How To Change Blade Dewalt Circular Saw: A Step-by-Step Guide

Can I change the blade on my DeWalt circular saw myself? Yes, you can change the blade on your DeWalt circular saw yourself. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for safe and efficient blade replacement.

Changing the blade on your DeWalt circular saw is a routine maintenance task essential for maintaining cutting performance and ensuring safety. A dull or damaged blade can lead to splintered cuts, increased kickback risk, and overall inefficient operation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of dewalt circular saw blade replacement, from gathering necessary tools to safely installing the new blade.

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Essential Tools and Safety Gear for Dewalt Circular Saw Blade Replacement

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and safety equipment readily available:

• New Circular Saw Blade: Choose the correct blade size and type for your DeWalt circular saw and the material you plan to cut.
• DeWalt Circular Saw Blade Wrench (or appropriate sized wrench): This is typically included with your saw. If not, use a correctly sized wrench or socket wrench.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp blade edges.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris.
• Clean Cloth or Rags: For wiping down the saw and blade.
• Piece of Scrap Wood (Optional): To brace the blade against while loosening the arbor nut.

Safety First: Preparing Your DeWalt Circular Saw for Blade Change

Unplug the Saw: The Cardinal Rule

Always, always, always unplug your DeWalt circular saw from the power outlet before attempting any blade change. This prevents accidental starts, which could result in serious injury. Think of it as the most important circular saw blade change step.

Inspect the Saw and Blade

Before starting the dewalt saw blade removal process, take a moment to inspect your saw and the current blade. Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, missing teeth, or excessive wear. Note the blade’s rotation direction – this is crucial for circular saw blade installation.

Step-by-Step Guide: Changing the Blade on Your DeWalt Circular Saw

1. Activating the Blade Lock

Most DeWalt circular saws have a dewalt circular saw blade lock. This mechanism prevents the blade from rotating while you loosen the arbor nut.

1. Locate the blade lock button or lever. It’s usually located near the motor housing.
2. Press and hold the blade lock button.
3. Manually rotate the blade until the lock engages and the blade is securely held in place. You might need to wiggle the blade slightly.

2. Loosening the Arbor Nut (Dewalt Saw Blade Removal)

This step requires the dewalt circular saw blade wrench. Remember, the arbor nut on a circular saw is typically reverse-threaded. This means you’ll need to turn it clockwise to loosen it.

1. Position the wrench securely on the arbor nut.
2. Using a firm grip, turn the wrench clockwise to loosen the nut. If the nut is very tight, you can use a piece of scrap wood to brace the blade against the saw’s base, providing extra leverage.
3. Once loose, fully unscrew the arbor nut by hand. Be careful not to lose any washers or flanges.

3. Removing the Old Blade

1. Carefully remove the outer flange (the metal disc that sits between the nut and the blade). Note its orientation. It will usually have a slightly raised center that faces toward the blade.
2. Gently slide the old blade off the arbor. Handle the blade with care, as the teeth are sharp.

4. Cleaning the Arbor and Flanges

Before installing the new blade, take a moment to clean the arbor, inner flange, and outer flange with a clean cloth. This will remove any sawdust or debris that could interfere with proper blade seating.

5. Installing the New Blade (Circular Saw Blade Installation)

1. Ensure the inner flange is properly seated on the arbor.
2. Align the new blade with the arbor, making sure the blade’s rotation direction matches the arrow on the saw’s blade guard.
3. Slide the blade onto the arbor until it sits flush against the inner flange.
4. Replace the outer flange, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (usually with the raised center facing the blade).

6. Tightening the Arbor Nut

1. Thread the arbor nut onto the arbor by hand, turning it counter-clockwise until it’s snug.
2. Engage the blade lock again.
3. Using the dewalt circular saw blade wrench, tighten the arbor nut firmly by turning it counter-clockwise. Do not overtighten. You want it snug and secure, but not so tight that you risk stripping the threads.
4. Release the blade lock.

7. Final Check Before Use

1. Spin the blade manually to ensure it rotates freely and doesn’t wobble.
2. Double-check that the blade guard moves smoothly and covers the blade properly.
3. Plug the saw back into the power outlet.
4. Perform a test cut on a piece of scrap wood to ensure the blade is properly installed and cutting cleanly.

Tips for Choosing the Right Circular Saw Blade

Choosing the right circular saw blade is crucial for achieving clean cuts and maximizing blade life. Here’s what to consider:

• Blade Diameter: Ensure the blade diameter matches the specifications for your DeWalt circular saw. Using an incorrect size can be dangerous.
• Arbor Size: The arbor size (the hole in the center of the blade) must also match your saw. Most DeWalt circular saws use a 5/8-inch arbor.

• Tooth Count: The number of teeth on the blade affects the cutting speed and finish.

  • Fewer Teeth (24-40): Faster cuts, rougher finish. Ideal for framing lumber and general construction.
  • More Teeth (60-80): Slower cuts, smoother finish. Ideal for plywood, hardwoods, and trim work.

  • Tooth Grind: Different tooth grinds are designed for specific materials.

  • ATB (Alternate Top Bevel): General-purpose blade for smooth cuts in wood.

  • TCG (Triple Chip Grind): For cutting non-ferrous metals and plastics.
  • FTG (Flat Top Grind): For ripping lumber along the grain.

  • Blade Material:

  • High-Speed Steel (HSS): Economical, good for wood.

  • Carbide-Tipped: More durable, lasts longer, suitable for a wider range of materials including wood, plywood, and some non-ferrous metals.

Here’s a table summarizing blade selection:

Material	Tooth Count	Tooth Grind	Blade Material
Framing Lumber	24-40	ATB	HSS/Carbide
Plywood	60-80	ATB	Carbide
Hardwoods	60-80	ATB	Carbide
Aluminum	60-80	TCG	Carbide
Plastics	60-80	TCG	Carbide

Fathoming Arbor Nut Direction and Threading

It’s extremely important to know which way to turn the arbor nut to loosen or tighten it. Here’s the key:

• Reverse Thread: Circular saws almost always have a reverse-threaded arbor nut. This means:

  • To Loosen: Turn the nut clockwise.
  • To Tighten: Turn the nut counter-clockwise.

Many saws will have an arrow indicating the direction to turn the nut to loosen it. Look for this arrow on the saw’s blade guard or near the arbor.

Best Way to Change Circular Saw Blade: Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount when changing blade dewalt circular saw. Here are some additional safety tips:

• Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves to protect your hands from the sharp blade teeth.
• Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Use a Stable Work Surface: Ensure your saw is placed on a stable surface to prevent it from moving during blade changes.
• Don’t Force Anything: If the arbor nut is stuck, don’t force it. Apply penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.
• Inspect New Blades: Before installing a new blade, inspect it for any damage. Never use a damaged blade.
• Keep Children and Pets Away: Ensure children and pets are kept away from the work area.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Arbor Nut Stuck: If the arbor nut is difficult to loosen, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few minutes. You can also use a longer wrench for more leverage.
• Blade Wobbles: If the blade wobbles after installation, double-check that the flanges are properly seated and that the arbor nut is tightened securely.
• Blade Doesn’t Cut Straight: Ensure the blade is the correct type for the material you are cutting. Also, check the saw’s fence and blade alignment.

Maintenance for Longevity

Regular maintenance will extend the life of your DeWalt circular saw and ensure optimal performance.

• Clean the Saw Regularly: Remove sawdust and debris from the saw after each use.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Periodically lubricate the saw’s moving parts, such as the blade guard pivot points.
• Inspect the Power Cord: Check the power cord for any damage and replace it if necessary.
• Store the Saw Properly: Store the saw in a dry, safe place to protect it from the elements.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the correct rotation direction for a circular saw blade?
A: The rotation direction is typically indicated by an arrow on the blade and the saw’s blade guard. Make sure the arrow on the blade matches the arrow on the saw.

Q: Can I use any circular saw blade on my DeWalt saw?
A: No, you must use a blade that is the correct diameter and arbor size for your specific DeWalt circular saw model. Consult your saw’s manual for specifications.

Q: How often should I change my circular saw blade?
A: You should change your blade when it becomes dull, damaged, or when you notice a decrease in cutting performance.

Q: What is the best way to dispose of old circular saw blades?
A: Wrap the old blade in cardboard or heavy cloth to protect yourself and others from the sharp teeth. Then, dispose of it in a metal recycling bin or take it to a hazardous waste disposal facility.

Q: Why is my circular saw blade burning the wood?
A: Burning wood is usually a sign that your blade is dull or that you are feeding the saw too slowly. Try using a sharper blade or increasing your feed rate.

Q: How do I prevent kickback when using a circular saw?
A: Always use sharp blades, keep the saw’s base firmly against the material you are cutting, and avoid twisting the saw during the cut. Never remove the blade guard.