The DeWalt Miter Saw DW718 is third in line for professionals and DIY enthusiasts seeking precision and versatility for their cutting needs. However, to achieve optimal performance, it’s crucial to know how to adjust the saw correctly. This article will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your miter saw delivers the accuracy and performance you require. From understanding the components to making fine adjustments, you’ll find everything you need to perfect your woodworking skills.
Understanding the Components of the DeWalt Miter Saw DW718
Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the parts of the DeWalt DW718. Understanding how each component works will make it easier to perform adjustments accurately. Here are the key components you should know:
The Cutting Arm
The cutting arm is the pivot point of the saw. It allows for the blade to move down into the material being cut. When adjusting the saw, it’s vital to ensure that the arm is correctly calibrated for accurate cuts.
The Miter Table
The miter table is where you place your material to make angled cuts. This table can be adjusted left and right to accommodate various miter angles. Ensuring it is correctly aligned is critical for achieving the desired cut.
The Bevel Adjustment Lever
The bevel adjustment lever allows you to tilt the saw blade to create bevel cuts. Understanding how to adjust this lever is essential for achieving different bevel angles.
Why Accurate Adjustments Matter
Making the correct adjustments to your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718 is crucial for several reasons:
- Precision Cutting: Accurate adjustments lead to cleaner cuts, which are vital for both aesthetics and fit in your projects.
- Material Savings: When cuts are precise, you waste less material, allowing you to get the most out of your supplies.
With these factors in mind, it’s clear that mastering the adjustment of your miter saw is essential for any woodworking task.
Steps to Adjust Your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718
Now that you understand the components and their importance let’s explore the specific steps you should follow to adjust your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools
Before starting any adjustments, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- A 4mm Allen wrench
- A level
- A tape measure
- A square
- A Phillips screwdriver
Having these tools ready will make the process smoother.
Step 2: Level the Miter Saw
For accurate cuts, the miter saw must be level. Follow these steps to level your saw:
1. Place the Saw on a Stable Surface
Make sure your miter saw is on a stable work surface, free from any wobbling or instability.
2. Use the Level
Place a level beside the saw bed. Adjust the feet of the saw by tightening or loosening the legs until the level indicates that the saw is perfectly horizontal.
Step 3: Adjust the Miter Angle
To ensure that you can make varying angled cuts, you will want to adjust the miter angles accurately.
1. Check the Current Miter Angle
Set the miter saw to zero degrees. Use a square to check the alignment of the blade with the miter table.
2. Adjust the Miter Base
To adjust the miter angle, loosen the miter handle and rotate the miter base to the desired angle.
3. Verify with a Square
After making your adjustment, place a square against the blade to confirm it is at the correct angle before tightening the miter handle. It’s important to double-check this step for ultimate precision.
Step 4: Check and Adjust the Bevel Angle
Bevel cuts require different settings than miter cuts, so it’s essential to adjust them separately.
1. Set the Bevel Adjustment Lever
Loosen the bevel adjustment lever and tilt the saw blade to the desired bevel angle.
2. Verify with a Square
Use a square to ensure the blade is at the correct angle and then tighten the bevel adjustment lever immediately after.
Making Fine Adjustments
After you have completed the basic adjustments, you may need to make fine adjustments for impeccable accuracy. Fine-tuning is crucial especially if you’re doing intricate cuts.
Dust Removal and Maintenance
Cleaning your saw is an often-overlooked part of maintenance but is essential for maintaining accuracy:
1. Regularly Clean the Blade
Ensure your blade is free of debris and pitch buildup. A clean blade cuts more effectively and reduces the risk of inaccuracies.
2. Check the Dust Ports
Regularly check and clear the dust collection ports. Excess dust can disrupt the functionality of the saw, affecting its performance.
Testing the Adjustments
It’s crucial to test your adjustments before taking on a big project:
1. Make Test Cuts
Use scrap wood to make several test cuts at various angles. This will confirm that your adjustments are set correctly.
2. Repeat if Necessary
If the test cuts are not perfect, revisit the adjustments to refine. It may take a couple of attempts to get it just right.
Conclusion
Adjusting your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718 may seem daunting at first, but with the proper understanding of its components and following the outlined steps, you’ll find that achieving perfect precision is entirely within your grasp. By taking the time to properly adjust your saw, you’ll not only enhance your cutting quality but also save material in the long run.
Remember, the key to excellent woodworking lies in the details. Take pride in your adjustments, and enjoy the process of creating stunning pieces with your accurately calibrated DeWalt Miter Saw DW718. Happy cutting!
What is the purpose of adjusting a DeWalt Miter Saw DW718?
Adjusting a DeWalt Miter Saw DW718 is crucial for achieving precision and accuracy in your cuts. Over time, tools can become misaligned due to frequent use, which can lead to imprecise cuts and compromised work quality. Proper adjustments ensure that the blade is perfectly square to the table and that the miter angles are accurate, allowing for cleaner and more professional results in your projects.
Moreover, small adjustments can make a significant difference in your overall cutting performance. This is particularly important when working on intricate projects where even minor inaccuracies can lead to issues during assembly or installation. By maintaining your saw with regular adjustments, you extend its life and ensure optimal functionality.
How do I check the alignment of the blade to the table?
To check the alignment of the blade to the table on your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718, first, ensure that the saw is unplugged for safety. Use a precision square or a combination square to measure the distance from the blade to the edge of the table at the front and back of the blade. If these measurements do not match, your blade is misaligned and may require adjustment.
If alignment issues are detected, you can make the necessary adjustments by loosening the screws that secure the motor assembly, positioning the blade correctly, and then tightening the screws back in place. Always double-check your measurements after making adjustments to confirm that the blade is correctly aligned.
What tools do I need to adjust the miter saw?
To adjust the DeWalt Miter Saw DW718, you will need a few essential tools. A standard hex key or wrench is necessary for loosening or tightening the screws that hold the blade and motor assembly in place. Additionally, having a Phillips or flathead screwdriver on hand may be useful for any other adjustments required.
You may also want to have a combination square or a digital angle gauge to ensure your angles are accurate during adjustments. Utilizing a level can help confirm that the base of the saw is also perfectly leveled, which is important for overall accuracy in your cuts.
How do I adjust the miter angle on my saw?
To adjust the miter angle on your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718, first, loosen the miter lock handle to unlock the miter base. You can then gently rotate the miter table to the desired angle, using the angle indicators for reference. When you’ve reached the appropriate angle, re-secure the miter lock handle to lock the table in place.
If precise measurements are necessary, use a protractor or an angle finder to confirm your settings. After adjusting, make a test cut to ensure the miter angle is correct. It may take a few attempts to perfect the adjustment based on your specific requirements, so don’t hesitate to revisit your settings as needed.
How can I ensure my cuts are square?
To ensure your cuts are square with the DeWalt Miter Saw DW718, start by checking the alignment of the blade to the miter table, as previously described. Use a square to verify that the blade forms a right angle with the table. If it does not, you will need to make the necessary adjustments to align it correctly.
Once the blade is properly aligned, perform a test cut on a piece of scrap wood. After the cut, measure the angles using your square to confirm that they are indeed square. If discrepancies are found, revisit your alignment and make fine adjustments to achieve perfectly squared cuts.
What are the benefits of regular maintenance on my miter saw?
Regular maintenance on your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718 significantly enhances its performance and longevity. By routinely checking and adjusting the saw, you ensure that it operates at peak efficiency, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions or inaccuracies during use. Moreover, regular maintenance helps you pinpoint issues early, preventing more significant problems down the line.
Additionally, maintaining your saw promotes safety. A well-maintained tool is less likely to cause accidents caused by misalignment or malfunction. By investing time in proper upkeep, you not only enhance your cutting capabilities but also create a safer workplace.
Can I adjust the bevel angle on the DEWALT DW718?
Yes, you can adjust the bevel angle on the DEWALT DW718 miter saw. To do this, unlock the bevel adjustment lever located at the rear of the saw. This will allow you to tilt the saw head to your desired angle. It’s essential to confirm the required angle before making any adjustments; common bevel cuts are generally at 45 degrees or 22.5 degrees for miter joints.
Once you’ve set the desired bevel angle, lock the lever in place to ensure stability during cutting. As always, it’s advisable to perform a test cut after making adjustments to confirm that your settings are accurate. This helps in ensuring that your cuts are clean and precise while maintaining the integrity of your project.
How often should I perform adjustments on my miter saw?
The frequency of adjustments on your DeWalt Miter Saw DW718 depends on usage. If you use the saw regularly for various projects, it’s a good practice to check the alignment and settings after several significant uses or when switching to a different type of material. Regular checks help you maintain precision cutting and ensure optimal performance.
For hobbyists or those who use the miter saw less frequently, performing adjustments each time you use the saw may not be necessary. However, a thorough check-up should ideally be conducted monthly or quarterly. Your goal should be to maintain accuracy for the best output, tailored to how often and intensely you use the tool.