How to Install Table Saw Blades

It's important to know the right way to change the blade on your table saw, because you will be changing it often. Even if you use only one combination blade for both rips and crosscuts, you still must take the blade out to remove resin and to sharpen the teeth. A blade that is dull and dirty won't perform as well as one that is clean and sharp, and it is more likely to cause an accident.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Scrap wood
• Rag
• Adjustable wrench

1. Unplug the table saw. Stand at the front of the table, and remove the table insert around the saw blade. Slide the piece of scrap wood under a blade tooth to immobilize the blade.

2. Use the wrench to loosen the arbor nut that fastens the blade to the table saw. Arbor nuts have reverse threads, so you must turn the nut clockwise to remove it. Pull out the nut by hand, taking care not to drop it inside the machine. Remove the blade and washer from the saw.

3. Put the new blade on the saw with the teeth facing toward the front of the table. Install the washer and nut next, and start tightening the nut by hand. Remember to turn the nut counterclockwise to tighten.

4. Grab the blade with a rag, and finish tightening the nut with the wrench. Do not use the scrap wood to stop the blade while tightening, as this may cause you to over-tighten the nut. Replace the table insert, and plug in the table saw.

References

• The Art of Woodworking: Woodworking Machines; Giles Miller-Mead; 1992