How To Put a Blade On A Dewalt Circular Saw: Beginner’s Guide

How do you put a blade on a DeWalt circular saw? You put a blade on a DeWalt circular saw by unplugging the saw, locating the arbor lock, loosening the arbor bolt with the wrench provided (turning it in the correct direction!), removing the outer washer, sliding the old blade off (note the direction!), installing the new blade with the teeth pointing in the right direction for cutting, replacing the outer washer, tightening the arbor bolt securely, and then testing the blade’s security before plugging the saw back in. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step explanation of the entire dewalt circular saw blade change process.

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Getting Ready for the Blade Change

Before you even think about touching your DeWalt circular saw, safety is paramount. Preparing your workspace and gathering the right tools ensures a smooth and safe circular saw blade installation.

Safety First

• Unplug the Saw: The most crucial step! Always disconnect the power cord from the outlet. This prevents accidental starts during the dewalt saw blade removal process.
• Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris. Even changing a blade can dislodge small particles.
• Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp blade edges and potential cuts.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• DeWalt Circular Saw: Obviously!
• New Circular Saw Blade: Choose the right blade for the material you’ll be cutting (wood, metal, etc.). Consider the tooth count and kerf (blade thickness).
• Arbor Wrench (Usually Included with the Saw): This is specifically designed to loosen and tighten the arbor bolt.
• Work Gloves: For grip and hand protection.
• Safety Glasses: To shield your eyes from debris.
• Clean Cloth or Brush: To clean the saw’s components.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Blade

This section provides detailed dewalt blade replacement steps for safely and effectively changing the blade on your DeWalt circular saw.

1. Locating the Arbor Lock

The arbor lock is a mechanism that prevents the blade from rotating while you loosen or tighten the arbor bolt. Its position can vary slightly depending on the DeWalt model, but it’s usually a button or lever located near the blade.

• Press and Hold: Press and hold the arbor lock. You may need to rotate the blade slightly until the lock engages fully. The blade should now be locked in place.

2. Loosening the Arbor Bolt

This step can be tricky because the arbor bolt has reverse threading on some DeWalt models. Here’s how to figure it out:

• Determine the Thread Direction: Look for an arrow or indication on the saw near the arbor bolt. This arrow indicates the direction you need to turn the wrench to loosen the bolt. If there’s no arrow, a good rule of thumb is:
  • Righty-Tighty, Lefty-Loosey: Sometimes, but not always with circular saws!
  • When facing the blade, turn the wrench clockwise to loosen if it’s a standard (right-hand) thread.
  • When facing the blade, turn the wrench counter-clockwise to loosen if it’s a reverse (left-hand) thread.
• Use the Arbor Wrench: Fit the arbor wrench securely onto the arbor bolt.
• Apply Steady Pressure: Apply firm, steady pressure to the wrench in the correct direction to loosen the bolt. It might be tight, so use a controlled amount of force. Avoid jerking the wrench, as this could damage the bolt or the saw.
• Loosen, But Don’t Remove: Loosen the bolt enough to remove the blade later.

3. Removing the Old Blade

Once the arbor bolt is loosened, you can remove the old blade.

• Hold the Blade Steady: Support the blade with one hand while you continue loosening the arbor bolt with the wrench using the other.
• Remove the Arbor Bolt Completely: Unscrew the arbor bolt completely.
• Remove the Outer Washer/Flange: There’s usually an outer washer or flange that sits between the arbor bolt and the blade. Remove this.
• Slide the Blade Off: Carefully slide the old blade off the arbor.

4. Installing the New Blade

This is where paying attention to detail is critical. Incorrect circular saw blade mounting can be dangerous.

• Clean the Arbor and Flanges: Use a clean cloth or brush to remove any sawdust or debris from the arbor, the inner flange (if present), and the outer flange. This ensures the blade sits flush and true.
• Check the Blade Direction: This is extremely important! Look for an arrow on the blade indicating the correct rotation direction. This arrow must match the direction of the saw blade’s rotation when you’re cutting. The teeth should point downwards towards the material you are cutting at the bottom of the saw.
• Slide the New Blade Onto the Arbor: Carefully slide the new blade onto the arbor, ensuring it sits flush against the inner flange. The blade’s arbor hole should fit snugly over the arbor.
• Replace the Outer Washer/Flange: Reinstall the outer washer or flange, ensuring it’s properly seated.
• Reinstall the Arbor Bolt: Thread the arbor bolt back into the arbor.

5. Tightening the Arbor Bolt

Now you need to tighten the arbor bolt securely.

• Engage the Arbor Lock: Press and hold the arbor lock again.
• Tighten Securely: Using the arbor wrench, tighten the arbor bolt firmly in the opposite direction you used to loosen it. Apply enough force to ensure the blade is securely held in place. Be firm, but avoid over-tightening, which could damage the bolt or the saw.
• Release the Arbor Lock: Release the arbor lock.

6. Checking the Blade

Before you plug the saw back in, double-check everything.

• Spin the Blade (Carefully!): Carefully rotate the blade by hand to ensure it spins freely and doesn’t wobble.
• Check for Tightness: Ensure the arbor bolt is still tight. Give it another snug with the wrench.

7. Testing the Saw

After you’ve changed the blade, test it out on some scrap material to make sure it cuts correctly and safely.

• Plug in the Saw: Plug the power cord back into the outlet.
• Turn on the Saw: Start the saw and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
• Make a Test Cut: Cut a piece of scrap wood to ensure the blade cuts smoothly and accurately.
• Adjust as Needed: If the blade is not cutting properly, re-check the blade direction, tightness of the arbor bolt, and blade selection.

Tips for Choosing the Right Blade

Selecting the right blade for the job is crucial for safety, efficiency, and cut quality.

Blade Type	Material	Tooth Count	Kerf (Thickness)	Application
General Purpose	Wood, Plywood	18-24	Medium	Everyday cutting, rough carpentry
Fine Finish	Hardwood, Trim	40-80	Thin	Smooth, splinter-free cuts
Ripping	Wood (with grain)	12-24	Medium	Cutting wood along the grain quickly
Crosscut	Wood (across grain)	40-80	Thin	Cutting wood across the grain cleanly
Metal Cutting	Metal	High	Thin	Cutting thin metals (steel, aluminum)
Diamond/Abrasive	Masonry, Tile	N/A	Thick	Cutting concrete, brick, tile

• Material: Choose a blade specifically designed for the material you’ll be cutting (wood, metal, plastic, etc.).
• Tooth Count: Higher tooth counts provide smoother cuts, while lower tooth counts are better for faster, rougher cuts.
• Kerf (Blade Thickness): Thinner kerf blades require less power and produce less waste, but may not be as durable.
• Blade Diameter: Ensure the blade diameter matches the specifications of your DeWalt circular saw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to Unplug the Saw: This is the most dangerous mistake. Always disconnect the power cord!
• Installing the Blade Backward: The blade must be installed with the teeth pointing in the correct direction.
• Over-Tightening the Arbor Bolt: This can damage the bolt or the saw. Tighten securely, but don’t force it.
• Using the Wrong Blade: Using the wrong blade can result in poor cuts, damage to the material, and potentially dangerous kickback.
• Ignoring Safety Precautions: Always wear safety glasses and gloves.

Maintaining Your Circular Saw Blade

Proper maintenance extends the life of your blades and ensures optimal performance.

• Clean the Blade Regularly: Remove sawdust and resin buildup with a blade cleaner or brush.
• Store Blades Properly: Store blades in a dry, protected place to prevent rust and damage.
• Sharpen Dull Blades: Sharpening dull blades improves cutting performance and reduces the risk of kickback. Consider professional sharpening services for best results.
• Replace Damaged Blades: If a blade is cracked, warped, or has missing teeth, replace it immediately.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Blade Won’t Come Off: Ensure the arbor lock is fully engaged and you’re turning the arbor bolt in the correct direction. Use penetrating oil if the bolt is rusted.
• Blade Vibrates: Check that the blade is properly seated and the arbor bolt is tightened securely. A warped blade can also cause vibrations.
• Blade Cuts Poorly: Ensure you’re using the correct blade for the material you’re cutting and that the blade is sharp.
• Arbor Bolt Stripped: If the arbor bolt is stripped, you’ll need to replace it. Contact DeWalt customer service or a qualified repair technician.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use a different brand of blade on my DeWalt circular saw? Yes, as long as the blade diameter and arbor hole size match the specifications of your saw.
• How often should I change my circular saw blade? It depends on how often you use the saw and the materials you’re cutting. Replace the blade when it becomes dull, damaged, or starts producing poor cuts.
• What is the correct dewalt circular saw blade direction? The teeth of the blade should point downwards towards the material being cut at the bottom of the saw. Look for the arrow on the blade and ensure it matches the saw’s rotation direction.
• Where can I find a dewalt saw blade installation guide for my specific model? Check your saw’s owner’s manual or the DeWalt website for model-specific instructions.
• Why is my circular saw blade smoking? This usually indicates that the blade is dull or you’re feeding the saw too quickly. Slow down and consider sharpening or replacing the blade.

By following these detailed steps and tips, you can confidently and safely perform a replace circular saw blade dewalt. Remember to prioritize safety and choose the right blade for the job.