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Home » How to Set Up Your Table Saw: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Set Up Your Table Saw: Step-by-Step Guide

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You may have got the table saw of your dreams now, but herein comes the apparently ‘difficult’ part; putting it together. Only thing is, it’s not difficult at all if you know what you are doing. One of the best things about a table saw is that when set up correctly, it can pay handsome dividends. This is exactly where we come in. For example, did you know that there are portable table saw stands for beginners? Well, you will get to know about plenty more things.

We are going to list a step-by-step guide for you on how to set up your table saw so that you can start using it without delay. Make sure that you keep the manufacturer’s manual handy as well, as there might be instances where you might need to consult it.

So, what are we waiting for! Read on to know what the steps are to set up your table saw.

Assemble Your Table Saw in 10 Easy Steps

Assemble Your Table Saw in 10 Easy Steps

1. Securing The Saw

First things first, there are some table saws that come with an attached saw stand which you only need to prop open. Then there’s another type of table saw which will require you to buy an independent stand. Nevertheless, notwithstanding the surface the saw is on, ensure that it is securely locked in place and unplugged.

2. Detaching The Throat Plate

In case a throat plate is in place, please go ahead and remove it so that you can install the blade and riving knife. Make sure to insert your finger carefully into the open hole and push against the tab to release it.

3. Installing The Blade

Installing The Blade

Find yourself a blade wrench (check if it is included with the saw) and remove the nut that secures the blade. You will be required to raise the blade upwards in its entirety. Simply turn the nut counter clockwise, i.e. away from the riving knife. Simultaneously, employ the arbour lock that keeps the blade from spinning. Doing this will loosen the nut and let you remove it with your hands to make sure that it does not fall into the saw. Once you have done this you can easily attach or uninstall the blade.

4. Putting The Riving Knife In Place

You will find the riving knife secured into place if you look behind the blade. You can loosen the lever to release the riving knife before moving it all the way up and installing the blade guard and the anti-kickback apparatus.

5. Attaching The Anti-Kickback Device

If you inspect closely, you will notice that the anti-kickback device is attached to a notch at the top of the riving knife and slightly behind the point where the blade guard will be attached. The teeth should be pointing away from the blade and towards the back of the saw.

6. Installing The Blade Guard Assembly

Installing The Blade Guard Assembly

You will find that the blade guard can be snapped into its place on top of the riving knife. Just like the anti-kickback device, the blade guard needs to be secured into its place as well.

7. Re-Attaching The Throat Plate

Once you have done all the above steps correctly, the curved end of the blade guard should rest on the table saw surface with no part of the guard touching the blade. With the blade, riving knife, and safety guards in place, you can reinstall the throat plate, which, ideally, should simply snap back into place.

8. Finding The Fence

Look for the table saw fence which should be right below the saw and should slide out easily.

9. Attaching The Fence

Guide the fence of the table saw into the front and back of the saw. Do not apply too much force nor jam it too hard, as it should slide into place without much resistance.

10. Squaring Up The Table Saw

Use a framing square and make sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions to see to it that the table saw is properly squared up. Doing this will ensure that the device gives you accurate cuts.

Conclusion

There you have it! Your new table saw is up and ready to rip. Before you start cutting, however, make sure that you have proper safety gear on so that you do not hurt yourself in any way. Other than that, you can use the table saw to come up with new creations that will wow others.