How to Restore a Dewalt Radial Arm Saw
The radial arm saw was the industry standard for many years for crosscutting and mitering applications. Few woodworking machines are as versatile as this saw in the number of operations it can preform. Fortunately, all it takes to produce a smooth, accurate cut on your Dewalt radial arm saw is a little saw adjustment, maintenance and repair.
Things You'll Need
- Framing square
- Assorted wrenches
- Air compressor or can of compressed air
- Saw blade wrench
- WD-40
- Spray paint
- Paste wax
- Rags
- Dewalt owner's manual
Instructions
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1
Unplug the radial arm saw for safety. Dust off any loose sawdust. Use canned air to get into all the small spaces. Wear safety glasses for this step.
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2
Remove the old top. Save the top.
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3
Remove any rust with steel wool and WD-40. Wipe off any excess WD-40. If you use paste wax, it will last for 2 to 3 months and not attract sawdust. If you use WD-40, it will need to be applied every 30 days. Prime the top, then paint it.
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4
Check the condition of the power cord and plug. Inspect the saw for any loose bolts or screws. Repair as needed.
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5
Cut the new top to match the old top. One of the best materials to use for the table top is 3/4-inch, medium density fiberboard (MDF). It is inexpensive, durable, easy to use and won't harm the blade. Attach the sacrificial fence to the steel table.
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6
Check the saw for square. Attach the rip fence and rear table.
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7
Check the sacrificial table to be sure it is flat. Wax the sacrificial table, rip fence and rear tables surface; this will provide a low-friction work surface, and protect it from moisture.
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8
Remove the blade and clean or replace it with a sharp blade. Check the blade rotation before installation.
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9
Check the column; it should be snug without play. Adjust as needed.
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10
Examine the roller bearings in the travel arm carriage. The saw should travel smoothly without any side play. Adjust it as necessary.
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11
Check the condition of the blade guard, and lubricate the pivot points. Make certain that all parts are in working order.
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12
Check the alignment of the anti-kickback and splitter if your saw is equipped with these parts. Align the splitter with the saw blade.
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13
Perform these tasks every time you use your saw to keep the saw cutting true: check the saw's cross cut travel, square the blade to the sacrificial table, and square the blade to the rip fence.
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Tips & Warnings
Save the old table top as a template.
It is best to round the outside corners of the new table to avoid sharp edges.
Be sure to countersink the bolts.
Paste wax will not attract dust and will last 2 to 3 months.
A dry lube is better to use than WD-40 for hard to reach areas.
Read all safety tips in the owner's manual.
Always wear safety glasses.
Always disconnect the power before working on power tools.
