3
g) Use extra caution when sawing into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding
blade may cut objects that can cause kickback.
LOWER GUARD SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
a) Check lower guard for proper closing before each use. Do not operate the saw if lower
guard does not move freely and close instantly. Never clamp or tie the lower guard
into the open position. If saw is accidentally dropped, lower guard may be bent. Raise the
lower guard with the retracting handle and make sure it moves freely and does not touch
the blade or any other part, in all angles and depths of cut.
b) Check the operation of the lower guard spring. If the guard and the spring are not
operating properly, they must be serviced before use. Lower guard may operate
sluggishly due to damaged parts, gummy deposits, or a buildup of debris.
c) Lower guard should be retracted manually only for special cuts such as “plunge cuts”
and “compound cuts.” Raise lower guard by retracting handle and as soon as blade
enters the material, the lower guard must be released. For all other sawing, the lower guard
should operate automatically.
d) Always observe that the lower guard is covering the blade before placing saw down
on bench or oor. An unprotected, coasting blade will cause the saw to walk backwards,
cutting whatever is in its path. Be aware of the time it takes for the blade to stop after switch
is released.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Use clamps or another practical way to secure and support the workpiece to a stable
platform. Holding the work by hand or against your body leaves it unstable and may lead to loss
of control.
• Keep your body positioned to either side of the blade, but not in line with the saw
blade. KICKBACK could cause the saw to jump backwards (see Causes and Operator
Prevention of Kickback and KICKBACK).
• Avoid cutting nails. Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before cutting.
• Always make sure nothing interferes with the movement of the lower blade guard.
• Accessories must be rated for at least the speed recommended on the tool warning
label. Wheels and other accessories running over rated speed can y apart and cause
injury. Accessory ratings must always be above tool speed as shown on tool nameplate.
• Always make sure the saw is clean before using.
• Stop using this saw and have it properly serviced if any unusual noise or abnormal operation
occurs.
• Always be sure all components are mounted properly and securely before using tool.
• Always handle the saw blade with care when mounting or removing it or when removing the
diamond knockout.
• Always wait until the motor has reached full speed before starting a cut.
• Always keep handles dry, clean and free of oil and grease. Hold the tool rmly with both
hands when in use.
• Always be alert at all times, especially during repetitive, monotonous operations. Always be
sure of position of your hands relative to the blade.
• Stay clear of end pieces that may fall after cutting off. They may be hot, sharp and/or heavy.
Serious personal injury may result.
• Replace or repair damaged cords. Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. Use
only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong grounding-type plugs and 3-pole receptacles
that accept the tool’s plug.
• An extension cord must have adequate wire size (AWG or American Wire Gauge) for
safety. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cable, that
is 16 gauge has more capacity than 18 gauge. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line
voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. When using more than one extension to
make up the total length, be sure each individual extension contains at least the minimum
wire size. The following table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and
nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge
number, the heavier the cord.
CAUTION: Blades coast after turn off. Serious personal injury may result.