RIDGID R4540 User manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
10 INCH PORTABLE TABLE SAW
R4540
Your saw has been engineered and manufactured to our high standard for dependability, ease of operation, and operator
safety. When properly cared for, it 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.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
SPECIFICATIONS
The RIDGID®#R4540 series 10 inch Portable Contractor Table
Saw is designed for portability and high quality performance. It
includes: basic machine, sturdy tubular steel stand, integral 2 1/2
inch dust chute, a fence system, T-slot miter gauge, 15-amp motor,
on/o switch, cast aluminum table, extension wing, see-through
blade guard with anti-kickback pawls, and 10 inch carbide blade.
NOTICE: The manual cover illustrates the current production model. All other illustrations contained in the manual are representative
only and may not be exact depictions of the actual labeling or accessories included. They are intended for illustrative purposes only.
Max depth of cut at 90 degrees: 3 1/2 inch
Max depth of cut at 45 degrees: 2 1/2 inch
Max rip to right of blade: 25 inch
Max rip to left of blade: 12 inch
MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS:
Amps 15
Voltage 120
No Load RPM 5,000
Blade Diameter 10 inch
This tool can only be used with woodworking saw blades.
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION .............................................2
FEATURES..........................................................................3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ...............................4
SAFETY-SYMBOLS-DEFINITIONS......................................4
GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS....................5
TABLE SAW SAFETY RULES ...............................................6
TERMINOLOGY..................................................................6
TABLE SAW SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES.................................. 6
SAW BLADE GUARD, ANTI-KICKBACK PAWLS AND RIVING
KNIFE ASSEMBLY............................................................... 8
KICKBACKS.......................................................................8
AVOID KICKBACK ..............................................................8
PROPOSITION 65 WARNING ............................................8
POWER CONNECTIONS .....................................................9
POWER SOURCE................................................................ 9
EXTENSION CORDS...........................................................9
UNPACKING.......................................................................9
PACKAGE CONTENTS....................................................... 10
HARDWARE BAG CONTENTS ............................................ 11
ASSEMBLY .......................................................................13
ASSEMBLING THE STAND................................................. 13
ATTACHING STAND TO SAW............................................. 14
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB INSTALLATION..................... 15
BLADE AND GUARDS ....................................................... 15
ATTACH THE BLADE......................................................... 15
THROAT PLATE................................................................ 16
ANTI-KICKBACKS PAWLS AND BLADE GUARD.................... 17
BLADE GUARD................................................................. 17
INSTALLING FENCE ......................................................... 18
REMOVING FENCE........................................................... 18
ON-BOARD STORAGE....................................................... 19
MAKING ADJUSTMENTS..................................................20
LEVELING THE THROAT PLATE......................................... 20
ADJUSTING BLADE PARALLEL TO
MITER GAUGE GROOVE (HEEL)........................................ 20
SQUARING THE BLADE VERTICALLY ................................. 22
ADJUSTING THE BEVEL STOPS......................................... 22
ADJUSTING THE BLADE HEIGHT....................................... 23
CHANGING THE BEVEL .................................................... 23
USING THE MITER GAUGE ............................................... 23
OPERATION AND ADJUSTMENT OF RIP FENCE.................. 23
USING COLOR-CODED SCALES......................................... 24
RIVING KNIFE POSITION AND ALIGNMENT...................25
RIVING KNIFE HEIGHT SETTING ...................................... 25
RIVING KNIFE ALIGNMENT .............................................. 26
HORIZONTAL ALIGNMENT................................................ 26
VERTICAL ALIGNMENT..................................................... 26
MOVING THE SAW........................................................... 27
OPERATION.....................................................................27
DUST COLLECTOR........................................................... 28
TURNING THE SAW ON/OFF............................................. 28
MAKING CUTS .................................................................29
RIP CUTS........................................................................ 30
BEVEL RIPPING............................................................... 30
CROSSCUTTING............................................................... 31
BEVEL CROSSCUTTING .................................................... 31
MITER CUTS ................................................................... 31
COMPOUND MITER CUTS................................................. 32
LARGE PANEL CUTS......................................................... 32
NON-THROUGH CUTS...................................................... 32
MAKING A NON-THROUGH CUT........................................ 32
CUTTING AIDS AND ACCESSORIES.................................33
PUSH STICK.................................................................... 33
AUXILIARY MITER GAUGE FACING.................................... 34
AUXILIARY FENCE (FLIP DOWN)....................................... 34
PUSH BLOCK .................................................................. 34
GROOVING AND RABBETING ........................................... 34
FEATHERBOARD ............................................................. 35
CUT OFF GAUGE.............................................................. 35
JIGS................................................................................ 35
MAINTENANCE ................................................................36
TROUBLESHOOTING........................................................37
ACCESSORIES..................................................................37
PARTS, SERVICE OR WARRANTY ASSISTANCE...............38
2 3

FEATURES
F9
F10
F11
F12
F13
F14
F15
Bevel Lock Lever
Height Adjustment
Wheel Knob
Stand
On/O Switch
Saw Body
Push Stick
Rails
Rip Fence
F9
F10
F11
F12
F13
F14
F15
F16
F16
F17
F18
F19
F20
Flip Down Fence
Saw Blade
Anti-Kickback Pawls
Riving Knife
Dust Chute
F17
F18
F19
F20
F21
F21
F5
F6
F7
F8
F1
F2 F3
Blade Guard
Throat Plate
Miter Gauge
Extension Wing
Extension Lock
On Board Storage
Bevel Scale
Height Adjustment
Handwheel
F5
F6
F7
F8
F1
F2
F3
F4
F4
3

Some of the following symbols may be used on the tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation on these
symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.
SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
Safety Alert Indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
Read Operator's Manual To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand operator's manual before
using this product.
Eye Protection Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.
No Hands Symbol Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in serious personal injury.
Wet Conditions Alert Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Pinch Warning Always watch for movement paying extra attention to potential areas where pinching
could occur.
V Volts Voltage
A Amperes Current
Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)
min Minutes Time
~/AC Alternating Current Type of current
ⁿ₀No Load Speed Rotational speed, at no load
.../min Per Minute Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits, etc., per minute
Lbs Pounds Unit of weight
Kg Kilograms Unit of weight
RPM Revolutions Per Minute Speed of rotation of machine
PH:1 Phase 1 This is a 1 phase motor
Double Insulation To reduce the risk of electric shock, this equipment has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the
other). This plug will t in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not t fully in the outlet,
reverse the plug. If it still does not t, contact a qualied electrician to install the proper outlet. DO
NOT change the plug in any way.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of your tool or the contents of this manual, please stop using the tool and contact
Customer Service, at RIDGID® Portable and Fixed Power Tool Technical Service at (toll free) 1-888-359-4778.
SAFETY SYMBOLS - DEFINITIONS
This manual contains information that is important for you to know and understand. This information relates to protecting YOUR SAFETY
and PREVENTING EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS. To help you recognize this information, we use the symbols below. Please read the manual
and pay attention to these sections.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
Used without the safety alert symbol indicates potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
property damage.
CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS ON YOUR PRODUCT
AND IN THIS MANUAL. SAVE THIS MANUAL. MAKE SURE ALL USERS ARE FAMILIAR WITH ITS
WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS WHEN USING THE TOOL. Improper operation, maintenance or modification of tools
or equipment could result in serious injury and/or property damage.
4 5

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 ammable 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 with
earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodied 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 an 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 inuence 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 o-position before connection to power source,
picking up, or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your nger on the switch or energising 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 jewelery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from
moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelery 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.
h. Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool
safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.
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 o. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with
the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
c. Disconnect the plug from the power source 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 and accessories. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of
parts and any other condition that may aect 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 tools bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into
account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations dierent from
those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
h. Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping
surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in unexpected situations.
5. Service
a. Have your power tool serviced by a qualied repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will
ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS
Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specications provided with this power tool.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, re and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
5

TABLE SAW SAFETY RULES
Failure to follow these rules may result in serious personal injury.
SEE GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY SECTION OF THIS MANUAL. Read entire instruction manual before operating saw. Learning
the saw’s proper applications, limitations, and specic potential hazards will greatly minimize the possibility of accidents and injury.
Make sure all users are familiar
with its warnings and instructions before using saw.
SEE POWER CONNECTION SECTION OF THIS MANUAL for instructions and warnings regarding power cords and connections.
Failure to follow these rules may result in serious personal injury.
TABLE SAW SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
WARNING READ ALL SAFETY WARNINGS DESIGNATED BY THE SYMBOL AND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
1. GUARDING RELATED WARNINGS (FOR TABLE SAW, 62841-3-1)
a. Keep guards in place. Guards must be in working order and be properly mounted. A guard that is loose,
damaged, or is not functioning correctly must be repaired or replaced.
b. Always use saw blade guard, riving knife and anti-kickback device for every through-cutting operation. For
through-cutting operations where the saw blade cuts completely through the thickness of the workpiece, the guard and
other safety devices help reduce the risk of injury.
c. Immediately reattach the guarding system after completing an operation (such as rabbeting or resawing
cuts) which requires removal of the guard, riving knife and/or anti-kickback device. The guard, riving knife,
and anti-kickback device help to reduce the risk of injury.
d. Make sure the saw blade is not contacting the guard, riving knife or the workpiece before the switch is
turned on. Inadvertent contact of these items with the saw blade could cause a hazardous condition.
e. Adjust the riving knife as described in this instruction manual. Incorrect spacing, positioning and alignment can
make the riving knife ineective in reducing the likelihood of kickback.
f. For the riving knife and anti-kickback device to work, they must be engaged in the workpiece. The riving
knife and anti-kickback device are ineective when cutting workpieces that are too short to be engaged with the
riving knife and anti-kickback device. Under these conditions a kickback cannot be prevented by the riving knife and
antikickback device.
g. Use the appropriate saw blade for the riving knife. For the riving knife to function properly, the saw blade diameter
must match the appropriate riving knife and the body of the saw blade must be thinner than the thickness of the riving
knife and the cutting width of the saw blade must be wider than the thickness of the riving knife.
2. CUTTING PROCEDURES WARNINGS
a. DANGER: Never place your ngers or hands in the vicinity or in line with the saw blade. A moment of
inattention or a slip could direct your hand towards the saw blade and result in serious personal injury.
b. Feed the workpiece into the saw blade or cutter only against the direction of rotation. Feeding the workpiece
in the same direction that the saw blade is rotating above the table may result in the workpiece, and your hand, being
pulled into the saw blade.
c. Never use the mitre gauge to feed the workpiece when ripping and do not use the rip fence as a length
stop when cross cutting with the mitre gauge. Guiding the workpiece with the rip fence and the mitre gauge at the
same time increases the likelihood of saw blade binding and kickback.
d. When ripping, always apply the workpiece feeding force between the fence and the saw blade. Use a push
stick when the distance between the fence and the saw blade is less than 150mm, and use a push block when this
distance is less than 50mm. "Work helping" devices will keep your hand at a safe distance from the saw blade.
e. Use only the push stick provided by the manufacturer or constructed in accordance with the instructions.
This push stick provides sucient distance of the hand from the saw blade.
f. Never use a damaged or cut push stick. A damaged push stick may break causing your hand to slip into the saw
blade.
g. Do not perform any operation "freehand". Always use either the rip fence or the mitre gauge to position and guide
the workpiece. "Freehand" means using your hands to support or guide the workpiece, in lieu of a rip fence or mitre
gauge. Freehand sawing leads to misalignment, binding and kickback.
h. Never reach around or over a rotating saw blade. Reaching for a workpiece may lead to accidental contact with the
moving saw blade.
TERMINOLOGY
The following terms will be used throughout the manual and you should become familiar with them.
• Through-cut – Any cut that completely cuts through the
workpiece.
• Non-through cut – Any cut that does not completely cut
through the workpiece.
• Push stick – A wooden or plastic stick, usually homemade,
that is used to push a small workpiece through the saw and
keeps the operator’s hands clear of the blade.
• Kickback – Occurs when the saw blade binds in the cut or
between the blade and the fence and thrusts the workpiece
back toward the operator or lowering the workpiece down to
the blade.
• Re-sawing – Flipping material to make a cut the saw is not
capable of making in one pass.
• Cove cutting – Also known as coving, cove cutting is an
operation where the work is fed at an angle across the
blade. NOTE: This can be a dangerous operation and is not
recommended.
• Freehand – Cutting without the use of a miter gauge or
rip fence or any other means of guiding or holding the
workpiece other than the operator’s hand. NOTE: This can be
a dangerous operation and is not recommended.
• Plunge cutting – Blind cuts in the workpiece made by
raising the blade through the workpiece. NOTE: This can be a
dangerous operation and is not recommended.
• Rabbet Cut - A cut on the end or face (edge) of a board -
the extruding piece is the tongue.
• Kerf - A cut or incision made by a saw.
6 7

TABLE SAW SAFETY RULES
i. Provide auxiliary workpiece support to the rear and/or sides of the saw table for long and/or wide
workpieces to keep them level. A long and/or wide workpiece has a tendency to pivot on the table’s edge, causing
loss of control, saw blade binding and kickback.
j. Feed workpiece at an even pace. Do not bend or twist the workpiece. If jamming occurs, turn the tool o
immediately, unplug the tool then clear the jam. Jamming the saw blade by the workpiece can cause kickback or stall the
motor.
k. Do not remove pieces of cut-o material while the saw is running. The material may become trapped between
the fence or inside the saw blade guard and the saw blade pulling your ngers into the saw blade. Turn the saw o and
wait until the saw blade stops before removing material.
l. Use an auxiliary fence in contact with the table top when ripping workpieces less than 2mm thick. A thin
workpiece may wedge under the rip fence and create a kickback.
m. Never Cut Metals, Cement Board or Masonry. Certain man-made materials have special instructions for cutting on
table saws. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations at all times too avoid overheating the saw blade tips as well as
melting the plastic. Avoid overheating blade tips by pushing material through blade evenly. Forcing material to fast can
cause heating and damage to blade or workpiece. If cutting plastics is permitted, cut at a slower pace to avoid melting the
plastic.
3. Kickback causes and related warnings
Kickback is a sudden reaction of the workpiece due to a pinched, jammed saw blade or misaligned line of cut in the workpiece
with respect to the saw blade or when a part of the workpiece binds between the saw blade and the rip fence or other xed
object.
a. Most frequently during kickback, the workpiece is lifted from the table by the rear portion of the saw blade and
is propelled towards 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.
b. Never stand directly in line with the saw blade. Always position your body on the same side of the saw blade as
the fence. Kickback may propel the workpiece at high velocity towards anyone standing in front and in line with the saw
blade.
c. Never reach over or in back of the saw blade to pull or to support the workpiece. Accidental contact with the
saw blade may occur or kickback may drag your ngers into the saw blade.
d. Never hold and press the workpiece that is being cut o against the rotating saw blade. Pressing the
workpiece being cut o against the saw blade will create a binding condition and kickback.
e. Align the fence to be parallel with the saw blade. A misaligned fence will pinch the workpiece against the saw blade
and create kickback.
f. Use a featherboard to guide the workpiece against the table and fence when making non-through cuts such
as rabbeting, or resawing cuts. A featherboard helps to control the workpiece in the event of a kickback.
g. Use extra caution when making a cut into blind areas of assembled workpieces. The protruding saw blade may
cut objects that can cause kickback.
h. Support large panels to minimise the risk of saw blade pinching and kickback. Large panels tend to sag under
their own weight. Support(s) must be placed under all portions of the panel overhanging the table top.
i. Use extra caution when cutting a workpiece that is twisted, knotted, warped or does not have a straight
edge to guide it with a mitre gauge or along the fence. A warped, knotted, or twisted workpiece is unstable and
causes misalignment of the kerf with the saw blade, binding and kickback.
j. Never cut more than one workpiece, stacked vertically or horizontally. The saw blade could pick up one or more
pieces and cause kickback.
k. When restarting the saw with the saw blade in the workpiece, centre the saw blade in the kerf so that the
saw teeth are not engaged in the material. If the saw blade binds, it may lift up the workpiece and cause kickback
when the saw is restarted.
l. Keep saw blades clean, sharp, and with sucient set. Never use warped saw blades or saw blades with cracked or
broken teeth. Sharp and properly set saw blades minimize binding, stalling and kickback.
4. Table saw operating procedure warnings
a. Turn o the table saw and disconnect the power cord when removing the table insert, changing the saw
blade or making adjustments to the riving knife, anti-kickback device or saw blade guard, and when the
machine is left unattended. Precautionary measures will avoid accidents.
b. Never leave the table saw running unattended. Turn it o and don’t leave the tool until it comes to a complete stop.
An unattended running saw is an uncontrolled hazard.
c. Locate the table saw in a well-lit and level area where you can maintain good footing and balance. It should
be installed in an area that provides enough room to easily handle the size of your workpiece. Cramped, dark areas, and
uneven slippery oors invite accidents.
d. Frequently clean and remove sawdust from under the saw table and/or the dust collection device.
Accumulated sawdust is combustible and may self-ignite.
e. The table saw must be secured. A table saw that is not properly secured may move or tip over.
f. Remove tools, wood scraps, etc. from the table before the table saw is turned on. Distraction or a potential jam
can be dangerous.
g. Always use saw blades with correct size and shape (diamond versus round) of arbor holes. Saw blades that
do not match the mounting hardware of the saw will run o-center, causing loss of control.
h. Never use damaged or incorrect saw blade mounting means such as anges, saw blade washers, bolts or
nuts. These mounting means were specially designed for your saw, for safe operation and optimum performance.
i. Never stand on the table saw, do not use it as a stepping stool. Serious injury could occur if the tool is tipped or if
the cutting tool is accidentally contacted.
j. Make sure that the saw blade is installed to rotate in the proper direction. Do not use grinding wheels, wire
brushes, or abrasive wheels on a table saw. Improper saw blade installation or use of accessories not recommended may
cause serious injury.
k. DO NOT REMOVE A WORKPIECE that is damaged or jammed without rst turning o the saw and unplugging it from
the power source. 7

PROPOSITION 65 WARNING:
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Refer to them often and use them to instruct others. • If tool is loaned to someone, also loan them these instructions.
Dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities may contain chemicals
known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples are:
• Lead from lead-based paints
• Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products
• Asbestos dust
• 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 dust masks that are specically designed to lter 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.
Kickback Pawls MUST be removed and riving knife lowered to the
non-through cut position marked on the Riving Knife.
Use all components of the Guarding System (Blade Guard
Assembly, Riving Knife and Anti-Kickback Pawls) for every
operation for which they can be used including all through
cutting. If you elect not to use any of these components for
a particular application, exercise additional caution regarding
control of the workpiece, the use of Push Sticks, the position of
your hands relative to the Blade, the use of safety glasses, the
means to avoid kickback and all other warnings contained in this
manual and on the saw itself. Replace the Guarding Systems as
soon as you return to through cutting operations. Keep the Guard
Assembly in working order.
SAW BLADE GUARD, ANTI-KICKBACK PAWLS AND RIVING KNIFE
ASSEMBLY
Your Table Saw is equipped with a Blade Guard, Anti-Kickback
Pawls and Riving Knife Assembly that covers the Blade and
reduces the possibility of accidental Blade contact.
The Riving Knife is a flat plate that fits into the cut made by
the Saw Blade and effectively fights kickback by lessening the
tendency of the Blade to bind in the cut.
Two Anti-Kickback Pawls are located on the sides of the Riving
Knife that allow the wood to pass through the Blade in the cutting
direction but reduce the possibility of the material being thrown
backwards toward the operator.
The Blade Guard and Anti-Kickback Pawls can ONLY be used
when making through cuts that sever the wood. When making
rabbets and other non-through cuts, the Blade Guard and Anti-
TABLE SAW SAFETY RULES
KICKBACKS
Kickbacks can cause serious injury. A kickback occurs when a part
of the workpiece binds between the saw blade and the rip fence,
or other fixed object, and rises from the table and is thrown
toward the operator. Kickbacks can be avoided by attention to the
following conditions.
HOW TO REDUCE THE RISK OF KICKBACKS AND PROTECT
YOURSELF FROM POSSIBLE INJURY:
Be certain that the rip fence is parallel to the saw blade.
DO NOT rip by applying the feed force to the section of the
workpiece that will become the cut-off (free) piece. Feed force
when ripping should ALWAYS be applied between the saw
blade and the fence; use a push stick for narrow work, 6 inches
(152mm) wide or less.
Keep saw blade guard, riving knife and anti-kickback assembly
in place and operating properly. The riving knife MUST be in
alignment with the saw blade and the anti-kickback assembly
MUST stop a kickback once it has started. Check their action
before ripping by pushing the wood under the anti-kickback
assembly. The teeth MUST prevent the wood from being pulled
toward the front of the saw. If any part of assembly is not
operational, return to the nearest authorized service center for
repair.
Plastic and composite materials (like hardboard) may be cut
on your saw. However, since these are usually quite hard and
slippery, the anti-kickback pawls may not stop a kickback.
Therefore, be especially attentive to following proper set up and
cutting procedures for ripping.
Use saw blade guard, anti-kickback pawls, and riving knife
assembly for every possible operation, including all through-cut
sawing.
Push the workpiece past the saw blade prior to releasing control.
NEVER rip a workpiece that is twisted or warped, or does not
have a straight edge to guide along the fence.
NEVER saw a large workpiece that cannot be controlled.
NEVER use the fence as a guide or length stop when
crosscutting.
NEVER saw a workpiece with loose knots, flaws, nails or other
foreign objects.
NEVER rip a workpiece shorter than 10 inches (254mm).
NEVER use a dull blade. A dull blade should be replaced or
re-sharpened.
89

POWER CONNECTIONS
POWER SOURCE
This saw is equipped with a 15-amp motor for use with a 120-
volt, 60-HZ alternating current.
For voltage, the wiring in a shop is as important as the motor’s
rating. A line intended only for lights may not be able to properly
carry the current needed for a power tool motor; wire that is
heavy enough for a short distance may be too light for a greater
distance; and a line that can support one power tool may not be
able to support two or three. A separate electrical circuit should
be used for your machines. This circuit should not be less than
#12 wire and should be protected with a 20-amp time lag fuse
and/or circuit breaker. If an extension cord is used, use only
3-wire extension cords which have 3-prong grounding-type
plugs and matching receptacle which will accept the machine’s
plug. Before connecting the machine to the power line, make
sure the switch(es) is in the “OFF” position and be sure that the
electric current is of the same characteristics as indicated on the
machine. A substantial voltage drop will cause a loss of power
and overheat the motor. It may also damage the machine.
DO NOT EXPOSE THE MACHINE TO RAIN OR OPERATE THE MACHINE IN DAMP LOCATIONS.
EXTENSION CORDS
** Ampere rating (on tool data label)
12A- 16A
Cord Length Wire Size
25' 14 AWG
50' 12 AWG
** Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge
KEEP the extension cord clear of the work area. Position the cord so it will not get caught on lumber, tools or other
obstructions
• Use proper extension cords. Make sure your extension cord is a 3-wire extension cord which has a 3-prong grounding type plug and
matching receptacle which will accept the machine’s plug. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry
the current of the machine. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in loss of power and overheating. The
table below shows the maximum gauge to use depending on the cord length. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller
the gauge number, the heavier the cord. ONLY round, jacketed cords listed by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) should be used.
NEVER use a damaged extension cord. Check extension cords before each use. If damaged, replace immediately.
Touching the damaged area could cause electrical shock resulting in serious injury.
• Prior to tool assembly and use, read this manual thoroughly
to familiarize yourself with proper assembly, maintenance and
safety procedures.
Check shipping carton and machine for damage before unpacking.
Carefully remove components in top foam layer. Remove the top
layer of foam then remove all components in the bottom layer of
foam. Lay out all parts on a piece of cardboard or other clean,
flat surface. Two or more people are needed to lift the saw out of
the carton. ALWAYS check for and remove protective shipping
materials around motors and moving parts. DO NOT discard
shipping carton and packing materials until you have carefully
inspected the contents, assembled the machine and are satisfied
that it operates correctly.
Compare package contents to Component Parts List and
Hardware Package List prior to assembly to make sure all items
are present. Carefully inspect parts to make sure no damage
occurred during shipping. If any parts are missing, damaged or
pre-assembled, do not assemble. Instead, call RIDGID® Customer
Service at (toll free) 1-888-359-4778.
After assembly remove any protective materials and coatings from
all of the parts and the table saw. The protective coatings can be
removed by spraying WD-40®on them and wiping them off with a
soft cloth. This may need to be redone several times before all of
the protective coatings are removed completely.
UNPACKING
9

UNPACKING
PACKAGE CONTENTS
Saw Body
Fence
10 inch Carbide Tipped Blade
Miter Gauge
Blade Guard Assembly
Anti-Kickback Pawls
Throat Plate
Open End Blade Wrench
Closed End Blade Wrench
Push Stick
Stand Part 1
Stand Part 2
Stand Legs
PC1
PC1
PC2
PC2
PC3
PC3
PC4
PC4
PC5
PC5
PC6
PC6
PC7
PC7
PC8
PC8
PC9
PC9
PC10
PC13
PC12
PC11
PC10
PC11 PC12 PC13
10 11

M8 x 30mm (1 3/16 inch) Carriage Bolt (8)
Flat Washer 8mm x 14mm x 1.5T (4)
M8 Plastic Spacer (2)
M8 x 65mm Hex Socket Head Screw (2)
M8 Lock Nut (10)
M8 x 55L Pan Head Hex Socket Screw (4)
HARDWARE BAG CONTENTS
UNPACKING
HP6
HP6
HP5
HP5
HP4
HP4
HP3
HP3
HP2
HP2
HP1
HP1
006511
005733
006510
005733
006510
007085
Stand Part 1
Stand Part 2
Stand Legs
Wheel Handle Shoulder Screw (1)
Height Adjustment Wheel Knob
Combination 4mm Allen Wrench /Phillips
Screwdriver (1)
HP9
HP9
HP8
HP8
HP7
HP7
003640 006459 004306
11

UNPACKING
Tools needed for assembly or adjustments.
Straight Edge Combination Square
3mm Hex Wrench 13mm Combination Wrench5mm Hex Wrench
12 13

1. Assemble Stand Part 2 PC12 through Stand Part 1 PC11 that
has the cross support as shown in Figure 1.
ASSEMBLY
When lifting saw, hold it close to your body. Keep knees bent and lift with your legs, not your back. Fully assemble
Saw with Stand Assembly prior to use. Stand Assembly is an integral and necessary part of the support structure for
this Saw. DO NOT attempt to substitute a table or other surface for the Stand Assembly. DO NOT modify saw, or create accessories not
recommended for use with this Saw. DO NOT connect to power supply until assembly is complete. Make sure power switch is in “OFF”
position before connecting to power supply. Avoid contact with Blade Teeth. Keep Blade stored or lowered when possible.
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 2
CORRECT
HOLES FACING UP
INCORRECT
FIGURE 3
HP9
FIGURE 1
HP5 HP1
HP5
HP4
HP3
HP2
HP2
2. Secure Stand Assembly with M8 x 65mm Hex Socket Head
Screw HP4 , M8 Plastic Spacer HP3 , 2 Flat Washer 8mm x
14mm x 1.5T HP2 , and M8 Lock Nut HP5 . See Figure 2.
3. All four holes should face up to mount saw body. See
Figure 3 for correct stand parts setup.
NOTE: M8 Plastic Spacer H P3 is between Stand Part PC11 and PC12 .
4. Turn stand upside down to attach legs. With assembled
stand open, attach legs PC13 to the stand using (8) M8 x
30mm (1 3/16 inch) Carriage Bolts HP1 and (8) M8 lock
nuts HP5 . Tighten lock nuts to secure legs to stand Figure
4, using 13mm (1/2 inch) wrench.
NOTE: Do not over tighten lock nuts.
See nished assembly of stand in Figure 4.
ASSEMBLING THE STAND
PC13
PC12
PC12
PC12
PC11
PC11
PC11
13

ASSEMBLY
ATTACHING STAND TO SAW
1. Place Saw Body PC1 on Stand Assembly, while aligning the
screw holes in the Saw Stand with the threaded holes in
the Saw Base. See Figure 5.
2. Tighten Hex Cap Screws, with supplied Combination 4mm
Allen Wrench HP8 to secure Stand Assembly to Saw.
NOTE: DO NOT over tighten.
Hex wrench storage provided on saw near fence storage bracket.
FIGURE 5
PC1
14 15

ASSEMBLY
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB
INSTALLATION
1. Insert Wheel Handle Shoulder Screw HP7 into Height
Adjustment Wheel Knob HP8 as shown in Figure 6.
2. Tighten Shoulder Screw with Phillips Screw Driver into the
Hand Wheel. Height adjustment Wheel Knob should rotate
freely around Shoulder Screw when raising or lowering the
Blade with the Height Adjustment Hand Wheel.
After installing Height Adjustment Knob as shown in Figure 6,
1. Raise Motor/Arbor Assembly to the upper most position to
provide easy access to Riving Knife Lock Lever and Arbor
Assembly.
2. Ensure Riving Knife Lock Lever is in unlock position. See
Figure 7.
3. Detach the On-Board Wrenches located on the Right
Side of the Saw behind blade guard storage in Figure 19
Qby loosening and removing M8 Wing Nut.
4. Place the Open-Ended Wrench PC9 on the Spindle Shaft
between the motor housing and the Inner Blade Washer.
Place the Closed End Wrench PC8 over the Arbor Nut.
5. Holding the Spindle Shaft in place, loosen and remove the
Arbor Nut and Arbor Flange Washer. See Figure 7. Only
use 10 inch blades designed for wood cutting.
NOTE: Use only 10 inch (254mm) diameter Blades with 5/8 inch
(16mm) arbor holes, rated at 5,000 rpm or higher, 0.10 inch
(2.6mm) min. kerf width and 0.073 inches (1.85mm) max body
thickness. Only use 10 inch blades designed for woodcutting.
6. Place Blade PC3 on the Arbor Shaft Bwith the teeth on
the Blade pointing toward the front of the saw. Place
Outer-Blade Washer Aon the Arbor Shaft with the large
side of the Washer against the Blade, then secure Blade
Assembly with Nut. See Figure 8.
7. Tighten Nut with Blade Wrenches PC8 and PC9 . Open End
Wrench will fit on the Arbor Shaft between the Inner
Flange Washer Dand the Motor Assembly (if necessary,
turn Arbor Shaft to align Flats on the Arbor Shaft to the
Wrench). Closed End Wrench will t on the Nut. See Figure
9.
8. Return Wrenches PC8 and PC9 to On-Board Storage
location. Position the Riving Knife in the through cut
position prior to installation of Throat Plate.
Details for positioning the Riving Knife are on page 26 RIVING
KNIFE POSITION AND ALIGNMENT.
Also refer to Figure 10.
UNLOCK
POSITION
FIGURE 7
FIGURE 6
FIGURE 8
FIGURE 9
HP8
HP7
PC8
PC9
INSTALLING THE BLADE
TOOTH
DIRECTION
FRONT
OF SAW
PC3
A
C
B
D
PC8
PC9
15

ASSEMBLY
To reduce the risk of serious injury:
1. The Riving Knife must be installed for every through cut
and for every non-through cut unless the Riving Knife A
would interfere with the cut.
2. The Riving Knife provided with the Table Saw shall be
thicker than the body of the matching Saw Blade provided
with the Table Saw but thinner than the kerf width of that
Saw Blade.
3. ALWAYS use a Blade with the correct thickness to match
the Riving Knife. (0.10 inch (2.6mm) min. kerf width and
0.073 inch (1.85mm) max body thickness).
4. The Riving Knife must be securely positioned in the “up” or
“through cut” position when using the Anti-Kickback Pawls
and Blade Guard Assembly.
5. Make sure the Riving Knife is properly aligned to the Blade.
See RIVING KNIFE POSITION AND ALIGNMENT,
Page 26.
FIGURE 11
FIGURE 12
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
PC7
PC7
THROUGH CUT
POSITION
LOCKLOCK
POSITIONPOSITION
FIGURE 10
A
THROAT PLATE
1. To install Throat Plate PC15 , lower Blade below Tabletop,
then carefully feed the Throat Plate, slotted end rst, from
the rear of the Table to the front, keeping the Blade
centered within the slot on the Throat Plate. See Figure 11.
The Throat Plate should rest within the cavity in the
Tabletop.
2. Ensure that the Throat Plate is ush with the top of the
Table.
3. If the Throat Plate is not ush with the Tabletop, adjust the
height of the Throat Plate using the four Set Screws A.
NOTE: For leveling the throat plate see page 20.
4. To remove Throat Plate, lower Blade below Tabletop, then
carefully slide the throat plate out from the front of the
table to the rear, using the cutout on Figure 12.
NOTE: If Throat Plate is not ush with the Table Top the Anti-
Kickback Pawls can interfere with the Blade adjustment.
16 17

ASSEMBLY
FIGURE 13
ANTI-KICKBACK PAWLS AND BLADE GUARD
ANTI-KICKBACK PAWLS
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury,
Anti-Kickback Pawls PC6 must be in place when making a through
cut.
1. Refer to Figure 13 and locate the Anti-Kickback Pawls
Mounting Slot in the middle of the top edge of the Riving
Knife A.
2. Slide slot in the middle of the Anti-Kickback Pawls
Assembly PC6 along the top of the Riving Knife Auntil
the Press Pin Blocates the center slot on the Riving
Knife A.
3. Depress the Press Pin Bon the Anti-Kickback Pawls
Assembly PC6 to allow the Assembly to drop into the slot.
Push down on the Anti-Kickback Pawls Assembly PC6 until
it snaps into place and locks. Release Push Pin B. NOTE:
Pull up on the Anti-Kickback Pawls PC6 to make sure it is
locked in place.
4. To remove the Anti-Kickback Pawls PC6 , depress the Press
Pin Band pull the Anti-Kickback Pawls Assembly PC6 o 
the Riving Knife A.
FIGURE 15
PC6
A
B
FIGURE 14
PC5
BLADE GUARD
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, the
Blade Guard MUST be in place when making a
through cut.
1. While holding the Blade Guard Assembly PC5 in a vertical
position, hook the Locating Pin at the back end of the
Blade Guard Assembly into the slot at the back edge of the
Riving Knife.
2. Rotate the Blade Guard Assembly toward the front of the
Saw until the support arms of the Blade Guard Assembly
are parallel to the Table as shown in Figure 14.
3. While holding down on the front of the support arms B
of the Guard press the Blade Guard Lock Tab Adown
until it snaps into the locked position. Check to make sure
the Guard is locked onto the Riving Knife by pulling on the
Guard. If the Guard is not locked, the Blade Guard Lock
Tab A will ip up to the unlocked position.
If the Support Arm Bof the Blade Guard
Assembly is not parallel to the Table, the Riving Knife is not in the
raised position. Remove Blade Guard Assembly and Anti-Kickback
pawls and raise Riving Knife, then reinstall the Anti-Kickback
pawls and the Blade Guard Assembly.
If Blade Guard is not parallel to Table, Riving Knife is not in raised
(through cut) position. Raise and lower each side of the Blade
Guard to verify free movement of the Guard System. Be sure the
Guard System can be raised enough to clear your workpiece.
NOTE: Blade alignment with Riving Knife can be adjusted. See:
RIVING KNIFE POSITION AND ALIGNMENT,page 26. Check
the Blade Guard for clearances and free movement.
17

ASSEMBLY
FIGURE 17
INSTALLING THE FENCE
The fence can be positioned on one of the three pairs of tabs.
Two on the right side of the blade and one on the left side.
1. Hold fence perpendicular to the table.
2. Starting with the rear of the fence, engage the rear notch
on the rear tab.
3. Lower the front notch onto the corresponding front tab.
4. Press in on the lock lever to lock fence in place.
See Figure 17.
REMOVING THE FENCE
1. Release the lock lever to unlock the fence.
2. Disengage the front tab and remove the fence from the
front to the rear.
See Figure 18.
FIGURE 18
To remove the Blade Guard Assembly:
1. Lift the Blade Guard Assembly Lock Tab Ato the
unlocked position as seen in Figure 16.
2. Rotate the Guard back and slide the Pin from the Riving
Knife slot.
FIGURE 16
A
B
18 19

ASSEMBLY
FIGURE 19
FIGURE 20
ON-BOARD STORAGE
Storage is located on the left side and right side of the Tool as shown in Figures 19 & 20.
Right Side Storage Figure 20:
Blade Wrenches
Riving Knife (with Blade
Wrenches)
Blade Guard Assembly
Anti-Kickback Pawls
(Behind Blade Guard Assembly)
Left Side Storage Figure 19:
Rip Fence
Push stick
Miter Gauge
PC2
PC4 PC5
PC6
Q
S
PC10
PC2
PC5
Q
S
PC10
PC4
LEVELING THE THROAT PLATE
To install throat plate PC7 , slip tab into slot at back of saw and push
down the front of the throat plate to secure in place. See Figure 21.
NOTE: There are four screws pre-assembled to the throat plate
that are used for leveling the throat plate if necessary. Turn
screws clockwise to raise the throat plate, counter clockwise to
lower. Throat Plate should not be above the table or more than
1/32 inch (0.7mm) below the table on infeed side. On outfeed
side plate should be below the table or no more than 1/32 inch
(0.7mm) above the table.
FIGURE 21
Leveling screwsLeveling screws
(4)(4)
PC7
PC6
19

MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
FIGURE 22
FIGURE 23
ADJUSTING BLADE PARALLEL TO
MITER GAUGE GROOVE (HEEL)
• Blade Amust be parallel to miter gauge groove so that
wood does not bind, resulting in kickback. Failure to do so
could result in serious personal injury.
• To reduce risk of injury from kickback, align rip fence to blade
Afollowing any blade adjustments.
DO NOT loosen any screws for this adjustment until alignment has
been checked with a square to be sure adjustments are necessary.
Once screws are loosened, items MUST be reset.
NOTE: Unplug saw. Remove blade guard and anti-kickback pawls.
Raise the blade A to maximum height by turning height adjusting
wheel.
1. Mark beside one of blade teeth at front of blade A
(Figure 22). Place a combination square even with front of
saw table and side of saw blade Aas shown.
2. Turn blade Aso that marked tooth (1) is at back. Move
combination square to the rear and again measure the
distance (2). If the distances are the same, blade Ais
parallel.
If the distances are di󰀨erent:
3. Loosen the front trunnion bolts using a 5mm Hex Wrench,
found below the table top. See Figure 24.
4. Loosen the rear trunnion bolts using a 5mm Hex Wrench,
found below the table top. See Figure 25.
1
11
2
2
A
A
FIGURE 25
FIGURE 24
20 21