Adjusting The Cutting Speed With The Variable Speed Dial - Craftsman 320.17255 Operator's Manual

ADJUSTING THE CUTTING SPEED WITH THE VARIABLE SPEED DIAL
(Fig. 1.1 and 1 la)
The variable speed feature of this saw allows you to match the proper cutting speed
to the material being cut, enhancing the overall performance of your saw and helping
to save the blades from undue wear.
The speeds can be adjusted from 800 to 3000 SPM (strokes per minute) no-load speed,
by adjusting the variable speed dial located on top of the trigger switch handle.
The speed dial is numbered "1" through "6", with number "1" the slowest speed and
number "6" the fastest speed (see Fig. 11 and 11 a).
The proper blade speed will differ depending on the type and thickness of the
workpiece and whether you are straight cutting or following an intricate scroll pattern.
As a general rule, slower speeds are for denser materials and faster speeds are for
soft materials. High speeds will allow you to cut workpieces faster, but blade life will
be reduced.
The following chart can help you pick the proper speed. Remember to ALWAYS use
the proper cutting blade for the cutting application and the material you are cutting.
Fig. 1 1
Fig. 11a
Workpiece to be cut Number on Variable Speed Dial
Wood 5 - 6
Mild steel 2 - 5
Stainless steel 3 - 4
Aluminum 3 - 6
Plastics 1 - 4
17
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