Craftsman 315.220381 Switch and Switch KEY, Insertswitchkey Switchon Switchoff Causes of Kickback

SWITCH AND SWITCH KEY

See Figures 36-38.

The main power switch has been placed on the front of the arm for easy access. The yellow switch key prevents accidental starting of the main power switch when saw is not being used. To activate the switch, insert the switch key and lift switch to ON position. To lock the switch once it has been pressed to OFF, remove the yellow key. Place the key in a location that

is inaccessible to children and others not qualified to use the tool.

INSERTSWITCHKEY

Fig. 36

SWITCHON Fig. 37

SWITCHOFF Fig. 38

CAUSES OF KICKBACK

Kickback can occur when the blade stalls or binds, kicking the workpiece back toward you with great force and speed. If your hands are near the blade, they may be jerked loose and contact the blade.

Obviously, kickback can cause serious injuryand it is well worth using precautions to avoid the dsks.

Kickback can be caused by any action that pinches the blade in the wood, such as the following:

•Making a cut with incorrectblade depth

•Sawing into knots or nails in the workpiece

•Twistingthe wood while making a cut

•Failing to supportwork

•Forcing a cut

•Cuttingwarped or wet lumber

•Misusingthe saw

•Not followingcorrectoperating procedures

•Using the wrong blade for the type of cut

•Cuttingwith a dull, gummed-up, or impropedyset blade.

AVOIDING KICKBACK

•Always use the correct blade depth setting. The outer point of the blade teeth shouldclear the lower surface of the workpiece by 1/8 in. to 1/4 in. when makingthese cuts.

•Inspectthe work for knots or nails before beginning a cut. Knockout any loose knots with a hammer.

Never saw into a loose knot or nail

•Always use the fence when dp cutting.This helps prevent twistingthe wood in the cut.

•Always use clean, sharp, and properly-setblades. Never make cuts with dull blades.

•To avoid pinchingthe blade, supportthe work propedy before beginning a cut.

•When making a cut, use steady, even pressure, Never force cuts.

•Do not cut wet or warped lumber.

•Always hold your workpiece firmlywith beth hands or with pushsticks.Keep your body in a balanced position to be ready to resist kickback shouldit occur. Never stand directly in line with the blade.

•Use the righttype of blade for the cut being made.

•Use the rivingknife and anti-kickback pawls when performing ripcuts.

rlIIIF_NIIN* RADIALSAW315.220381 44