May 15, 2024

craftsman radial arm saw owners manual

By jordan

This manual contains important information about your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw. It includes safety precautions, assembly instructions, operating instructions, maintenance and care tips, troubleshooting advice, a parts list, warranty information, contact information, and resources.

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of a Craftsman Radial Arm Saw! This powerful and versatile tool is designed to provide years of reliable service for a wide range of woodworking projects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, the Craftsman Radial Arm Saw offers the precision and accuracy you need to achieve professional-quality results.

This owner’s manual is your comprehensive guide to understanding and using your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw safely and effectively. It provides detailed information on assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Before operating your saw, carefully read and understand all safety precautions and operating instructions. By following these instructions, you can ensure your safety and maximize the performance of your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw.

Please note that this manual may not cover all possible applications or variations in your specific model. If you have any questions or require additional information, please refer to the Craftsman website or contact customer service.

Your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw is a valuable investment that will enhance your woodworking capabilities for years to come. Enjoy the precision, versatility, and reliability it offers!

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Before using your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw, carefully read and understand the following safety precautions. Failure to follow these guidelines could result in serious injury or death.

Always disconnect the power cord before removing the guard, changing the cutting tool, changing the set-up, or making adjustments.
Never operate the saw with a damaged guard or other safety device. Inspect the saw thoroughly before each use and repair or replace any damaged components immediately.
Use only sharp, properly-sized blades for your saw. Ensure that the blade is securely mounted and in good condition. Dull or damaged blades can cause kickback and other hazards.
Always wear safety glasses or goggles when operating the saw. Flying debris can cause serious eye injuries.
Wear hearing protection when operating the saw. The saw can produce loud noises that can damage your hearing over time.
Keep your hands and fingers clear of the blade at all times. Never reach across the blade or attempt to remove material while the saw is running.
Use a push stick or similar tool to guide material through the blade, especially when cutting small pieces. This will help prevent kickback and ensure a smooth cut.
Always support the workpiece securely before making a cut. Unstable or poorly-supported material can cause kickback or other hazards.
Never operate the saw near flammable materials or in a wet environment. The saw can generate heat and sparks that could ignite flammable materials.
Keep the work area clean and well-lit. A cluttered work area can increase the risk of accidents.
Avoid using the saw if you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fatigue or impairment can lead to poor judgment and increase the risk of accidents.

By following these safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable woodworking experience.

Assembly Instructions

Your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw comes with a few parts that need to be assembled. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper assembly and safe operation.

Locate all the parts⁚ Carefully unpack the saw and identify all the components, including the base, arm, motor, table, fence, and any other accessories. Refer to the parts list in this manual to ensure you have all the necessary components.
Assemble the base⁚ Attach the base to the saw according to the instructions provided. Ensure that the base is securely fastened and level.
Attach the arm⁚ Install the arm to the base, ensuring that it is properly aligned and secured. Refer to the diagrams in this manual for precise alignment instructions.
Mount the motor⁚ Securely attach the motor to the arm assembly, following the provided instructions. Make sure the motor is properly aligned and that the belt is properly tensioned.
Install the table⁚ Attach the table to the base, ensuring that it is securely fastened and level. Adjust the table height as needed.
Install the fence⁚ Attach the fence to the table, ensuring that it is securely fastened and aligned. Adjust the fence position as needed for different cutting widths.
Connect the power cord⁚ Plug the power cord into a grounded outlet. Do not operate the saw without a properly grounded power connection.

Once the assembly is complete, carefully review the operating instructions in this manual before operating your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw.

Operating Instructions

Before operating your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw, ensure that you have read and understood all safety precautions outlined in this manual. Familiarize yourself with the various controls and adjustments on the saw, including the on/off switch, depth of cut adjustment, bevel adjustment, miter adjustment, and rip fence adjustment.

Power Up⁚ Connect the power cord to a properly grounded outlet. Switch on the saw by pressing the on/off switch. Allow the motor to reach full speed before making any cuts.
Adjusting Depth of Cut⁚ Adjust the depth of cut using the lever or knob provided. The depth of cut should be sufficient to allow the blade to pass completely through the workpiece.
Setting the Bevel⁚ Adjust the bevel angle using the bevel adjustment knob or lever. Lock the bevel in place before making any cuts.
Setting the Miter⁚ Adjust the miter angle using the miter adjustment knob or lever. Lock the miter in place before making any cuts.
Rip Cuts⁚ For rip cuts, adjust the rip fence to the desired cutting width. Make sure the fence is securely locked in place before making any cuts.
Crosscuts⁚ For crosscuts, adjust the miter angle to the desired angle. Make sure the miter is securely locked in place before making any cuts.
Making Cuts⁚ Always make sure the workpiece is securely clamped to the table before making any cuts. Feed the workpiece slowly and steadily into the blade, ensuring that it is in contact with the fence or table before making the cut. Do not force the workpiece into the blade.
Shutting Down⁚ Once you have finished making cuts, turn off the saw by pressing the on/off switch. Allow the blade to come to a complete stop before removing the workpiece or making any adjustments.

Remember to always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and dust mask, when operating your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw. Follow these guidelines to keep your saw in optimal condition⁚

Cleaning⁚ After each use, clean the saw thoroughly with a damp cloth. Remove any sawdust or debris from the table, fence, blade, motor, and other components. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove sawdust from hard-to-reach areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that could damage the saw’s finish.
Blade Maintenance⁚ Inspect the saw blade regularly for signs of wear, damage, or dullness. Replace the blade if necessary. Keep the blade sharp by using a file or sharpening stone, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that the blade is properly mounted and secured before using the saw.
Motor Lubrication⁚ Refer to the owner’s manual for specific lubrication instructions for your saw’s motor. Typically, you will need to lubricate the motor bearings periodically with a light oil.
Bearing Lubrication⁚ The saw’s bearings should be lubricated regularly with a high-quality grease. Consult the owner’s manual for specific lubrication intervals and recommended grease type.
Checking for Loose Parts⁚ Regularly inspect the saw for loose or missing parts. Tighten any loose screws or bolts. Replace any missing parts immediately.
Storage⁚ When not in use, store the saw in a clean, dry place. Cover the saw with a dust cover to protect it from dust and debris.

By following these maintenance and care recommendations, you can extend the life of your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw and ensure its safe and reliable operation.

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Troubleshooting

While your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw is built to be durable and reliable, occasional issues can arise. Here are some common problems and solutions to help you troubleshoot your saw⁚

Saw Won’t Start⁚
- Check if the power cord is plugged in properly.
- Ensure the circuit breaker is not tripped.
- Verify that the motor switch is turned on.
- Inspect the power cord and switch for any damage.
- If the motor still doesn’t start, contact a qualified technician.
Saw Runs Slowly⁚
- Check if the blade is dull or damaged.
- Ensure the blade is properly mounted and secured.
- Inspect the motor for any obstructions or debris.
- If the motor is overloaded, reduce the cutting depth or feed rate.
- Contact a technician if the problem persists.
Saw Makes Unusual Noises⁚
- Inspect the bearings for any signs of wear or damage.
- Check if the blade is loose or damaged.
- Ensure that all guards and other components are securely fastened.
- Contact a qualified technician if the noises are persistent or concerning.
Saw Doesn’t Cut Straight⁚
- Verify that the blade is aligned properly.
- Check if the fence is square to the table.
- Ensure that the miter gauge is properly aligned.
- If the problem persists, contact a technician for assistance.

Always consult the owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting guidance for your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw model. If you encounter persistent or complex problems, seek professional assistance from a qualified technician.

Parts List

This section provides a comprehensive list of parts for your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw. The specific parts may vary depending on your model, so refer to the model number on your saw for accurate identification. The parts list is organized for easy reference and includes descriptions to help you identify and order the correct components.

Base Assembly⁚

Base (includes table, base frame, and motor mount)
Table Insert (removable for inserting dado blades)
Miter Gauge (for making angled cuts)
Rip Fence (for making parallel cuts)
Motor (provides power to the saw)
Switch (controls power to the motor)
Cord (connects the saw to a power outlet)
Base Casters (for easy mobility)
Dust Collection Port (for connecting to a dust collection system)

Arm Assembly⁚

Arm (supports the carriage and blade)
Arm Bearings (allow the arm to move smoothly)
Arm Lock (secures the arm in position)
Yoke (connects the arm to the carriage)
Bevel Lock (adjusts the angle of the blade)
Depth Adjustment Mechanism (controls the depth of the cut)

Carriage Assembly⁚

Carriage (holds the blade and motor)
Carriage Bearings (allow the carriage to move smoothly)
Carriage Lock (secures the carriage in position)
Blade Guard (protects the user from the spinning blade)
Anti-Kickback Device (helps prevent the workpiece from kicking back)
Blade (the cutting tool)

This parts list is not exhaustive, but it provides a general overview of the key components. Refer to your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw owner’s manual for a complete and detailed parts list specific to your model.

Warranty Information

Your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw is backed by a comprehensive warranty that protects you against defects in materials and workmanship. The specific terms and conditions of the warranty may vary depending on the model and date of purchase, so it is essential to review the warranty document carefully. Generally, the warranty provides coverage for a specific period, typically one year from the date of purchase, for repairs or replacement of defective parts.

To make a warranty claim, you will usually need to provide proof of purchase, such as a sales receipt or invoice. It is advisable to keep your original purchase documentation in a safe place for future reference. You should also contact the manufacturer or authorized service center for details on how to initiate a warranty claim and the procedures involved.

The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, neglect, accidents, unauthorized repairs, or the use of non-approved parts. It is crucial to follow the operating instructions and safety precautions outlined in this manual to ensure the proper use and care of your saw. By adhering to these guidelines, you can help maintain the integrity of your saw and ensure its performance and longevity.

The warranty information provided in this manual is intended as a general guideline. For complete and up-to-date details, refer to the specific warranty document that accompanied your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw.