7
Lower guard function
18. Check lower guard for proper closing before
each use. Do not operate the saw if lower guard
does not move freely and close instantly. Never
clamp or tie the lower guard into the open
position.
If saw is accidentally dropped, lower guard
may be bent. Raise the lower guard with the
retracting handle and make sure it moves freely and
does not touch the blade or any other part, in all
angles and depths of cut.
19. Check the operation of the lower guard spring. If
the guard and the spring are not operating
properly, they must be serviced before use.
Lower guard may operate sluggishly due to
damaged parts, gummy deposits, or a build-up of
debris.
20. Lower guard may be retracted manually only for
special cuts such as “plunge cuts” and
“compound cuts.” Raise lower guard by
retracting handle and as soon as blade enters
the material, the lower guard must be released.
For all other sawing, the lower guard should operate
automatically.
21. Always observe that the lower guard is covering
the blade before placing saw down on bench or
floor.
An unprotected, coasting blade will cause the
saw to walk backwards, cutting whatever is in its
path. Be aware of the time it takes for the blade to
stop after switch is released.
22. To check lower guard, open lower guard by
hand, then release and watch guard closure.
Also check to see that retracting handle does
not touch tool housing.
Leaving blade exposed is
VERY DANGEROUS and can lead to serious per-
sonal injury.
Additional safety warnings
23. Use extra caution when cutting damp wood,
pressure treated lumber, or wood containing
knots.
Maintain smooth advancement of tool without
decrease in blade speed to avoid overheating the
blade tips.
24. Do not attempt to remove cut material when
blade is moving. Wait until blade stops before
grasping cut material.
Blades coast after turn off.
25. Avoid cutting nails. Inspect for and remove all
nails from lumber before cutting.
26. Place the wider portion of the saw base on that
part of the workpiece which is solidly supported,
not on the section that will fall off when the cut is
made. As examples, Fig. A illustrates the RIGHT
way to cut off the end of a board, and Fig. B the
WRONG way. If the workpiece is short or small,
clamp it down. DO NOT TRY TO HOLD SHORT
PIECES BY HAND!
000147
000150
27. Before setting the tool down after completing a
cut, be sure that the lower guard has closed and
the blade has come to a complete stop.
28. Never attempt to saw with the circular saw held
upside down in a vise. This is extremely
dangerous and can lead to serious accidents.
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29. Some material contains chemicals which may be
toxic. Take caution to prevent dust inhalation
and skin contact. Follow material supplier safety
data.
30. Do not stop the blades by lateral pressure on the
saw blade.
31. Always use blades recommended in this manual.
Do not use any abrasive wheels.
32. Keep blade sharp and clean.
Gum and wood pitch
hardened on blades slows saw and increases
potential for kickback. Keep blade clean by first
removing it from tool, then cleaning it with gum and
pitch remover, hot water or kerosene. Never use
gasoline.
Fig. A
Fig. B
