Operation

BASIC OPERATION OF THE TABLE SAW

A table saw can be used for straight-line cutting operations such as cross cutting, ripping, mitering, beveling, and com- pound cutting. It can make dado or molding cuts with optional accessories.

The 3-prong plug must be plugged into a matching outlet that is properly installed and grounded according to all local codes and ordinances. Improper connection of the equip- ment can result in electric shock. Check with an electrician or service personnel if you are unsure about proper grounding. Do not modify the plug; if it will not fit the outlet, have the correct outlet installed by a qualified electrician. Refer to the Electrical page of this manual.

Note: This table saw is designed to cut wood and wood composition products only.

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 sawblade, they may be jerked loose from the workpiece and may contact the blade. Obvi- ously, kickback can cause serious injury, and it is well worth using precautions to avoid the risks.

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

■Making a cut with incorrect blade depth

■Sawing into knots or nails in the workpiece

■Twisting the wood while making a cut

■Failing to support work

■Forcing a cut

■Cutting warped or wet lumber

■Using the wrong blade for the type of cut

■Not following correct operating procedures

■Misusing the saw

■Failing to use the anti-kickback pawls

■Cutting with a dull, gummed-up, or improperly set blade

■Use the right type of blade for the cut being made.

■Use the blade guard assembly for all through cuts.

CUTTING AIDS

See Figure 21.

Pushsticks are devices used for safely pushing a workpiece through the blade instead of using your hands. They can be made in various sizes and shapes from scrap wood to use in a specific project. The stick must be narrower than the workpiece, with a 90˚ notch in one end and shaping for a grip on the other end.

A pushblock has a handle fastened by recessed screws from the underside. Use it on non-through cuts.

CAUTION:

Be sure the screw is recessed to avoid damaging the saw or workpiece.

PUSHSTICKS

PUSHBLOCKS

Fig. 21

AVOIDING KICKBACK

■Always use the correct blade depth setting. The top of the blade teeth should clear the workpiece by 1/8 in. to 1/4 in.

■Inspect the work for knots or nails before beginning a cut. Knock out any loose knots with a hammer. Never saw into a loose knot or nail.

■Always use the rip fence when rip cutting and the miter gage when cross cutting. This helps prevent twisting the wood in the cut.

■Always use clean, sharp, and properly-set blades. Never make cuts with dull blades.

■To avoid pinching the blade, support the work properly 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 firmly with both hands or with pushsticks. Keep your body in a balanced position to be ready to resist kickback should it occur. Never stand directly in line with the blade.

WARNING:

Never stand directly in line with the blade or allow hands to come closer than 3 inches to the blade. Do not reach over or across the blade. Failure to heed this warning can result in serious personal injury.

CUTTING TIPS

Dado and rabbet cuts are non-through cuts which can be either rip cuts or cross cuts. Carefully read and understand all sections of this owner’s manual before attempting any operation.

WARNING:

All blades and dado sets must be rated for at least 5,500 RPM to prevent possible injury.

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