Saw Tune-up Tips

Saw Tune-up Tips

Previously, Rob Johnstone said that the saw needed a tune-up but did not give any links as where to go to find out about it. I also have a Craftsman Saw that has the same trouble and would like to know where to find out how to set it up or tune it up.

Michael Dresdner: There are quite a few good books on tablesaws, and they all have sections on setting up the saw. Until you get one, here’s a quick version of how to do it.

If your saw has table slots, first align the fence so that it is perfectly parallel to the slots. Most fences have adjustments that allow you to do this. Check your manual for the adjustments for your fence.

Unplug the saw, raise the blade, and check it with a square to make sure it is at 90 degrees to the table. Now move the fence over until it touches the blade. If your cut is burning, chances are the fence will touch the back of the blade before it touches the front.

Underneath, you will find either three or four bolts that hold the trunnion carriage to the top. Loosen them, and shift the trunnion carriage slightly so that both the front and back of the blade touch the fence at the same time. Tighten them back up, and check it again. As long as that blade is dead parallel to the fence, you should get a clean cut.

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