How to Remove the Saw Guard Pin on a Craftsman Table Saw

Craftsman often utilizes a pin securing device to mount and secure its saw guards (also called a blade guard or riving knife) on many table saw models. The saw guard pin controls the rotation of the saw guard, so that the saw blade is protected from accidental contact with unintended objects. When repairing or replacing the saw guard (blade guard) on a Craftsman table saw, the saw guard pin must be removed then reinserted.

Things You'll Need

• Metric socket set
• Hammer
• Nail punch
• Small slotted screwdriver

Instructions

1. Unplug the table saw. Allow the blade to cool if it has been recently used. Leave the saw guard (riving knife) in the full up position.

2. Unscrew the riving knife locking knob by twisting it counter clockwise. Remove the locking knob and spacing washer (which sits behind the knob).

3. Find the riving knife lock pin, which will appear protruding from the riving knife mounting bracket. This will be visible once the riving knife locking knob has been removed. On the reverse side of the locking pin, remove the retaining ring (3.5 mm) with a small slotted screwdriver. This retaining ring secures the locking pin to the riving knife pin mounting bracket.

4. Place a small nail punch in the center of the locking pin. Tap gently with a hammer in the direction of the riving knife locking knob (already been removed). The locking pin must be forced from the pin mounting bracket with an even force.

5. Remove the pin once it has been freed from its retaining hole (pressure fit pin). Install a new pin. Then follow the reverse pin removal instructions to return the table saw to operating condition. Test the table saw for normal operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Never operate the table saw without the blade guard in place and fully functional.

References

• Craftsman: Operator's Manual 10 Inch Table Saw