DeWalt DW717 Manual
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DeWalt DW717 Manual

Introduction

You have chosen a DEWALT tool. Years of experience, thorough product development and innovation make DEWALT one of the most reliable partners for professional power tool users.

Technical data

DW717
Voltage V 230
(U.K. & Ireland only) V 230/115
Power input W 1,600
Blade diameter mm 250
Blade bore mm 30
Blade body thickness mm 1.8
Max. blade speed min-1 4,000
Max. cross-cut capacity 90° mm 320
Max. mitre capacity 45° mm 226
Max. depth of cut 90° mm 88
Max. depth of bevel cross-cut 45° mm 56
Mitre (max. positions) left 60°
right 51°
Bevel (max. positions) left 48°
right 48°
0° mitre
Resulting width at max. height 89 mm
mm 302
Resulting height at max. width 320 mm mm 76
45° mitre left
Resulting width at max. height 89 mm
mm 213
Resulting height at max. width 226 mm mm 76
45° bevel left
Resulting width at max. height 58 mm
mm 302
Resulting height at max. width 320 mm mm 50
45° bevel right
Resulting width at max. height 30 mm
mm 302
Resulting height at max. width 320 mm mm 22
31.62° mitre, 33.85° bevel
Resulting height at max. width 272 mm
mm 44
Automatic blade brake time s < 10.0
Weight kg 23
DW717
LpA (sound pressure) dB(A) 92
LWA (acoustic power) dB(A) 105
KpA (sound pressure uncertainty) dB(A) 3.0
KWA (acoustic power uncertainty) dB(A) 4.2
Vibration total values (triax vector sum) determined according to EN61029:
Vibration emission value ah a = h m/s² 2.0
Uncertainty K = m/s² 1.5
Fuses:
Europe 230 V tools 10 Amperes, mains
U.K. & Ireland 230 V tools 13 Amperes, in plugs
U.K. & Ireland 115 V tools 16 Amperes, mains

Definitions: Safety Guidelines

The definitions below describe the level of severity for each signal word. Please read the manual and pay attention to these symbols.

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

Used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.
shock hazard Denotes risk of electric shock.
Denotes risk of fire.

Safety Instructions


When using electric tools basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury including the following.
Read all these instructions before attempting to operate this product and save these instructions.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

General Safety Rules

  1. Keep work area clear.
    Cluttered areas and benches invite injuries.
  2. Consider work area environment.
    Do not expose the tool to rain. Do not use the tool in damp or wet conditions. Keep the work area well lit (250 - 300 Lux). Do not use the tool where there is a risk of causing fire or explosion, e.g., in the presence of flammable liquids and gases.
  3. Guard against electric shock.
    Avoid body contact with earthed surfaces (e.g., pipes, radiators, cookers and refrigerators). When using the tool under extreme conditions (e.g., high humidity, when metal swarf is being produced, etc.), electric safety can be improved by inserting an isolating transformer or a (FI) earth-leakage circuit-breaker.
  4. Keep other persons away.
    Do not let persons, especially children, not involved in the work, touch the tool or the extension cord and keep them away from the work area.
  5. Store idle tools.
    When not in use, tools must be stored in a dry place and locked up securely, out of reach of children.
  6. Do not force the tool.
    It will do the job better and safer at the rate to which it was intended.
  7. Use the right tool.
    Do not force small tools to do the job of a heavy duty tool. Do not use tools for purposes not intended; for example do not use circular saws to cut tree limbs or logs.
  8. Dress properly.
    Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery, as these can be caught in moving parts. Non-skid footwear is recommended when working outdoors. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
  9. Use protective equipment.
    Always use safety glasses. Use a face or dust mask if working operations create dust or flying particles. If these particles might be considerably hot, also wear a heat-resistant apron. Wear ear protection at all times. Wear a safety helmet at all times.
  10. Connect dust extraction equipment.
    If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collecting equipment, ensure these are connected and properly used.
  11. Do not abuse the cord.
    Never yank the cord to disconnect it from the socket. Keep the cord away from heat, oil and sharp edges. Never carry the tool by its cord.
  12. Secure work.
    Where possible use clamps or a vice to hold the work. It is safer than using your hand and it frees both hands to operate the tool.
  13. Do not overreach.
    Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
  14. Maintain tools with care.
    Keep cutting tools sharp and clean for better and safer performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Inspect tools periodically and if damaged have them repaired by an authorized service facility. Keep handles and switches dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
  15. Disconnect tools.
    When not in use, before servicing and when changing accessories such as blades, bits and cutters, disconnect tools from the power supply.
  16. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches.
    Form the habit of checking to see that adjusting keys and wrenches are removed from the tool before operating the tool.
  17. Avoid unintentional starting.
    Do not carry the tool with a finger on the switch. Be sure that the tool is in the "off" position before plugging in.
  18. Use outdoor extension leads.
    Before use, inspect the extension cable and replace if damaged. When the tool is used outdoors, use only extension cords intended for outdoor use and marked accordingly.
  19. Stay alert.
    Watch what you are doing. Use common sense. Do not operate the tool when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  20. Check for damaged parts.
    Before use, carefully check the tool and mains cable to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service centre unless otherwise indicated in this instruction manual. Have defective switches replaced by an authorized service centre. Do not use the tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Never attempt any repairs yourself.

    The use of any accessory or attachment or performance of any operation with this tool other than those recommended in this instruction manual may present a risk of personal injury.
  21. Have your tool repaired by a qualified person.
    This electric tool complies relevant safety rules. Repairs should only be carried out by qualified persons using original spare parts; otherwise this may result in considerable danger to the user.

Additional Safety Rules for Mitre Saws

  • The machine is provided with a special configured power supply cord which can only be replaced by the manufacturer or its authorised service agent.
  • Do not use the saw to cut other materials than those recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Do not operate the machine without guards in position, or if guards do not function or are not maintained properly.
  • Ensure that the arm is securely fixed when performing bevel cuts.
  • Keep the floor area around the machine level, well-maintained and free of loose materials, e.g., chips and cut-offs.
  • Use correctly sharpened saw blades. Observe the maximum speed mark on the saw blade.
  • Make sure all locking knobs and clamp handles are tight before starting any operation.
  • Never place either hand in the blade area when the saw is connected to the electrical power source.
  • Never attempt to stop a machine in motion rapidly by jamming a tool or other means against the blade; serious accidents can occur.
  • Before using any accessory consult the instruction manual. The improper use of an accessory can cause damage.
  • Use a holder or wear gloves when handling a saw blade.
  • Ensure that the saw blade is mounted correctly before use.
  • Make sure that the blade rotates in the correct direction.
  • Do not use blades of larger or smaller diameter than recommended. For the proper blade rating refer to the technical data. Use only the blades specified in this manual, complying with EN 847-1.
  • Consider applying specially designed noise-reduction blades.
  • Do not use HSS blades.
  • Do not use cracked or damaged saw blades.
  • Do not use any abrasive discs.
  • Never use your saw without the kerf plate.
  • Raise the blade from the kerf in the workpiece prior to releasing the switch.
  • Do not wedge anything against the fan to hold the motor shaft.
  • The blade guard on your saw will automatically raise when the arm is brought down; it will lower over the blade when head lock up release lever (12) is pushed.
  • Never raise the blade guard manually unless the saw is switched off. The guard can be raised by hand when installing or removing saw blades or for inspection of the saw.
  • Check periodically that the motor air slots are clean and free of chips.
  • Replace the kerf plate when worn.
  • Disconnect the machine from the mains before carrying out any maintenance work or when changing the blade.
  • Never perform any cleaning or maintenance work when the machine is still running and the head is not in the rest position.
  • When possible, always mount the machine to a bench.
  • If you use a laser to indicate the cutting line, make sure that the laser is of class 2 according to EN 60825-1. Do not replace a laser diode with a different type. If damaged, have the laser repaired by an authorised repair agent.
  • The front section of the guard is louvered for visibility while cutting. Although the louvers dramatically reduce flying debris, they are openings in the guard and safety glasses should be worn at all times when viewing through the louvers.
  • Connect the saw to a dust collection device when sawing wood.
    Always consider factors which influence exposure of dust such as:
    • type of material to be machined (chip board produces more dust than wood);
    • sharpness of the saw blade;
    • correct adjustment of the saw blade.
      Ensure that the local extraction as well as hoods, baffles and chutes are properly adjusted.
  • Please be aware of the following factors influencing exposure to noise:
    • use saw blades designed to reduce the emitted noise;
    • use only well sharpened saw blades;
  • Machine maintenance shall be conducted periodically;
  • Machine faults, including guards or saw blade, shall be reported as soon as they are discovered;
  • Provide adequate general or localized lighting;
  • Ensure the operator is adequately trained in the use, adjustment and operation of the machine;
  • When fitted with laser, DO NOT change to a different type of laser. Repairs shall only be carried out by the laser manufacturer or an authorized agent.

Residual Risks
The following risks are inherent to the use of saws:

  • injuries caused by touching the rotating parts

In spite of the application of the relevant safety regulations and the implementation of safety devices, certain residual risks cannot be avoided. These are:

  • Impairment of hearing.
  • Risk of accidents caused by the uncovered parts of the rotating saw blade.
  • Risk of injury when changing the blade.
  • Risk of squeezing fingers when opening the guards.
  • Health hazards caused by breathing dust developed when sawing wood, especially oak, beech and MDF.

Package contents

The package contains:
1 Assembled mitre saw
1 Blade spanner
1 Saw blade
1 Dustbag
1 Instruction manual
1 Exploded drawing

  • Check for damage to the tool, parts or accessories which may have occurred during transport.
  • Take the time to thoroughly read and understand this manual prior to operation.

Description

(fig. A1 - A7)


Never modify the power tool or any part of it. Damage or personal injury could result.

Description - Part 1

  1. On/off switch
  2. Moveable lower blade guard
  3. Fence left-hand side
  4. Mitre lever
  5. Mitre latch
  6. Dust spout (not shown)
  7. Mitre scale
  8. Fence right-hand side
  9. Kerf plate
  10. Carrying handle
  11. Operating handle
  12. Head lock up release lever
  13. Electronic speed control dial
  14. Spindle lock
  15. Bevel scale
  16. Rail lock knob
  17. Grooving stop

Description - Part 2

  1. Slide stop
  2. Fixed upper blade guard
  3. Bevel latch/lever
  4. Bevel clamp handle
  5. Head lock down pin
  6. Wrench
  7. Hand indentation
  8. Bench mounting holes

Description - Part 3

  1. Dustbag

Optional accessories
Description - Part 4

  1. Work support extension

Description - Part 5

  1. LED Worklight System

Description - Part 6

  1. Work piece clamp

Description - Part 7

  1. Laser

INTENDED USE
Your DW717 mitre saw has been designed for professional cutting of wood, wood products, aluminium and plastics. It will perform the sawing operations of cross-cutting, bevelling and mitring easily, accurately and safely.
The DW717 mitre saw is a professional power tool. DO NOT let children come into contact with the tool. Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use this tool.

Electrical safety

The electric motor has been designed for one voltage only. Always check that the power supply corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate.
Your tool is double insulated in accordance with EN 61029; therefore no earth wire is required.
In case of cord replacement the tool must only be repaired by an authorized service agent or by qualifi ed electrician.

Mains plug replacement (U.K. & Ireland only)

  • Should your mains plug need replacing and you are competent to do this, proceed as instructed below. If you are in doubt, contact an authorized DEWALT repair agent or a qualifi ed electrician.
  • Disconnect the plug from the supply.
  • Cut off the plug and dispose of it safely; a plug with bared copper conductors is dangerous if engaged in a live socket outlet.
  • Only fi t 13 Amperes BS1363A approved plugs fi tted with the correctly rated fuse (1).
  • The cable wire colours, or a letter, will be marked at the connection points of most good quality plugs. Attach the wires to their respective points in the plug (see below). Brown is for Live (L) (2) and Blue is for Neutral (N) (4).
  • Before replacing the top cover of the mains plug ensure that the cable restraint (3) is holding the outer sheath of the cable fi rmly and that the two leads are correctly fi xed at the terminal screws.


Never use a light socket.
Never connect the live (L) or neutral (N) wires to the earth pin marked E or .

Fitting a mains plug to 115 V units (U.K. & Ireland only)

  • The plug should be fi tted by a competent person. If you are in doubt, contact an authorized DEWALT repair agent or a qualifi ed electrician.
    The wires are coloured according to the following code:
    live = brown
    neutral = blue
  • Do not connect the blue or brown wire to the earth terminal in the plug.
    Connect as follows:
    brown to terminal marked 'L'
    blue to terminal marked 'N'

The plug fitted should comply with BS EN 60309 (BS4343), 32 Amps.
shock hazardAlways ensure that the cable clamp is correctly and securely fi tted to the sheath of the cable.

Using an extension cable
If an extension cable is required, use an approved extension cable suitable for the power input of this tool (see technical data).
The minimum conductor size is 1.5 mm2.
When using a cable reel, always unwind the cable completely. Also refer to the table below.
Using an extension cable

Voltage drops
Inrush currents cause short-time voltage drops. Under unfavourable power supply conditions, other equipment may be affected. If the system impedance of the power supply is lower than 0.25 Ω, disturbances are unlikely to occur.

ASSEMBLY


To reduce the risk of injury, turn off tool and disconnect from power source before attempting to move it, changing accessories or making any adjustments accept as written in laser adjustment instructions.

Unpacking (fig. A1, B)
Unpacking

  • Remove the saw from the packing material carefully using the carrying handle (10).
  • Release the rail lock knob (16), and push the saw head back to lock it in the rear position.
  • Press down the operating handle (11) and pull out the lock down pin (22), as shown.
  • Gently release the downward pressure and allow the arm to rise to its full height.

Bench mounting (fig. C)
Bench mounting

  • Holes (25) are provided in all four feet to facilitate bench mounting. Two different sized holes are provided to accommodate different sizes of bolts. Use either hole; it is not necessary to use both. Always mount your saw fi rmly to prevent movement. To enhance the portability, the tool can be mounted to a piece of 12.5 mm or thicker plywood which can then be clamped to your work support or moved to other job sites and reclamped.
  • When mounting your saw to a piece of plywood, make sure that the mounting screws do not protrude from the bottom of the wood. The plywood must sit fl ush on the work support. When clamping the saw to any work surface, clamp only on the clamping bosses where the mounting screw holes are located. Clamping at any other point will interfere with the proper operation of the saw.
  • To prevent binding and inaccuracy, be sure the mounting surface is not warped or otherwise uneven. If the saw rocks on the surface, place a thin piece of material under one saw foot until the saw is fi rm on the mounting surface.

Mounting the saw blade (fig. D1 - D5)

To reduce the risk of injury, turn off tool and disconnect from power source before attempting to move it, changing accessories or making any adjustments accept as written in laser adjustment instructions.
Never depress the spindle lock button while the blade is under power or coasting.
Do not cut ferrous metal (containing iron or steel) or masonry or fiber cement product with this mitre saw.
Mounting the saw blade

  • Depress the head lock up release lever (12) to release the lower guard (2), then raise the lower guard as far as possible.
  • Using the Torx bit (33) in the handgrip end of the supplied wrench (23), loosen the guard bracket screw (34) suffi ciently to allow the angled corner piece (35) to pass between the head of the screw and the guard. This will allow the guard bracket (36) to be raised enough to permit access to the blade locking screw (37).
  • With the lower guard held in the raised position by the guard bracket screw (34) depress the spindle lock button (14) with one hand, then use the supplied wrench (23) in the other hand to loosen the left-hand threaded blade locking screw (37) by turning clockwise.

    To use the spindle lock, press the button as shown and rotate the spindle by hand until you feel the lock engage. Continue to hold the lock button in to keep the spindle from turning. (fig. D4).
  • Remove the blade locking screw (37) and the outside arbor collar (38).
  • Install the saw blade (39) onto the shoulder (40) provided on the inside arbor collar (41), making sure that the teeth at the bottom edge of the blade are pointing toward the back of the saw (away from the operator).
  • Replace the outer arbor collar (38).
  • Tighten the blade locking screw (37) by turning counter-clockwise while holding the spindle lock engaged with your other hand.
  • Move the guard bracket (36) down until the angled corner piece (35) is below the head of the guard bracket screw (34).
  • Tighten the guard bracket screw.

    Never press the spindle lock while the blade is rotating. Be sure to hold the guard bracket down and firmly tighten the guard bracket screw after installing the blade.

    The guard bracket must be returned to its original position and the screw tightened before activating the saw. Failure to do so may allow the guard to contact the spinning saw blade resulting in damage to the saw and severe personal injury.

Adjustment

To reduce the risk of injury, turn off tool and disconnect from power source before attempting to move it, changing accessories or making any adjustments accept as written in laser adjustment instructions.
Your mitre saw was accurately adjusted at the factory. If readjustment due to shipping and handling or any other reason is required, follow the steps below to adjust your saw. Once made, these adjustments should remain accurate.

Checking and adjusting the blade to the fence (fig. E1 - E4)
Checking and adjusting the blade to the fence - Step 1
Checking and adjusting the blade to the fence - Step 2

  • Release the mitre lever (4) and depress the mitre latch (5) to release the mitre arm (42).
  • Swing the mitre arm until the latch locates it at the 0° mitre position. Do not tighten the lever.
  • Pull down the head until the blade just enters the saw kerf (43).
  • Place a square (44) against the left side of the fence (3) and blade (39) (fig. E3).

    Do not touch the tips of the blade teeth with the square.
  • If adjustment is required, proceed as follows:
  • Loosen the screws (45) and move the scale/mitre arm assembly left or right until the blade is at 90° to the fence as measured with the square.
  • Retighten the screws (45). Pay no attention to the reading of the mitre pointer at this point.

Adjusting the mitre pointer (fig. E1, E2 & F)

  • Release the mitre lever (4) and depress the mitre latch (5) to release the mitre arm (42).
  • Move the mitre arm to set the mitre pointer (46) to the zero position, as shown in fig. F.
    Adjusting the mitre pointer
  • With the mitre lever loose, allow the mitre latch to snap into place as you rotate the mitre arm past zero.
  • Observe the pointer (46) and mitre scale (7). If the pointer does not indicate exactly zero, loosen the screw (47), move the pointer to read 0° and tighten the screw.

Mitre lock/detent rod adjustment (fig. A1, G)
If the base of the saw can be moved while the mitre lever (4) is locked, the mitre lock/detent rod (48) must be adjusted.
Mitre lock/detent rod adjustment

  • Unlock the mitre lever (4).
  • Loosen the lock nut (61) on the miter lock rod.
  • Fully tighten the mitre lock/detent rod (48) using a screwdriver. Then loosen the rod one turn.
  • Check that the table does not move when the lever (4) is locked at a random (not preset) angle.
  • Tighten lock nut (61).

Checking and adjusting the blade to the table (fig. H1 - H4)
Checking and adjusting the blade to the table

  • Loosen the bevel clamp handle (21) and lift the bevel latch (20) to release the saw arm.
  • Move the saw arm until the latch locates it at the 0° bevel position. Do not tighten the handle.
  • Pull down the head until the blade just enters the saw kerf (43).
  • Place a set square (44) on the table and up against the blade (39) (fig. H2).

    Do not touch the tips of the blade teeth with the square.
  • If adjustment is required, proceed as follows:
  • Loosen the nuts (49, 55) and move the saw arm assembly left or right until the blade is at 90° to the table as measured with the square. Retighten the nut (49). The bevel angle requires adjustment after the blade to table adjustment is complete.
  • Adjust the left and right bevel angles.
  • If the bevel pointer (50) does not indicate zero on the bevel scale (15), loosen the screw (51) that secures the pointer and move the pointer as necessary.

Adjusting the fence (fig. I1 & I2)
The upper part of the fence can be adjusted to provide clearance, allowing the saw to bevel to a full 48° both left and right.
To adjust the left fence (3):
Adjusting the fence

  • Loosen the plastic knob (52) and slide the fence to the left.
  • Make a dry run with the saw switched off and check for clearance. Adjust the fence to be as close to the blade as practical to provide maximum workpiece support, without interfering with the up and down movement of the arm.
  • Tighten the knob securely.

To adjust the right fence (8):

  • Loosen the plastic knob (53) and slide the fence to the right.
  • Proceed as for adjusting the left fence.

    The guide grooves (54) can become clogged with sawdust. Use a stick or some low pressure air to clear the guide grooves.

Checking and adjusting the bevel angle (fig. H1, I1, I2, J1 & J2)
Checking and adjusting the left bevel angle
Checking and adjusting the bevel angle

  • Loosen the left side fence clamping knob (52) and slide the upper part of the left side fence to the left as far as it will go.
  • Loosen the bevel clamp handle (21) and lift the bevel latch (20) to release the saw arm.
  • Move the saw arm to the left until the latch locates it at the 45° bevel position. Do not tighten the handle.
  • Check that the bevel indicator (50) indicates 45° on the bevel scale (15) (fig. J1).
  • If adjustment is required, proceed as follows:
  • Loosen the nut (55) and turn the stopscrew (56) in or out as necessary until the pointer (50) indicates 45°. Retighten the nut (55).
  • To achieve a 50° bevel, turn the screw on the angle position stop out to allow the saw arm to move as necessary.

Checking and adjusting the right bevel angle

  • Loosen the right side fence clamping knob (53) and slide the upper part of the right side fence to the left as far as it will go.
  • Loosen the bevel clamp handle (21) and lift the bevel latch (20) to release the saw arm.
  • Move the saw arm to the right until the latch locates it at the 45° bevel position. Do not tighten the handle.
  • Check that the bevel indicator (50) indicates 45° on the bevel scale (15) (fig. J2).
  • If adjustment is required, proceed as for adjusting the left bevel angle.

Adjusting the bevel clamping system (fig. K)
If the saw arm can be moved when the bevel clamp handle (21) is locked, the clamping sytem must be adjusted.
Adjusting the bevel clamping system

  • Remove the screw (56) holding the handle.
  • Lift off the handle and turn it 1/8 turn clockwise. Refi t the screw.
  • Check that the saw arm does not move when the bevel clamp handle (21) is locked at a random (not preset) angle.

Rail guide adjustment (fig. K)

  • Regularly check the rails for clearance.
  • To reduce clearance, gradually rotate the set screw (57) clockwise while sliding the saw head back and forth. Adjust the clearance to be as small as possible without causing any slide resistance.

Instructions for use


Always observe the safety instructions and applicable regulations.
The attention of UK users is drawn to the "woodworking machines regulations 1974" and any subsequent amendments.
Prior to operation:

  • Install the appropriate saw blade. Do not use excessively worn blades. The maximum rotation speed of the tool must not exceed that of the saw blade.
  • Do not attempt to cut excessively small pieces.
  • Allow the blade to cut freely. Do not force.
  • Allow the motor to reach full speed before cutting.
  • Make sure all locking knobs and clamp handles are tight.
  • Secure the workpiece.
  • Although this saw will cut wood and many nonferrous materials, these operating instructions refer to the cutting of wood only.
    The same guide-lines apply to the other materials.
    Do not cut ferrous (iron and steel) materials, fi bre cement or masonry with this saw!
  • Make sure to use the kerf plate. Do not operate the machine if the kerf slot is wider than 10 mm.

Switching on and off (fig. L)
A hole (58) is provided in the on/ off switch (1) for insertion of a padlock to lock the tool.
Switching on and off

  • To run the tool, press the on/off switch (1).
  • To stop the tool, release the switch.

Body and hand position
Proper positioning of your body and hands when operating the mitre saw will make cutting easier, more accurate and safer.

  • Never place your hands near the cutting area.
  • Place your hands no closer than 150 mm from the blade.
  • Hold the workpiece tightly to the table and the fence when cutting. Keep your hands in position until the switch has been released and the blade has completely stopped.
  • Always make dry runs (without power) before fi nish cuts so that you can check the path of the blade.
  • Do not cross your hands.
  • Keep both feet fi rmly on the fl oor and maintain proper balance.
  • As you move the saw arm left and right, follow it and stand slightly to the side of the saw blade.
  • Sight through the guard louvres when following a pencil line.

Setting the variable speed (fig. L)
The speed control dial (13) can be used for advance setting of the required range of speed.

  • Turn the speed control dial (13) to the desired range, which is indicated by a number.
  • Use high speeds for sawing soft materials such as wood. Use low speeds for sawing metal.

MIter Control (Fig. E1)
The mitre lever (4) and mitre latch (5) allows the saw to mitre 60 left and 50 right.
To miter the saw:

  • Release the mitre lever (4) and depress the mitre latch (5) and set the mitre angle desired on the miter scale.
  • Push down on the mitre lever (4) to lock the saw table in place.

Bevel Control (Fig. H1, J1)
The bevel latch levers (20) and bevel clamp handle (21) allows the saw to bevel 48º left and right. Your saw has two bevel latch levers (20), one on either side of the rear support housing. Only one needs to be used to move the bevel to either direction. The bevel clamp handle (21) is on top of the rear support housing.
To bevel the saw:

  • Loosen the bevel clamp handle (21). Lift one of the levers to approximately 45º and set the bevel angle desired on the bevel scale (15). Two bevel scales are provided for convenience.
  • Lock the bevel clamp handle (21) to lock the bevel in place. The bevel latch levers (20) can be lifted vertically to override the common stop angles.

Slide Stop (Fig. U)
The slide stop (18) control positions your saws rails so that the largest possible verticle moldings can be cut. ALWAYS TIGHTEN THE RAIL LOCK KNOB WHEN USING THE SLIDE STOP TO PREVENT THE SLIDE SYSTEM FROM MOVING UNINTENTIONALLY
Slide Stop

Rail Lock Knob (fig. A1, U)
The rail lock knob (16) allows you to lock the saw head fi rmly to keep it from sliding on the rails. This is necessary when making certain cuts or when transporting the saw.

Grooving Stop (fig. A1, S)
The grooving stop (17) allows for groove cutting. Flipping the lever toward the front of the saw and adjusting the thumbscrew changes the depth of the groove cut. Flipping the lever toward the rear of the saw bypasses the grooving stop.

Head Lock Down Pin (fig. A2)
To lock the saw head in the down position, push the head down, push the pin (22) in and release the saw head. This will hold the saw head safely down for moving the saw from place to place. To release, press the saw head down and pull the pin out.

BASIC SAW CUTS
Vertical straight cross cut (fig. A1, A2 & M)
Vertical straight cross cut

  • Release the mitre lever (4) and depress the mitre latch (5) to release the mitre arm.
  • Engage the mitre latch at the 0° position and tighten the mitre lever.
  • Place the wood to be cut against the fence (3 & 8).
  • Take hold of the operating handle (11) and depress the head lock up release lever (12) to release the head.
  • Press the trigger switch (1) to start the motor.
  • Depress the head to allow the blade to cut through the timber and enter the plastic kerf plate (9).
  • After completing the cut, release the switch and wait for the saw blade to come to a complete standstill before returning the head to its upper rest position.

Performing a sliding cut (fig. A1, N)
The guide rail allows cutting larger workpieces from 76.2 mm up to 111.8 mm using an out-down-back sliding motion.
Performing a sliding cut

  • Release the rail lock knob (16).
  • Pull the saw head towards you and switch the tool on.
  • Lower the saw blade into the workpiece and push the head back to complete the cut.
  • Proceed as described above.

  • Do not perform sliding cuts on workpieces smaller than 76.2 mm.
  • Remember to lock the saw head in the rear position when the sliding cuts are fi nished.

Mitre cross-cut (fig. A1, A2 & O)
Mitre cross-cut

  • Release the mitre lever (4) and depress the mitre latch (5).
  • Move the arm left or right to the required angle. The mitre latch will automatically locate at 10°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.62° and 45° both left and right. If any intermediate angle is required hold the head fi rmly and lock by tightening the mitre lever.
  • Always ensure that the mitre lever is locked tightly before cutting.
  • Proceed as for a vertical straight cross-cut.

    When mitring the end of a piece of wood with a small off-cut, position the wood to ensure that the off-cut is to the side of the blade with the greater angle to the fence; i.e. left mitre, off-cut to the right - right mitre, off-cut to the left.

Bevel cuts (fig. A1, A2 & P)
Bevel angles can be set from 48° left to 48° right and can be cut with the mitre arm set between zero and a maximum of 45° mitre position right or left.
Bevel cuts

Left bevel

  • Slide the upper part of the left side fence (3) to the left as far as it will go.
  • Loosen the bevel clamp handle (21), lift the bevel latch (20) and set the bevel as desired.
  • The bevel latch automatically locates at 22.5°, 33.85° and 45°. If any intermediate angle is required, hold the head fi rmly and lock by tightening the bevel clamp handle (21).
  • Proceed as for a vertical straight cross-cut.

Right bevel

  • Slide the upper part of the right side fence (8) to the right as far as it will go.
  • Proceed as for a left bevel cut.

Quality of cut
The smoothness of any cut depends on a number of variables, e.g. the material being cut. When smoothest cuts are desired for moulding and other precision work, a sharp (60 tooth carbide) blade and a slower, even cutting rate will produce the desired results.

Ensure that the material does not creep while cutting; clamp itsecurely in place. Always let the blade come to a full stopbefore raising the arm. If small fibres of wood still split out atthe rear of the workpiece, stick a piece of masking tape on thewood where the cut will be made. Saw through the tape andcarefully remove tape when finished.

Clamping the workpiece (fig. A6)

  • Whenever possible, clamp the wood to the saw.
  • For best results use the clamp (29) made for use with your saw. Clamp the workpiece to the fence whenever possible. You can clamp to either side of the saw blade; remember to position your clamp against a solid, flat surface of fence.

Support for long pieces (fig. A4)

  • Always support long pieces.
  • For best results, use the extension work support (27) to extend the table width of your saw (available from your dealer as an option). Support long workpieces using any convenient means such as saw-horses or similar devices to keep the ends from dropping.

Cutting picture frames, shadow boxes & other four sided projects (fig. Q1 & Q2)
Trim moulding and other frames
Try a few simple projects using scrap wood until you develop a "feel" for your saw. Your saw is the perfect tool for mitring corners like the one shown in fig. Q1. The joint shown has been made using either bevel adjustment.
Cutting picture

  • Using bevel adjustment
    The bevel for the two boards is adjusted to 45° each, producing a 90° corner. The mitre arm is locked in the zero position. The wood is positioned with the broad fl at side against the table and the narrow edge against the fence.
  • Using mitre adjustment
    The same cut can be made by mitring right and left with the broad surface against the fence.

The two sketches (fig. Q1 & Q2) are for four side objects only. As the number of sides changes, so do the mitre and bevel angles. The chart below gives the proper angles for a variety of shapes, assuming that all sides are of equal length. For a shape that is not shown in the chart, divide 180° by the number of sides to determine the mitre or bevel angle.

No. of sides Angle mitre or bevel
4 45°
5 36°
6 30°
7 25.7°
8 22.5°
9 20°
10 18°

Compound mitre (fig. R1 & R2)
A compound mitre is a cut made using a mitre angle (fig. Q2) and a bevel angle (fig. Q1) at the same time. This is the type of cut used to make frames or boxes with slanting sides like the one shown in fig. R1.

If the cutting angle varies from cut to cut, check that the bevel clamp knob and the mitre lock knob are securely tightened. These knobs must be tightened after making any changes in bevel or mitre (fig. R1 & R2).
Compound mitre - Part 1
Compound mitre - Part 2

  • The chart shown below will assist you in selecting the proper bevel and mitre settings for common compound mitre cuts. To use the chart, select the desired angle "A" (fig. R2) of your project and locate that angle on the appropriate arc in the chart. From that point follow the chart straight down to fi nd the correct bevel angle and straight across to fi nd the correct mitre angle.
  • Set your saw to the prescribed angles and make a few trial cuts.
  • Practice fi tting the cut pieces together.
  • Example: To make a 4 sided box with 25° exterior angles (angle "A") (fig. R2), use the upper right arc. Find 25° on the arc scale. Follow the horizontal intersecting line to either side to get the mitre angle setting on the saw (23°). Likewise follow the vertical intersecting line to the top or bottom to get the bevel angle setting on the saw (40°). Always try cuts on a few scrap pieces of wood to verify the settings on the saw.

Cutting base mouldings
The cutting of base moulding is performed at a 45° bevel angle.

  • Always make a dry run without power before making any cuts.
  • All cuts are made with the back of the moulding laying fl at on the saw.

Inside corner

  • Left side
    • Position the moulding with top of the moulding against the fence.
    • Save the left side of the cut.
  • Right side
    • Position the moulding with the bottom of the moulding against the fence.
    • Save the left side of the cut.

Outside corner

  • Left side
    • Position the moulding with the bottom of the moulding against the fence.
    • Save the right side of the cut.
  • Right side
    • Position the moulding with top of the moulding against the fence.
    • Save the right side of the cut.

Cutting crown mouldings
The cutting of crown moulding is performed in a compound mitre. In order to achieve extreme accuracy, your saw has pre-set angle positions at 31.62° mitre and 33.85° bevel. These settings are for standard crown mouldings with 52° angles at the top and 38° angles at the bottom.

  • Make test cuts using scrap material before doing the fi nal cuts.
  • All cuts are made in a left bevel and with the back of the moulding against the base.

Inside corner

  • Left side
    • Top of the moulding against the fence.
    • Mitre right.
    • Save the left side of the cut.
  • Right side
    • Bottom of the moulding against the fence.
    • Mitre left.
    • Save the left side of the cut.

Outside corner

  • Left side
    • Bottom of the moulding against the fence.
    • Mitre left.
    • Save the right side of the cut.
  • Right side
    • Top of the moulding against the fence.
    • Mitre right.
    • Save the right side of the cut.

Grooving (fig. S)
Your saw is equipped with a grooving stop (17) and thumbscrew (59) to allow for groove cutting.
Grooving

  • Flip the grooving stop (17) towards the front of the saw.
  • Adjust the thumbscrew (59) to set the depth of the groove cut. It might be necessary to release the lock nut (60) fi rst.
  • Place a piece of scrap material of approx. 5 cm between fence and workpiece in order to perform a straight groove cut.

Special Set-up for Wide Crosscuts (fig. A1, T1, T2)
Your saw can cut very wide (up to 391 mm) workpieces when a special set up is used. To set the saw up for these workpieces, follow these steps:
Special Set-up for Wide Crosscuts

  • Remove both left and right sliding fences from the saw and set aside. To remove them, unscrew the fence knobs several turns and slide each fence outward. Adjust and lock the miter control so that it is at 0 degrees miter.
  • Remove backfence screws (64) from right rear foot and install them into the right hand fence (8) screw holes.

    Do not cut material using the special setup without properly installing the backfence screws (64), otherwise the material will not be supported properly and may cause loss of control and possible injury.
  • Make a platform using a piece of 38 mm thick particleboard or similar fl at strong 38 mm thick wood to the dimensions: 368 x 660 mm. The platform must be fl at otherwise the material could move during cutting and cause injury.
  • Mount the 368 x 660 mm platform to the saw using four 76.2 mm long wood screws (61) through the holes in the base fence. Four screws must be used to properly secure the material. When the special set up is used, the platform will be cut into two pieces. Ensure the screws are tightened properly otherwise material could loosen and cause injury. Ensure the platform is fi rmly fl at on the table, against the fence, and centered evenly from left to right.

    Ensure the saw is mounted fi rmly to a stable fl at surface. Failure to do so could cause the saw to be unstable and fall causing personal injury.
  • Place the workpiece to be cut on top of the platform mounted to the table. Ensure the workpiece is fi rmly against the backfence.
  • Secure the material before cutting. Cut slowly through the material using a out-down-and-back motion. Failure to clamp securely or cut slowly could result in the material coming loose and causing injury. After several cuts are made at various miter angles other than 0º, the platform may weaken and not properly support the work. Install a new, unused platform to the saw after presetting the desired miter angle.

    Continued use of a platform with several kerfs may cause loss of material control and possible injury.

Dust extraction (fig. A2 & A3)

  • Fit the dustbag (26) onto the dust spout (6).
  • Whenever possible, connect a dust extraction device designed in accordance with the relevant regulations regarding dust emission.

Saw blades
To obtain the stated cutting capacities, always use 305 mm saw blades with 30 mm arbor holes.

Transporting (fig. A1, A2 & B)
In order to conveniently carry the mitre saw, a carrying handle (10) has been included on the top of the saw arm.

  • To transport the saw, lower the head and depress the lock down pin (22).
  • Lock the rail lock knob with the saw head in the front position, lock the mitre arm in the full left mitre angle, slide the fence (3 & 8) completely inward and lock the bevel lever (20) with the saw head in the vertical position to make the tool as compact as possible.
  • Always use the carrying handle (10) or the hand indentations (24) shown in fig. B to transport the saw.

MAINTENANCE

Your DEWALT power tool has been designed to operate over a long period of time with a minimum of maintenance. Continuous satisfactory operation depends upon proper tool care and regular cleaning.

To reduce the risk of injury, turn unit off and disconnect machine from power source before installing and removing accessories, before adjusting or changing set-ups or when making repairs. Be sure the trigger switch is in the OFF position. An accidental start-up can cause injury.

Lubrication

Your power tool requires no additional lubrication.

Cleaning


Blow dirt and dust out of the main housing with dry air as often as dirt is seen collecting in and around the air vents. Wear approved eye protection and approved dust mask when performing this procedure.

Never use solvents or other harsh chemicals for cleaning the non-metallic parts of the tool. These chemicals may weaken the materials used in these parts. Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let any liquid get inside the tool; never immerse any part of the tool into a liquid.

To reduce the risk of injury, regularly clean the table top.

To reduce the risk of injury, regularly clean the dust collection system.

Optional Accessories (fig. A3 - A6)

Since accessories, other than those offered by DEWALT, have not been tested with this product, use of such accessories with this tool could be hazardous. To reduce the risk of injury, only DEWALT, recommended accessories should be used with this product.
warning LASER WARNING:
LASER RADIATION: DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM CLASS 2 LASER PRODUCT MAXIMUM OUTPUT POWER
<1MW @ 630 NM – 680 NM IEC 60825-1 +A1, +A2:2002
warning LED WORKLIGHT WARNING:
LED RADIATION: DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM
CLASS 2 LED PRODUCT
MAXIMUM OUTPUT POWER
P = 9.2 mW; peak = 456 nm
IEC 60825-1:1:1993; +A1:1997; +A2:2001
Consult your dealer for further information on the appropriate accessories.

Documents / Resources

Download manual

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

Download DeWalt DW717 Manual

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