How to Remove a Mitre Saw Blade

The mitre saw, also called a "drop saw" or "chop saw," is a power saw attached to a base. It is designed to make accurate crosscuts to an object like framing or molding. The object is butted against a brace or fence on the base at a desired angle and the spinning saw blade is dropped against the base onto the object, cutting it at a precise angle. The standard angle setting is 90 degrees, but many mitre saws can reposition the stops quickly to make other desired angles. After time and normal wear and tear, like any power saw blade, the mitre saw blade will dull and become less effective. Most hardware stores and home improvement centers sell replacement mitre saw blades.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver Allen wrench (hex head key) Replacement mitre saw blade Mallet or small hammer

1. Unplug the mitre saw from the electrical outlet. Position any stops or fences out of the way. Use a screwdriver to remove the blade guard covering the blade and the blade-retaining bolt.

2. Apply the spindle lock to hold the blade in place. Place the short end of the Allen wrench or hex head key into the blade-retaining bolt.

3. Loosen the bolt by turning it clockwise. The bolt is reverse thread due to the rapid motion of the saw blade during operation. Use the mallet or hammer to tap on the long end of the Allen wrench or hex head key to break the connection, if necessary. Once the bolt is loose, turn it by hand to remove it. Remove the blade and reverse the procedure to replace it with the new saw blade.