Check the following on the blade guard (Figure 3):
Ensure the capacity of the blade guard matches the diameter of your diamond blade.
Check that the guard is bolted firmly upon the saw frame.
Check that the spring tensioned front cover of the guard is firmly seated with the rear section of the guard and there are no gaps. NEVER lift the blade guard while cutting.
Ensure the v-belt cover is in place and securely fastened during operation of the saw (Figure 4).
V-Belt Check
A worn or damagedV-belt can adversely affect the performance of the saw. If a V-belt is defective or worn, replace ALL the V-belts.V-belts should always be replaced in sets.
CAUTION
NEVER attempt to check the V-belt with the engine running. Severe injury can occur. Keep fingers, hands, hair, and clothing away from all moving parts.
V-belt Alignment and Tensioning
This saw is equipped with a premium V-belt that has been aligned and tensioned by factory personnel.The V-belt must be aligned and tensioned for proper operation of the saw.
Use the following procedure to check the alignment of V-belt:
1.Remove the bolts that secure the V-belt cover (Figure 4) to the saw frame.
V-BELT COVER 
Figure 4. V-Belt Cover
2.Check uniform parallelism (Figure 5) of V-belt and pulley (sheaves). Use a straight-edge or machinist's square against both pulleys and adjust both pulleys until equally aligned.
Figure 5. Pulley Alignment
3.Check V-belt tension by using a tension meter (3.0 lbs.) against the inside belt at a mid point between the two pulleys, or by deflecting the center belt at a mid point 3/16" (5 mm).
4.DO NOT over or under tighten the V-belt. Severe damage can occur to the saw and engine crankshaft if the belt is over-tensioned. A decrease of power to the blade and poor performance will result if the belt is under-tensioned (loose on pulleys).
NOTICE
V-belt alignment must be rechecked after adjusting belt tension.
