Makita DCS553 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Cordless Metal Cutter
DCS553
ENGLISH: Original instructions
Read before use.

2ENGLISH
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: DCS553
Blade diameter 136 mm - 150 mm
Max. Cutting depth
(with 150 mm diameter blade)
57.5 mm
No load speed 4,200 min-1
Rated voltage D.C. 18 V
Overall length 267 mm
Net weight 2.8 - 3.1 kg
• Duetoourcontinuingprogramofresearchanddevelopment,thespecicationshereinaresubjecttochange
without notice.
• Specicationsmaydifferfromcountrytocountry.
• Theweightmaydifferdependingontheattachment(s),includingthebatterycartridge.Thelightestandheavi-
est combination, according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2014, are shown in the table.
Applicable battery cartridge and charger
Batterycartridge BL1815N / BL1820 / BL1820B / BL1830 / BL1830B / BL1840 /
BL1840B / BL1850 / BL1850B / BL1860B
Charger DC18RC / DC18RD / DC18RE / DC18SD / DC18SE / DC18SF
• Someofthebatterycartridgesandchargerslistedabovemaynotbeavailabledependingonyourregionof
residence.
WARNING: Only use the battery cartridges and chargers listed above.Useofanyotherbatterycartridges
andchargersmaycauseinjuryand/orre.
Symbols
Thefollowingshowthesymbolsusedfortheequip-
ment.Besurethatyouunderstandtheirmeaningbefore
use.
Read instruction manual.
Ni-MH
Li-ion
OnlyforEUcountries
Donotdisposeofelectricequipmentor
batterypacktogetherwithhouseholdwaste
material!
In observance of the European Directives,
on Waste Electric and Electronic
EquipmentandBatteriesandAccumulators
and Waste Batteries and Accumulators
and their implementation in accordance
withnationallaws,electricequipmentand
batteriesandbatterypack(s)thathave
reached the end of their life must be col-
lectedseparatelyandreturnedtoanenvi-
ronmentallycompatiblerecyclingfacility.
Intended use
The tool is intended for cutting in mild steel.
Noise
ThetypicalA-weightednoiseleveldeterminedaccord-
ing to EN62841-2-5:
Sound pressure level (LpA) : 103 dB(A)
Sound power level (LWA) : 114 dB (A)
Uncertainty(K):3dB(A)
WARNING: Wear ear protection.
Vibration
The vibration total value (tri-axial vector sum) deter-
mined according to EN62841-2-5:
Work mode: cutting metal
Vibration emission (ah,M) : 2.5 m/s2or less
Uncertainty(K):1.5m/s2
NOTE: The declared vibration emission value has
been measured in accordance with the standard test
methodandmaybeusedforcomparingonetoolwith
another.
NOTE: The declared vibration emission value
mayalsobeusedinapreliminaryassessmentof
exposure.
WARNING: The vibration emission during actual
use of the power tool can differ from the declared
emissionvaluedependingonthewaysinwhichthe
tool is used.
WARNING:Besuretoidentifysafetymeasures
to protect the operator that are based on an estima-
tion of exposure in the actual conditions of use (taking
accountofallpartsoftheoperatingcyclesuchas
the times when the tool is switched off and when it is
running idle in addition to the trigger time).
EC Declaration of Conformity
For European countries only
TheECdeclarationofconformityisincludedasAnnexA
to this instruction manual.

3ENGLISH
SAFETY WARNINGS
General power tool safety warnings
WARNING:
Read all safety warnings, instruc-
tions, illustrations and specications provided with this
power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below
mayresultinelectricshock,reand/orseriousinjury.
Save all warnings and instruc-
tions for future reference.
Theterm"powertool"inthewarningsreferstoyour
mains-operated(corded)powertoolorbattery-operated
(cordless) power tool.
Work area safety
1. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or
dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of ammable
liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks
whichmayignitethedustorfumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause
youtolosecontrol.
Electrical Safety
1. 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. Unmodiedplugsandmatchingoutletswill
reduce risk of electric shock.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded
surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and
refrigerators. There is an increased risk of elec-
tricshockifyourbodyisearthedorgrounded.
3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet con-
ditions. Water entering a power tool will increase
the risk of electric shock.
4. 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.
5.
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.
6. If operating a power tool in a damp location
is unavoidable, use a residual current device
(RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces
the risk of electric shock.
7.
Power tools can produce electromagnetic elds
(EMF) that are not harmful to the user. However,
users of pacemakers and other similar medical
devices should contact the maker of their device and/
or doctor for advice before operating this power tool.
Personal Safety
1. 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 inuence of drugs, alcohol or med-
ication. A moment of inattention while operating
powertoolsmayresultinseriouspersonalinjury.
2. Use personal protective equipment. Always
wear eye protection.Protectiveequipmentsuch
asadustmask,non-skidsafetyshoes,hardhator
hearing protection used for appropriate conditions
willreducepersonalinjuries.
3. 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.Carryingpowertoolswith
yourngerontheswitchorenergisingpowertools
that have the switch on invites accidents.
4. Remove any adjusting key or wrench before
turning the power tool on.Awrenchorakeyleft
attachedtoarotatingpartofthepowertoolmay
resultinpersonalinjury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better control
of the power tool in unexpected situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewellery. Keep your hair and clothing away
from moving parts.Looseclothes,jewelleryor
long hair can be caught in moving parts.
7. 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.
8.
Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use
of tools allow you to become complacent and
ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can
causesevereinjurywithinafractionofasecond.
9. Always wear protective goggles to protect
your eyes from injury when using power tools.
The goggles must comply with ANSI Z87.1 in
the USA, EN 166 in Europe, or AS/NZS 1336
in Australia/New Zealand. In Australia/New
Zealand, it is legally required to wear a face
shield to protect your face, too.
It is an employer's responsibility to enforce
the use of appropriate safety protective equip-
ments by the tool operators and by other per-
sons in the immediate working area.
Power tool use and care
1. Do not force the power tool. Use the correct
power tool for your application. The correct
powertoolwilldothejobbetterandsaferatthe
rate for which it was designed.
2. Do not use the power tool if the switch does
not turn it on and off.Anypowertoolthatcannot
be controlled with the switch is dangerous and
must be repaired.

4ENGLISH
3. Disconnect the plug from the power source
and/or remove the battery pack, if detachable,
from the power tool before making any adjust-
ments, changing accessories, or storing power
tools.Suchpreventivesafetymeasuresreduce
theriskofstartingthepowertoolaccidentally.
4. Store idle power tools out of the reach of chil-
dren 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.
5.
Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for
misalignment or binding of moving parts, break-
age of parts and any other condition that may
affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have
the power tool repaired before use.Manyaccidents
arecausedbypoorlymaintainedpowertools.
6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges
arelesslikelytobindandareeasiertocontrol.
7. Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits
etc. in accordance with these instructions, tak-
ing 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.
8.
Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean
and free from oil and grease.Slipperyhandlesand
grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
9. When using the tool, do not wear cloth work
gloves which may be entangled. The entangle-
mentofclothworkglovesinthemovingpartsmay
resultinpersonalinjury.
Battery tool use and care
1. Recharge only with the charger specied by
the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for
onetypeofbatterypackmaycreateariskofre
whenusedwithanotherbatterypack.
2. Use power tools only with specically desig-
nated battery packs.Useofanyotherbattery
packsmaycreateariskofinjuryandre.
3. 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.Shortingthebatterytermi-
nalstogethermaycauseburnsorare.
4.
Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected
from the battery; avoid contact. If contact acci-
dentally occurs, ush with water. If liquid contacts
eyes, additionally seek medical help.Liquidejected
fromthebatterymaycauseirritationorburns.
5. Do not use a battery pack or tool that is dam-
aged or modied.Damagedormodiedbatteries
mayexhibitunpredictablebehaviourresultingin
re,explosionorriskofinjury.
6. Do not expose a battery pack or tool to re or
excessive temperature.Exposuretoreortem-
peratureabove130°Cmaycauseexplosion.
7.
Follow all charging instructions and do not charge
the battery pack or tool outside the temperature
range specied in the instructions. Charging improp-
erlyorattemperaturesoutsidethespeciedrangemay
damagethebatteryandincreasetheriskofre.
Service
1. Have your power tool serviced by a qualied
repair person using only identical replacement
parts.Thiswillensurethatthesafetyofthepower
tool is maintained.
2. Never service damaged battery packs. Service
ofbatterypacksshouldonlybeperformedbythe
manufacturer or authorized service providers.
3. Follow instruction for lubricating and chang-
ing accessories.
Cordless Metal Cutter safety
warnings
Cutting procedures
1. DANGER: Keep hands away from cutting
area and the blade. Keep your second hand
on auxiliary handle, or motor housing. If both
handsareholdingthesaw,theycannotbecutby
the blade.
2. Do not reach underneath the workpiece. The
guardcannotprotectyoufromthebladebelowthe
workpiece.
3. 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.
4. Never hold the workpiece in your hands or
across your leg while cutting. Secure the
workpiece to a stable platform. It is important to
supporttheworkproperlytominimisebodyexpo-
sure, blade binding, or loss of control.
5. Hold the power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces, when performing an operation where
the cutting tool may contact hidden wiring.
Contact with a “live” wire will also make exposed
metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give
the operator an electric shock.
6. When ripping, always use a rip fence or
straight edge guide.Thisimprovestheaccuracy
of cut and reduces the chance of blade binding.
7.
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 off-centre, causing loss of control.
8. Never use damaged or incorrect blade wash-
ers or bolt. The blade washers and bolt were
speciallydesignedforyoursaw,foroptimum
performanceandsafetyofoperation.
Kickback causes and related warnings
— kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched,
jammedormisalignedsawblade,causingan
uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the workpiece
toward the operator;
—
whenthebladeispinchedorjammedtightlybythekerf
closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction
drivestheunitrapidlybacktowardtheoperator;
— 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 workpiece causing
thebladetoclimboutofthekerfandjumpback
toward the operator.
Kickbackistheresultofsawmisuseand/orincorrect
operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided
bytakingproperprecautionsasgivenbelow.

5ENGLISH
1.
Maintain a rm 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.Kickbackcouldcausethe
sawtojumpbackwards,butkickbackforcescanbecon-
trolledbytheoperator,ifproperprecautionsaretaken.
2.
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 correc-
tive actions to eliminate the cause of blade binding.
3. When restarting a saw in the workpiece, centre
the saw blade in the kerf so that the saw teeth
are not engaged into the material. If a saw blade
binds,itmaywalkuporkickbackfromthework-
piece as the saw is restarted.
4. Support large panels to minimise 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.
5.
Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened
orimproperlysetbladesproducenarrowkerfcausing
excessive friction, blade binding and kickback.
6. Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers
must be tight and secure before making the
cut.Ifbladeadjustmentshiftswhilecutting,itmay
cause binding and kickback.
7. Use extra caution when sawing into existing
walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade
maycutobjectsthatcancausekickback.
8. ALWAYS hold the tool rmly with both hands.
NEVER place your hand, leg or any part of your
body under the tool base or behind the saw,
especially when making cross-cuts. If kickback
occurs,thesawcouldeasilyjumpbackwardsover
yourhand,leadingtoseriouspersonalinjury.
9. Never force the saw. Push the saw forward at a
speed so that the blade cuts without slowing.
Forcing the saw can cause uneven cuts, loss of
accuracy,andpossiblekickback.
Lower guard function
1.
Check the lower guard for proper closing before
each use. Do not operate the saw if the lower guard
does not move freely and close instantly. Never
clamp or tie the lower guard into the open position.
Ifthesawisaccidentallydropped,thelowerguardmay
be bent. Raise the lower guard with the retracting handle
andmakesureitmovesfreelyanddoesnottouchthe
bladeoranyotherpart,inallanglesanddepthsofcut.
2.
Check the operation of the lower guard spring. If
the guard and the spring are not operating prop-
erly, they must be serviced before use. Lower
guardmayoperatesluggishlyduetodamaged
parts,gummydeposits,orabuild-upofdebris.
3. The lower guard may be retracted manually
only for special cuts such as “plunge cuts”
and “compound cuts”. Raise the lower guard
by the retracting handle and as soon as the
blade enters the material, the lower guard
must be released. For all other sawing, the lower
guardshouldoperateautomatically.
4. Always observe that the lower guard is cover-
ing the blade before placing the saw down on
bench or oor. 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.
5.
To check lower guard, open lower guard by hand,
then release and watch guard closure. Also check
to see that retracting handle does not touch
tool housing. Leaving blade exposed is VERY
DANGEROUSandcanleadtoseriouspersonalinjury.
Additional safety warnings
1. Do not stop the blades by lateral pressure on
the saw blade.
2. DANGER:
Do not attempt to remove cut material when
blade is moving.
CAUTION: Blades coast after turn off.
3. Place the wider portion of the saw base on
that part of the workpiece which is solidly
supported, not on the section that will fall off
when the cut is made. If the workpiece is short
or small, clamp it down. DO NOT TRY TO HOLD
SHORT PIECES BY HAND!
4. Never attempt to make a cut with the tool held
upside down in a vise. This is extremely dan-
gerous and can lead to serious accidents.
5. Wear safety goggles and hearing protection
during operation.
6. Do not use any abrasive wheels.
7. Only use the saw blade with the diameter that
is marked on the tool or specied in the man-
ual.Useofanincorrectlysizedblademayaffect
the proper guarding of the blade or guard opera-
tionwhichcouldresultinseriouspersonalinjury.
8. Always use the saw blade intended for cutting
the material that you are going to cut.
9. Only use the saw blades that are marked with
a speed equal or higher than the speed marked
on the tool.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING: DO NOT let comfort or familiarity
with product (gained from repeated use) replace
strict adherence to safety rules for the subject
product. MISUSE or failure to follow the safety
rules stated in this instruction manual may cause
serious personal injury.
Important safety instructions for
battery cartridge
1.
Before using battery cartridge, read all instruc-
tions and cautionary markings on (1) battery char-
ger, (2) battery, and (3) product using battery.
2. Do not disassemble battery cartridge.
3. If operating time has become excessively
shorter, stop operating immediately. It may
result in a risk of overheating, possible burns
and even an explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse them
out with clear water and seek medical atten-
tion right away. It may result in loss of your
eyesight.

6ENGLISH
5. Do not short the battery cartridge:
(1) Do not touch the terminals with any con-
ductive material.
(2) Avoid storing battery cartridge in a con-
tainer with other metal objects such as
nails, coins, etc.
(3) Do not expose battery cartridge to water
or rain.
A battery short can cause a large current
ow, overheating, possible burns and even a
breakdown.
6. Do not store the tool and battery cartridge in
locations where the temperature may reach or
exceed 50 °C (122 °F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge even if
it is severely damaged or is completely worn
out. The battery cartridge can explode in a re.
8. Be careful not to drop or strike battery.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. The contained lithium-ion batteries are subject
to the Dangerous Goods Legislation require-
ments.
Forcommercialtransportse.g.bythirdparties,
forwardingagents,specialrequirementonpack-
aging and labeling must be observed.
For preparation of the item being shipped, consult-
inganexpertforhazardousmaterialisrequired.
Pleasealsoobservepossiblymoredetailed
national regulations.
Tape or mask off open contacts and pack up the
batteryinsuchamannerthatitcannotmove
around in the packaging.
11. Follow your local regulations relating to dis-
posal of battery.
12. Use the batteries only with the products
specied by Makita. Installing the batteries to
non-compliantproductsmayresultinare,exces-
siveheat,explosion,orleakofelectrolyte.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
CAUTION: Only use genuine Makita batteries.
Use of non-genuine Makita batteries, or batteries that
havebeenaltered,mayresultinthebatterybursting
causingres,personalinjuryanddamage.Itwill
alsovoidtheMakitawarrantyfortheMakitatooland
charger.
Tips for maintaining maximum
battery life
1. Charge the battery cartridge before completely
discharged. Always stop tool operation and
charge the battery cartridge when you notice
less tool power.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery car-
tridge. Overcharging shortens the battery
service life.
3. Charge the battery cartridge with room tem-
perature at 10 °C - 40 °C (50 °F - 104 °F). Let
a hot battery cartridge cool down before
charging it.
4. Charge the battery cartridge if you do not use
it for a long period (more than six months).
FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is
switched off and the battery cartridge is removed
before adjusting or checking function on the tool.
Installing or removing battery
cartridge
CAUTION: Always switch off the tool before
installing or removing of the battery cartridge.
CAUTION: Hold the tool and the battery car-
tridge rmly when installing or removing battery
cartridge.Failuretoholdthetoolandthebattery
cartridgermlymaycausethemtoslipoffyourhands
andresultindamagetothetoolandbatterycartridge
andapersonalinjury.
1
2
3
►1. Red indicator 2. Button 3.Batterycartridge
Toremovethebatterycartridge,slideitfromthetool
while sliding the button on the front of the cartridge.
Toinstallthebatterycartridge,alignthetongueonthe
batterycartridgewiththegrooveinthehousingandslip
itintoplace.Insertitallthewayuntilitlocksinplace
withalittleclick.Ifyoucanseetheredindicatoronthe
uppersideofthebutton,itisnotlockedcompletely.
CAUTION: Always install the battery cartridge
fully until the red indicator cannot be seen. If not,
itmayaccidentallyfalloutofthetool,causinginjuryto
youorsomeonearoundyou.
CAUTION: Do not install the battery cartridge
forcibly.Ifthecartridgedoesnotslideineasily,itis
notbeinginsertedcorrectly.
Tool / battery protection system
Thetoolisequippedwithatool/batteryprotectionsys-
tem.Thissystemautomaticallycutsoffpowertothe
motortoextendtoolandbatterylife.Thetoolwillauto-
maticallystopduringoperationifthetoolorbatteryis
placed under one of the following conditions.

7ENGLISH
Overload protection
Whenthetool/batteryisoperatedinamannerthat
causesittodrawanabnormallyhighcurrent,thetool
automaticallystops.Inthissituation,turnthetooloff
and stop the application that caused the tool to become
overloaded. Then turn the tool on to restart.
Overheat protection
Whenthetool/batteryisoverheated,thetoolstops
automatically,andthebatteryindicatorblinkabout60
seconds. In this situation, let the tool cool down before
turning the tool on again.
On Blinking
Overdischarge protection
Whenthebatterycapacitybecomeslow,thetoolstops
automatically.Iftheproductdoesnotoperateeven
when the switches are operated, remove the batteries
from the tool and charge the batteries.
Releasing protection lock
Whentheprotectionsystemworksrepeatedly,thetool
islockedandthebatteryindicatorshowsthefollowing
state.
Blinking Off
In this situation, the tool does not start even if turning
the tool off and on. To release the protection lock,
removethebattery,setittothebatterychargerandwait
untilthechargingnishes.
Indicating the remaining battery
capacity
Whenyoupulltheswitchtrigger,thebatteryindicator
showstheremainingbatterycapacity.
1
►1.Batteryindicator
Theremainingbatterycapacityisshownasthefollow-
ing table.
Battery indicator status Remaining
battery
capacity
On Off Blinking
50% to 100%
20% to 50%
0% to 20%
Charge the
battery
Indicating the remaining battery capacity
Only for battery cartridges with the indicator
1
2
►1. Indicator lamps 2. Check button
Pressthecheckbuttononthebatterycartridgetoindicatetheremain-
ingbatterycapacity.Theindicatorlampslightupforafewseconds.
Indicator lamps Remaining
capacity
Lighted Off Blinking
75% to 100%
50% to 75%
25% to 50%
0% to 25%
Charge the
battery.
Thebattery
mayhave
malfunctioned.
NOTE: Depending on the conditions of use and the
ambienttemperature,theindicationmaydifferslightly
fromtheactualcapacity.

8ENGLISH
Switch action
WARNING: Before installing the battery car-
tridge into the tool, always check to see that the
switch trigger actuates properly and returns to
the "OFF" position when released.
WARNING: NEVER defeat the lock-off button
by taping down or some other means. A switch with
anegatedlock-offbuttonmayresultinunintentional
operationandseriouspersonalinjury.
WARNING: NEVER use the tool if it runs when
you simply pull the switch trigger without press-
ing the lock-off button. A switch in need of repair
mayresultinunintentionaloperationandserious
personalinjury.ReturntooltoaMakitaservicecenter
for proper repairs BEFORE further usage.
Topreventtheswitchtriggerfrombeingaccidentally
pulled, a lock-off button is provided. To start the tool,
depress the lock-off button and pull the switch trigger.
Release the switch trigger to stop.
1
2
►1. Switch trigger 2. Lock-off button
NOTICE: Do not pull the switch trigger hard
without pressing in the lock-off button. This can
cause switch breakage.
CAUTION: The tool starts to brake the cir-
cular saw blade rotation immediately after you
release the switch trigger. Hold the tool rmly to
respond the reaction of the brake when releasing
the switch trigger. Sudden reaction can drop the tool
offyourhandandcancauseapersonalinjury.
Automatic speed change function
Thistoolhas"highspeedmode"and"hightorque
mode".
Thetoolautomaticallychangestheoperationmode
depending on the work load. When the work load is low,
thetoolwillruninthe"highspeedmode"forquicker
cutting operation. When the work load is high, the tool
willruninthe"hightorquemode"forpowerfulcutting
operation.
1
►1. Mode indicator
The mode indicator lights up in green when the tool is
runningin"hightorquemode".
If the tool is operated with excessive load, the mode
indicator will blink in green. The mode indicator stops
blinkingandthenlightsuporturnsoffifyoureducethe
load on the tool.
Mode indicator status Operation
mode
On Off Blinking
High speed
mode
Hightorque
mode
Overload
alert
Adjusting depth of cut
CAUTION: After adjusting the depth of cut,
always tighten the lever securely.
Loosen the lever and move the base up or down. At the
desireddepthofcut,securethebasebytighteningthe
lever.
For cleaner, safer cuts, set cut depth so that no more
thanonebladetoothprojectsbelowworkpiece.Using
proper cut depth helps to reduce potential for danger-
ousKICKBACKSwhichcancausepersonalinjury.
1
3
2
►1. Lever 2. Loosen 3. Tighten

9ENGLISH
Sighting
Placethealignmentlineofthebaseonyourintended
cutting line on the workpiece.
1
2
3
►1. Alignment line 2. Cutting line 3. Base
Lighting the lamp
CAUTION: Do not look in the light or see the
source of light directly.
To turn on the lamp without running the tool, pull the
switch trigger without pressing the lock-off button.
To turn on the lamp with the tool running, press and hold
the lock-off button and pull the switch trigger.
The lamp goes out 10 seconds after releasing the
switch trigger.
1
►1. Lamp
NOTE:Useadryclothtowipethedirtoffthelensof
the lamp. Be careful not to scratch the lens of lamp, or
itmaylowertheillumination.
Dust box
CAUTION: Do not touch saw dust and the
dust box with bare hands immediately after the
operation.Theymaybeextremelyhotandcould
burnyourskin.
CAUTION: Do not cut the material on which
thinner, gasoline, grease, or other chemicals are
applied. The saw dust of such materials can damage
the dust box and result in breakage which can cause
personalinjury.
CAUTION: Wear eye protection or goggle
when emptying the dust box.
Sawdustiscollectedintothedustbox.Periodically
dump the saw dust in the dust box before it gets full.
Push the lever on the dust box to open the lid. Dump
the saw dust while the rear of the tool faces downward.
1
2
►1. Lid 2. Lever
Hook
Optional accessory
CAUTION: Always remove the battery when
hanging the tool with the hook.
CAUTION: Never hook the tool at high loca-
tions or on the surfaces where the tool may lose
the balance and fall.
CAUTION: Do not pull the tool downward
when it is hooked.
CAUTION: Always fold the hook when operat-
ing the tool.

10 ENGLISH
Thehookisconvenientforhangingthetooltemporarily.
Attach the hook with the screws as illustrated.
1
2
►1. Hook 2. Screw
Tousethehook,simplyturnthehookuntilitsnapsinto
the open position.
Whennotinuse,alwaysturnthehookuntilitsnapsinto
the closed position.
1
2
►1. Open position 2. Closed position
Electric brake
Thistoolisequippedwithanelectricbladebrake.Ifthe
toolconsistentlyfailstoquicklystopthecircularsaw
blade after switch lever release, have tool serviced at a
Makita service center.
CAUTION: The blade brake system is not a
substitute for blade guard. NEVER USE TOOL
WITHOUT A FUNCTIONING BLADE GUARD.
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
ASSEMBLY
CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is
switched off and the battery cartridge is removed
before carrying out any work on the tool.
Hex wrench storage
When not in use, store the hex wrench as shown in the
guretokeepitfrombeinglost.
1
►1. Hex wrench
Installing or removing the circular
saw blade
CAUTION: Use only the Makita wrench to
install or remove the circular saw blade.
CAUTION: When installing the circular saw
blade, be sure to tighten the bolt securely.
CAUTION: Be sure the circular saw blade is
installed with teeth pointing up at the front of the
tool.

11 ENGLISH
1
2
3
4
►1. Shaft lock 2. Hex wrench 3. Tighten 4. Loosen
To remove the circular saw blade, press the shaft lock
fullysothatthecircularsawbladecannotrevolveand
use the hex wrench to loosen the hex bolt. Then remove
thehexbolt,outerangeandcircularsawblade.
1
2
3
45
►1. Hex bolt 2.Outerange3. Circular saw blade
4.Innerange5. Cup washer
To install the circular saw blade, follow the removal
procedure in reverse.
WARNING: BE SURE TO TIGHTEN THE HEX
BOLT SECURELY. Also be careful not to tighten
the bolt forcibly. Slipping your hand from the hex
wrench can cause a personal injury.
WARNING:
If the inner ange is removed, be sure
to install it on the spindle. When installing, choose a
correct side on which protrusion ts into the circular
saw blade hole perfectly. Mounting the circular saw blade
on the wrong side can result in the dangerous vibration.
Blade guard cleaning
When changing the circular saw blade, make sure to
also clean the upper and lower guards of accumulated
metal chips as discussed in the Maintenance section.
Such efforts do not replace the need to check lower
guard operation before each use.
OPERATION
CAUTION: Always wear eye protection or
goggle before operation.
CAUTION: Be sure to move the tool forward
in a straight line gently. Forcing or twisting the tool
will result in overheating the motor and dangerous
kickback,possiblycausingsevereinjury.
CAUTION: Never twist or force the tool in
the cut.Thismaycausemotoroverloadand/ora
dangerouskickback,resultinginseriousinjurytothe
operator.
CAUTION: Always use the circular saw blades
appropriate for your job. The use of inappropriate
circularsawbladesmaycauseapoorcuttingperfor-
manceand/orpresentariskofpersonalinjury.
CAUTION: Do not use a deformed or cracked
circular saw blade. Replace it with a new one.
Holdthetoolrmly.Thetoolisprovidedwithbothafront
grip and rear handle. Use both to best grasp the tool. If
bothhandsareholdingthetool,theycannotbecutby
the circular saw blade. Set the base on the workpiece
tobecutwithoutthecircularsawblademakingany
contact. Then turn the tool on and wait until the circular
sawbladeattainsfullspeed.Nowsimplymovethetool
forwardovertheworkpiecesurface,keepingitatand
advancingsmoothlyuntilthecuttingiscompleted.
Togetcleancuts,keepyourcuttinglinestraightand
yourspeedofadvanceuniform.Ifthecutfailsto
properlyfollowyourintendedcutline,donotattempt
to turn or force the tool back to the cut line. Doing so
maybindthecircularsawbladeandleadtodangerous
kickbackandpossibleseriousinjury.Releaseswitch,
wait for the circular saw blade to stop and then withdraw
tool. Realign tool on new cut line, and start cut again.
Attempt to avoid positioning which exposes operator to
chipsandparticlesbeingejectedfromthetool.Useeye
protectiontohelpavoidinjury.
Thesightgroovesinthebasemakesiteasytocheck
the distance between the front edge of the circular saw
blade and the workpiece whenever the circular saw
blade is set to the maximum depth of cut.

12 ENGLISH
1
2
33
►1. Cutting line 2. Base 3. Sight grooves
CAUTION: Do not stack materials when cut-
ting them.
CAUTION: Do not cut hardened steel, wood,
plastics, concrete, tile, etc. Cut only mild steel,
aluminum and stainless steel with a suitable
circular saw blade.
CAUTION: Do not touch the circular saw
blade, workpiece or cutting chips with bare hands
immediately after cutting.Theymaybeextremely
hotandcouldburnyourskin.
CAUTION: If the tool is operated continuously
until the battery cartridge has discharged, allow
the tool to rest for 15 minutes before proceeding
with a fresh battery.
Rip fence (Guide rule)
Optional accessory
CAUTION: Make sure that the rip fence is
securely installed in the correct position before
use.Improperattachmentmaycausedangerous
kickback.
1
2
►1. Rip fence (Guide rule) 2. Clamping screw
Thehandyripfenceallowsyoutodoextra-accurate
straightcuts.Simplyslidetheripfenceupsnugly
against the side of the workpiece and secure it in posi-
tion with the clamping screw on the front of the base. It
also makes repeated cuts of uniform width possible.
Lanyard (tether strap) connection
Safety warnings specic for use at height
Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure
tofollowthewarningsandinstructionsmayresultin
seriousinjury.
1. Always keep the tool tethered when working
"at height". Maximum lanyard length is 2 m
(6.5 ft).
2. Use only with lanyards appropriate for this tool
type and rated for at least 4.0 kg (8.8 lbs).
3. Do not anchor the tool lanyard to anything on
your body or on movable components. Anchor
the tool lanyard to a rigid structure that can
withstand the forces of a dropped tool.
4. Make sure the lanyard is properly secured at
each end prior to use.
5. Inspect the tool and lanyard before each use
for damage and proper function (including
fabric and stitching). Do not use if damaged or
not functioning properly.
6. Do not wrap lanyards around or allow them to
come in contact with sharp or rough edges.
7. Fasten the other end of the lanyard outside
the working area so that a falling tool is held
securely.
8. Attach the lanyard so that the tool will move
away from the operator if it falls. Dropped tools
willswingonthelanyard,whichcouldcauseinjury
or loss of balance.
9. Do not use near moving parts or running
machinery.Failuretodosomayresultinacrush
or entanglement hazard.
10. Do not carry the tool by the attachment device
or the lanyard.
11. Only transfer the tool between your hands
while you are properly balanced.
12. Do not attach lanyards to the tool in a way that
keeps guards, switches or lock-offs from oper-
ating properly.
13. Avoid getting tangled in the lanyard.
14. Keep lanyard away from the cutting area of the
tool.
15. Use multi-action and screw gate type cara-
bineers. Do not use single action spring clip
carabineers.
16. In the event the tool is dropped, it must be
tagged and removed from service, and should
be inspected by a Makita Factory or Authorized
Service Center.

13 ENGLISH
1
►1.Holeforlanyard(tetherstrap)
MAINTENANCE
CAUTION:
Always be sure that the tool is switched
off and the battery cartridge is removed before attempt-
ing to perform inspection or maintenance.
CAUTION:
Clean out the upper and lower guards
to ensure there is no accumulated metal chips which
may impede the operation of the lower guarding sys-
tem.Adirtyguardingsystemmaylimittheproperopera-
tionwhichcouldresultinseriouspersonalinjury.When
using compressed air to blow metal chips out of the
guards, wear a proper eye and breathing protection.
CAUTION: After each use, clean up the inside
of the dust box and wipe off the saw dust on the
tool.Finemetallicdustmaycomeinsidethetooland
causemalfunctionorare.
NOTICE: Never use gasoline, benzine, thinner,
alcohol or the like. Discoloration, deformation or
cracks may result.
To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY,
repairs,anyothermaintenanceoradjustmentshould
beperformedbyMakitaAuthorizedorFactoryService
Centers,alwaysusingMakitareplacementparts.
Inspecting the circular saw blade
• Check the circular saw blade carefully for
cracks or damage before and after each use.
Replace a cracked or damaged circular saw
blade immediately.
• Replace with a new circular saw blade as soon
as it no longer cuts effectively. Continuing to
useadullcircularsawblademaycauseadanger-
ous kickback and/or motor overload.
• Circular saw blades for metal cutter cannot be
re-sharpened.
OPTIONAL
ACCESSORIES
CAUTION: These accessories or attachments
are recommended for use with your Makita tool
specied in this manual.Theuseofanyother
accessories or attachments might present a risk of
injurytopersons.Onlyuseaccessoryorattachment
for its stated purpose.
Ifyouneedanyassistanceformoredetailsregard-
ingtheseaccessories,askyourlocalMakitaService
Center.
• Carbide-tipped circular saw blades
• Rip fence (Guide rule)
• Clamping screw
• Hook
• Hex wrench
• Safetygoggles
• Makitagenuinebatteryandcharger
NOTE:Someitemsinthelistmaybeincludedinthe
toolpackageasstandardaccessories.Theymay
differfromcountrytocountry.

14

15

www.makita.com
Makita Europe N.V.
Makita Corporation
3-11-8, Sumiyoshi-cho,
Anjo, Aichi 446-8502 Japa
n
Jan-Baptist Vinkstraat 2,
3070 Kortenberg, Belgium
885652A222
EN
20180323
Other manuals for DCS553
8
Table of contents
Other Makita Cutter manuals

Makita
Makita DCS550 User manual

Makita
Makita DCC500 User manual

Makita
Makita CC300D User manual

Makita
Makita DCS551Z User manual

Makita
Makita 4101RH User manual

Makita
Makita CC300D Manual

Makita
Makita GSC01 User manual

Makita
Makita CE002G User manual

Makita
Makita CA5000 User manual

Makita
Makita EK7650H Manual

Makita
Makita DSC121 User manual

Makita
Makita BCS550 User manual

Makita
Makita DSC191 User manual

Makita
Makita DSC250 User manual

Makita
Makita BCS550 User manual

Makita
Makita 4112HS User manual

Makita
Makita XCS04 User manual

Makita
Makita CE001G User manual

Makita
Makita 4190D User manual

Makita
Makita BCS550 User manual