teeth on the blade affects the cut’s smoothness and speed.
  • Fewer Teeth (24-40): Ideal for ripping wood (cutting along the grain) and rough cuts. These blades remove material quickly but produce a rougher finish.
  • More Teeth (60-80): Best for crosscutting wood (cutting against the grain), plywood, and other delicate materials. These blades produce a smoother, cleaner cut but cut more slowly.
  • Very High Tooth Count (80+): Used for cutting non-ferrous metals like aluminum and brass.
• Tooth Grind: The shape of the blade’s teeth also affects the cut. Common grinds include:
  • ATB (Alternate Top Bevel): The most common grind, suitable for general-purpose cutting of wood. Teeth are beveled alternately left and right.
  • TCG (Triple Chip Grind): Features a combination of flat-topped teeth and beveled teeth. Excellent for cutting hard materials like laminate flooring, non-ferrous metals, and plastics.
  • Flat Top Grind (FTG): Used for ripping wood, creating flat-bottomed grooves, and applications where a smooth, splinter-free cut is not critical.

Blade Material

• High-Speed Steel (HSS): Less expensive but less durable. Suitable for cutting wood and some plastics.
• Carbide-Tipped: More expensive but significantly more durable. Carbide-tipped blades can cut a wider range of materials, including wood, plywood, non-ferrous metals, and some plastics. They also stay sharp much longer than HSS blades.
• Diamond-Tipped: Used for cutting abrasive materials like tile, concrete, and masonry.

Material-Specific Blades

• Wood Blades: Designed for cutting various types of wood, from softwoods like pine to hardwoods like oak.
• Metal Cutting Blades: Specifically designed for cutting non-ferrous metals like aluminum, brass, and copper. These blades have a high tooth count and a TCG grind.
• Multi-Material Blades: Can cut a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and non-ferrous metals. However, they may not perform as well as a blade designed specifically for a single material.

Table: Blade Selection Guide

Material	Tooth Count	Grind	Material	Notes
Softwood	40-60	ATB	Carbide	General purpose cutting
Hardwood	60-80	ATB	Carbide	For smoother cuts
Plywood	60-80	ATB	Carbide	Prevents splintering
Aluminum	80+	TCG	Carbide	Requires lubricant
Laminate Flooring	80+	TCG	Carbide	Prevents chipping

Maintaining Your Miter Saw Blade

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your blade and ensure optimal cutting performance.

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the blade with a brush to remove sawdust and resin buildup. Use a blade cleaner to dissolve stubborn residue.
• Storage: Store the blade in a dry, protected place to prevent rust and damage.
• Sharpening: Carbide-tipped blades can be sharpened professionally. A dull blade can cause splintering, burning, and inaccurate cuts.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect the blade for damage, such as missing teeth or cracks. Replace damaged blades immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to Unplug the Saw: This is a serious safety hazard.
• Using the Wrong Blade: Using a blade that is not designed for the material you are cutting can damage the blade, the saw, and the workpiece.
• Installing the Blade Backwards: Installing the blade in the wrong direction will result in poor cutting performance and potential safety hazards.
• Over-Tightening the Arbor Bolt: Over-tightening can damage the bolt or the saw’s spindle.
• Not Using Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when changing the blade.
• Ignoring the Manual: Your Dewalt miter saw’s manual contains specific instructions and safety information.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Blade Wobbles: This can be caused by damaged flanges, a bent arbor, or a loose arbor bolt.
• Blade Burns the Wood: This indicates a dull blade or feeding the wood too slowly.
• Blade Splintering: This can be caused by a dull blade, using the wrong blade for the material, or feeding the wood too quickly.
• Arbor Bolt is Stuck: Apply penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen the bolt again. If it’s still stuck, consult a professional repair technician.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the correct Dewalt miter saw blade wrench size?
A: The wrench size varies depending on the model. Consult your saw’s manual or Dewalt’s website for the correct size. Common sizes are 13mm and 19mm.

Q: Can I use a blade from another brand on my Dewalt miter saw?
A: Yes, as long as the blade has the correct diameter and arbor size for your saw.

Q: How often should I change my miter saw blade?
A: It depends on how often you use the saw and what materials you are cutting. Replace the blade when it becomes dull, damaged, or when you notice a decrease in cutting performance.

Q: How to remove blade from Dewalt miter saw if the spindle lock isn’t working?
A: Try gently rotating the blade back and forth while pressing the spindle lock. If it still doesn’t engage, you may need to consult a professional repair technician.

Q: How do I know which direction to turn the arbor bolt?
A: Most Dewalt miter saws use a left-handed thread, meaning you turn the bolt clockwise to loosen it. However, always consult your saw’s manual to confirm the correct direction for your specific model.

Q: What’s the best way to change miter saw blade Dewalt saws?
A: The “best” way is to follow the steps outlined in this guide: prioritize safety, use the correct tools, and take your time to ensure everything is properly installed.

Changing your Dewalt miter saw blade is a straightforward process when you follow these instructions. Remember to prioritize safety, choose the right blade for the job, and maintain your blade for optimal performance. With a little practice, you’ll be able to confidently change your blade and keep your miter saw working like new.