How To Change Blade On Dewalt Table Saw: A Step-By-Step Guide

How do you change a blade on a DeWalt table saw? Changing the blade on a DeWalt table saw involves safely removing the old blade, cleaning the arbor, and installing the new blade, ensuring proper alignment and tightening. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough to help you through the process safely and efficiently.

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Why Change Your DeWalt Table Saw Blade?

Like any cutting tool, a table saw blade dulls with use. Here are some reasons why you might need a dewalt table saw blade replacement:

• Dull Blade: A dull blade can cause splintering, burning, and require more force to push the wood through, increasing the risk of kickback.
• Damaged Blade: Chips, cracks, or missing teeth render the blade unsafe and ineffective.
• Specific Cut Requirements: Different blades are designed for different materials and cut types (e.g., ripping, crosscutting, plywood).
• Blade Wear: Over time, blades wear down, even with proper care, leading to reduced performance.

Safety First: Preparing for Blade Change

Dewalt table saw blade change safety is paramount. Before starting, follow these crucial precautions:

• Disconnect Power: Unplug the table saw from the power outlet. This prevents accidental starts while you’re working on it.
• Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris. Gloves can also protect your hands.
• Clear the Area: Ensure your workspace is clean and free of obstructions.
• Read the Manual: Consult your DeWalt table saw’s user manual for specific instructions and safety information related to your model.

Tools You’ll Need

Gather these essential tools before you begin:

• DeWalt Table Saw Blade Wrench: Usually, a combination wrench is provided with your saw. Check your manual for the correct dewalt table saw blade wrench size.
• Optional Second Wrench: A second wrench can be helpful to hold the arbor shaft steady.
• Blade Cleaner: A specialized blade cleaner or general-purpose cleaner to remove resin and pitch buildup.
• Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning.
• Gloves: To protect your hands and improve grip.
• Safety Glasses: Mandatory eye protection.

Step-by-Step Guide: Dewalt Table Saw Blade Change Steps

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step dewalt table saw blade installation guide to help you replace table saw blade dewalt.

Step 1: Lower the Blade & Remove the Throat Plate

1. Lower the Blade: Use the height adjustment crank to lower the blade completely below the table surface. This provides more room to work and reduces the risk of accidentally cutting yourself.
2. Remove Throat Plate: The throat plate is the insert around the blade opening in the table. Most DeWalt table saws have a lever or mechanism to easily lift the throat plate out. Consult your manual if you’re unsure how to remove it.

Step 2: Dewalt Table Saw Blade Guard Removal & Riving Knife

1. Remove Blade Guard: The blade guard protects you from accidental contact with the blade. DeWalt table saws usually have a quick-release mechanism to remove the guard. Follow your saw’s manual. Dewalt table saw blade guard removal should always be done carefully.
2. Remove Riving Knife (If Applicable): The riving knife prevents kickback. Some models require its removal for blade changes, depending on the blade thickness. Again, consult your manual.

Step 3: Locking the Arbor & How to Loosen Dewalt Table Saw Blade

This is the trickiest part of the process. You need to lock the arbor (the shaft the blade sits on) to prevent it from spinning while you loosen the arbor nut.

1. Locate the Arbor Lock: Most DeWalt table saws have an arbor lock button or lever. It’s usually located near the motor or blade housing.
2. Engage the Arbor Lock: Rotate the blade by hand until you feel the arbor lock engage. You should hear or feel a click. The arbor should now be locked in place.
3. Loosen the Arbor Nut: Using the dewalt table saw blade wrench, loosen the arbor nut. Important: The arbor nut on most DeWalt table saws has a left-handed thread. This means you turn it clockwise to loosen it (opposite of a standard nut). Using a second wrench to hold the arbor steady can make this easier. Do not force it. If it’s very tight, double-check that you are turning it in the correct direction.

Step 4: Dewalt Table Saw Blade Removal

1. Remove the Arbor Nut and Washer: Once the nut is loose, remove it completely along with any washers. Keep these parts organized as you will need them later.
2. Carefully Remove the Old Blade: Gently pull the old blade straight off the arbor. Be mindful of the teeth – they can be sharp even when dull.

Step 5: Cleaning the Arbor & Blade Flanges

1. Inspect the Arbor and Flanges: Check the arbor and blade flanges (the metal discs that sandwich the blade) for any dirt, rust, or pitch buildup.
2. Clean the Arbor and Flanges: Use a blade cleaner and a rag to thoroughly clean these parts. A clean arbor ensures the blade sits flush and runs true.

Step 6: Installing the New Blade

1. Mount the New Blade: Place the new blade onto the arbor, ensuring the teeth are pointing in the correct direction (usually forward, in the direction of the blade rotation). The saw’s manual will indicate the correct direction.
2. Reinstall the Flanges and Washer: Replace the outer flange and washer in the correct order. Make sure they are clean and seated properly.
3. Reinstall the Arbor Nut: Thread the arbor nut back onto the arbor. Remember, it’s a left-handed thread, so turn it counterclockwise to tighten.

Step 7: Tightening the Arbor Nut

1. Engage the Arbor Lock: Lock the arbor as you did when loosening the nut.
2. Tighten the Arbor Nut: Using the wrench, tighten the arbor nut securely. It should be snug, but don’t overtighten it. Refer to your saw’s manual for the recommended torque, if specified.

Step 8: Reinstalling the Riving Knife, Blade Guard, and Throat Plate

1. Reinstall the Riving Knife (If Removed): Reattach the riving knife, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
2. Reinstall the Blade Guard: Reinstall the blade guard securely.
3. Reinstall the Throat Plate: Place the throat plate back into its opening. Make sure it’s flush with the table surface.

Step 9: Final Checks and Test Cut

1. Spin the Blade by Hand: Rotate the blade by hand to ensure it spins freely and doesn’t wobble.
2. Check Blade Alignment: Visually inspect the blade to make sure it’s aligned properly with the miter slots.
3. Plug in the Saw: Plug the saw back into the power outlet.
4. Test Cut: Make a test cut on a piece of scrap wood to ensure the blade is cutting smoothly and accurately. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Arbor Nut Won’t Loosen: Double-check that you’re turning the nut in the correct direction (clockwise on most DeWalt saws). If it’s still stuck, try applying penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.
• Blade Wobbles: This could indicate a bent blade, a warped flange, or a dirty arbor. Inspect all components carefully and clean or replace them as needed.
• Blade Binds: This could be due to a misaligned riving knife, a dull blade, or incorrect feed rate. Ensure the riving knife is properly aligned and use a sharp blade. Adjust your feed rate to match the material you’re cutting.

Blade Types and Applications

Choosing the right blade is crucial for achieving optimal cutting results. Here’s a brief overview of common blade types:

Blade Type	Application
General Purpose	Combination of ripping and crosscutting; suitable for most common woodworking tasks.
Ripping Blade	Designed for cutting with the grain of the wood.
Crosscut Blade	Designed for cutting across the grain of the wood.
Plywood Blade	High tooth count for clean cuts in plywood and veneered materials.
Dado Blade Set	Used for cutting wide grooves or dados.
Metal Cutting	For cutting non-ferrous metals like aluminum.

Maintaining Your Table Saw Blade

Proper maintenance extends the life of your blades and ensures safe operation:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your blades regularly to remove resin and pitch buildup.
• Proper Storage: Store blades in a dry place to prevent rust.
• Sharpening: Consider sharpening your blades when they become dull. Professional sharpening services are available.
• Blade Stabilizers: For cutting thicker materials, using blade stabilizers will reduce vibration and improve cut quality.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the correct direction to turn the arbor nut on my DeWalt table saw?

A: Most DeWalt table saws have a left-handed thread on the arbor nut. This means you turn it clockwise to loosen it and counterclockwise to tighten it. Consult your saw’s manual to confirm.

Q: Can I use any brand of blade on my DeWalt table saw?

A: Yes, you can use blades from other brands as long as they are the correct diameter and have the appropriate arbor size (usually 5/8 inch for most DeWalt table saws).

Q: How often should I change my table saw blade?

A: It depends on how frequently you use the saw and the types of materials you cut. A good rule of thumb is to replace the blade when it becomes noticeably dull, when you see signs of damage (chips, cracks, missing teeth), or when you need a different blade type for a specific project.

Q: Who is qualified to change a table saw blade?

A: Anyone who is thoroughly familiar with the table saw’s operation and safety procedures, and who carefully follows the manufacturer’s instructions, is qualified to change the blade. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from an experienced woodworker.

Q: What is the best way to dispose of old table saw blades?

A: Wrap the old blade securely in cardboard or heavy paper and tape it shut to prevent accidental cuts. Clearly label the package as “Used Table Saw Blade” and dispose of it according to your local regulations for metal waste. Some recycling centers may accept used blades.