Chicago Electric 41903 Quick reference guide

6-1/2” (18V)
41903
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
CIRCULAR SAW
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011
Visit ourWeb site at http://www.harborfreight.com
Copyright©1999 by Harbor Freight Tools®. All rights reserved.No portion of this manual or
any artwork contained herein may be reproduced in any shape or form without the express
written consent of Harbor FreightTools.
For technical questions and replacement parts, please call 1-800-444-3353
®

SKU 41903 Page 2For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
THANKYOU for choosing a HARBOR FREIGHTTOOLS product. For future reference, please complete the
owner’srecordbelow:
Model______________ Serial No.____________ PurchaseDate__________
SAVETHE RECEIPT,WARRANTY ANDTHESE INSTRUCTIONS. It is important that you read the entire
manual to become familiar with the unit BEFORE you begin assembly.
Technical Specifications
Tool Name:6-1/2" 18V Circular Saw
SKU: 41903
CuttingCapacity: 2-1/16"@90degrees,1-1/2"@ 45 degrees
MotorRPM: 3,000RPM
ArborSize: 5/8"
Safety Switch: 2 Action
Blade: 6-1/2"X24TC-2TipwithHardness89-92HRC
Max. Blade RPM: 7000
Also Included: Quick Charger with U.L.Approved Adapter, 18V Battery, 4 mm HexWrench,
BlowMoldCase.
Warning: The warnings, cautions and instructions discussed in this instruction manual
cannot cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must
beunderstoodbythe operatorthat COMMON SENSE AND CAUTIONARE
FACTORSWHICH CANNOTBEBUILTINTOTHIS PRODUCT,BUT
MUST BE SUPPLIED BYTHE OPERATOR.
TheOperator
PLEASE REMEMBER:
Do not operate the product if under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Read warning labels on prescriptions to determine
if your judgment/reflexes might be impaired.
Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry as they can be caught in moving
parts.
Protective gloves and nonskid footwear is recommended.
Wear restrictive hair covering to contain long hair.
Use eye and ear protection. Always wear ANSI approved impact
safety goggles and a dust mask or respirator when working around
metal, wood and chemical dusts and mists.
Wear a full face shield if you are producing metal or wood filings.
Maintain proper footing and balance at all times.
Keep hands out of the cutting area and away from the blade.
Make certain that the piece being cut is properly supported; do not support the piece being cut with your hands or by
bracing with your leg.
Avoid carrying the Saw with your fingers on the Handle. Your fingers may touch the Switch and Safety trigger and start
the Saw.
REV 02/01; 10/03; 12/04; 02/05
WARNING: Some dust created by power
sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other
construction activities, contain chemicals
known [to the State of California] to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive
harm. Someexamplesofthesechemicalsare:
• Leadfrom lead-based paints
• Crystalline silica from bricks and
cementorothermasonry products
• Arsenicandchromiumfrom
chemicallytreatedlumber
(CaliforniaHealth & Safety Code 25249.5, et
seq. )

SKU 41903 Page 3For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Work Area
TO AVOID RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY, EQUIPMENT DAMAGE, FIRE AND SHOCK, MAKE SUREYOUR
WORKAREA IS:
Free of damp, wet or rainy conditions.
Free of flammable gasses or liquids.
Free of children (never let them handle tools or machinery).
Well-lit.
Cleanand uncluttered.
Well-ventilated.
BeforeOperating
Before operating your Circular Saw check for damaged parts.Before using any tool, any part that appears
damagedshould be carefully checked todetermine that it willoperate properly and performits intended
function.
DO NOT exceed the tools maximum capacity.
Never force the tool or attachment to do the work of a larger industrial tool. It is designed to do the job better
and more safely at the rate for which it was intended.
Do not try to use inappropriate attachments in an attempt to exceed the tool’s capacity. Approved accessories
areavailablefromHarborFreightTools.
Make sure all clamps, locks and bolts are tight.
MAKE CERTAINTOTURN OFFTHE SAW,AND REMOVETHE BATTERY PACKWHEN MOVING OR
LOADING ORWHEN DOING ANY MAINTENANCE. THETOOL SHOULD ALWAYS BETURNED OFFWHEN
NOT IN USE.
Donot reach over or across running machines.
BatteryPrecautions
Readallinstructions and warnings on thebattery beforecharging the battery.
To avoid accidents, charge the supplied battery only. Do not use a different charger with this battery.
Do not expose the battery to rain or wet conditions.
To avoid damage of cable and plug, never pull the cable to
disconnectthecharger.
Do not use the charger if the cable or plug are damaged.
Repairs should be carried out by experts only
Do not touch the battery poles with any conductive source.
Do not store the battery in a box with other metal objects.
Do not throw the battery in a fire. Ni-Cd Battery must be recycled or disposed of properly.
Note: The operation time of a new battery will ramp up as it is properly used and recharged. It will take
about 5 cycles before the battery is at maximum efficiency. Warning: If two or more batteries are to
becharged,allow the QuickChargertime to cooldownbetween charges. Chargingroomtemperature:
50°F - 104° F.
Note: Always switch to a fresh battery when tool
performance begins to diminish. Severe heat is most
destructive to a battery; the more heat generated, the faster
the battery loses power. A battery that gets too hot can be
permanently damaged. Never over-discharge a battery by
usingthetool even aftertool performance isdecreasing. Never
attempt to discharge a tool’s battery by continuing to pull the
tool trigger. When tool performance begins to diminish,
stop the tool, recharge the battery and use the fresh
battery for optimal performance.
REV 10/03

SKU 41903 Page 4For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Charging the Battery Pack
The Battery Pack (part #14) does not come charged from the factory. Charge it before using.
Step1) Insert the Battery Pack (#14) into the Quick Charger. The Battery Pack will only
fit in one way.
Step 2) Plug the Quick Charger into a wall socket.
Step3) When the Quick Charger is plugged into a wall socket, the GREEN light will go on.
This shows that all circuitry is working properly and that the Charger is ready.
Step4) Press the SET button to start charging. The RED light will go on and will continue
to be on while the Battery Pack is charging. When the RED light goes off, the
Battery pack charge is complete. It will take approximately 1 to 1-1/2 hours to fully charge the
Battery Pack.
Step 5) After charging, unplug the Quick Charger from the wall outlet.
Step 6) Remove the Battery from the Quick Charger.
Step7) Insert the Battery Pack (part #14) into Saw body as shown in Figure 1.
Step8) When removing the Battery Pack from the Saw body, press down on the
locking tabs located on each side of the Battery Pack and pull straight out from
the body.
Assembly
Your Circular Saw may require some assembly. Information on installation is included below for your reference.
Please refer to the photos and illustrations as well as the Assembly Diagram located on page 9 of this manual.
The Parts List is located on page 8.
It is important that you read the entire manual to become familiar with the unit BEFORE you use it. Be sure
that you have all parts described in the Parts List. For assistance with assembly please refer to the assembly
diagram and the parts list on page.
Warning: Remove the Battery Pack (part #14) before making any adjustments to the Saw.
Installing the Cutting Blade - Note: Loosen the HexWrench Knob as shown in Figure 4, and remove the Hex
Wrench.
Step1) Remove the Battery Pack (part #14).
Step2) Press down on the Stop Button located on the top of the Saw while slowly moving the blade.
The tip of the Stop Button will engage in a cutout in the blade to stop the blade from moving.
Figure 1-Installing the Battery Pack
Warning: Nevercharge morethan2 hours continuously. Chargers
should not be left plugged in or charging for more than 2 hours.
REV 05/02

SKU 41903 Page 5For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Step 3) While continuing to hold down the Lock Button, use
the 4 mm HexWrench to loosen and remove the
ArborBolt(part#38). RemovetheSpringWasher
(part #37) and the Flange(part #36).
Step4) RotatetheRetractableGuard (part#32) clockwise
to allow entry of the Saw Blade (part #35).
Step 5) Insert the Saw Blade (#35) up through the
Shoe (part #53) with the teeth facing forward
and up, until the center hole of the Saw Blade fits
over the Main Shaft (part #25) - (See Figure 3).
Warning: Make certain that the arrow on the Retractable Guard (#32) and the Saw Blade
are facing the same direction as in Figure 3.
Step6) WhilepressingontheLockButton, replace the Flange (#36),Washer(#37)and
Arbor Bolt (#38). Tighten into place with the Hex Wrench. When finished, make
certain that the Lock Button has been returned to the up (unlocked) position.
Step7) Slide the HexWrench into its storage slot and tighten it into place with the
HexWrench Knob (See Figure 4).
Figure 2-Installing the Saw Blade
Press Stop Button
Hex Wrench
Arbor Bolt (#38)
Directional Arrows
Figure 3
Teeth face up
Depth Adjustment
Knob Hex Wrench
Hex Wrench
Knob
Bevel Adjustment
Knob (#50)
Shoe
Figure 4
Angle Scale

SKU 41903 Page 6For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Adjusting the Saw Prior to Cutting
Step1) To adjust the angle of the Saw Blade up to 50° loosen the Bevel Adjustment
Knob (part #50) and move the Shoe (part #53) down paying attention to the
degrees indicated on the angle scale (See Figure 4). Once set, retighten the
Bevel Adjustment Knob (part #50).
Step2) To adjust the depth of the cut, loosen the Depth Adjustment Knob (part #7)
(SeeFigure4). MovetheShoe(#53) down while observing the amount
of Saw Blade exposed under the Shoe (#53). Once adjusted, tighten the
DepthAdjustment Knob (#7).
Prepare Material Before Cutting
Step1) Support large panels to minimize the risk of pinching the Saw Blade and to
reduce the risk of kickback.
Step2) UsetheRipFence(part #49) when ripping material.
Step3) Securely clamp the work piece to be cut to the workbench.
Step4) Make sure the Saw does not cut into the supports or the workbench.
Note: Use the appropriate type of Saw Blade for the material you are cutting.
Operation
Before operating your Circular 6-1/2" Saw, it will be helpful to refer to each of the photos and illustrations shown
in this manual, as well as to the Parts List on page 8 and Assembly Diagram on page 9.
Cutting
Step1) Position the Rip Fence (part #49) to guide the Saw on a straight path.
Step2) With your left hand resting on the front portion of the Body (part #9/13), position your right hand
on the upper portion of the handle portion of the Body (directly above theTrigger/Safety).
Step3) Place the front edge of the Shoe (part #53) on the front edge of the material to be cut. Align
the front notch (right notch aligns with the Saw Blade) on the cut line.
Step 4) Pull the Safety (part #18) back with the middle finger and squeeze theTrigger
(part #20) with the index finger. Do this before the Saw Blade touches the
workpiece.
Step5) With the Saw at full speed, move it slowly forward to start the cut.
Step6) When the cut is complete, release theTrigger (part #20). Do not set the
Saw down until the Saw Blade stops turning.

SKU 41903 Page 7For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Maintenance
CLEANING: Before remounting the Saw Blade, remove all sawdust that has accumulated
aroundtheRetractableGuard (part #32)andtheSpacer (part #22), Bolts and
Washers.
Regularly clean the work surface with a vacuum cleaner or a dry brush. At the end
of every work session, remove sawdust from the motor vents. Prevent wood, dust
anddebrisfromaccumulatingintheworkingarea.
Keep the Saw Blade (#35) clean and sharp. A sharp blade will minimize stalling
and kickback.
STORAGE: Child-proof the machine and work area. Use of padlocks and master switches are
recommended.Storethe Circular Saw in its Case.
IF THERE IS ANY QUESTION ABOUT ACONDITION BEING SAFE OR UNSAFE, DO NOT OPERATE THE TOOL.
PLEASEREADTHE FOLLOWINGCAREFULLY
THEMANUFACTURERAND/OR DISTRIBUTORHAS PROVIDEDTHE PARTSDIAGRAMINTHIS
MANUALASAREFERENCETOOLONLY. NEITHERTHEMANUFACTURERNOR DISTRIBUTOR
MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION ORWARRANTY OF ANY KINDTOTHE BUYERTHAT HE OR SHE
IS QUALIFIEDTO MAKE ANY REPAIRSTOTHE PRODUCT ORTHAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIEDTO
REPLACE ANY PARTS OFTHE PRODUCT. IN FACT,THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBU-
TOREXPRESSLY STATESTHAT ALL REPAIRS ANDPARTS REPLACEMENTSSHOULD BE UNDER-
TAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSEDTECHNICIANS AND NOT BYTHE BUYER.THE BUYER
ASSUMES ALL RISK AND LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER REPAIRSTOTHE ORIGINAL
PRODUCTOR REPLACEMENTPARTSTHERETO,OR ARISING OUTOF HIS OR HER INSTALLA-
TIONOFREPLACEMENTPARTSTHERETO.

SKU 41903 Page 8For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Unpacking
UNPACKAND CHECK CONTENTS
When unpacking your Circular 6-1/2", 18V Saw, check to make sure the following parts are included. If any
parts are missing or broken,please call HARBOR FREIGHTTOOLS at 1-800-444-3353.
PartsList-#41903
Part # Description Quantity Part # Description Quantity
1 Screw ST 2.9 x 25 2 28 SnapWasher 1
2 Stud Screw M5 x 50 4 29 GearBox 1
3 SnapWasher 4 30 Stud Screw M4 x 8 1
4 StudWasher 4 31 Spring 1
5 Screw ST2.9 x 19 1 32 RetractableGuard 1
6 Screw ST2.9 x 13 1 33 Washer 1
7 DepthAdjustmentKnob 1 34 Adapter 1
8 Washer 1 35 SawBlade 1
9 Left Body 1 36 Flange 1
10 Back Case 1 37 SpringWasher 1
11 SnapWasher 1 38 Arbor Bolt 1
12 MotorBase 1 39 Stud Screw M4 x 10 1
13 Right Body 1 40 Washer 1
14 Battery Pack 1 41 Collar 1
15 Motor 1 42 Screw 1
16 Battery Clip 1 43 Washer 1
17 Spring 1 44 SpringWasher 1
18 Safety 1 45 Screw Cap 1
19 Spring 1 46 Plate 1
20 Trigger 1 47 ConnectingBar 1
21 Switch 1 48 Bolt M6 X 80 1
22 Guard 1 49 RipFence 1
23 BallBearing 1 50 Bevel Adjustment Knob 1
24 MasterGear 1 51 Washer 1
25 Main Shaft 1 52 GuardBar 1
26 Stud Screw 1 53 Shoe 1
27 Spacer 1 54 HexWrench Knob 1
55 Charger 1
56 4mmHexWrench 1

SKU 41903 Page 9For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
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Assembly Diagram - 41903
Note: Charger (#55) is not shown.
4mm HexWrench (#56) is not shown.