Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2831-20 - PLUNGE TRACK SAW Manual

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference. The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

WORK AREA SAFETY

• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

• Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
• Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
• When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
• If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of an GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.

PERSONAL SAFETY

• Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
• Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
• Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
• Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
• If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
• Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.

POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

• Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
• Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
• Disconnect the plug from the power source and/ or remove the battery pack, if detachable, from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
• Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
• Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool's operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
• Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
• Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in unexpected situations.

BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE

• Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
• Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
• 
  When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
• 
  Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
• Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
• Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 265°F (130°C) may cause explosion.
• Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.

SERVICE

• Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
• Never service damaged battery packs. Service of battery packs should only be performed by the manufacturer or authorized service providers.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR THE PRODUCT

Cutting procedures

• 
  Keep hands away from cutting area and the blade. Keep your second hand on auxiliary handle, or motor housing. If both hands are holding the saw, they cannot be cut by the blade.
• 
  Always have the viewing window or splinter guard in place during use.
• Do not reach underneath the workpiece. The guard cannot protect you from the blade below the workpiece.
• Adjust the cutting depth to the thickness of the workpiece. Less than a full tooth of the blade teeth should be visible below the workpiece.
• Never hold the workpiece in your hands or across your leg while cutting. Secure the workpiece to a stable platform. It is important to support the work properly to minimize body exposure, blade binding, or loss of control.
• Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces when performing an operation where the cutting tool may contact hidden wiring. Contact with a "live" wire will also make exposed metal parts of the power tool "live" and could give the operator an electric shock.
• When ripping, always use a rip fence or straight edge guide. This improves the accuracy of cut and reduces the chance of blade binding.
• Always use blades with correct size and shape (diamond versus round) of arbour holes. Blades that do not match the mounting hardware of the saw will run off-centre, causing loss of control.
• Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers or bolt. The blade washers and bolt were specially designed for your saw, for optimum performance and safety of operation.

Further safety instructions for all saws
Kickback causes and related warnings

• Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, jammed or misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the workpiece toward the operator.
• When the blade is pinched or jammed tightly by the kerf closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit rapidly back toward the operator.
• If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of the workpiece causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump back toward the operator.

Kickback is the result of saw misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

• Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and position your arms to resist Kickback forces. Position your body to either side of the blade, but not in line with the blade. Kickback could cause the saw to jump backwards, but Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
• When blade is binding, or when interrupting a cut for any reason, release the trigger and hold the saw motionless in the material until the blade comes to a complete stop. Never attempt to remove the saw from the work or pull the saw backward while the blade is in motion or Kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective actions to eliminate the cause of blade binding.
• When restarting a saw in the workpiece, centre the saw blade in the kerf and check that saw teeth are not engaged into the material. If saw blade binds, it may walk up or Kickback from the workpiece as the saw is restarted.
• Support large panels to minimise the risk of blade pinching and Kickback. Large panels tend to sag under their own weight. Supports must be placed under the panel on both sides, near the line of cut and near the edge of the panel.
• Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing excessive friction, blade binding and Kickback.
• Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers must be tight and secure before making cut. If blade adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and Kickback.
• Use extra caution when sawing into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade may cut objects that can cause Kickback.

Guard function

• Check the guard for proper closing before each use. Do not operate the saw if the guard does not move freely and enclose the blade instantly. Never clamp or tie the guard so that the blade is exposed. If the saw is accidentally dropped, the guard may be bent. Check to make sure that the guard moves freely and does not touch the blade or any other part, in all angles and depths of cut.
• Check the operation and condition of the guard return spring. If the guard and the spring are not operating properly, they must be serviced before use. The guard may operate sluggishly due to damaged parts, gummy deposits, or a build-up of debris.
• Assure that the base plate of the saw will not shift while performing a "plunge cut". Blade shifting sideways will cause binding and likely kick back.
• Always observe that the guard is covering the blade before placing the saw down on bench or floor. An unprotected, coasting blade will cause the saw to walk backwards, cutting whatever is in its path. Be aware of the time it takes for the blade to stop after the switch is released.

Riving knife function

• Use the appropriate saw blade for the riving knife. For the riving knife to function, the body of the blade must be thinner than the riving knife and the cutting width of the blade must be wider than the thickness of the riving knife.
• Adjust the riving knife as described in this instruction manual. Incorrect spacing, positioning and alignment can make the riving knife ineffective in preventing Kickback.
• Always use the riving knife except when plunge cutting. The riving knife must be replaced after plunge cutting. The riving knife causes interference during plunge cutting and can create Kickback.
• For the riving knife to work, it must be engaged in the workpiece. The riving knife is ineffective in preventing Kickback during short cuts.
• Do not operate the saw if the riving knife is bent. Even a light interference can slow the closing rate of a guard.
• Do not use abrasive wheels.
• 
  To reduce the risk of injury, when working in dusty situations, wear appropriate respiratory protection or use an OSHA compliant dust extraction solution.
• Always use common sense and be cautious when using tools. It is not possible to anticipate every situation that could result in a dangerous outcome. Do not use this tool if you do not understand these operating instructions or you feel the work is beyond your capability; contact Milwaukee Tool or a trained professional for additional information or training.
• Maintain labels and nameplates. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing, contact a MILWAUKEE service facility for a free replacement.
• 
  Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
• lead from lead-based paint
• crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
• arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
  Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.

SYMBOLOGY

	Volts
	Direct Current
	No Load Revolutions per Minute (RPM)
	Match the arrow direction on the saw blade with the arrow direction on the saw.
	Match kerf width of blade (≥1.6 mm) and blade body thickness (≤1.3 mm) with the riving knife thickness (1.4 mm) to reduce the risk of Kickback.

SPECIFICATIONS

Cat. No.	2831-20
Volts	18 DC
Battery Type	M18
Charger Type	M18
No Load RPM	2500 - 5600
Blade Size	6-1/2" (165 mm)
Arbor	20 mm
Bevel Angle Range	-1° to 48°
Max Depth of Cut at 0°	2-1/4" (59 mm)
Max Depth of Cut at 45°	1-5/8" (44 mm)
Blade Kerf	≥0.063" (≥1.6 mm)
Blade Body Thickness	≤0.051" (≤1.3 mm)
Riving Knife Thickness	0.055" (1.4 mm)
Recommended Ambient Operating Temperature	0°F to 125°F

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

1. Dust port
2. Handle
3. Trigger
4. Lock-off button
5. Wrench/Storage
6. Front handle
7. Fine adjustment depth screw
8. Blade direction arrow
9. Depth scale
10. Depth stop slider pointer
11. Bevel knob
12. 22.5° bevel stop
13. Rail slot
14. Shoe
15. Sight line
16. Blade viewing window
17. Riving knife
18. Riving knife access hole
19. Speed control dial
20. Spindle lock
21. Scoring cut stop
22. Splinter guard assembly
23. Blade change lever
24. Depth stop slider button
25. Bevel angle pointer
26. Bevel override slider
27. Rail adjustment knobs
28. Anti-tip knob

ASSEMBLY

Recharge only with the charger specified for the battery. For specific charging instructions, read the operator's manual supplied with your charger and battery.

Removing/Inserting the Battery

To remove the battery, push in the release buttons and pull the battery pack away from the tool.

Always remove the battery pack any time the tool is not in use.

To insert the battery, slide the pack into the body of the tool. Make sure it latches securely into place.

Only use accessories specifically recommended for this tool. Others may be hazardous.

Selecting Blade

Do not use blades rated less than the speed of this tool. Kickback and personal injury could occur.
Use the appropriate saw blade for the riving knife. Match kerf width of blade ≥0.063" (≥1.6 mm) and blade body thickness ≤0.051" (≤1.3 mm) with the riving knife thickness 0.055" (1.4 mm) to reduce the risk of Kickback and personal injury.
Blades are sharp. Wear work gloves when handling blades.

Select a blade appropriate for your application. (See "ACCESSORIES").

Always use sharp blades. Dull blades tend to overload the tool and increase the chance of Kickback. Only use thin kerf blades with a maximum safe operating speed greater than the no load RPM marked on the tool's nameplate. Read the blade manufacturer's instructions before use. Do not use any type of abrasive cut-off wheel or dry diamond cutting blades. Use the correct blade type for your application. Using the wrong blade may result in reduced performance or damage to the blade. Do not use blades that are cracked or have broken teeth. Do not sharpen ferrous metal cutting blades; see the blade manufacturer's recommendations regarding sharpening.

Blade Guard

Keep the blade guard area free of accumulated sawdust and debris. Saw may operate sluggishly due to a build-up of debris which could result in possible serious injury. Wear appropriate PPE while clearing out the blade guard area when using compressed air.

Installing and Removing Blades

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Set the saw on a table edge to allow clearance for the blade to lower beyond the table surface.
3. Set the bevel angle to 0º.
4. Set the depth stop slider to max cutting depth.
5. Set the scoring cut stop to the disengaged position.
6. Set the blade change lever to the position.
   
7. Lower the front handle until the spindle bolt is accessible inside the blade change window and the tool locks in place.
8. To remove the bolt from the spindle, push in and hold the spindle lock while using the wrench provided to turn the bolt counterclockwise.
   
9. Remove the blade flange and blade from the spindle.
10. Clean the spindle, blade flange, and bolt to remove any dirt and debris.
11. To install a blade, place the blade on the spindle with the teeth pointing in the same direction as the arrow on the tool.
12. Place the blade flange on the spindle and hand tighten clockwise the bolt.

The blade flange and spindle have keying features that must be properly aligned when installing a new blade. Improperly assembled tools can result in personal injury.

13. While holding in the spindle lock button, use the wrench to turn the bolt clockwise and tighten.
14. Set the blade change lever to the position.
15. Return the front handle to its upright position by pressing down slightly on the front handle to release it.

Adjusting the Riving Knife

Always check the clearance of the riving knife after changing the saw blade.

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Set the saw on a table edge to allow clearance for the blade to lower beyond the table surface.
3. Set the bevel angle to 0°.
4. Set the depth stop slider to max cutting depth.
5. Set the scoring cut stop to the disengaged position.
6. While pressing the lock-off button, lower and hold the front handle at max depth.
7. Release the lock-off button and set the blade change lever to the position. The saw will be locked in place at the max depth position.
   
8. To allow the riving knife to move freely, slightly loosen the T25 screw visibile through the access hole in the blade guard.
   
9. Lift the riving knife upward, to access the second T25 screw through the access hole in the blade guard.
   
10. Slightly loosen the second T25 screw.
11. Adjust the riving knife so that the distance between the riving knife and the rim of the blade is not more than 3/16" and the rim of the blade does not extend more than 3/16" beyond the lowest edge of the riving knife.
    
12. Tighten both T25 screws.
13. Set the blade change lever to the position.
14. Return the front handle to its upright position by pressing down slightly on the front handle to release it.

Adjusting Cutting Depth

1. Remove battery pack.
2. To adjust the depth of the cut, press in the depth stop slider button and slide the depth stop slider pointer along the scale to the desired depth.
3. Match up the top edge of the pointer with the desired depth.
4. When using the saw with a guide rail, use the side of the pointer.
5. When using the saw without a guide rail, use the side of the pointer.
6. The depth stop will prevent the saw from plunging further than the depth chosen.
   
7. The blade should extend no more than 1/8" (3 mm) below the material being cut.
   

Fine Adjustment Depth Screw

To accommodate variations in blade diameters, a fine adjustment depth screw is available.

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Set depth stop slider to highest position.
3. While pressing the lock-off button, lower the saw until the fine adjustment depth screw contacts the depth stop slider.
4. Hold saw in place.
5. Check that the saw blade just barely contacts with the workpiece.
6. If necessary, adjust the fine adjustment depth screw and repeat steps 3-5 until the saw is properly adjusted for the installed blade.

Adjusting Bevel Angle

Adjusting Bevel Angle (0° to 45°)

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Disengage the 22.5° bevel stop.
3. Move the blade viewing window (or splinter guard) to the highest position.
4. Loosen both bevel knobs.
5. Tilt the saw by the main handle to slide the bevel angle pointer along the bevel scale to the desired angle.
   
6. Tighten both bevel knobs to lock the angle in place.

Adjusting Bevel Angle (-1°/48°)

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Disengage the 22.5° bevel stop.
3. Move the blade viewing window (or splinter guard) to the highest position.
4. Loosen both bevel knobs.
5. Tilt the saw by the main handle to slide the bevel angle pointer along the bevel scale to the desired angle.
6. Slide and hold the bevel override slider to move beyond either the 0° or 45° stops.
   
7. Once past the 0° or 45° stops, release the bevel override slider.
8. Tighten both bevel knobs to lock the angle in place.

22.5 Degrees Bevel Stop

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Move the blade viewing window (or splinter guard) to the highest position.
3. Set the bevel angle to 0º.
4. Pull and rotate the knob to the 22.5° position.
   
5. Release the knob to lock it in place.
   
6. Loosen both bevel knobs.
7. Tilt the saw by the main handle until it reaches the 22.5° bevel stop.
8. Tighten both bevel knobs to lock the angle in place.

Blade Viewing Window

To reduce the risk of serious injury or death, always have the blade viewing window or splinter guard in place during use. Keep hands away from cutting area and the blade.
The window provides a view of the blade and improves dust collection.

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Lower the window flush with the workpiece.
   
3. When finished working, return the window to its highest position.
4. To remove, move the window to its highest position.
   
   Never use saw without blade viewing window or splinter guard in place.
5. Using the provided wrench, press in the locking tab, then pull the window down and away from the tool.
   
6. To install, push the window into the body of the tool until the locking tab clicks into place.
   

Splinter Guard

To reduce the risk of serious injury or death, always have the blade viewing window or splinter guard in place during use. Keep hands away from cutting area and the blade.
The splinter guard helps prevents damage to the cut edge of the sawn-off workpiece. For best performance, trim the splinter guard to fit the kerf of the blade.

Preparing the splinter guard

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Remove the blade viewing window.
   
   Never use saw without blade viewing window or splinter guard in place.
3. Install the splinter guard into the body of the tool and secure with washer and knob.
   
4. Set the saw on a table edge to allow clearance for the blade to lower beyond the table surface.
5. Set the bevel angle to 0º.
6. Set the depth stop slider to max cutting depth.
7. Set the scoring cut stop to the disengaged position.
8. Perform a plunge cut to trim the splinter guard to the kerf of the blade.

Positioning the splinter guard during use

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Remove the blade viewing window.
3. Install the splinter guard into the body of the tool.
4. Lower the splinter guard until flush with the workpiece and then secure with washer and knob.
   

Attaching to a Guide Rail

To reduce the risk of serious injury, read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided by the guide rail manufacturer before beginning work.
Guide rail systems allow for precise cutting and protect the workpiece surface. When used with additional accessories, exact angled cuts, mitre cuts, and fitting work can be accomplished with a guide rail system.

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Place the saw onto the guide rail.
   
3. Tighten both rail adjustment knobs until saw locks on rail.
4. Loosen the rail adjustments knobs in small increments until the saw just begins to slide freely on rail. For best results, the guide clearance of the saw must be very small.

Preparing a Guide Rail

To reduce the risk of serious injury, read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided by the guide rail manufacturer before beginning work.

1. Remove battery pack.
2. Place the saw onto the guide rail.
3. Tighten both rail adjustment knobs until saw locks on rail.
4. Loosen the rail adjustments knobs in small increments until the saw just begins to slide freely on rail. For best results, the guide clearance of the saw must be very small.
5. Perform a plunge cut to the max preset depth and slowly push the saw along the full length of the guide rail.
6. The guide rail is now trimmed to the exact cutting edge of the saw.

Anti-Tip Feature

When bevel cutting with a guide rail, use the anti-tip feature to prevent the tool from falling over. After attaching the saw to a guide rail, press the button and rotate the knob to engage the anti-tip feature.

Dust collection

Collected sawdust from coated (polyurethanes, linseed oil, etc.) workpieces can self-ignite in the dust bag or elsewhere and cause fire. To reduce the risk of fire, empty the dust bag frequently and never store or leave a saw without totally emptying its dust bag.
Always use either the dust bag or vacuum. Failure to do so could cause dust or foreign objects to be thrown into your face or eyes which could result in possible serious injury.

The dust port at the back of the saw can be connected to a standard workshop vacuum hose or the included dust bag.
To install, push and twist the hose or dust bag onto the dust port. Rotate the dust port as necessary to allow clearance between the attachment and the workpiece.

OPERATION

To reduce the risk of injury, always wear proper eye protection marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.
When working in dusty situations, wear appropriate respiratory protection or use an OSHA compliant dust extraction solution. Keep hands away from the blade and other moving parts.
Always remove battery pack before changing or removing accessories. Only use accessories specifically recommended for this tool. Others may be hazardous.
Kickback causes and related warnings

• Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, jammed or misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the workpiece toward the operator;
• When the blade is pinched or jammed tightly by the kerf closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit rapidly back toward the operator;
• If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of the workpiece causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump back toward the operator.

Kickback is the result of saw misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

• Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and position your arms to resist Kickback forces. Position your body to either side of the blade, but not in line with the blade. Kickback could cause the saw to jump backwards, but Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
• When blade is binding, or when interrupting a cut for any reason, release the trigger and hold the saw motionless in the material until the blade comes to a complete stop. Never attempt to remove the saw from the work or pull the saw backward while the blade is in motion or Kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective actions to eliminate the cause of blade binding.
• When restarting a saw in the workpiece, centre the saw blade in the kerf and check that saw teeth are not engaged into the material. If saw blade is binding, it may walk up or Kickback from the workpiece as the saw is restarted.
• Support large panels to minimise the risk of blade pinching and Kickback. Large panels tend to sag under their own weight. Supports must be placed under the panel on both sides, near the line of cut and near the edge of the panel.
• Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing excessive friction, blade binding and Kickback.
• Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers must be tight and secure before making cut. If blade adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and Kickback.
• Use extra caution when sawing into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade may cut objects that can cause Kickback.
• Adjust the cutting depth to the thickness of the workpiece. Less than a full tooth of the blade teeth, or less than 1/8" of the blade, should be visible below the workpiece. The less blade exposed, the less chance of binding and Kickback. Before cutting, be sure depth and bevel adjustments are tight.
• Stay alert. Any distraction can cause twisting or binding. Repetitive cuts may lull the user into careless movements.

Selecting the Speed

The RPM of tool can be changed by turning the speed control dial. Variable speed dial settings range from one (1) through six (6). Higher numbers correspond to higher speeds and lower number correspond to lower speeds.

General Operation

Always clamp the workpiece securely on a saw horse or bench. See "APPLICATIONS" for the correct way to support your work in different situations.

1. Draw a cutting line. Place the front of the shoe on the edge of the workpiece without making blade contact. Hold the main handle with one hand and the front handle with the other.
   
2. Line up the sight line on the front and back of tool with your cutting line. The sight line indicates where the blade is cutting.
   Tool with a guide rail:
   Position (A) indicates the inside edge of the cut at every bevel angle.
   Tool without a guide rail:
   Position (A) indicates the inside edge of the cut at 0º bevel.
   Position (B) indicates the inside edge of the cut at 45º bevel.
   
3. Position your arms and body to resist Kickback.
4. To start the saw, push the lock-off button down, then pull the trigger. Allow the motor to reach full speed before beginning cut.
5. Slowly plunge the saw until preset depth is reached.
6. Move the saw forward through the workpiece while following the cut line.
7. While cutting, keep the shoe flat against the workpiece and maintain a firm grip. Do not force the saw through the workpiece. Forcing a saw can cause Kickback.
8. If making a partial cut, restarting mid-cut or correcting direction, allow the blade to come to a complete stop. To resume cutting, center the blade in the kerf, back the saw away from cutting edge a few inches, push the lock-off button down, pull the trigger and re-enter the cut slowly.
9. If the saw binds and stalls, maintain a firm grip and release the trigger immediately. Hold the saw motionless in the workpiece until the blade comes to a complete stop.
10. After finishing a cut, release the trigger, be sure the blade comes to a complete stop and return the front handle to its upright position before setting the saw down.

Electric Brake

The electric brake engages when the trigger is released, causing the blade to stop and allowing you to proceed with your work. Generally, the saw blade stops within two seconds. However, there may be a delay between the time you release the trigger and when the brake engages. Occasionally the brake may miss completely. If the brake misses frequently, the saw needs servicing by an authorized MILWAUKEE service facility. The brake is not a substitute for the guard, and you must always wait for the blade to stop completely before removing the saw from the workpiece.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If the blade does not follow a straight line:

• Teeth are dull. This is caused by hitting a hard object such as a nail or stone, dulling teeth on one side. The blade tends to cut to the side with the sharpest teeth.
• Shoe is out of line or bent
• Blade is bent

If the blade binds, smokes or turns blue from friction:

• Blade is dull
• Blade is on backwards
• Blade is bent
• Blade is dirty
• Workpiece is not properly supported
• Incorrect blade is being used
• Battery charge is low

APPLICATIONS

Cutting Large Panels

Large panels and long boards sag or bend if they are not correctly supported. If you attempt to cut without leveling and properly supporting the workpiece, the blade will tend to bind, causing Kickback.
Support large panels. Be sure to set the depth of the cut so that you only cut through the workpiece, not through the supports.

Cross-Cutting Wood

Cross-cutting is cutting across the grain. Select the proper blade for your job. Advance the saw slowly to avoid splintering the wood.

Plunge Cutting

To reduce the risk of electric shock, check work area for hidden pipes and wires before making plunge cuts.
Plunge cuts are made in the middle of the workpiece when it can not be cut from an edge. To maintain control of the saw during plunge cutting, keep both hands on the saw.

1. Draw a cutting line.
2. Line up the sight line on the front and back of tool with your cutting line. The sight line indicates where the blade is cutting.
   Tool with a guide rail:
   Position (A) indicates the inside edge of the cut at every bevel angle.
   Tool without a guide rail:
   Position (A) indicates the inside edge of the cut at 0º bevel.
   Position (B) indicates the inside edge of the cut at 45º bevel.
   
3. Line up the front/rear blade position indicators with your cutting line. These show where the blade will cut when plunged when using a guide rail.
   
   1. 1 /2"
   2. 3/4"
   3. 1"
   4. Maximum cut depth
4. Position your arms and body to resist Kickback.
5. To start the saw, push the lock-off button down, then pull the trigger. Allow the motor to reach full speed before beginning cut.
6. Slowly lower the saw until preset depth is reached.
7. While cutting, keep the shoe flat against the workpiece and maintain a firm grip. Do not force the saw through the workpiece. Forcing a saw can cause Kickback.
8. If making a partial cut, restarting mid-cut or correcting direction, allow the blade to come to a complete stop. To resume cutting, center the blade in the kerf, back the saw away from cutting edge a few inches, push the lock-off button down, pull the trigger and re-enter the cut slowly.
9. If the saw binds and stalls, maintain a firm grip and release the trigger immediately. Hold the saw motionless in the workpiece until the blade comes to a complete stop.
10. After finishing a cut, release the trigger, be sure the blade comes to a complete stop and return the front handle to its upright position before setting the saw down.

Scoring Cuts

A scoring cut helps prevent splintering of the workpiece. Use a guide rail when performing scoring cuts. Make a scoring cut first and then make another pass at normal cut depth. To set the depth of cut to 1/16" (1.5 mm) for a scoring cut, push the scoring cut stop forward. To unlock, pull the scoring cut stop back.

Overloading

Continuous overloading may cause permanent damage to tool or battery pack.

Cutting Masonry and Metal

MILWAUKEE circular saws are not intended for continuous use in cutting metal or masonry. When cutting these materials, use the correct blade. MILWAUKEE does not recommend using bonded abrasive wheels on circular saws for any application.

Dust, chips, and grit can cause guard to hang up at any time. If saw is used to cut masonry or metal, reserve and mark it for that purpose only and return it to a MILWAUKEE service facility for cleaning and testing before using it for wood cutting.
Only use accessories with maximum speed rating at least as high as nameplate RPM of tool.

When cutting masonry, use a diamond blade. Make successive passes at depths of less than 1/4" to achieve the desired depth. Cutting at a depth of more than 1/4" will damage wheel. Remove battery pack and frequently clean dust from air vents and guards.

Do not use tool for cutting metal near flammable material. Sparks may cause fire.
When cutting metal, use a metal cutting blade. Set depth of cut to full depth. Protect everyone in the area from sparks.

Cutting Plastic

When cutting plastic, avoid overheating the blade and blade teeth to prevent melting the workpiece.

MAINTENANCE

To reduce the risk of injury, always unplug the charger and remove the battery pack from the charger or tool before performing any maintenance. Never disassemble the tool, battery pack or charger. Contact a MILWAUKEE service facility for ALL repairs.

Maintaining Tool

Keep your tool, battery pack and charger in good repair by adopting a regular maintenance program. Inspect your tool for issues such as undue noise, misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, or any other condition that may affect the tool operation. Return the tool, battery pack, and charger to a MILWAUKEE service facility for repair. After six months to one year, depending on use, return the tool, battery pack and charger to a MILWAUKEE service facility for inspection.
If the tool does not start or operate at full power with a fully charged battery pack, clean the contacts on the battery pack. If the tool still does not work properly, return the tool, charger and battery pack, to a MILWAUKEE service facility for repairs.

To reduce the risk of personal injury and damage, never immerse your tool, battery pack or charger in liquid or allow a liquid to flow inside them.

Cleaning

Clean dust and debris from any vents. Keep tool clean, dry and free of oil or grease. Use only mild soap and a damp cloth to clean, since certain cleaning agents and solvents are harmful to plastics and other insulated parts. Some of these include gasoline, turpentine, lacquer thinner, paint thinner, chlorinated cleaning solvents, ammonia and household detergents containing ammonia. Never use flammable or combustible solvents around tools.

Repairs

For repairs, return the tool, battery pack and charger to the nearest authorized service center.

ACCESSORIES

Use only recommended accessories. Others may be hazardous.
For a complete listing of accessories, go online to www.milwaukeetool.com or contact a distributor.

SERVICE

UNITED STATES

1-800-SAWDUST (1.800.729.3878)
Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM CST or visit www.milwaukeetool.com

Contact Corporate After Sales Service Technical Support with technical, service/repair, or warranty questions.
Email: metproductsupport@milwaukeetool.com
Become a Heavy Duty Club Member at www.milwaukeetool.com to receive important notifications regarding your tool purchases.

CANADA

Milwaukee Tool (Canada) Ltd 1.800.268.4015
Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM CST or visit www.milwaukeetool.ca

LIMITED WARRANTY USA & CANADA

This warranty applies to product sold in the U.S.A. and Canada only. Please consult the 'Service Center Search' in the Parts & Service section of MILWAUKEE's website www.milwaukeetool.com or call 1.800. SAWDUST (1.800.729.3878) to locate your nearest service facility for warranty and non-warranty service on a Milwaukee electric power tool.

Documents / Resources

References

• Milwaukee® Tool Official Site | Nothing but HEAVY DUTY®
• Milwaukee® Tool Official Site | Nothing but HEAVY DUTY®

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2831-20 - PLUNGE TRACK SAW Manual