The blade is the most crucial element of any power saw. Whether you are using a table saw or a circular saw, the blade dictates the cutting strength and materials that you can cut. As a result, you need to be prepared to switch up the blade when your specific project demands it. That’s why it is very important that you know how to change a circular saw blade.
Additionally, the blades in any power saw do not have an infinite lifespan. No matter how well you take care of it, they will wear out over time. When that happens, your only course of action is to replace them. Working with a dull blade in the circular saw will never give you the correct results.
Thankfully, when it comes to changing a circular saw blade, the process is easier than rest. That is not to say, there are some risks involved, and you should only take on the task if you know all the features of your device. It is very easy to injure yourself if you do not know what you are doing when changing up a circular saw blade.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps necessary to change blade on circular saw in an easy to follow format. After reading the guide, you should feel a boost to your confidence and be able to replace the blade whenever you need it.
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Types of Circular Saw Blades
Before changing circular saw blade, it is a wise idea to check your knowledge on different types of blades you have available in a circular saw. It would help you make sure that the product you are getting is suitable for what you are trying to accomplish.
In the following circular saw blade guide section, we will take a look at some of the common blade types you can choose for a circular saw.
Rip-Cut Blades
By rip cut, we mean to understand the cut made along the board’s length. To get the best results with this type of cut, you need a blade that comes with fewer teeth. The amount is usually limited to a maximum of 40 teeth. Make sure the top of the teeth for the rip cut blade is flat.
Crosscut Blades
When you cut along the width of the board instead of the length, it is known as a crosscut. In this case, you need more teeth in the blade. Additionally, the top of the teeth is shaped like a “V” instead of the flat format of rip cut blades.
Combination Blades
Finally, you have combination blades. This is a good option if you are looking for something that can handle both rip cuts and crosscuts.
If you are looking to cut through metal or plastic, there are also many other options available for you.
How to Change the Blade on a Circular Saw
Now that you have a basic understanding of the blades, we can head into the actual fun part, and that is how to install circular saw blade. Follow along with the steps mentioned below, and you will be able to how to replace circular saw blade like a pro in no time.
Turn off the circular saw
First and foremost, make sure that you have disconnected the circular saw from its power source. If you are using a wired unit, take the plug out of the wall socket. In case of a battery-powered saw, make sure you take out the battery from the compartment.
It is extremely important to disconnect the saw completely before heading any further. The last thing that you would want is the saw turning on in the middle of replacing the blade. It might cause the blade to go flying off, leading to some serious injuries if you are not careful.
Use a wooden surface or worktable
After disconnecting power from the circular saw, you need to find a workbench to put it. It will give you a stable platform to keep the device while you work with the blades.
You need to adjust the blade guard so that you have easy access to it. In case your device features some sort of lock on the arbor, you need to disengage it. Make sure there is no wobble on the blade while you are working on it.
Fix the wrench
If you are working with a battery-powered circular saw, you should see an opening for the wrench in the arbor nut. You should fix the wrench of the replacement blade here.
Engage the wrench
The direction of your rotation should be the same direction the blade spins naturally in the saw. If your device comes with a button for the arbor, you should keep it pressed as you loosen the nut.
However, if there are no arbor button, keep the blade pressed against the wooden surface while working. It will stop the blade from wobbling or falling off while unbolting.
Replace the blade
Now that your old blade is loose, you can take it out of the arbor. Be careful not to make any direct contact with the blade, as even a dull blade can have sharp ends that can cut you. Once the blade is off, you can now put in the replacement blade. Take this step slow and steady, and make sure you do not drop it on your foot.
Tighten the nut
Once you have replaced the blade on the arbor, you need to tighten it firmly so that it does not fall off. Similar to how you took out the old one, you should keep the blade pressed against the table as you tighten it. It would ensure that it can be tightened to the fullest.
Power the circular saw
Double-check everything and see if the blade is sitting properly and tightly on the saw. If there is any wobbling in the blade, now is the time to take care of it. However, if you are certain that everything is set, now it is time to plug it in. Connect the saw to the power socket, or replace the batteries, and turn it on.
Note: Most circular saws feature an engraving on the blade to show you which way to install the blade. While replacing the blade, you should always check for this marking. If you do not find any arrow marks, remember to keep the teeth of the blade facing the front side.
If you followed all the steps properly, your new blade should now be properly working with your circular saw.
Safety Tips while Changing the Blade of a Circular Saw
Now that you know the steps to change the blades, it is no wonder that you want to get to it as soon as possible. However, rushing the process may lead to disastrous events. You are dealing with sharp and dangerous machines, that can lead to fatal injuries.
With that in mind, here are some basic safety tips that you should follow so that you do not put yourself in harm’s way when changing the blade of a circular saw.
- Before handling the circular saw, make sure you read the instruction manual thoroughly. It often comes with guidelines that help to make the replacement process easier.
- Make sure to turn off the power completely from the device to prevent any accidents. If it turns on in the middle of replacing the blade, it could lead to fatal injuries.
- Anytime the saw is not in use, remove the batteries. It would extend the battery’s lifetime and also reduce the risk of accidents.
- When changing or handling the saw, make sure to wear all the required protective gear. This includes safety goggles, rubber gloves, and long sleeve shirts. The blade should never make any direct contact with your skin.
- Take care of the circular saw blade regularly by sharpening it. It will elevate the efficiency of the blades and also drastically improve their lifetime. The same goes for your circular saw.
- Make sure that you pick out the right blade for the material you will be cutting. If the material and the blade does not match, you will not have the best results.
- Do not change the blades in any wrong state of mind. You need to be sober, composed, and relaxed so that you do not fall victim to any accidents. Also, make sure you do not drop the blades under any circumstances.
- Lastly, always keep your distance from the saw when changing the blades. You do not want to get too close to the blade.
Final Thoughts
Changing the blades of a circular saw is quite easy when you compare it with other power saws. Since you have easy access to the entire device, you can get it done within 15-20 minutes easily.
However, if it is your first time, it is better to take things slow and double-check if you are doing everything properly.
We hope our guide on how to change a circular saw blade could help you find your way with this device. You should now be able to replace the blades in your machine easily without any fear.