How To Change Blade On Craftsman Table Saw: Quick & Safe

Changing a blade on your Craftsman table saw might seem scary, but it’s a key part of craftsman table saw maintenance. How do you change a blade on a Craftsman table saw? This task involves unplugging the saw, using the correct table saw blade wrench size to loosen the arbor nut, removing the old blade, installing the new blade ensuring it faces the correct direction, and then securely tightening the nut. This guide covers everything you need for craftsman table saw blade replacement, changing table saw blade safely, removing table saw blade, and installing new table saw blade.

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Getting Ready: Safety First!

Safety is the most important thing. Always follow these steps before you even think about touching your saw.

Turn It Off and Unplug It

This sounds simple, but it’s a must. Make sure the saw is completely off and unplugged from the power outlet. This prevents accidental starts that could cause serious injury.

Put on Safety Gear

Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Gloves will protect your hands from sharp blade edges and metal shavings.

Clear the Area

Make sure your workspace is clean and well-lit. Remove any tools, wood scraps, or anything else that could get in the way. A clear workspace helps you focus and reduces the chance of accidents.

Steps to Removing Table Saw Blade

Now that you’re safe and ready, here’s how to get that old blade off.

Raise the Blade to Its Highest Point

Crank the blade height adjustment wheel to raise the blade as high as it will go. This gives you more room to work and makes it easier to access the arbor nut.

Lock the Arbor

Most Craftsman table saws have an arbor lock. This is a button or lever that stops the blade from turning while you loosen the nut. Find the arbor lock on your saw and engage it. The location varies by model; it’s often near the motor or on the front of the saw.

Loosen the Arbor Nut

This is where the table saw blade wrench size matters. You need the correct wrench to avoid damaging the nut. Craftsman table saws usually use a wrench size between 13/16 inch and 1 1/8 inch. Check your saw’s manual to be sure.

• Place the wrench on the arbor nut.
• Turn the wrench in the correct direction. Most table saws have a left-handed thread, which means you turn the wrench clockwise to loosen the nut. Some older models may be right-handed. If the nut isn’t budging turning it counter-clockwise, try clockwise.
• You might need to use some force, but don’t overdo it. If the nut is really stuck, use a penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.

Remove the Arbor Nut, Washer, and Blade Stabilizer (If Applicable)

Once you’ve loosened the nut, remove it completely by hand. Then, take off any washers or blade stabilizers that are behind the nut. Keep these parts in a safe place so you don’t lose them.

Carefully Remove the Old Blade

Now you can carefully remove the old blade. Hold the blade by its edges to avoid cutting yourself.

Installing New Table Saw Blade

With the old blade out, it’s time to put in the new one.

Clean the Arbor and Blade Flanges

Before you put the new blade on, clean the arbor (the shaft the blade sits on) and the blade flanges (the metal discs that hold the blade in place). Use a clean cloth or a wire brush to remove any sawdust, resin, or rust. This ensures the blade sits flush and runs true.

Mount the New Blade

Place the new blade onto the arbor. Make sure the teeth are pointing in the correct direction. The teeth should point towards the front of the saw and upwards, in the direction of the cut. Most blades have an arrow that shows the correct rotation direction.

Reinstall the Washer, Blade Stabilizer, and Arbor Nut

Put the washer and blade stabilizer (if your saw has one) back onto the arbor, behind the blade. Then, thread the arbor nut back on by hand.

Tighten the Arbor Nut

Engage the arbor lock again. Use the correct table saw blade wrench size to tighten the arbor nut. Remember, most table saws have a left-handed thread, so you turn the wrench counter-clockwise to tighten. Tighten the nut securely, but don’t over-tighten it. You don’t want to strip the threads.

Verify Blade Rotation

After tightening, double-check that the blade is still rotating in the correct direction. If it is, you’re all set.

Checking and Fine-Tuning

After installing the new blade, it’s always a good idea to check its alignment and make any necessary adjustments.

Check Blade Alignment

Use a square to check that the blade is perpendicular to the table. Place the square against the blade and the table surface. If there’s a gap, you’ll need to adjust the trunnion. This involves loosening the trunnion bolts and adjusting the trunnion until the blade is square. Your saw’s manual will have specific instructions on how to do this.

Test Cut

Make a test cut on a piece of scrap wood. Check the cut for smoothness and accuracy. If the cut is rough or the blade is wandering, you may need to make further adjustments to the blade alignment or fence.

Choosing the Right Blade

The type of blade you use depends on the material you’re cutting. Here are some common types:

• General Purpose Blades: Good for cutting a variety of materials, including hardwood, softwood, and plywood.
• Rip Blades: Designed for cutting wood along the grain. They have fewer teeth and a steeper hook angle.
• Crosscut Blades: Designed for cutting wood across the grain. They have more teeth and a shallower hook angle.
• Plywood Blades: Have a high tooth count and are designed to minimize tear-out when cutting plywood.
• Dado Blades: Used for cutting wide grooves or dados.

Here is a table summarizing blade types:

Blade Type	Use Case	Tooth Count
General Purpose	Versatile; many materials	Medium
Rip	Cutting with the grain	Low
Crosscut	Cutting against the grain	High
Plywood	Minimizing tear-out in plywood	Very High
Dado	Cutting wide grooves and dados	Variable

Tips for Safe Table Saw Use

• Always use a push stick or push block when cutting small or narrow pieces of wood.
• Keep your hands away from the blade.
• Never reach over the blade.
• Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
• Don’t force the wood through the blade. Let the blade do the work.
• If you’re not sure how to do something, consult your saw’s manual or ask an experienced woodworker.

Fathoming Arbor Nut Thread Direction

A common point of confusion is determining which way to turn the wrench to loosen or tighten the arbor nut. Most table saws use a left-handed thread, but it’s crucial to confirm this for your specific model.

Here’s a simple way to remember:

• Imagine you are sitting in front of the saw.
• To loosen the nut, turn the wrench in the direction that would tighten a standard (right-handed) nut.

If the nut refuses to budge, try the opposite direction. Never use excessive force, as you could damage the nut or arbor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to fix them.

• Arbor nut is stuck: Apply penetrating oil and let it sit for a while. Then try again. You might also try tapping the wrench with a hammer to help break the nut free.
• Blade vibrates: Make sure the blade is properly installed and the arbor nut is tight. Also, check the blade for damage or warping.
• Blade cuts unevenly: Check the blade alignment and adjust as necessary. Also, make sure your fence is parallel to the blade.
• Saw stalls: The blade may be dull or you may be feeding the wood too quickly. Try using a sharper blade or slowing down your feed rate.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Changing your blade is just one part of keeping your Craftsman table saw in good working order. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your saw and ensuring safe operation.

Here are some other things you should do regularly:

• Clean the saw regularly to remove sawdust and debris.
• Lubricate moving parts, such as the blade height adjustment mechanism and the fence.
• Check the belts for wear and tear and replace them as needed.
• Inspect the power cord for damage and replace it if necessary.
• Keep the table surface clean and waxed to reduce friction.

FAQ: Changing Blades on Your Craftsman Table Saw

• What is the right table saw blade wrench size for my Craftsman table saw? Consult your saw’s manual. Common sizes are 13/16 inch and 1 1/8 inch.
• Can I use any blade on my Craftsman table saw? No. Only use blades that are the correct diameter and have the correct arbor size for your saw.
• Who should change my table saw blade if I’m not comfortable doing it myself? A qualified repair technician or an experienced woodworker.
• What is the best way to change a table saw blade? Follow the steps outlined in this guide, prioritizing safety at every step.
• Why is my table saw blade vibrating after changing it? The blade may not be properly installed, the arbor nut may not be tight enough, or the blade could be damaged.
• How often should I perform craftsman table saw blade replacement? When the blade becomes dull, damaged, or is no longer suitable for the type of cuts you are making.
• Is there a specific blade change procedure table saw I should follow? Yes, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific table saw model.
• What are the craftsman table saw blade change steps in brief? Unplug the saw, raise the blade, lock the arbor, loosen the arbor nut, remove the old blade, install the new blade, tighten the arbor nut, and check blade alignment.
• Why is proper craftsman table saw maintenance important? To ensure safe operation, extend the life of your saw, and maintain cutting accuracy.

By following these steps and tips, you can safely and effectively change the blade on your Craftsman table saw and keep it running smoothly for years to come. Remember always to prioritize safety and consult your saw’s manual if you have any questions.