Saw Blades - Craftsman 172.67098 Operator's Manual

Z_ WARNING: A 51/2-inch blade is the maximum blade capacity of your saw. A
larger than 51/2-inch blade will come in contact with the blade guards. Also, NEVER use
a blade that is so thick that it prevents the outer blade washer from engaging with the
flat side of the spindle. Blades that are too large or too thick can result in an accident
causing serious injury.
SAW BLADES
All saw blades need to be kept clean,
sharp and properly set in order to cut
efficiently. Using a dull blade places a
heavy load on the saw and increases
the danger of kickback. Keep extra
blades on hand, so sharp blades are
always available. Gum and wood pitch
hardened on the blade slows the saw
down. Use gum and pitch remover,
hot water or kerosene to remove them.
DO NOT use gasoline.
Fig.
3
Lower
Blade
Guard
lever is
in UP
position
when
BLADE GUARD SYSTEM (Fig. 3)
The lower blade guard, attached to
your circular saw, is there for your
Blade 1/4-in. or less
protection and safety, it should NEVER is Exposed on
be altered for any reason. If it becomes
Underside of
Workpiece
damaged or begins to return slowly or
sluggishly, DO NOT operate your saw until the damage has been repaired or replaced.
ALWAYS leave the guard in its correct operating position when using the saw.
Lower Blade
Guard retracts
automatically
when cut is
being made
z_ CAUTION: NEVER use the saw when the guard is not operating properly.The
guard should be checked for correct operation before each use. If you drop your saw,
check the lower blade guard and bumper for damage at all depth settings before using.
NOTE: The guard is operating properly when it moves freely and then readily returns to
the closed position. If for any reason your lower blade guard and bumper does not close
freely, take the saw to your nearest Sears Repair Center for service before using it.
KICKBACK...WHAT CAUSES iT AND WAYS TO HELP PREVENT iT
(Fig. 4, 5 and 5a)
The Causes of Kickback
L_ ......
Blade is Set Too Deep Correct Blade Depth
(Should not exceed 1/4-in. below work piece)
Fig. 4 _ K,CKBACKm=_
16
KICKBACK...WHAT CAUSES iT AND WAYS TO HELP PREVENT iT
(Fig. 4, 5 and 5a) cont.
The Causes of Kickback cont.
1. Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound or
misaligned saw blade, which causes an uncontrolled
saw to lift up and out of the workpiece and toward
the operator.
2. When the blade is pinched or bound tightly by the kerf
closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction
drives the unit rapidly back towards the operator.
3. 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 wood. This causes the blade to
climb out of the kerf and jump back towards the
operator.
4. Sawing into knots or nails in the workpiece can cause
Kickback.
5. Forcing a cut, or not supporting the workpiece
correctly can cause Kickback. (see Fig. 5)
6. Sawing into wet or warped lumber can cause
Kickback. (see Fig. 5a)
7. Kickback is a result of tool misuse and/or incorrect
operating procedures or conditions. It can be avoided
by taking the proper precautions, on page 19.
Fig. 5 __,_
Right
Support
Fig.
Ways to Help Prevent Kickback (Fig. 6)
_ ALWAYS release trigger switch immediately if the blade binds or the
saw stalls. Kickback could cause you to lose control of the saw. Loss of control can lead
1
to serious injury.
1. ALWAYS maintain a firm grip with both
(see Fig. 6) hands on the saw and position your
body and arms to allow you to resist Kickback
forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the
operator, if the proper precautions are taken.
If the blade is binding, or when you are
interrupting a cut for any reason, ALWAYS
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.
CHECK and take corrective action to eliminate
the cause of blade binding.
Fig. 6
17