CUTTING COMPOUND MITERS

A compound miter is a cut made using a miter angle and a bevel angle at the same time. This is the type of cut used to make frames or boxes with slanting sides like the one shown in Figure 16.

NOTE: If the cutting angle varies from cut to cut, check that the bevel clamp knob and the miter lock knob are securely tightened. These knobs must be tightened after making any changes in bevel or miter.

The chart shown on Page 16 will assist you in selecting the proper bevel and miter settings for common compound miter cuts. To use the chart, select the desired angle “A” (Figure 16) of your project and locate that angle on the appropriate arc in the chart. From that point follow the chart straight down to find the correct bevel angle and straight across to find the correct miter angle.

Set your saw to the prescribed angles and make a few trial cuts. Practice fitting the cut pieces together until you develop a feel for this procedure and feel comfortable with it.

Example: To make a 4 sided box with 26º exterior angles (Angle A, Figure 15), use the upper right arc. Find 26° on the arc scale. Follow the horizontal intersecting line to either side to get miter angle setting on saw (42°). Likewise, follow the vertical intersecting line to the top or bottom to get the bevel angle setting on the saw (18°). Always try cuts on a few scrap pieces of wood to verify settings on saw.

CUTTING BASE MOLDING

ALWAYS MAKE A DRY RUN WITHOUT POWER BEFORE MAKING ANY CUTS.

Straight 90º cuts:

Position the wood against the fence and hold it in place as shown in Figure 11. Turn on the saw, allow the blade to reach full speed and lower the arm smoothly through the cut.

CUTTING BASE MOLDING UP TO 4.75" (121 mm) HIGH VERTICALLY AGAINST THE FENCE

Position material as shown in Figure 11.

All cuts made with the back of the molding against the fence and bottom of the molding against the base.

INSIDE CORNER: Left side

1.Miter left 45°

2.Save left side of cut Right side

1.Miter Right 45°

2.Save right side of cut

OUTSIDE CORNER: Left side

1.Miter right at 45°

FIG. 17

FENCE

TABLE

CROWN MOLDING FLAT ON TABLE

AND AGAINST FENCE

 

FIG. 18

BOTTOM SIDE

 

OF MOLDING

DW 7084 CROWN

TOP SIDE

MOLDING FENCE

 

OF MOLDING

TABLE

 

FENCE

 

CROWN MOLDING BETWEEN FENCE AND TABLE

2.Save left side of cut Right side

1.Miter left at 45°

2.Save right side of cut

Material up to 6.5" (159 mm) can be cut as described above.

CUTTING CROWN MOLDING

Your miter saw is better suited to the task of cutting crown molding than any other type tool made. In order to fit properly, crown molding must be compound mitered with extreme accuracy.

The two flat surfaces on a given piece of crown molding are at angles that, when added together, equal exactly 90º. Most, but not all, crown molding has a top rear angle (the section that fits flat against the ceiling) of 52º and a bottom rear angle (the part that fits flat against the wall) of 38º.

Your miter saw has special pre-set miter latch points at 31.62º left and right for cutting crown molding at the proper

12

FIG. 19

English

BLADE

RIGHT

FENCE

FIG. 20

BLADE

WRONG

FENCE

angle and bevel stop pawls at 33.85º left and right. There is also a mark on the Bevel scale at 33.85º.

The chart below gives the proper settings for cutting crown molding. (The numbers for the miter and bevel settings are very precise and are not easy to accurately set on your saw.) Since most rooms do not have angles of precisely 90º, you will have to fine tune your settings anyway.

PRETESTING WITH SCRAP MATERIAL

IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT!

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CUTTING CROWN MOLDING

LAYING FLAT AND USING THE COMPOUND FEATURES

1.Molding laying with broad back surface down flat on saw table (Figure 17).

2.The settings below are for All Standard (U.S.) crown molding with 52° and 38° angles.

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Image 13
DeWalt DW717 instruction manual Cutting Compound Miters, Cutting Base Molding, Cutting Crown Molding

DW717 specifications

The DeWalt DW717 is a powerful and versatile 10-inch dual bevel sliding compound miter saw designed to meet the demands of both professional carpenters and DIY enthusiasts. Known for its durability, precision, and ease of use, the DW717 has become a popular choice for those seeking accurate cuts in a variety of materials.

One of the standout features of the DW717 is its dual bevel capability, which allows users to make precise beveled cuts in both left and right directions. This feature eliminates the need to flip the workpiece, saving valuable time and enhancing overall efficiency. The saw also boasts an impressive crosscut capacity, capable of cutting through wider materials, making it ideal for large-scale projects such as framing and crown molding.

The DW717 is equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers robust performance for tough cutting tasks. It operates at an impressive no-load speed of 3,800 RPM, ensuring clean and smooth cuts through various materials, including hardwood and softwood. The saw’s motor is designed for high efficiency, providing users with the power needed for continuous operation without overheating.

Another notable technology incorporated into the DW717 is its precision miter system, which offers positive stops at commonly used angles. This feature ensures quick adjustments and accurate cuts, making it easier for users to switch between different angles quickly. The saw includes a miter scale with easy-to-read indicators, allowing for effortless angle setting.

Additionally, the DW717 features an adjustable sliding fence that provides support for larger materials, ensuring stability and precision during cuts. The saw’s lightweight design and built-in carrying handle enhance portability, making it easy to transport to job sites.

Safety features are also a top priority with the DW717. The saw is equipped with a blade guard that protects users from accidental contact with the blade, while the electric brake ensures quick stopping of the blade after the trigger is released.

In summary, the DeWalt DW717 is a well-engineered tool, combining power, precision, and safety for a wide range of cutting tasks. With its dual bevel capabilities, impressive motor, and user-friendly features, it stands out as a reliable choice for both professionals and hobbyists alike. Whether you are tackling framing, molding, or other intricate cuts, the DW717 is built to deliver exceptional performance and results every time.