Expert: Odus Sweetin - 7/15/2004

Question
Hi Odus,
I was recently excited to receive a used table saw, Craftsman, Model #: 113..298060.  I also received a few used blades, and some accessories.  I put the first one on and turned the saw on.  When the saw was on I eyed the blade spinning and I noticed the blade wobbling; yes it was secured correctly according to the owner's manual.  Most noticeable when the blade was getting up to speed and when slowing down.  The shaft spins freely and not loose, no play in it.
Thinking it was the blade I tried them all, one at a time, and the same thing happened.  I feel naive to ask, but is it possible all 4 blades are warped?  In your opinion, what could be the problem?
Thank you,
Randy


Answer
Hi Randy,

One thing I learned years ago, there are not any dumb questions, only dumb mistakes.

Apparently, you are new to table saws. 1) Never cross your arms while makeing a cut. 2) Never stand in front of the path the blade spins, always off to one side so no part of your body is in the direction of the blade path. 3) Make up some push sticks to use for cuts close to the blade. 4) Watch Norm Abrams for neat tip on jigs and fixtures. All of the accessories in the world will not replace ones you build properly. I think this is as important if not more so than actually knowing how to make whatever. It expands your capabilities.

Yes, if the blades came with the saw, all four could very likely be warped. It can mean the guy never sharpened his blades. They dulled, and overheated as he forced material through the blades. Or, something was out of line, and he forced the materials through the blades.
A good local saw sharpening or machine shop should be able to tell you quickly. Some can be fixed. Really good blades do not warp easy. If they are not warped, then your armature (if direct drive), or arbor (if belt driven) is warped. (An arbor is what you screw the blades onto). An armature rebuilding shop or some machine shops will build you a new armature. See if you can find one to do it for about $50. The $200 plus dollar armature price range is out there. If it is a mid seventies model, many of these heavy duty models are excellent saws made by Woodcraft located in Missouri at the time.
Think about the safety tips I gave you. Many books go to long lengths to explain these which can only serve to confuse some of us while others will not take the time to read if long. They are simple, and no one on any of our crews have ever lost a body part in over thirty years from using these tips, combined with commonsense.
I have a 1974 12" model manufactured by Woodcraft. It is still running, and only been rebuilt one time. We use pieces of plywood with their own fence built in with clamps and stops for ripping the little pieces. If the saw wants to act up, fine. Our hands are not next to the blade.
Have a good day,
Odus
www.sweetincompany.com