| Task breakdown for changing the blade on a hand-held circular saw | |
|---|---|
| Procedure | Key points |
| Isolate the saw from mains power | Check that the plug is removed from the power point and the lead is out of the way |
| Engage the blade lock by pushing in the blade lock button | If the blade lock is hard to engage, rock the saw blade backwards and forwards until the button presses in easily |
| Loosen the retaining bolt with a ring spanner | Use one hand to hold the blade lock button down while you loosen the retaining bolt with the other hand |
| Remove the retaining bolt and flange | Put the bolt and flange in a safe place on the bench |
| Pull back the spring-loaded guard and remove the blade | Use one hand to pull back the guard and the other hand to remove the blade. Be careful of the blade teeth. Place the blade in a safe place on the bench. |
| Put a new blade in the saw | Make sure that the new blade is the right way around, with the teeth pointing up at the front. Make sure that the bore (hole size) is correct for the saw and that the blade sits firmly in position on the base plate. |
| Replace the flange and retaining bolt | Check that the flange sits properly in position and is flat against the blade. Engage the blade lock and then replace the retaining bolt. Tighten up the bolt with the ring spanner. |
| Check that the blade moves freely | Release the spring loaded guard and the blade lock. Turn the blade to ensure it rotates freely. Wobble the blade to ensure it is firmly secured by the base plate and flange, and that the retaining bolt is tight. |