RIDGID R3200 User manual

1
®
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
7-1/4 in. (184 mm) Circular Saw
R3200
Double Insulated
This new circular saw has been engineered and manufactured to our high standard for dependability, ease of operation and
operator safety. When properly cared for, the saw will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using this product.
Thank you for buying a RIDGID product.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

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■Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................................... 2
■General Safety Rules ................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
■Specific Safety Rules ................................................................................................................................................... 4-5
■Symbols ........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
■Specifications ................................................................................................................................................................... 7
■Electrical ........................................................................................................................................................................... 7
■Unpacking ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
■Applications ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8
■Features ....................................................................................................................................................................... 8-9
■Assembly ................................................................................................................................................................... 10-11
■Operation ................................................................................................................................................................. 12-18
■Adjustments ................................................................................................................................................................... 19
■Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................................... 20
■Warranty ......................................................................................................................................................................... 21
■Customer Service Information ........................................................................................................................................ 22
INTRODUCTION
Your circular saw has many features for making the use of this product more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance,
and dependability have been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to use this product until you thoroughly read and completely understand the operator’s manual. Pay
close attention to the safety rules, including Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions. If you use your product properly and
only as intended, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions.
It means attention!!! Your safety is involved.
WARNING:
The operation of any tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Before beginning operation, always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with
side shields and a full face shield when needed. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always wear eye protection which is marked to
comply with ANSI Z87.1.

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WARNING:
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to
follow all instructions listed below, may result in elec-
tric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Work Area
■Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and dark areas invite accidents.
■Do not operate power tools in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create
sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
■Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to
lose control.
Electrical Safety
■Double insulated tools are equipped with a polar-
ized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This
plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the
plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug.
If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician
to install a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug
in any way. Double insulation eliminates the need
for the three-wire grounded power cord and grounded
power supply system.
■Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces, such
as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There
is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is
grounded.
■Don’t expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of
electric shock.
■Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord to carry
the tools or pull the plug from an outlet. Keep cord
away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
Replace damaged cords immediately. Damaged
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
■When operating a power tool outside, use an
outdoor extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”.
These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the
risk of electric shock.
Personal Safety
■Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool. Do
not use tool while tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of inatten-
tion while operating power tools may result in serious
personal injury.
■Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep your hair, clothing,
and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes,
jewelry, or long hair can be caught in moving parts or
drawn into air vents.
■Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is off
before plugging in. Carrying tools with your finger on
the switch or plugging in tools that have the switch on,
invites accidents.
■Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning
the tool on. A wrench or a key that is left attached to a
rotating part of the tool may result in personal injury.
■Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. Proper footing and balance enables better
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
■Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.
Dust mask, nonskid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection must be used for appropriate conditions.
Tool Use and Care
■Use clamps or other practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding
the work by hand or against your body is unstable and
may lead to loss of control.
■Do not force tool. Use the correct tool for your
application. The correct tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it is designed.
■Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off.
Any tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
■Disconnect the plug from power source before
making any adjustments, changing accessories, or
storing the tool. Such preventive safety measures
reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
■Store idle tools out of the reach of children and
other untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the
hands of untrained users.
■Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp
and clean. Properly maintained tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
■Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, and any other condition that may
affect the tool’s operation. If damaged, have the tool
serviced before using. Many accidents are caused by
poorly maintained tools.
■Use only accessories that are recommended by the
manufacturer for your model. Accessories that may
be suitable for one tool, may become hazardous when
used on another tool.
■Keep the tool and its handle dry, clean and free from
oil and grease. Always use a clean cloth when cleaning.
Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based prod-
ucts, or any strong solvents to clean your tool. Following
this rule will reduce the risk of loss of control and deterio-
ration of the enclosure plastic.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES

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Service
■Tool service must be performed only by qualified
repair personnel. Service or maintenance performed
by unqualified personnel could result in a risk of injury.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
■When servicing a tool, use only identical replace-
ment parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance
section of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or
failure to follow Maintenance Instructions may create a
risk of electric shock or injury.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
■DANGER! Keep hands away from cutting area and
blade. Keep your second hand on the auxiliary handle,
or motor housing. If both hands are holding the saw,
they cannot be cut by the blade.
■Keep your body positioned to either side of the saw
blade, but not in line with the saw blade. KICKBACK
could cause the saw to jump backwards. (See “Causes
and Operator Prevention of Kickback.”)
■Do not reach underneath the work. The guard can not
protect you from the blade below the work.
■Check lower guard for proper closing before each
use. Do not operate 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.
■Check the operation and condition 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 buildup of debris.
■Lower guard should be retracted manually only for
special cuts, such as "Pocket Cuts" and "Compound
Cuts." Raise lower guard by Retracting Handle. As
soon as blade enters the material, lower guard must
be released. For all other sawing, the lower guard should
operate automatically.
■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.
■NEVER hold piece being cut in your hands or across
your leg. It is important to support the work properly to
minimize body exposure, blade binding, or loss of control.
■Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces 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 tool
"live" and shock the operator.
■When ripping always use a rip fence or straight edge
guide. This improves the accuracy of the cut and reduces
the chance for blade binding.
■Always use blades with correct size and shape
(diamond vs. round) arbor holes. Blades that do not
match the mounting hardware of the saw will run
eccentrically, causing loss of control.
■Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers or
bolts. The blade washers and bolts were specially
designed for the saw for optimum performance and safety
of operation.
Causes and Operator Prevention of 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 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 the result of tool misuse and/or incorrect operating
procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking
proper precautions, as given below:
■Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and
position your body and arm to allow you to resist
KICKBACK forces. KICKBACK forces can be controlled
by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
■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.
■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.
■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.

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SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
■Do not use dull or damaged blade. Unsharpened or
improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing
excessive friction, blade binding and KICKBACK.
■Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers must
be tight and secure before making cut. If blade
adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and
KICKBACK.
■Use extra caution when making a “Pocket Cut” into
existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding
blade may cut objects that can cause KICKBACK.
Additional Safety Rules
■Know your power tool. Read operator’s manual care-
fully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well
as the specific potential hazards related to this tool.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock,
fire, or serious injury.
■Always wear safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses
have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT
safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk of
eye injury.
■Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of serious personal injury.
■Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection dur-
ing extended periods of operation. Following this rule
will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
■Inspect tool cords periodically and, if damaged, have
repaired at your nearest Authorized Service Center.
Constantly stay aware of cord location. Following this
rule will reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.
■Check damaged parts. Before further use of the tool,
a guard or other part that is damaged should be care-
fully checked to determine that it will operate prop-
erly and perform its intended function. Check for
alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, mounting, and any other condi-
tions that may affect its operation. A guard or other
part that is damaged should be properly repaired or
replaced by an authorized service center. Following
this rule will reduce the risk of shock, fire, or serious in-
jury.
■Do not abuse cord. Never carry the tool by the cord
or yank it to disconnect it from the receptacle. Keep
cord away from heat, oil, and sharp edges. Following
this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.
■Make sure your extension cord is in good condition.
When using an extension cord, be sure to use one
heavy enough to carry the current your product will
draw. A wire gage size (A.W.G.) of at least 12 is rec-
ommended for an extension cord 50 feet or less in
length. A cord exceeding 100 feet is not recom-
mended. If in doubt, use the next heavier gage. The
smaller the gage number, the heavier the cord. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating.
■Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before
using this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of
serious personal injury.
■Drugs, alcohol, medication. Do not operate tool while
under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any medica-
tion. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric
shock, fire, or serious personal injury.
■Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and
use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you
loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions also.
WARNING:
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grind-
ing, drilling, and other construction activities contains
chemicals known 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 equip-
ment, such as those dust masks that are specially
designed to filter out microscopic particles.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

6
SYMBOLS
Important: Some of the following symbols may be used on your tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper
interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the ool better and safer.
SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
VVolts Voltage
AAmperes Current
Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)
WWatt Power
min Minutes Time
Alternating Current Type of current
n0No Load Speed Rotational speed, at no load
Class II Construction Double-insulated construction
.../min Per Minute Revolutions, strokes, suface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Safety Alert Precautions that involve your safety
Eye Protection Always wear safety gogles or safety glasses with side shields
and a full face shield when operating this product.
Wet Conditions Alert Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and the explanations
with them, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate any
danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.
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. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices that may cause property damage.
Note: Advises you of additional information concerning the operation or maintenance of the equip-
ment.

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SPECIFICATIONS
DOUBLE INSULATION
Double insulation is a concept in safety in electric power tools,
which eliminates the need for the usual three-wire grounded
power cord. All exposed metal parts are isolated from the
internal metal motor components with protecting insulation.
Double insulated tools do not need to be grounded.
WARNING:
The double insulated system is intended to protect
the user from shock resulting from a break in the
tool’s internal insulation. Observe all normal safety
precautions to avoid electrical shock.
Important: Servicing of a tool with double insulation requires
extreme care and knowledge of the system and should be
performed only by a qualified service technician. For ser-
vice, we suggest you return the tool to your nearest autho-
rized service center for repair. Always use original factory
replacement parts when servicing.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
The saw has a precision-built electric motor. It should be
connected to a power supply that is 120 volts, 60 Hz, AC
only (normal household current). Do not operate this tool on
direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop will cause a
loss of power and the motor will overheat. If your tool does
not operate when plugged into an outlet, double-check the
power supply.
Blade Diameter .......................................................................................................................................... 7-1/4 in. (184 mm)
Blade Arbor ..................................................................................................................................................... 5/8 in. (16 mm)
Cutting Depth at 90°..................................................................................................................................... 2-1/4 in. (57 mm)
Cutting Depth at 45°..................................................................................................................................... 1-3/4 in. (45 mm)
Cutting Depth at 51.5°.................................................................................................................................. 1-5/8 in. (41 mm)
Input ................................................................................................................................ 120 Volts, 60 Hz, AC only, 15 Amps
No Load Speed ........................................................................................................................................................ 5800/min.
Net Weight .................................................................................................................................................... 12.0 lbs. (5.4 kg)
EXTENSION CORDS
When using a power tool at a considerable distance from a
power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has the
capacity to handle the current the tool will draw. An under-
sized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in over-
heating and loss of power. Use the chart to determine the
minimum wire size required in an extension cord. Only round
jacketed cords listed by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL)
should be used.
When working outdoors with a tool, use an extension cord
that is designed for outside use. This type of cord is desig-
nated with “WA” on the cord’s jacket.
Before using any extension cord, inspect it for loose or ex-
posed wires and cut or worn insulation.
**Ampere rating (on tool faceplate)
0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0
Cord Length Wire Size (A.W.G.)
25' 16 16 16 16 14 14
50' 16 16 16 14 14 12
100' 16 16 14 12 10 —
**Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit.
CAUTION:
Keep the extension cord clear of the working area.
Position the cord so that it will not get caught on
lumber, tools or other obstructions while you are
working with a power tool. Failure to do so can re-
sult in serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Check extension cords before each use. If damaged
replace immediately. Never use tool with a damaged
cord since touching the damaged area could cause
electrical shock resulting in serious injury.
ELECTRICAL

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FEATURES
Before using the saw, familiarize yourself with all operating
features and safety requirements. However, do not let famil-
iarity with the tool make you careless.
WARNING:
Exercise caution when using the circular saw. Care-
less actions, for even a fraction of a second, can
result in serious personal injury.
Your new circular saw is equipped with the following fea-
tures. See Figure 1.
SWITCH
The saw has a conveniently-located ON/OFF switch.
SPINDLE LOCK
The spindle lock allows you to secure the blade when turn-
ing the blade screw.
Note: Do not run circular saw with the spindle lock engaged.
DUST CHUTE
To direct saw dust and chips away from the operator, a dust
chute is located on the side of the upper blade guard.
FULL LENGTH KERF INDICATOR
Indicates blade position for more accurate cutting.
SOFT GRIP SHOCK ABSORBING FRONT
HANDLE
The soft grip handle is designed for durability and operator
comfort.
RIP GUIDE
The rip guide feature helps the operator make straight, angle
and bevel cuts.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN
The design provides for easy handling. It is designed for
comfort and ease of grasp when operating in different posi-
tions and at different angles.
POWER CORD
The 12-foot cord has a built-in cord wrap.
LIGHTED PLUG
The lighted plug helps to easily identify live tools.
UNPACKING
INSTRUCTIONS
When unpacking the circular saw:
■Carefully remove the tool and accessories from the box.
■Make sure that all items listed in the packing list are
included.
■Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
■Do not discard the packing material until you have
carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
■If any parts are damaged or missing, please call 1-866-
539-1710 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
7-1/4” (184 mm) Circular Saw
24-tooth Carbide Tipped Blade
Wrench
Rip guide
Case
Operator’s Manual
WARNING:
If any parts are missing do not operate the tool until
the missing parts are replaced. Failure to do so could
result in possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
This tool should never be connected to a power sup-
ply when you are assembling parts, making adjust-
ments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or when
the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool will pre-
vent accidental starting that could cause injury.
APPLICATIONS
You may use the saw for the purposes listed below:
■Cutting all types of wood products (lumber, plywood,
paneling)
WARNING:
The use of this saw on materials not listed may
damage the saw and its guards, and may cause
serious personal injury.

9
Fig. 1
FEATURES
POWER
CORD
RIP GUIDE
HANDLE
FULL LENGTH
KERF INDICATOR
DUST
CHUTE
SPINDLE
LOCK
SWITCH
FRONT HANDLE
LIGHTED
PLUG

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ASSEMBLY
Fig. 2
SPINDLE
BLADE
SCREW
OUTER
FLANGE
WASHER
(“D” WASHER)
BLADE
INNER
FLANGE
BUSHING
WARNING:
The tool should never be connected to a power
supply when you are assembling parts, making ad-
justments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or
when the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool
will prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious injury.
WARNING:
7-1/4 in. (184 mm) blade is the maximum blade
capacity of the saw. Also, never use a blade that is
too thick to allow outer blade washer to engage with
the flat on the spindle. Larger blades will come in
contact with the blade guards, while thicker blades
will prevent blade screw from securing blade on
spindle. Either of these situations could result in a
serious accident.
ATTACHING BLADE
See Figures 2 and 2a.
Follow these directions to attach the blade.
■Unplug the saw.
CAUTION:
To prevent damage to the spindle or spindle lock,
always allow motor to come to a complete stop
before engaging spindle lock.
■Depress spindle lock button.
■Remove blade screw by turning it counterclockwise with
the wrench.
■Remove outer washer (“D” washer) and spring washer.
■Wipe a drop of oil onto inner flange bushing and outer
washer ("D" washer) where they contact blade.
WARNING:
If inner flange bushing has been removed, replace
it before placing blade on spindle. Failure to do so
could cause an accident since blade will not tighten
properly.
■Fit saw blade inside lower blade guard and onto spindle.
NOTE: The saw teeth point upward at the front of the
saw as shown.
■Replace “D” washer.
■Depress spindle lock and replace blade screw.
■Tighten blade screw securely by turning it clockwise with
the wrench.
NOTE: Never use a blade that is too thick to allow the
"D" washer to engage with the flat on the spindle.
SPRING
WASHER
OUTER WASHER
(“D” WASHER)
CUPPED SIDE OF
SPRING WASHER
OUTSIDE OF SPRING
WASHER
Fig. 2a

11
ASSEMBLY
REMOVING BLADE
See Figure 3.
Follow these directions to remove the blade.
■Unplug the saw.
CAUTION:
To prevent damage to the spindle or spindle lock,
always allow motor to come to a complete stop
before engaging spindle lock.
■Depress spindle lock button.
■Remove blade screw by turning it counterclockwise with
the wrench.
■Remove outer blade washer ("D" washer).
■Lift lower blade guard.
■Remove blade.
WRENCH
BLADE
SCREW
SPINDLE
LOCK
BUTTON
Fig. 3

12
OPERATION
SAW BLADES
The best of saw blades will not cut efficiently if they are not
kept clean, sharp, and properly set. Using a dull blade will
place a heavy load on the saw and increase the danger of
kickback. Keep extra blades on hand, so that sharp blades
are always available.
Gum and wood pitch hardened on blades will slow the saw
down. Remove saw blade from the saw and use gum and
pitch remover, hot water, or kerosene to remove these
accumulations. DO NOT USE GASOLINE.
BLADE GUARD SYSTEM
See Figure 4.
The lower blade guard attached to your circular saw is there
for your protection and safety. Do not alter it for any reason.
If it becomes damaged, do not operate the saw until you have
the guard repaired or replaced. Always leave guard in
operating position when using the saw.
DANGER:
When sawing through work, lower blade guard does
not cover blade on the underside of work. Since
blade is exposed on underside of work, keep hands
and fingers away from cutting area. Any part of your
body coming in contact with moving blade will result
in serious injury.
WARNING:
To avoid possible serious injury, never use saw
when guard is not operating correctly. Check the
guard for correct operation before each use. The
guard is operating correctly when it moves freely,
and instantly returns to the closed position. If you
drop the saw, check the lower blade guard and
bumper for damage at all depth settings before
reuse.
Fig. 4
If at any time the lower blade guard does not snap closed,
unplug the saw from the power supply. Exercise the lower
guard by moving it rapidly back and forth from the full open
position to the closed position several times. Normally this
will restore the guard to its normal operating condition. If it
does not correct a slow or sluggish closing lower guard, do
not use the saw. Take it to an authorized factory service
center for repair.

13
OPERATION
KICKBACK
See Figure 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Kickback occurs when the blade stalls rapidly and the saw is
driven back towards you. Blade stalling is caused by any
action which pinches the blade in the wood.
DANGER:
Release switch immediately if blade binds or saw
stalls. Kickback could cause you to lose control of
the saw. Loss of control can lead to serious injury.
To guard against kickback, avoid dangerous practices such
as the following.
■Setting blade depth incorrectly.
■Sawing into knots or nails in workpiece.
■Twisting the blade while making a cut.
■Making a cut with a dull, gummed up, or improperly set
blade.
■Supporting the workpiece incorrectly.
■Forcing a cut.
■Cutting warped or wet lumber.
■Operating the tool incorrectly or misusing the tool.
To lessen the chance of kickback, follow these safety
practices.
■Keep the blade at the correct depth setting. The depth
setting should not exceed 1/4 in. (6.35 mm) below the
material being cut.
■Inspect the workpiece for knots or nails before cutting.
Never saw into a knot or nail.
■Make straight cuts. Always use a straight edge guide
when rip cutting. This helps prevent twisting the blade.
■Use clean, sharp, and properly set blades. Never make
cuts with dull blades.
■Support the workpiece properly before beginning a cut.
■Use steady, even pressure when making a cut. Never
force a cut.
■Do not cut warped or wet lumber.
■Hold the saw firmly with both hands and keep your body
in a balanced position so as to resist the forces if kick-
back should occur.
WARNING:
When using the saw, always stay alert and exercise
control. Do not remove the saw from the workpiece
while the blade is moving.
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8

14
OPERATION
WARNING:
The tool should never be connected to a power
supply when you are assembling parts, making ad-
justments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or
when the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool
will prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious injury.
STARTING/STOPPING THE SAW
See Figure 9.
To start the saw : Depress the switch trigger.
Always let the blade reach full speed, then guide the saw into
the workpiece.
WARNING:
The blade coming in contact with the workpiece
before it reaches full speed could cause the saw to
“kickback” towards you resulting in serious injury.
To stop the saw : Release the switch trigger.
After you release the switch trigger, allow the blade to come
to a complete stop. Do not remove the saw from the
workpiece while the blade is moving.
ADJUSTING BLADE DEPTH
See Figure 10.
Always keep correct blade depth setting. The correct blade
depth setting for all cuts should not exceed 1/4 in. (6.35 mm)
below the material being cut. More blade depth will increase
the chance of kickback and cause the cut to be rough. For
more depth of cut accuracy, a scale is located on the upper
blade guard.
Follow these directions to adjust the blade depth.
■Unplug the saw.
■Pull depth adjustment lever upward to release.
■Determine the desired depth of cut.
■Locate depth of cut scale. It is visible to the inside of the
lower blade guard when the saw is raised.
■Hold base flat against the workpiece and raise or lower
saw until the indicator mark on bracket aligns with notch
on blade guard.
■Press down on depth adjustment lever to secure the
position.
Fig. 9
Fig. 10

15
OPERATING THE SAW
See Figures 11, 12, and 13.
It is important to understand the correct method for operating
the saw. Refer to the figures in this section to learn the
correct and incorrect ways for handling the saw.
WARNING:
To make sawing easier and safer, always maintain
proper control of the saw. Loss of control could
cause an accident resulting in possible serious in-
jury.
DANGER:
When lifting the saw from the workpiece, the blade
is exposed on the underside of the saw until the
lower blade guard closes. Make sure the lower
blade guard is closed before setting the saw down.
To make the best possible cut, follow these helpful hints.
■Hold the saw firmly with both hands.
■Avoid placing your hand on the workpiece while making
a cut.
■Support the workpiece so that the cut is always on your
right.
■Support the workpiece near the cut.
■Clamp the workpiece securely so that the workpiece will
not move during the cut.
■Avoid placing the saw on the part of the workpiece that
will fall off when the cut is made.
■Place the workpiece with the “good” side down.
■Draw a guideline along the desired line of cut before
beginning the cut.
■Keep the cord away from the cutting area. Always place
the cord to prevent it from hanging up on the workpiece
while making a cut.
DANGER:
If the cord hangs up on the workpiece during a cut,
release the switch trigger immediately. Unplug the
saw and reposition the cord to prevent it from hang-
ing up again.
DANGER:
Using a saw with a damaged cord could result in
serious injury or death. If the cord has been dam-
aged, have it replaced before using the saw again.
OPERATION
Fig. 11
Fig. 12
Fig. 13

16
OPERATION
CROSS CUTTING/RIP CUTTING
See Figure 14.
When making a cross cut or rip cut, align the line of cut with
the full length kerf indicator on the base as shown in the
figure.
Since blade thicknesses vary, always make a trial cut in scrap
material along a guideline to determine how much, if any,
you must offset the guideline to produce an accurate cut.
NOTE: The distance from the line of cut to the guideline is the
amount you should offset the guideline.
TO RIP CUT
See Figures 15 and 16.
Use a guide when making long or wide rip cuts with the saw.
NOTE: You may also use the rip guide that is provided with
the saw.
To install the rip guide:
■Slide the rip guide into the slot as shown in figure 15.
■Adjust the guide so that the “0” on the guide is aligned with
the edge of your workpiece.
■Secure the guide with the lock screw provided with the
saw.
Follow these directions to rip cut.
■Secure the workpiece.
■Clamp a straight edge to the workpiece using
C-clamps.
■Saw along the straight edge to achieve a straight rip cut.
NOTE: Do not bind the blade in the cut.
Fig. 14
Fig. 16
Fig. 15

17
BEVEL CUTTING
See Figures 17 and 18.
To make the best possible cut, follow these helpful hints.
■Align the line of cut with the inner blade guide notch on the
base when making 45°bevel cuts.
■Make a trial cut in scrap material along a guideline to
determine how much you should offset the guideline on
the cutting material.
■Adjust the angle of the cut to any desired setting between
zero and 51.5°. Refer to “TO ADJUST BEVEL SETTING”
next.
Note: Pull the adjustment lever all the way up to set the
angle at 51.5°.
WARNING:
The tool should never be connected to a power
supply when you are assembling parts, making ad-
justments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or
when the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool
will prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious injury.
TO ADJUST BEVEL SETTING
See Figure 17.
Follow these directions to adjust the bevel setting.
■Unplug the saw.
■Pull the bevel adjustment lever upward until the motor
housing moves freely.
■Raise motor housing end of saw until you reach the
desired angle setting on bevel scale.
■Press downward on the bevel adjustment lever until the
motor housing is securely locked in place.
WARNING:
Attempting a bevel cut without having the bevel
adjustment lever securely locked in place can result
in serious injury.
TO BEVEL CUT
See Figure 18.
Follow these directions to bevel cut.
■Hold the saw firmly with both hands as shown.
■Rest the front edge of the base on the workpiece.
■Start the saw and let the blade reach full speed.
■Guide the saw into the workpiece and make the cut.
■Release the trigger and allow the blade to come to a
complete stop.
■Lift the saw from the workpiece.
OPERATION
Fig. 18
Fig. 17

18
POCKET CUTTING
See Figure 19.
WARNING:
Always adjust bevel setting to zero before making a
pocket cut. Attempting a pocket cut at any other
setting can result in loss of control of the saw possi-
bly causing serious injury.
Follow these directions to pocket cut.
■Adjust the bevel setting to zero.
■Set the blade to the correct blade depth setting.
■Swing the lower blade guard up using the lower blade
guard handle.
NOTE: Always raise the lower blade guard with the handle
to avoid serious injury.
■Hold the lower blade guard by the handle.
■Rest the front of the base flat against the workpiece with
the rear of the handle raised so the blade does not touch
the workpiece.
■Start the saw and let the blade reach full speed.
■Guide the saw into the workpiece and make the cut.
WARNING:
Always cut in a forward direction when pocket cut-
ting. Cutting in the reverse direction could cause
the saw to climb up on the workpiece and back
toward you.
■Release the trigger and allow the blade to come to a
complete stop.
■Lift the saw from the workpiece.
■Clear corners out with a hand saw or sabre saw.
WARNING:
Never tie the lower blade guard in a raised position.
Leaving the blade exposed could lead to serious
injury.
LENGTH OF CUT SCALE
See Figure 20.
The saw is equipped with a length of cut scale on its base. It
is parallel with the saw blade and you can use it to measure
the distance into the material the blade cuts.
NOTE: Six inches is the maximum length of cut that you can
measure. Also, it is accurate only when the depth of cut is set
at full maximum depth.
OPERATION
Fig. 19
Fig. 20

19
0
15
22
1/2
1/2
30
45
51
WARNING:
The tool should never be connected to a power
supply when you are assembling parts, making ad-
justments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or
when the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool
will prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious injury.
POSITIVE 0°BEVEL STOP
See Figure 21.
The saw has a positive 0°bevel stop that has been factory
adjusted to assure 0°angle of the saw blade when making
90°cuts. However, misalignment can occur during shipping.
TO CHECK POSITIVE 0°BEVEL STOP
Follow these directions to check the positive 0°bevel stop.
■Unplug the saw.
■Place the saw in an upside down position on a workbench.
■Move the lower blade guard out of the way so that the saw
blade is exposed.
■Check the squareness of the saw blade to the base of the
saw using a carpenter’s square.
TO ADJUST POSITIVE 0°BEVEL STOP
Follow these directions to adjust the positive 0°bevel stop.
■Unplug the saw.
■Pull bevel adjustment lever upward to release.
■Turn setscrew with hex key and adjust base until it is
square with the saw blade.
■Securely lock the bevel adjustment lever.
WARNING:
Attempting a bevel cut without having the bevel
adjustment lever securely locked in place can result
in serious injury.
ADJUSTMENTS
Fig. 21

20
MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
When servicing use only identical RIDGID® replace-
ment parts. Use of any other parts may create a
hazard or cause product damage.
WARNING:
The saw should never be connected to a power sup-
ply when you are assembling parts, making adjust-
ments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or when
the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool will pre-
vent accidental starting that could cause serious in-
jury.
GENERAL
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most plas-
tics are susceptible to damage from various types of com-
mercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use
clean cloths to remove dirt, carbon dust, etc.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline, petro-
leum-based products, penetrating oils, etc. come in
contact with plastic parts. They contain chemicals
that can damage, weaken, or destroy plastic.
Electric tools used on fiberglass material, wallboard, spack-
ling compounds, or plaster are subject to accelerated wear
and possible premature failure because the fiberglass chips
and grindings are highly abrasive to bearings, brushes, com-
mutators, etc. Consequently, we do not recommended us-
ing this tool for extended work on these types of materials.
However, if you do work with any of these materials, it is
extremely important to clean the tool using compressed air.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with
side shields during power tool operation or when
blowing dust. If operation is dusty, also wear a dust
mask.
BEARING LUBRICATION
All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a sufficient
amount of high grade lubricant for the life of the tool under
normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further lubrica-
tion is required.