How to Change a Table Saw Blade – Safely and Correctly

Being able to change your table saw blades whenever you need them is crucial if you’re trying to get a special cut or joint. Below, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to change a table saw blade. 

Changing Your Table Saw Blade

Changing the blade is relatively easy; it seems hard at first, but just follow our guide slowly, and you’ll master it in no time whatsoever.  

Note: Do NOT skip any important safety precautions!

Step One: Gather your Tools

You’ll need a few tools to get the job done; you should have these kicking around somewhere: flat-head screwdriver, wrench, a spanner, a rag, and greaser. 

Step Two: Remove All Power Sources

Removing the power source should be done when carrying out any maintenance work or when the table saw isn’t being used. 

Step Three: Remove The Blade Guard

You can do this by lowering the blade to its lowest level, clipping the guard off from the table, and then removing the blade plate. The blade plate will typically require you to unscrew it. 

Step Four: Remove The Table Saw Blade

Bring the blade back to a maximum height; a good tip to stop the blade from moving is to jam a wooden block against the blade. 

The nut and washer which holds your blade in place should be visible; take your wrench and hold the arbor in place, take your spanner and loosen the nut counterclockwise while the other hand holds the arbor steady. 

This will allow you to remove the blade and carry out any essential cleaning or maintenance. 

A tip to stop the bolt from falling into the table is to just loosen the bolt with your wrench and then finish it off by hand. 

Step Five: Installing The New Blade

Simply place the new blade onto the table, ensuring that the teeth face to the front of the table saw. 

A trick you can use is that most manufacturers place their branding and name facing outwards, which is an indication it’s pointing in the right direction. 

Once the blade is in, put the washer/blade flange on top and then screw the bolt in clockwise while making sure you’re holding the arbor steady with the other hand.

Step Six: Return The Plate & Guard

Lower the blade back down to its lowest level and replace the plate, screw those screws back in and then reattach the blade guard. You’ll want to test it out to ensure the blade is facing the correct way and all fittings are tight. 

Conclusion 

The above guide is as straightforward and simple as you can get, follow what we’ve described, and changing your table saw blade would never be as easy. If you’re new to table saws, don’t stress; just take your time and if you get stuck, just take a break and come back to it later.