RIDGID R3204 Operator's Manual page 10

OPERATION
INDEXABLE LEVERS
See Figure 9, page 16.
The lock levers on the saw consist of a repositionable lever
and locking hex screw. The levers can be repositioned
without moving the hex screw for the best tightening
orientation.
To reposition the lever:
 With the lever seated against the hex screw, rotate the
lever clockwise to lock the hex screw as tightly as pos-
sible with the lever in the current position.
 Pull the lever away from the saw to disengage it from the
hex screw.
 Keep a steady pull on the lever, then rotate the lever as
needed to the desired position on the hex screw.
 Release the lever so that it snaps into place on the hex
screw.
NOTE: The lever may rotate slightly after release as it
properly seats on the hex screw.
ADJUSTING BLADE DEPTH
See Figure 10, page 16.
Always keep correct blade depth setting. Less than a full tooth
of the blade teeth should be visible below the workpiece.
More blade depth will increase the chance of kickback and
cause the cut to be rough. For more depth of cut accuracy,
a scale is located on the upper blade guard.
To adjust the blade depth:
 Unplug the saw.
 Rotate depth lock lever away from the base.
 Determine the desired depth of cut.
 Hold base flat against the workpiece and raise or lower
saw until the indicator mark on the saw aligns with the
desired depth on the scale.
 Rotate depth lock lever toward the base to lock into
position.
NOTE: If the lever contacts the base prior to the base
being fully locked into position, refer to Indexable Levers
earlier in this manual to adjust the lever counterclockwise
on the hex screw.
NOTE: If the lever contacts the motor housing prior to the
base being loosened, refer to Indexable Levers earlier in
this manual to adjust the lever clockwise on the hex screw.
OPERATING THE SAW
See Figures 11 - 13, pages 16 and 17.
It is important to understand the correct method for operating
the saw. Refer to the figures in this section to learn the correct
and incorrect ways for handling the saw.
WARNING:
To make sawing easier and safer, always maintain
proper control of the saw by holding the saw
with two hands. Loss of control could cause an
accident resulting in possible serious injury.
DANGER:
When lifting the saw from the workpiece, the blade
is exposed on the underside of the saw until the
lower blade guard closes. Make sure the lower
blade guard is closed before setting the saw down.
WARNING:
Use clamps or other practical ways to secure
and support the workpiece to a stable platform.
Holding the work by hand or against your body is
unstable and could lead to loss of control which
could cause possible serious injury.
To make the best possible cut:
 Hold the saw firmly with both hands.
 Avoid placing your hand on the workpiece while making
a cut.
 Support the workpiece so that the cut (kerf) is always to
your side.
 Support the workpiece near the cut.
 Clamp the workpiece securely so that the workpiece will
not move during the cut.
 Always place the saw on the workpiece that is supported,
not the "cut off" piece.
 Place the workpiece with the "good" side down.
 Draw a guideline along the desired line of cut before
beginning the cut.
 Keep the cord away from the cutting area. Always place
the cord to prevent it from hanging up on the workpiece
while making a cut.
10 - English