Replacing a Table Saw Blade
Knowing how to change a table saw blade lets you:
- Replace a blade that’s damaged with a new table saw blade.
- Remove a dull table saw blade to have it professionally sharpened.
- Change from a rough-cut blade to a fine-finish blade.
- Swap a wood-cutting blade with a blade for cutting composite decking.
We’ll show you general steps for changing the blade on one type of table saw but always defer to the instructions in your saw manual.
Key Parts to Know for Changing a Table Saw Blade
Before you begin, locate these parts on your table saw:
- Riving knife or splitter
- Blade guard
- Throat plate
- Blade flanges
- Arbor nut
- Arbor
Steps for Replacing a Table Saw Blade
Step 1: Disconnect the Saw From Power and Prepare to Work
- Turn off the saw and allow the blade to come to a complete stop.
- Disconnect the saw from its power source.
- Put on work gloves to protect your hands from the saw teeth, if specified by the saw manufacturer.
Step 2: Access the Table Saw Blade
- Remove the blade guard, throat plate and riving knife or splitter as necessary, according to the instructions for your saw.
- Raise the blade to the highest position, set the tilt to zero degrees and engage the bevel lock, if equipped.
Step 3: Remove the Table Saw Blade
- Immobilize the arbor with the arbor lock, if equipped, or one of the arbor wrenches included with your saw and use an arbor wrench to remove the arbor nut according to your instructions.
- Slide the outer blade flange off the arbor and then carefully remove the blade from the arbor.
- Use a shop vacuum to clean sawdust from around the blade area.
- Wipe any accumulated debris from the arbor and blade flanges.
Step 4: Install the New Blade
- Ensure the inner blade flange is in place and slide the new blade onto the arbor, with the teeth pointing down toward the front of the saw.
- Slide the outer blade flange onto the arbor and against the blade, oriented according to the specifications for your saw.
- With the arbor immobilized, spin the arbor nut onto the arbor and tighten the nut according to the saw instructions.
Only use blades that match the manufacturer’s specified diameter and arbor size and that are compatible with the riving knife or splitter on your saw. Check your manual for specifics.
Step 5: Reinstall the Table Saw Components
- Lower the blade and reinstall the throat plate or blade insert.
- Reinstall the blade guard and ensure the riving knife or splitter is in place.
- Check the blade to confirm it aligns correctly with the blade guard and riving knife or splitter.
- Make sure the blade height and tilt adjustments work properly.
- Carefully rotate the blade by hand to ensure it turns freely.
Step 6: Test the Saw
- Put on safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Reconnect the saw to power.
- Turn on the saw briefly to ensure it runs smoothly without excessive vibration.
Follow the table saw manufacturer’s instructions for use, safety and maintenance. When using a table saw, wear the manufacturer-specified safety gear, such as safety glasses, hearing protection and, if necessary, a respirator.
Table Saw Blade Maintenance Tips
In addition to knowing how to change a table saw blade, proper blade maintenance helps ensure better cuts and makes your work easier and safer. Keep these additional blade maintenance tips in mind:
- Check all blades for damage before use and never use a damaged blade.
- Keep your table saw blade clean of resin and rust to avoid poor performance and excessive wear on the saw motor.
- If your blade is dull, replace it or take it to a professional for sharpening.
Follow your saw manufacturer's instructions for maintenance as well, including cleaning and lubrication, as well as making sure the blade, blade guard, riving knife or splitter and fence are properly aligned and adjusted.