How to Change Table Saw Blades

Changing the blade on your table saw can be a quick and easy task. Whether your current blade is old and dull, or you need a different type of blade to cut a special type of material, follow these instructions to safely change your table saw blade.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Replacement blade
• Screwdriver
• Wrench
• Small block of wood

Remove the Old Blade

1. Ensure the table saw power switch is in the off position, and unplug the table saw power cord.

2. Remove the blade plate, which is typically a piece of metal next to the blade on the top surface of the table saw. Removing the blade plate usually requires removal of a couple screws.

3. Position the blade in the highest possible position.

4. Loosen and remove the nut and washer from the blade, using a wrench to turn the nut counterclockwise. If necessary, prevent the blade from turning by pressing a small block of wood against the teeth of the blade.

5. Slide the blade out of the table saw.

Install the New Blade

6. Position the new blade in place, with the blade teeth pointing towards the front of the table saw.

7. Secure the new blade with the nut and washer that you removed with the old blade. Tighten the nut by hand, and then use a wrench to tighten further. If necessary, hold the small block of wood against the blade teeth to prevent it from moving.

8. Reinstall the blade plate.

9. Plug in the table saw power cord.

10. Turn on the table saw and run the blade to ensure that it is rotating correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• If the table saw blade rotates while you are trying to loosen or tighten the nut that secures it in place, hold a small piece of wood against the blade teeth to prevent it from moving.
• The procedure for changing your table saw blade may vary slightly depending on your brand/model saw.
• Always ensure the table saw is unplugged before attempting to remove or install a saw blade.