How to Unlock Your DeWalt Miter Saw: A Comprehensive Guide
DeWalt miter saws are renowned for their precision, power, and durability, making them a favorite among both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. However, like any power tool, they incorporate safety features to prevent accidental operation and potential injuries. One crucial safety mechanism is the locking system, which secures the saw head in a lowered position for safe transportation and storage. Understanding how to properly unlock your DeWalt miter saw is essential for efficient and safe operation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering various DeWalt miter saw models and addressing common issues you might encounter.
Why is My DeWalt Miter Saw Locked?
Before diving into the unlocking procedure, let’s understand why your DeWalt miter saw is designed to lock in the first place. The locking mechanism serves several important purposes:
* **Safety During Transportation:** The primary reason is safety during transportation. A locked saw head prevents it from moving around and potentially causing damage to the saw itself, your vehicle, or yourself. A freely moving saw head could also accidentally trigger the blade, leading to serious injury.
* **Protection During Storage:** When storing your miter saw, locking the head keeps it securely in a lowered position. This minimizes the risk of accidental damage to the blade, the cutting surface, or the surrounding environment. It also helps conserve space by keeping the saw in its most compact form.
* **Preventing Accidental Activation:** In some cases, the locking mechanism may also act as a secondary safety measure to prevent accidental activation of the saw. While the power switch is the primary control, the locked head adds an extra layer of protection.
Identifying Your DeWalt Miter Saw Model
DeWalt offers a range of miter saws, each with slight variations in the locking mechanism. While the general principle remains the same, the location and appearance of the locking lever or knob may differ. Common DeWalt miter saw models include:
* **DeWalt DW715:** A 12-inch single-bevel miter saw, popular for its affordability and versatility.
* **DeWalt DW716:** A 12-inch double-bevel miter saw, offering greater flexibility for angled cuts.
* **DeWalt DWS779:** A 12-inch sliding compound miter saw, providing increased cutting capacity and precision.
* **DeWalt DWS780:** A 12-inch sliding compound miter saw, similar to the DWS779 but with additional features like an XPS crosscut alignment system.
* **DeWalt DWS716XPS:** A 12-inch double bevel sliding compound miter saw with XPS light.
Locate the model number of your miter saw. It’s usually printed on a label on the saw’s base or motor housing. Knowing your model number will help you find specific instructions and diagrams in your owner’s manual (which is always the best source of information).
General Steps to Unlock a DeWalt Miter Saw
While the specific location and design of the locking mechanism may vary, the general steps to unlock a DeWalt miter saw are as follows:
1. **Locate the Locking Mechanism:** The locking mechanism is typically a lever, knob, or pin located on the side or back of the saw’s motor head. Look for a component that appears to restrict the movement of the saw head. Consult your owner’s manual if you are unsure.
2. **Grip the Saw Head Firmly:** Before attempting to unlock the saw, firmly grip the saw head with one hand. This will prevent it from snapping upward suddenly when unlocked, which could cause injury.
3. **Engage the Handle Safety (If Applicable):** Some DeWalt miter saws have a handle safety mechanism that must be engaged before the saw can be operated. This is usually a small lever or button located on the handle itself. Make sure this safety is engaged before proceeding.
4. **Release the Locking Mechanism:** Depending on the design of the locking mechanism, you will need to either:
* **Pull a Lever:** Some models have a lever that you need to pull or depress to release the lock.
* **Turn a Knob:** Other models have a knob that you need to turn to unlock the saw head.
* **Depress a Pin:** Some models utilize a pin that must be pushed in to disengage the lock.
5. **Carefully Raise the Saw Head:** Once the locking mechanism is released, carefully raise the saw head to its upright position. Maintain a firm grip on the saw head to control its movement.
6. **Test the Movement:** Once the saw head is in the upright position, test its movement to ensure that it is moving freely and smoothly. If it is still restricted, double-check that the locking mechanism is fully disengaged and that there are no obstructions.
Specific Instructions for Common DeWalt Miter Saw Models
Here are more detailed instructions for unlocking some popular DeWalt miter saw models:
**DeWalt DW715 (12-Inch Single-Bevel Miter Saw):**
The DW715 typically features a locking pin located at the rear of the saw head. To unlock it:
1. **Locate the Locking Pin:** Look for a metal pin or a small lever on the back of the saw head, near the motor.
2. **Grip the Saw Head Firmly:** Hold the saw head securely with one hand.
3. **Pull and Turn the Locking Pin:** Pull the pin outwards (away from the saw head) and then rotate it 90 degrees. This should release the locking mechanism.
4. **Carefully Raise the Saw Head:** Slowly lift the saw head into the upright position.
5. **Verify Free Movement:** Ensure the saw head moves freely up and down.
**DeWalt DW716 (12-Inch Double-Bevel Miter Saw):**
The DW716 often uses a locking lever on the side of the saw head. To unlock it:
1. **Locate the Locking Lever:** Find the lever on the side of the saw head, usually near the bevel adjustment controls.
2. **Grip the Saw Head Firmly:** Hold the saw head firmly with one hand.
3. **Depress the Locking Lever:** Push down on the lever to release the lock.
4. **Carefully Raise the Saw Head:** Gradually lift the saw head to its working position.
5. **Check for Smooth Operation:** Make sure the saw head moves smoothly through its range of motion.
**DeWalt DWS779 and DWS780 (12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saws):**
These sliding compound miter saws generally have a similar locking mechanism, often a lever or knob located at the rear of the saw.
1. **Locate the Locking Lever/Knob:** Check the rear of the saw head for a lever or knob that controls the locking function.
2. **Grip the Saw Head Securely:** Hold the saw head firmly to prevent sudden movement.
3. **Release the Lock:** Depending on the model:
* **Lever:** Depress or pull the lever.
* **Knob:** Turn the knob to the unlocked position. There may be an indicator showing locked and unlocked positions.
4. **Raise the Saw Head Gently:** Slowly raise the saw head to its full height.
5. **Ensure Free Movement:** Verify that the saw head moves freely along the sliding rails and that the bevel and miter adjustments are also working smoothly.
**DeWalt DWS716XPS (12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with XPS):**
The DWS716XPS locking mechanism is typically a pin located on the side of the saw head. To unlock it:
1. **Locate the Locking Pin:** Look for a metal pin or a small lever on the side of the saw head, near the motor.
2. **Grip the Saw Head Firmly:** Hold the saw head securely with one hand.
3. **Pull and Turn the Locking Pin:** Pull the pin outwards (away from the saw head) and then rotate it 90 degrees. This should release the locking mechanism.
4. **Carefully Raise the Saw Head:** Slowly lift the saw head into the upright position.
5. **Verify Free Movement:** Ensure the saw head moves freely up and down.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, you might encounter difficulties unlocking your DeWalt miter saw. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
* **The Locking Mechanism is Stuck:**
* **Cause:** Dirt, sawdust, or debris can accumulate in the locking mechanism, causing it to stick.
* **Solution:** Use a brush or compressed air to clean the locking mechanism thoroughly. Apply a small amount of lubricant (such as WD-40 or silicone spray) to the moving parts to help them move more freely. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract more dust and debris.
* **The Saw Head is Difficult to Raise:**
* **Cause:** The locking mechanism may not be fully disengaged, or the saw’s internal mechanisms may be stiff.
* **Solution:** Double-check that the locking mechanism is fully disengaged. If it is, try applying a small amount of lubricant to the pivot points of the saw head. Also, ensure that the miter and bevel adjustments are not tightened, as this can restrict movement.
* **The Locking Mechanism is Damaged:**
* **Cause:** The locking mechanism may be damaged due to impact or excessive force.
* **Solution:** If the locking mechanism is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. Contact DeWalt customer service or an authorized repair center for assistance. Attempting to repair the locking mechanism yourself without proper knowledge and tools could be dangerous.
* **Misunderstanding the Locking Mechanism Type:**
* **Cause:** Sometimes, the user is simply unaware of the specific type of locking mechanism on their model of DeWalt Miter Saw.
* **Solution:** Consult the DeWalt Miter Saw’s user manual. The user manual will contain detailed diagrams and instructions on the specific locking mechanism. Make sure to carefully read this section.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when working with power tools. Here are some important safety precautions to keep in mind when unlocking and operating your DeWalt miter saw:
* **Read the Owner’s Manual:** Before using your miter saw, carefully read and understand the owner’s manual. This will provide you with specific instructions and safety guidelines for your model.
* **Wear Safety Glasses:** Always wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
* **Wear Hearing Protection:** Miter saws can be quite loud, so wear hearing protection to prevent hearing damage.
* **Secure the Workpiece:** Always secure the workpiece firmly in place with a clamp or other suitable device. This will prevent it from moving during the cut and reduce the risk of kickback.
* **Keep Hands Clear of the Blade:** Keep your hands and fingers away from the saw blade at all times. Use push sticks or blocks to guide the workpiece when necessary.
* **Disconnect Power Before Maintenance:** Always disconnect the power cord from the outlet before performing any maintenance or repairs on the saw.
* **Inspect the Saw Regularly:** Inspect the saw regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged or worn parts immediately.
* **Use the Correct Blade:** Always use the correct type of blade for the material you are cutting. Using the wrong blade can be dangerous and can damage the saw.
* **Never Force the Saw:** Let the saw do the work. Do not force the saw through the material, as this can cause it to overheat or kick back.
Maintaining Your DeWalt Miter Saw
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your DeWalt miter saw in good working condition and extending its lifespan. Here are some maintenance tips:
* **Clean the Saw Regularly:** Clean the saw regularly to remove dust, sawdust, and debris. Use a brush, vacuum cleaner, or compressed air to clean the saw’s components, including the blade, motor housing, and base.
* **Lubricate Moving Parts:** Lubricate the moving parts of the saw regularly with a suitable lubricant. This will help to keep them moving smoothly and prevent wear.
* **Sharpen or Replace the Blade:** Sharpen or replace the blade when it becomes dull. A dull blade can cause the saw to work harder and can produce splintered cuts.
* **Check and Adjust Alignment:** Check the saw’s alignment regularly to ensure that it is cutting accurately. Adjust the miter and bevel scales as needed.
* **Store the Saw Properly:** Store the saw in a clean, dry place when not in use. Cover the saw with a dust cover to protect it from dust and moisture.
Conclusion
Unlocking your DeWalt miter saw is a straightforward process once you understand the specific locking mechanism of your model. By following the steps outlined in this guide and adhering to safety precautions, you can safely and efficiently operate your miter saw for years to come. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and maintenance recommendations for your DeWalt miter saw model. Regular maintenance and careful operation will ensure that your saw remains a valuable asset in your woodworking projects.
By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you can confidently unlock and operate your DeWalt miter saw, ensuring safe and efficient woodworking for all your projects. Happy woodworking!