Changing Saw Blade; Replacing Carbon Brushes - RIDGID PCS-500 Manual

Lock Button
Lock Button
Figure 19 – Gearbox Lubrication

Changing Saw Blade

Replace the saw blade when the teeth become chipped or
damaged. If cutting takes more force or longer or the LEDs
start flashing more often, that indicates that the blade is
dulling and needs to be changed.
1. Open the saw blade cavity as per the Cleaning Saw
Blade Cavity section.
2. Press and hold the oil plug/lock button to lock the
saw blade (see Figure 19).
3. Use the supplied hex wrench to loosen the blade
bolt. The blade bolt uses a left hand thread and will
need to be turned clockwise (marked on the outer
washer) to be removed.
4. Remove the blade bolt and outer washer and retain for
reuse.
5. Remove the saw blade and replace with new blade,
ensuring saw blade teeth are oriented correctly. Mount
the blade against the inner washer (see Figure 20).
Figure 20 – Installing Saw Blade
999-995-226.10_REV. A
Oil Level
Inner Washer
Blade
Outer
Washer
Bolt
PCS-500 PipeSaw
6. Install the outer washer and blade bolt and ensure
there is no debris between the blade and inner/outer
washer. Ensure proper assembly of blade and wash-
ers. See Figure 20.
7 . Press the oil plug/lock button and hand tighten the saw
blade bolt by rotating counterclockwise, then turn an
additional 45° (1/8 turn) using the supplied wrench, see
Figure 21. Do not overtighten the bolt – the washers
and bolt functions as a clutch to protect the tool.
Figure 21 – Tightening Blade Bolt
The saw blade clutching action is provided by the fric-
tion of the outer washer against the blade. It permits
the blade shaft to turn when the blade encounters
excessive resistance. When the blade bolt is proper-
ly tightened, the blade will slip when it encounters
excessive resistance, thus reducing kickbacks or
other damage.
One setting may not be sufficient for cutting all mate-
rials. If excessive blade slippage occurs, tighten the
saw blade stud a fraction of a turn more (less than 1/8
turn). Overtightening the blade bolt prevents the
clutch from slipping and can increase the risk
of tool damage and injury.
8. Reinstall the blade cover and securely tighten the
lock plate screw.

Replacing Carbon Brushes

Check the motor brushes every six months and replace
when worn to less than 3 / " (5 mm).
16
1. Unscrew brush caps (both sides of the PipeSaw
motor).
2. Remove brushes noting orientation. Inspect brushes.
Replace when worn to less than
Figure 22. Inspect the commutator for wear. If exces-
sively worn, have machine serviced. Clean the brush
holders with a clean cloth.
3 / " (5 mm). See
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