DeWalt DCS577X1 User manual

Instruction Manual
DCS577
60V Max* Heavy-Duty 7-1/4" (184 mm) Worm Drive Style Saw

1
English (original instructions)
Definitions: Safety Alert Symbols and Words
This instruction manual uses the following safety alert symbols and words to alert you to hazardous situations and your risk
of personal injury or property damage.
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or seriousinjury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or seriousinjury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderateinjury.
(Used without word) Indicates a safety related message.
NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in propertydamage.
WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all
instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or
seriousinjury.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, read the
instructionmanual.
1 Trigger switch lock off
button
2 Trigger switch
3 Depth adjustment
locking lever
4 Lower blade guard
retracting lever
5 Foot plate
6 Lower blade guard
7 0˚ Kerf indicator
8 45˚ Kerf indicator
9 Bevel adjustment lever
10 Angle quadrant
11 Spindle lock button
12 Main handle
13 Auxiliary handle
14 Battery release button
15 Battery
16 Coarse adjustment
17 Fine adjustment
18 Kerf indicators
19 Blade clamping screw
Fig. A
15
1
2
14
3
13
4
19
11
6
5
87
9
10
16
17
12
18
18

2
GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all
instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or
seriousinjury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE
REFERENCE
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-
operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless)
powertool.
1) Work Area Safety
a ) Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark
areas inviteaccidents.
b ) Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools
create sparks which may ignite the dust orfumes.
c ) Keep children and bystanders away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you
to losecontrol.
2) Electrical Safety
a ) Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never
modify the plug in any way. Do not use any
adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power
tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will
reduce risk of electricshock.
b ) Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded
surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges and
refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric
shock if your body is earthed orgrounded.
c ) Do not expose power tools to rain or wet
conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase
the risk of electricshock.
d ) Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for
carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool.
Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or
moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase
the risk of electricshock.
e ) When operating a power tool outdoors, use an
extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of
a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of
electricshock.
f ) If operating a power tool in a damp location
is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit
interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI
reduces the risk of electricshock.
3) Personal Safety
a ) Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool. Do
not use a power tool while you are tired or under
the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A
moment of inattention while operating power tools
may result in serious personalinjury.
b ) Use personal protective equipment. Always wear
eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust
mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce
personalinjuries.
c ) Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the
switch is in the off position before connecting to
power source and/or battery pack, picking up or
carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your
finger on the switch or energizing power tools that
have the switch on invitesaccidents.
d ) Remove any adjusting key or wrench before
turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left
attached to a rotating part of the power tool may
result in personalinjury.
e ) Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better control of
the power tool in unexpectedsituations.
f ) Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves
away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or
long hair can be caught in movingparts.
g ) If devices are provided for the connection of dust
extraction and collection facilities, ensure these
are connected and properly used. Use of dust
collection can reduce dust-relatedhazards.
4) Power Tool Use and Care
a ) Do not force the power tool. Use the correct
power tool for your application. The correct power
tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for
which it wasdesigned.
b ) Do not use the power tool if the switch does not
turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be
controlled with the switch is dangerous and must
berepaired.
c ) Disconnect the plug from the power source and/
or the battery pack from the power tool before
making any adjustments, changing accessories,
or storing power tools. Such preventive safety
measures reduce the risk of starting the power
toolaccidentally.
d ) Store idle power tools out of the reach of children
and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the
power tool or these instructions to operate the
power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands
of untrainedusers.
e ) Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or
binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and
any other condition that may affect the power
tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power
tool repaired before use. Many accidents are
caused by poorly maintained powertools.
f ) Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are
less likely to bind and are easier tocontrol.
g ) Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits, etc.
in accordance with these instructions, taking

3
into account the working conditions and the
work to be performed. Use of the power tool for
operations different from those intended could result
in a hazardoussituation.
5) Battery Tool Use and Care
a ) Recharge only with the charger specified by the
manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type
of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used
with another batterypack.
b ) Use power tools only with specifically designated
battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may
create a risk of injury andfire.
c ) When battery pack is not in use, keep it away
from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins,
keys, nails, screws, or other small metal objects,
that can make a connection from one terminal to
another. Shorting the battery terminals together may
cause burns or afire.
d ) Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected
from the battery; avoid contact. If contact
accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid
contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help.
Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation
orburns.
6) Service
a ) Have your power tool serviced by a qualified
repair person using only identical replacement
parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power
tool ismaintained.
Safety Instructions for All Saws
Cutting Procedures
DANGER:
a ) Keep hands away from cutting area and the
blade. Keep your second hand on auxiliary
handle or motor housing. If both hands are holding
the saw, they cannot be cut by theblade.
b ) Do not reach underneath the workpiece. The
guard cannot protect you from the blade below
theworkpiece.
c ) Adjust the cutting depth to the thickness of the
workpiece. Less than a full tooth of the blade teeth
should be visible below theworkpiece.
d ) Never hold piece being cut in your hands or
across your leg. Secure the workpiece to a stable
platform. It is important to support the work properly
to minimize body exposure, blade binding, or loss
ofcontrol.
e ) Hold the power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces only, when performing an operation
where the cutting tool may contact hidden
wiring or its own cord. Contact with a "live" wire will
also make exposed metal parts of the power tool "live"
and could give the operator an electricshock.
f) When ripping always use a rip fence or straight
edge guide. This improves the accuracy of cut and
reduces the chance of bladebinding.
g ) Always use blades with correct size and shape
(diamond versus round) of arbour holes. Blades
that do not match the mounting hardware of the saw
will run eccentrically, causing loss ofcontrol.
h ) Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers
or bolt. The blade washers and bolt were specially
designed for your saw, for optimum performance and
safety ofoperation.
Further Safety Instructions for All Saws
Kickback Causes and Related Warnings
•Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound or
misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift
up and out of the workpiece toward theoperator.
ʵ When the blade is pinched or bound tightly by the kerf
closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction
drives the unit rapidly back toward theoperator.
ʵ If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in the cut,
the teeth at the back edge of the blade can dig into
the top surface of the wood causing the blade to climb
out of the kerf and jump back toward theoperator.
Kickback is the result of saw misuse and/or incorrect operating
procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper
precautions as given below:
a ) Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw
and position your arms to resist kickback forces.
Position your body to either side of the blade,
but not in line with the blade. Kickback could cause
the saw to jump backwards, but kickback forces can
be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions
aretaken.
b ) When blade is binding, or when interrupting a
cut for any reason, release the trigger and hold
the saw motionless in the material until the
blade comes to a complete stop. Never attempt
to remove the saw from the work or pull the
saw backward while the blade is in motion or
kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective
actions to eliminate the cause of bladebinding.
c ) When restarting a saw in the workpiece, center
the saw blade in the kerf and check that saw
teeth are not engaged into the material. If saw
blade is binding, it may walk up or kickback from the
workpiece as the saw isrestarted.
d ) Support large panels to minimize the risk of
blade pinching and kickback. Large panels tend
to sag under their own weight. Supports must be
placed under the panel on both sides, near the line of
cut and near the edge of thepanel.
e ) Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened
or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing
excessive friction, blade binding andkickback.
f ) Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers
must be tight and secure before making cut. If

4
blade adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause
binding andkickback.
g ) Use extra caution when sawing into existing
walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade
may cut objects that can causekickback.
Lower Guard Function
a ) Check lower guard for proper closing before each
use. Do not operate the saw if lower guard does
not move freely and close instantly. Never clamp
or tie the lower guard into the open position. If
saw is accidentally dropped, lower guard may
be bent. Raise the lower guard with the retracting
handle and make sure it moves freely and does not
touch the blade or any other part, in all angles and
depths ofcut.
b ) Check the operation of the lower guard spring.
If the guard and the spring are not operating
properly, they must be serviced before use. Lower
guard may operate sluggishly due to damaged parts,
gummy deposits, or a build-up ofdebris.
c ) Lower guard should be retracted manually
only for special cuts such as “plunge cuts”
and “compound cuts.” Raise lower guard by
retracting handle and as soon as blade enters
the material, the lower guard must be released.
For all other sawing, the lower guard should
operateautomatically.
d ) Always observe that the lower guard is covering
the blade before placing saw down on bench or
floor. An unprotected, coasting blade will cause
the saw to walk backwards, cutting whatever is
in its path. Be aware of the time it takes for the blade
to stop after switch isreleased.
Additional Specific Safety Instructions for
Circular Saws
WARNING: Do not allow familiarity (gained from
frequent use of your saw) to replace safety rules.
Always remember that a careless fraction of a second
is sufficient to inflict severe injury.
•Use clamps or another practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding
the work by hand or against your body leaves it unstable
and may lead to loss ofcontrol.
•Keep your body positioned to either side of the
blade, but not in line with the saw blade. KICKBACK
could cause the saw to jump backwards (see Kickback
Causes and Related Warnings andKickback).
•Avoid cutting nails. Inspect for and remove all nails
from lumber beforecutting.
•Always make sure nothing interferes with the
movement of the lower bladeguard.
•Accessories must be rated for at least the speed
recommended on the tool warning label. Wheels and
other accessories running over rated speed can fly apart
and cause injury. Accessory ratings must always be above
tool speed as shown on toolnameplate.
•Always make sure the saw is clean beforeusing.
•Stop using this saw and have it properly serviced if any
unusual noise or abnormal operationocccurs.
•Always be sure all components are mounted properly and
securely before usingtool.
•Always handle the saw blade with care when mounting or
removing it or when removing the diamondknockout.
•Always wait until the motor has reached full speed before
starting acut.
•Always keep handles dry, clean and free of oil and grease.
Hold the tool firmly with both hands when inuse.
•Always be alert at all times, especially during repetitive,
monotonous operations. Always be sure of position of
your hands relative to theblade.
•Stay clear of end pieces that may fall after cutting off. They
may be hot, sharp and/or heavy. Serious personal injury
mayresult.
Additional Safety Information
WARNING: ALWAYS use safety glasses. Everyday
eyeglasses are NOT safety glasses. Also use face or
dust mask if cutting operation is dusty. ALWAYS WEAR
CERTIFIED SAFETYEQUIPMENT:
•ANSI Z87.1 eye protection (CAN/CSA Z94.3),
•ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) hearing protection,
•NIOSH/OSHA/MSHA respiratoryprotection.
WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding,
sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction
activities contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Some examples of these
chemicalsare:
•lead from lead-based paints,
•crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other
masonry products, and
•arsenic and chromium from chemically-
treatedlumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how
often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to
these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with
approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are
specially designed to filter out microscopicparticles.
•Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power
sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other
construction activities. Wear protective clothing and
wash exposed areas with soap and water. Allowing
dust to get into your mouth, eyes, or lay on the skin may
promote absorption of harmfulchemicals.
WARNING: Use of this tool can generate and/
or disperse dust, which may cause serious and
permanent respiratory or other injury. Always use
NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection
appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles
away from face andbody.
WARNING: Always wear proper personal hearing
protection that conforms to ANSI S12.6 (S3.19)
during use. Under some conditions and duration

5
of use, noise from this product may contribute to
hearingloss.
CAUTION: When not in use, place tool on its side
on a stable surface where it will not cause a
tripping or falling hazard. Some tools with large
battery packs will stand upright on the battery pack
but may be easily knockedover.
•Air vents often cover moving parts and should be
avoided. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be
caught in movingparts.
The label on your tool may include the following symbols. The
symbols and their definitions are asfollows:
V.........................volts
Hz .......................hertz
min.....................minutes
or DC......direct current
......................Class I Construction
(grounded)
…/min.............. per minute
BPM....................beats per minute
IPM.....................impacts per minute
RPM....................revolutions per
minute
sfpm ...................surface feet per
minute
SPM....................strokes per minute
A.........................amperes
W........................watts
or AC........... alternating current
or AC/DC.... alternating or
direct current
......................Class II
Construction
(double insulated)
no.......................no load speed
n.........................rated speed
......................earthing terminal
.....................safety alert symbol
.....................visible radiation
.....................wear respiratory
protection
.....................wear eye
protection
.....................wear hearing
protection
.....................read all
documentation
BATTERIES AND CHARGERS
The battery pack is not fully charged out of the carton.
Before using the battery pack and charger, read the
safety instructions below and then follow charging
proceduresoutlined. When ordering replacement battery
packs, be sure to include the catalog number andvoltage.
Your tool uses a DeWALT charger. Be sure to read all safety
instructions before using your charger. Consult the chart
at the end of this manual for compatibility of chargers and
batterypacks.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
Important Safety Instructions for All
Battery Packs
WARNING: Read all safety warnings and all
instructions for the battery pack, charger and
power tool. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/
or serious injury.
•Do not charge or use the battery pack in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases or dust. Inserting or removing the battery
pack from the charger may ignite the dust orfumes.
•NEVER force the battery pack into the charger. DO
NOT modify the battery pack in any way to fit into
a non-compatible charger as battery pack may
rupture causing serious personal injury. Consult
the chart at the end of this manual for compatibility of
batteries andchargers.
•Charge the battery packs only in designated
DeWALTchargers.
•DO NOT splash or immerse in water or otherliquids.
•Do not store or use the tool and battery pack in
locations where the temperature may reach or
exceed 104°F (40°C) (such as outside sheds or metal
buildings in summer). For best life store battery packs in
a cool, drylocation.
NOTE: Do not store the battery packs in a tool with
the trigger switch locked on. Never tape the trigger
switch in the ONposition.
•Do not incinerate the battery pack even if it is
severely damaged or is completely worn out. The
battery pack can explode in a fire. Toxic fumes and
materials are created when lithium ion battery packs
areburned.
•If battery contents come into contact with the skin,
immediately wash area with mild soap and water. If
battery liquid gets into the eye, rinse water over the open
eye for 15 minutes or until irritation ceases. If medical
attention is needed, the battery electrolyte is composed of
a mixture of liquid organic carbonates and lithiumsalts.
•Contents of opened battery cells may cause
respiratory irritation. Provide fresh air. If symptoms
persist, seek medicalattention.
WARNING: Burn hazard. Battery liquid may be
flammable if exposed to spark orflame.
WARNING: Fire hazard. Never attempt to open the
battery pack for any reason. If the battery pack case
is cracked or damaged, do not insert into the charger.
Do not crush, drop or damage the battery pack. Do
not use a battery pack or charger that has received a
sharp blow, been dropped, run over or damaged in
any way (e.g., pierced with a nail, hit with a hammer,
stepped on). Damaged battery packs should be
returned to the service center forrecycling.
Transportation
WARNING: Fire hazard. Do not store or carry the
battery pack so that metal objects can contact
exposed battery terminals. For example, do
not place the battery pack in aprons, pockets, tool
boxes, product kit boxes, drawers, etc., with loose
nails, screws, keys, etc. Transporting batteries
can possibly cause fires if the battery terminals
inadvertently come in contact with conductive
materials such as keys, coins, hand tools and the
like. The US Department of Transportation Hazardous
Material Regulations (HMR) actually prohibit
transporting batteries in commerce or on airplanes in
carry-on baggage UNLESS they are properly protected
from short circuits. So when transporting individual
battery packs, make sure that the battery terminals

6
USE: 120 Wh Shipping: 3 x 40 Wh
are protected and well insulated from materials that
could contact them and cause a short circuit.
Shipping the DeWALT FLEXVOLT™ Battery
The DeWALT FLEXVOLT™ battery has two modes: Use and
Shipping.
Use Mode: When the FLEXVOLT™ battery stands alone or is
in a DeWALT 20V Max* product, it will operate as a 20V Max*
battery. When the FLEXVOLT™ battery is in a 60V Max* or a
120V Max* (two 60V Max* batteries) product, it will operate
as a 60V Max* battery.
Shipping Mode: When
the cap is attached to the
FLEXVOLT™ battery, the
battery is in Shipping Mode.
Strings of cells are electrically
disconnected within the pack resulting in three batteries
with a lower Watt hour (Wh) rating as compared to one
battery with a higher Watt hour rating. This increased
quantity of three batteries with the lower Watt hour rating
can exempt the pack from certain shipping regulations that
are imposed upon the higher Watt hour batteries.
The battery label indicates two Watt hour ratings (see
example). Depending on how the battery is shipped, the
appropriate Watt hour rating must be used to determine
the applicable shipping requirements. If utilizing the
shipping cap, the pack will be considered 3 batteries at
the Watt hour rating indicated for “Shipping”. If shipping
without the cap or in a tool, the pack will be considered one
battery at the Watt hour rating indicated next to “Use”.
Example of Use and Shipping Label Marking
For example, Shipping Wh rating might indicate 3 x 40 Wh,
meaning 3 batteries of 40 Watt hours each. The Use Wh
rating might indicate 120 Wh (1 battery implied).
Fuel Gauge Battery Packs (Fig. B)
Some DeWALT battery packs include a fuel gauge which
consists of three green LED lights that indicate the level of
charge remaining in the batterypack.
The fuel gauge is an indication of approximate levels of
charge remaining in the battery pack according to the
followingindicators:
75–100% charged
51–74% charged
< 50% charged
Pack needs to be charged
To actuate the fuel gauge, press and hold the fuel gauge
button. A combination of the three green LED lights will
illuminate designating the level of charge left. When the
level of charge in the battery is below the usable limit, the
fuel gauge will not illuminate and the battery will need to
berecharged.
Fig. B
NOTE: The fuel gauge is only an indication of the charge left
on the battery pack. It does not indicate tool functionality
and is subject to variation based on product components,
temperature and end-userapplication.
The RBRC® Seal
The RBRC® (Rechargeable Battery
Recycling Corporation) Seal on the nickel
cadmium, nickel metal hydride or lithium-
ion batteries (or battery packs) indicates
that the costs to recycle these batteries
(or battery packs) at the end of their useful life have already
been paid by DeWALT. In some areas, it is illegal to place
spent nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride or lithium-ion
batteries in the trash or municipal solid waste stream and
the Call2Recycle® program provides an environmentally
consciousalternative.
Call 2 Recycle, Inc., in cooperation with DeWALT and other
battery users, has established the program in the United
States and Canada to facilitate the collection of spent nickel
cadmium, nickel metal hydride or lithium-ion batteries. Help
protect our environment and conserve natural resources by
returning the spent nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride or
lithium-ion batteries to an authorized DeWALT service
center or to your local retailer for recycling. You may also
contact your local recycling center for information on where
to drop off the spent battery. RBRC® is a registered
trademark of Call 2 Recycle,Inc.
Important Safety Instructions for All
Battery Chargers
WARNING: Read all safety warnings and all
instructions for the battery pack, charger and
power tool. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/
or serious injury.
•DO NOT attempt to charge the battery pack with
any chargers other than the ones in this manual.
The charger and battery pack are specifically designed to
worktogether.
•These chargers are not intended for any uses other
than charging DeWALT rechargeable batteries.
Any other uses may result in risk of fire, electric shock
orelectrocution.
•Do not expose the charger to rain orsnow.
•Pull by the plug rather than the cord when
disconnecting the charger. This will reduce the risk of
damage to the electric plug andcord.
•Make sure that the cord is located so that it will not
be stepped on, tripped over or otherwise subjected
to damage orstress.

7
•Do not use an extension cord unless it is absolutely
necessary. Use of improper extension cord could result in
risk of fire, electric shock orelectrocution.
•When operating a charger outdoors, always provide
a dry location and use an extension cord suitable
for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use
reduces the risk of electricshock.
•An extension cord must have adequate wire size
(AWG or American Wire Gauge) for safety. The smaller
the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity
of the cable, that is, 16 gauge has more capacity than 18
gauge. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage
resulting in loss of power and overheating. When using
more than one extension to make up the total length,
be sure each individual extension contains at least the
minimum wire size. The following table shows the correct
size to use depending on cord length and nameplate
ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The
lower the gauge number, the heavier thecord.
Minimum Gauge for Cord Sets
Volts Total Length of Cord in Feet
(meters)
120 V 25 (7.6) 50 (15.2) 100 (30.5) 150 (45.7)
240 V 50 (15.2) 100 (30.5) 200 (61.0) 300 (91.4)
Ampere Rating
American Wire Gauge
More
Than
Not
More
Than
0 6 18 16 16 14
610 18 16 14 12
10 12 16 16 14 12
12 16 14 12 Not Recommended
•Do not place any object on top of the charger or
place the charger on a soft surface that might block
the ventilation slots and result in excessive internal
heat. Place the charger in a position away from any heat
source. The charger is ventilated through slots in the top
and the bottom of thehousing.
•Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord
orplug.
•Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp
blow, been dropped or otherwise damaged in any
way. Take it to an authorized servicecenter.
•Do not disassemble the charger; take it to an
authorized service center when service or repair
is required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of
electric shock, electrocution orfire.
•Disconnect the charger from the outlet before
attempting any cleaning. This will reduce the risk of
electric shock. Removing the battery pack will not reduce
thisrisk.
•NEVER attempt to connect 2 chargerstogether.
•The charger is designed to operate on standard
120V household electrical power. Do not attempt to
use it on any other voltage. This does not apply to the
vehicularcharger.
WARNING: Shock hazard. Do not allow any liquid to
get inside the charger. Electric shock mayresult.


WARNING:Burn hazard. Do not submerge the
battery pack in any liquid or allow any liquid to
enter the battery pack. Never attempt to open the
battery pack for any reason. If the plastic housing of
the battery pack breaks or cracks, return to a service
center for recycling.
CAUTION: Burn hazard. To reduce the risk of injury,
charge only DeWALT rechargeable battery packs.
Other types of batteries may overheat and burst
resulting in personal injury and propertydamage.
NOTICE: Under certain conditions, with the charger
plugged into the power supply, the charger can
be shorted by foreign material. Foreign materials
of a conductive nature, such as, but not limited to,
grinding dust, metal chips, steel wool, aluminum
foil or any buildup of metallic particles should be
kept away from the charger cavities. Always unplug
the charger from the power supply when there is no
battery pack in the cavity. Unplug the charger before
attempting toclean.
Wireless Certifications and Safety
Information
•This device is CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B)compliant.
•This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and
Industry Canada License-exempt RSS standard(s).
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
ʵ This device may not cause harmful interference, and
ʵ This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesiredoperation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference
to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
followingmeasures:
ʵ Reorient or relocate the receivingantenna.
ʵ Increase the separation between the equipment
andadaptor.
ʵ Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the adaptor isconnected.
ʵ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician forhelp.
•Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly
approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s
authority to operate the device. This Class B digital
apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
•Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter
may only operate using an antenna of a type and

8
maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by
Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference
to other users, the antenna type and its gain should
be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated
power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for
successfulcommunication.
•To comply with FCC and Industry Canada RF radiation
exposure limits for general population, the antenna used
for this device must not be co-located or operating in
conjunction with any other antenna ortransmitter.
For Bluetooth®Products
•When traveling on airlines, be sure to comply with the
airline restrictions on usage of personal electronic devices
and Bluetooth®.
•The out of range alert feature has been designed to act
as an aid to warn against products getting misplaced or
stolen. It is not a securitysystem.
•The connectivity range is up to 100 feet (30.5 meters)
depending on environment andlocation.
•The shortwave radio frequency signals of a Bluetooth®
device may impair the operation of other electronic and
medical devices (such as pacemakers or hearing aids).
NOTE: The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered
trademarks owned by the Bluetooth®, SIG, Inc. and any use of
such marks by DeWALT is under license. Other trademarks and
trade names are those of their respectiveowners.
This product complies with these standards when operated
with a 6 foot (1.8 meters) or shorter extensioncord.
Charging a Battery (Fig. C)
1. Plug the charger into an appropriate outlet before
inserting battery pack.
15
14
Fig. C
2. Insert the battery pack 15 into the charger, making sure
the battery pack is fully seated in the charger. The red
(charging) light will blink continuously indicating that
the charging process has started.
3. The completion of charge will be indicated by the red
light remaining ON continuously. The battery pack is
fully charged and may be used at this time or left in the
charger. To remove the battery pack from the charger,
push the battery release button 14 on the battery pack.
NOTE: To ensure maximum performance and life of lithium-
ion battery packs, charge the battery pack fully before
firstuse.
Charger Operation
Refer to the indicators below for the charge status of the
battery pack.
DCB107, DCB112, DCB113, DCB115, DCB118, DCB132
Charging
Fully Charged
Hot/Cold Pack Delay*
*DCB107, DCB112, DCB113, DCB115, DCB118, DCB132:
The red light will continue to blink, but a yellow indicator
light will be illuminated during this operation. Once the
battery pack has reached an appropriate temperature, the
yellow light will turn off and the charger will resume the
charging procedure.
The compatible charger(s) will not charge a faulty battery
pack. The charger will indicate faulty battery pack by
refusing to light or by displaying a problem pack or charger
blink pattern.
NOTE: This could also mean a problem with a charger.
If the charger indicates a problem, take the charger and
battery pack to be tested at an authorized service center.
Hot/Cold Pack Delay
When the charger detects a battery pack that is too hot
or too cold, it automatically starts a Hot/Cold Pack Delay,
suspending charging until the battery pack has reached an
appropriate temperature. The charger then automatically
switches to the pack charging mode. This feature ensures
maximum battery pack life.
A cold battery pack will charge at a slower rate than a warm
battery pack. The battery pack will charge at that slower rate
throughout the entire charging cycle and will not return to
maximum charge rate even if the battery pack warms.
The DCB118 charger is equipped with an internal fan
designed to cool the battery pack. The fan will turn on
automatically when the battery pack needs to be cooled.
Never operate the charger if the fan does not operate
properly or if ventilation slots are blocked. Do not permit
foreign objects to enter the interior of the charger.
Electronic Protection System
Li-Ion tools are designed with an Electronic Protection
System that will protect the battery pack against
overloading, overheating or deep discharge.
The tool will automatically turn off if the Electronic
Protection System engages. If this occurs, place the lithium-
ion battery pack on the charger until it is fully charged.
Wall Mounting
DCB107, DCB112, DCB113, DCB115, DCB118, DCB132
These chargers are designed to be wall mountable or to
sit upright on a table or work surface. If wall mounting,
locate the charger within reach of an electrical outlet,
and away from a corner or other obstructions which may
impede air flow. Use the back of the charger as a template
for the location of the mounting screws on the wall. Mount
the charger securely using drywall screws (purchased

9
separately) at least 1" (25.4 mm) long, with a screw head
diameter of 0.28–0.35" (7–9mm), screwed into wood to an
optimal depth leaving approximately 7/32" (5.5 mm) of the
screw exposed. Align the slots on the back of the charger
with the exposed screws and fully engage them in the slots.
Charger Cleaning Instructions
WARNING: Shock hazard. Disconnect the charger
from the AC outlet before cleaning. Dirt and grease
may be removed from the exterior of the charger using
a cloth or soft non-metallic brush. Do not use water or
any cleaning solutions.
Important Charging Notes
1. Longest life and best performance can be obtained if
the battery pack is charged when the air temperature is
between 65°F and 75°F (18°– 24°C). DO NOT charge
the battery pack in an air temperature below +40°F
(+4.5°C), or above +104°F (+40°C). This is important
and will prevent serious damage to the battery pack.
2. The charger and battery pack may become warm to the
touch while charging. This is a normal condition, and
does not indicate a problem. To facilitate the cooling of
the battery pack after use, avoid placing the charger or
battery pack in a warm environment such as in a metal
shed or an uninsulated trailer.
3. If the battery pack does not charge properly:
a. Check operation of receptacle by plugging in a lamp
or other appliance;
b. Check to see if receptacle is connected to a light
switch which turns power off when you turn out the
lights;
c. Move the charger and battery pack to a location
where the surrounding air temperature is
approximately 65°F– 75°F (18°– 24°C);
d. If charging problems persist, take the tool, battery
pack and charger to your local service center.
4. The battery pack should be recharged when it fails to
produce sufficient power on jobs which were easily
done previously. DO NOT CONTINUE to use under these
conditions. Follow the charging procedure. You may
also charge a partially used pack whenever you desire
with no adverse effect on the battery pack.
5. Foreign materials of a conductive nature such as, but
not limited to, grinding dust, metal chips, steel wool,
aluminum foil, or any buildup of metallic particles
should be kept away from charger cavities. Always
unplug the charger from the power supply when there
is no battery pack in the cavity. Unplug the charger
before attempting to clean.
6. Do not freeze or immerse the charger in water or any
other liquid.
Storage Recommendations
1. The best storage place is one that is cool and dry, away
from direct sunlight and excess heat or cold.
2. For long storage, it is recommended to store a fully
charged battery pack in a cool dry place out of the
charger for optimal results.
NOTE: Battery packs should not be stored completely
depleted of charge. The battery pack will need to be
recharged before use.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR
FUTURE USE
COMPONENTS (FIG. A)
WARNING: Never modify the power tool or any part
of it. Damage or personal injury couldresult.
Refer to Figure A at the beginning of this manual for a
complete list ofcomponents.
Intended Use
These heavy-duty circular saws are designed for professional
wood cutting applications. DO NOT use water feed
attachments with this saw. DO NOT use abrasive wheels or
blades. DO NOT use under wet conditions or in presence of
flammable liquids orgases.
These heavy-duty saws are professional power tools.
DO NOT let children come into contact with the tool.
Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use
thistool.
Saw Hook (Fig. D)
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury, Do not use the saw with the saw hook rotated
below the footplate.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury from the saw
falling on operators or bystanders, make sure the saw
is supported securely when using the hook to hang the
saw from a rafter, joist or other elevatedsupport.
Your saw has a convenient saw hook 20 that allows the
saw to hang from a joist, rafter, or other suitable, stable
structure. The saw hook folds flat against the tool body
when not inuse.
To use the saw hook, push down on the hook to rotate it
away from the handle until it latches intoposition.
To return the saw hook to its stored position, pull the hook
up until it latches against the toolbody.
20
Fig. D

ENGLISH
10
ASSEMBLY AND ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury, turn unit off and remove the battery pack
before making any adjustments or removing/
installing attachments or accessories. An
accidental start-up can causeinjury.
Cutting Depth Adjustment (Fig. A, E, F)
1. Hold the saw firmly. Lift the depth adjustment locking
lever3 to move foot plate to obtain the desired depth
ofcut.
2. Lower the depth adjustment locking lever and tighten
securely to lock the depth of cut before operatingsaw.
The length of cut markings on the side of the foot plate are
accurate at full depth of cut only. Setting the saw at the
proper cutting depth keeps blade friction to a minimum,
removes sawdust from between the blade teeth, results in
cooler, faster sawing and reduces the chance ofkickback.
Fig. E
3
For the most efficient cutting action, set the depth
adjustment so that half of a blade tooth will project below
the material to be cut (refer to Figure F). This distance is
from the tip of the tooth 27 to the bottom of the gullet
28 (refer to inset of FigureF). This keeps blade friction at a
minimum, removes sawdust from the cut, results in cooler,
faster sawing and reduces the chance of kickback. A method
for checking for correct cutting depth is shown in FigureF.
Lay a piece of the material you plan to cut along the side of
the blade, as shown, and observe how much tooth projects
beyond thematerial.
Fig. F
28
27
Bevel Angle Adjustment (Fig. A, G)
The full range of the bevel adjustment is from 0˚ to
53˚. Detents are located at 22.5˚ and 45˚. The angle
quadrant is graduated in increments of 1˚. On the front
of the saw is a bevel angle adjustment mechanism which
consists of a calibrated angle quadrant10 and a bevel
adjustment lever9. The angle quadrant allows for coarse
adjustment16 or fine adjustment17 to achieve better
accuracy incutting.
Fig. G
16 17
9
10
To set the saw for a bevel cut
1. Lift the bevel adjustment lever9 and tilt foot plate
to the desired angle by aligning the pointer with the
desired anglemark.
2. Push the bevel adjustment lever down and tighten
securely to lock theangle.
Foot Plate Adjustment for 90˚ Cuts
(Fig. H)
If additional adjustment is needed
1. Adjust the saw to 0˚bevel.
2. Retract blade guard. Place the saw on bladeside.
3. Lift bevel adjustment lever. Place a square
against the blade and foot plate to adjust the
90˚setting.
4. Move the adjustment screw, located on the bottom of
the foot plate (Fig.H), so that the foot plate will stop at
the properangle.
5. Confirm the accuracy of the setting by checking the
squareness of an actual cut on a scrap piece ofmaterial.

11
Fig. H
Kerf Indicator (Fig. I)
The front of the saw foot plate5 has a 0˚ kerf indicator7
and a 45˚ kerf indicator8 for vertical and bevel cutting.
The kerf indicators enable you to guide the saw along the
cutting lines penciled on theworkpiece.
The indicator aligns with the left (outer) side of the saw
blade. The moving blade making the slot or “kerf” cut falls
to the right of the indicator. Position the saw along the
penciled cutting line so that the kerf falls into the waste
or surplus material. Marking indicators on the front of
the foot plate are at 1/2" (13 mm) intervals for additional
cuttingguides.
Fig. I
5
8
7
18
Kerf indicators18 are also located on the inside of the foot
plate to keep the saw square whencutting.
Cut Length Indicator (Fig. J)
The markings on the side of the foot plate 5 show the
length of the slot being cut into the material at the full
depth of the cut. The markings are in increments of 1/8"
(3.2mm).
Fig. J
5
OPERATION
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury, turn unit off and remove the battery pack
before making any adjustments or removing/
installing attachments or accessories. An
accidental start-up can causeinjury.
IMPORTANT: Always make sure the depth adjustment
locking lever is in the down position before operatingsaw.
Installing and Removing the Battery Pack
(Fig. K)
NOTE: For best results, make sure your battery pack is
fullycharged.
To install the battery pack 15 into the tool handle, align the
battery pack with the rails inside the tool’s handle and slide
it into the handle until the battery pack is firmly seated in
the tool and ensure that it does notdisengage.
To remove the battery pack from the tool, press the release
button 14 and firmly pull the battery pack out of the tool
handle. Insert it into the charger as described in the charger
section of thismanual.
Fig. K
14
15
Proper Hand Position (Fig. L)
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury,
ALWAYS use proper hand position as shown.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury,
ALWAYS hold securely in anticipation of a sudden
reaction.
Proper hand position requires one hand on the main
handle12 and one hand on the auxilliary handle 13. Note
that hands are kept away from cutting area.

12
Fig. L
12
13
Trigger Switch (Fig. A)
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury, hold saw with both hands when starting
the saw to avoidkickback.
Press the trigger switch2 to turn the tool on. Release the
trigger switch to turn the tooloff.
NOTE: This tool has no provision to lock the trigger in
the on position and should never be locked on by any
othermeans.
Changing Blades (Fig. A, M)
IMPORTANT: Most replacement blades come with a round
arbor center opening which must be knocked out so a
diamond-shaped arbor center is exposed. Only blades with
a diamond-shaped arbor center can be used on thissaw.
NOTICE: Never install a blade without removing the
knockout. Lack of blade engagement will cause the
blade to come into contact with other parts of the saw
causing tooldamage.
To Remove Knockout
WARNING:ALWAYS use eye protection. All
users and bystanders must wear eye protection that
conforms to ANSI Z87.1.
WARNING: Make sure that bevel adjusting locking
lever is tight and secure after using it to remove
knockout. If blade adjustment shifts while cutting it
may cause binding andkickback.
Place the round center hole of the blade into the notch21
on the top of the bevel adjustment lever9. Grasping the
saw and blade firmly, pull until the knockout pops out. The
diamond-shaped arbor center is nowexposed.
Fig. M
21 21
To Install the Blade (Fig. A, N, O)
1. Loosen and remove the blade clamping screw19 with
the wrench 22 provided, by turning it clockwise as
indicated by the arrow on the outer clamp washer23.
2. Remove outer clamp washer23.
3. Using the lower blade guard retracting lever4, retract
the lower blade guard6.
IMPORTANT: When retracting the lower blade guard
to install the blade, check the condition and operation
of the lower blade guard to assure that it is working
properly. Make sure it moves freely and does not touch
the blade, foot plate or any other part, in all angles and
depths ofcut.
4. Place blade24 on saw spindle25 against the inner
clamp washer26, making sure that the blade will
rotate in the proper direction (the direction of the
rotation arrow on the saw blade and the teeth must
point in the same direction as the direction of rotation
arrow on the lower bladeguard).
IMPORTANT: Always ensure the diamond-shaped arbor
center of the blade aligns with the raised diamond-
shaped arbor center on the outer clampwasher.
NOTE: Do not assume that the printing on the saw blade
will always be facing you when properlyinstalled.
5. Place outer clamp washer23 on saw spindle25 with
the large flat surface against the blade and the wording
on the outer clamp washer facing you as shown in
FigureN.

ENGLISH
13
Fig. N
23
24 25
26
6. Thread the blade clamping screw19 into saw spindle
by hand (screw has left-hand threads and must be
turned counterclockwise totighten).
7. Slowly release the lower blade guard retracting lever4.
8. Depress the spindle lock button11 while turning the
saw spindle with the blade wrench provided until the
blade lock engages and the blade stops rotating. Using
the blade wrench, firmly tighten blade clampingscrew.
NOTICE: Never engage the blade lock while saw is
running, or engage in an effort to stop the tool. Never
turn the saw on while the blade lock is engaged.
Serious damage to your saw willresult.
Fig. O
19
23
26 25
22
24
11
To Replace the Blade (Fig. O)
1. Depress the spindle lock button11 while turning the
saw spindle with the blade wrench provided until the
blade lock engages and the blade stopsrotating.
2. With the blade wrench provided, loosen the blade
clamping screw19 by turning it clockwise as indicated
by the arrow on the outer clamp washer23.
3. Remove the outer clamp washer23.
4. Using the lower blade guard retracting lever4,
retract the lower blade guard. Remove used blade and
properlydiscard.
5. Install new blade as previouslydescribed.
6. Clean any sawdust that may have accumulated in
the guard or clamp washer area. Check the condition
and operation of the lower blade guard as previously
outlined. Do not lubricate thisarea.
7. Select the proper blade for the application (refer to
Blades). Always use blades that are the correct size
[7–1/4" (184mm) diameter] with the proper size and
shape center hole for mounting on the saw spindle.
Always assure that the maximum recommended speed
(rpm) on the saw blade meets or exceeds the speed
(rpm) of thesaw.
Lower Blade Guard
WARNING: The lower blade guard is a safety
feature which reduces the risk of serious
personal injury. Never use the saw if the lower
guard is missing, damaged, misassembled or not
working properly. Do not rely on the lower blade
guard to protect you under all circumstances.
Your safety depends on following all warnings
and precautions as well as proper operation of
the saw. Check lower guard for proper closing
before each use as outlined in Safety Instructions
for All Saws. If the lower blade guard is missing
or not working properly, have the saw serviced
before using. To assure product safety and
reliability, repair, maintenance and adjustment
should be performed by an authorized service
center or other qualified service organization,
always using identical replacementparts.
Blades
WARNING: To minimize the risk of eye injury, always
use eye protection. Carbide is a hard but brittle
material. Foreign objects in the work piece such as
wire or nails can cause tips to crack or break. Only
operate saw when proper saw blade guard is in place.
Mount blade securely in proper rotation before using,
and always use a clean, sharpblade.
WARNING: Do not cut metal, masonry, glass,
masonry-type planking, cement board, tile or plastic
with thissaw.
Do not use abrasive wheels or blades. A dull blade will
cause slow, inefficient cutting resulting in overload to the
saw motor, excessive splintering and could increase the
possibility of kickback. Please refer to the following table
to determine the correct size replacement blade for your
modelsaw.
DCS577
Blade Diameter Teeth Application
DW3592B10
DW3578B10
7–1/4"
(184 mm)
18
24
General Purpose
Wood cutting
DW3576B10
DW3526
7–1/4"
(184 mm)
36
140
Plywood Cutting
DW3578B10 7–1/4"
(184 mm)
24 Laminated or engineered
lumber
Kickback
Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound or
misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift
up and out of the workpiece toward the operator. When
the blade is pinched or bound tightly by the kerf closing
down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the

14
unit rapidly back toward the operator. If the blade becomes
twisted or misaligned in the cut, the teeth at the back
edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of the wood
causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump back
toward theoperator.
Kickback is more likely to occur when any of the following
conditionsexist.
1. IMPROPER WORKPIECE SUPPORT
a. Sagging or improper lifting of the cut off piece can
cause pinching of the blade and lead to kickback
(Fig.R).
b. Cutting through material supported at the outer ends
only can cause kickback. As the material weakens it
sags, closing down the kerf and pinching theblade.
c. Cutting off a cantilevered or overhanging piece of
material from the bottom up in a vertical direction
can cause kickback. The falling cut off piece can
pinch theblade.
d. Cutting off long narrow strips (as in ripping) can
cause kickback. The cut off strip can sag or twist
closing the kerf and pinching theblade.
e. Snagging the lower guard on a surface below the
material being cut momentarily reduces operator
control. The saw can lift partially out of the cut
increasing the chance of bladetwist.
2. IMPROPER DEPTH OF CUT SETTING ON SAW
a. To make the most efficient cut, the blade should
protrude only far enough to expose half of a tooth
as shown in FigureF. This allows the foot plate
to support the blade and minimizes twisting and
pinching in the material. See the section titled
Cutting DepthAdjustment.
3. BLADE TWISTING (MISALIGNMENT IN CUT)
a. Pushing harder to cut through a knot, a nail, or a hard
grain area can cause the blade totwist.
b. Trying to turn the saw in the cut (trying to get back
on the marked line) can cause bladetwist.
c. Over-reaching or operating the saw with poor
body control (out of balance), can result in twisting
theblade.
d. Changing hand grip or body position while cutting
can result in bladetwist.
e. Backing up the saw to clear blade can lead totwist.
4. MATERIALS THAT REQUIRE EXTRA ATTENTION
a. Wet lumber
b. Green lumber (material freshly cut or not kiln dried)
c. Pressure treated lumber (material treated with
preservatives or anti-rot chemicals)
5. USE OF DULL OR DIRTY BLADES
a. Dull blades cause increased loading of the saw. To
compensate, an operator will usually push harder
which further loads the unit and promotes twisting
of the blade in the kerf. Worn blades may also have
insufficient body clearance which increases the
chance of binding and increasedloading.
6. LIFTING THE SAW WHEN MAKING BEVEL CUT
a. Bevel cuts require special operator attention to
proper cutting techniques - especially guidance
of the saw. Both blade angle to the foot plate
and greater blade surface in the material increase
the chance for binding and misalignment (twist)
tooccur.
7. RESTARTING A CUT WITH THE BLADE TEETH JAMMED
AGAINST THE MATERIAL
a. The saw should be brought up to full operating
speed before starting a cut or restarting a cut after
the unit has been stopped with the blade in the kerf.
Failure to do so can cause stalling andkickback.
Any other conditions which could result in pinching,
binding, twisting, or misalignment of the blade could
cause kickback. Refer to the sections on adjustments and
operation for procedures and techniques that will minimize
the occurrence ofkickback.
Workpiece Support (Fig. P–R)
WARNING: It is important to support the work
properly and to hold the saw firmly to prevent loss of
control which could cause personal injury. FigureP
illustrates proper hand support of the saw. Maintain
a firm grip with both hands on the saw and position
your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback if
itoccurs.
Figure P shows proper sawing position. Note that hands are
kept away from cutting area. To avoid kickback, DO support
board or panel NEAR the cut (Fig.Q). DON’T support board
or panel away from the cut (Fig.R).
Fig. P
Fig. Q

15
Fig. R
Place the work with its “good” side – the one on which
appearance is most important – down. The saw cuts
upward, so any splintering will be on the work face that is
up when you cutit.
Cutting (Fig. P)
WARNING: Never attempt to use this tool by resting
it upside down on a work surface and bringing
the material to the tool. Always securely clamp
the workpiece and bring the tool to the workpiece,
securely holding the tool with two hands as shown
in FigureP.
Place the wider portion of the saw foot plate on that part
of the work piece which is solidly supported, not on the
section that will fall off when the cut is made. As examples,
FigureP illustrates the RIGHT way to cut off the end of a
board. Always clamp work. Don’t try to hold short pieces by
hand! Remember to support cantilevered and overhanging
material. Use caution when sawing material frombelow.
Be sure saw is up to full speed before blade contacts
material to be cut. Starting saw with blade against material
to be cut or pushed forward into kerf can result in kickback.
Push the saw forward at a speed which allows the blade
to cut without laboring. Hardness and toughness can vary
even in the same piece of material, and knotty or damp
sections can put a heavy load on the saw. When this
happens, push the saw more slowly, but hard enough to
keep working without much decrease in speed. Forcing
the saw can cause rough cuts, inaccuracy, kickback, and
over-heating of the motor. Should your cut begin to go
off the line, don’t try to force it back on. Release the switch
and allow blade to come to a complete stop. Then you can
withdraw the saw, sight anew, and start a new cut slightly
inside the wrong one. In any event, withdraw the saw if you
must shift the cut. Forcing a correction inside the cut can
stall the saw and lead tokickback.
IF SAW STALLS, RELEASE THE TRIGGER AND BACK THE SAW
UNTIL IT IS LOOSE. BE SURE BLADE IS STRAIGHT IN THE CUT
AND CLEAR OF THE CUTTING EDGE BEFORERESTARTING.
As you finish a cut, release the trigger and allow the blade
to stop before lifting the saw from the work. As you lift
the saw, the spring-tensioned telescoping guard will
automatically close under the blade. Remember the blade
is exposed until this occurs. Never reach under the work for
any reason. When you have to retract the telescoping guard
manually (as is necessary for starting pocket cuts) always
use the retractinglever.
NOTE: When cutting thin strips, be careful to ensure that
small cutoff pieces don’t hang up on inside of lowerguard.
Ripping (Fig. S, T1, T2)
Ripping is the process of cutting wider boards into narrower
strips – cutting grain lengthwise. Hand guiding is more
difficult for this type of sawing and the use of either DeWALT
DW3278 rip guide (Fig. T1) or DWS5100 dual port rip guide
is recommended (Fig.T2).
Fig. S
Fig. T1 Fig. T2
DW3278
DWS5100
Pocket Cutting (Fig. U)
WARNING: Never tie the blade guard in a raised
position. Never move the saw backwards when
pocket cutting. This may cause the unit to raise
up off the work surface which could causeinjury.
A pocket cut is one that is made in a floor, wall, or other
flatsurface.
Fig. U
13
1. Adjust the saw foot plate so the blade cuts at
desireddepth.
2. Tilt the saw forward and rest front of the foot plate on
material to becut.

ENGLISH
16
3. Using the retracting lever, retract lower blade guard to
an upward position. Lower rear of foot plate until blade
teeth almost touch cuttingline.
4. Release the blade guard (its contact with the work will
keep it in position to open freely as you start the cut).
Remove hand from guard lever and firmly grip auxiliary
handle13, as shown in Figure U. Position your body
and arm to allow you to resist kickback if itoccurs.
5. Make sure blade is not in contact with cutting surface
before startingsaw.
6. Start the motor and gradually lower the saw until its
foot plate rests flat on the material to be cut. Advance
saw along the cutting line until cut iscompleted.
7. Release trigger and allow blade to stop completely
before withdrawing the blade from thematerial.
8. When starting each new cut, repeat asabove.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury, turn unit off and remove the battery pack
before making any adjustments or removing/
installing attachments or accessories. An
accidental start-up can causeinjury.
Cleaning
WARNING: Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with
clean, dry air at least once a week. To minimize the risk
of eye injury, always wear ANSI Z87.1 approved eye
protection when performingthis.
WARNING: Never use solvents or other harsh
chemicals for cleaning the non-metallic parts of
the tool. These chemicals may weaken the plastic
materials used in these parts. Use a cloth dampened
only with water and mild soap. Never let any liquid
get inside the tool; never immerse any part of the tool
into aliquid.
Accessories
WARNING: Since accessories, other than those
offered by DeWALT, have not been tested with this
product, use of such accessories with this tool could be
hazardous. To reduce the risk of injury, only DeWALT
recommended accessories should be used with
thisproduct.
Repairs
The charger and battery pack are notserviceable.
WARNING: To assure product SAFETY and
RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustment
(including brush inspection and replacement, when
applicable) should be performed by a DeWALT factory
service center or a DeWALT authorized service center.
Always use identical replacementparts.