How to Replace the Blade on a Chicago Electric Miter Saw

The Chicago Electric sliding compound miter saw is a powerful tool, which allows users to make highly accurate and precise cuts. However, though the machine is built to last, the blade must be periodically replaced and we are here to show you how to change the blade on a Chicago Electric miter saw in only a few simple steps.

What you’ll need:

These are the tools required for the disassembly and reassembly of your miter saw blade:

  1. 5mm Allen Key (should be included with the machine)
  2. A pair of heavy-duty gloves (only to ensure that you don’t cut yourself on the fins of the blade)

This is basically everything you require to get the job done.

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Unplug your saw from the main power outlet. Make sure you don’t accidentally activate the blade during the replacement process. This could be a painful experience which is very easily avoidable. Do this for all your power tools when you do maintenance.

Step 2: Wear your gloves, save those digits from destruction and begin replacing your blade by first raising the blade arm and lifting up the blade guard to reveal the blade.

Step 3: Take your Allen Key and unscrew the guard pivot bolt. This bolt attaches the guard to the guard pivot plate. Once unscrewed life the Guard Plate up and out of your way to gain access to the blade.

Step 4: Locate the spindle lock on your blade. Press it in and hold while operating on the blade. The spindle lock prevents your blade from rotating freely.

Step 5: Unscrew the spindle bolt (1). It is important to note that unlike most other bolts the spindle bolt loosens when twisted clockwise and tightens when spun anti-clockwise.

Step 6: Remove the spindle bolt (1), the outer flange (2), and the Arbour insert (3). Make sure not to lose these parts because the new blade will need them. Also, make sure that the inner flange (5) remains on the Spindle.

Step 7: Carefully retrieve your new blade from its packaging and place it onto the Spindle. Check the orientation of your blade and make sure that the blade fins are pointing downward because the blade rotates clockwise. Replace the Arbour insert (3), the outer flange (2), and screw the spindle bolt back in.

REMEMBER: keep the spindle lock pressed in while screwing and unscrewing the spindle bolt, the spindle bolt tightens with anti-clockwise rotation and loosens with clockwise rotation.

Step 8: Put the guard pivot plate back on and screw in the guard pivot bolt. Check and make sure the guard is working by manually raising and lowering it a few times.

Step 9: Plug the machine back in and you should be good to go!

Safety Instructions:

General guidelines to follow before operating any power tools:

  1. Before each use, check the overall condition of your saw and look out for: loose or misaligned parts, moving parts that have their movement restricted, cracks or broken articles on the machine, damaged electrical wiring and all other possible issues that may affect the safe operation of this machine. Safety should always be your first and foremost priority.
  2. After each use, wipe external surfaces of the miter saw with a clean cloth.
  3. If the power supply cord of this power tool is damaged or broken, you should get it replaced only by a qualified service technician in order to avoid causing further damage to your machine.
  4. Refer to your owner’s manual for details that are specific to your product.
  5. Keep this tool out of the reach of children.

The Roundup:

The Chicago Electric Miter Saw is an awesome tool any handyman would love to have in their arsenal. However, given the pace at which technology is advancing, consumers have been provided with a number of alternatives at various prices, to best suit their needs. If you are looking for an upgrade or a change, maybe we can help you choose the best miter saw blade for you!

Good luck with your crafts and always maintain your tools!