Ryobi SC155VS User manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
16 in. (406 mm) Scroll Saw
Model SC155VS
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
THANK YOU FOR BUYING A RYOBI SCROLL SAW.
Your new scroll saw has been engineered and manufactured to Ryobi's high standard for dependability, ease of operation,
and operator safety. Properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.
CAUTION: Carefully read through this entire operator's manual before using your new scroll saw.
Pay close attention to the Rules for Safe Operation, Warnings, and Cautions. If you use your scroll saw properly and only
for what it is intended, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.
Please fill out and return the Warranty Registration Card so that we can be of future service to you.
Thank you again for buying Ryobi tools.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Throat 16 in. (406 mm)
Blade Length 5 in. (127 mm) plain or pin
Motor Rating 120 volts, 60 Hz, AC
No Load Speed 400 – 1550 Strokes Per Minute
Amperes 1.2 Amperes
Net Weight 32 lbs. (14 kg.)
45˚
30˚
15˚

Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
■Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................................ 2
■Introduction.................................................................................................................................................................. 2
■Rules For Safe Operation ......................................................................................................................................3 - 5
■Electrical...................................................................................................................................................................... 6
■Glossary and Product Specifications .......................................................................................................................... 7
■Unpacking and Tools Needed..................................................................................................................................... 8
■Features ................................................................................................................................................................. 9-10
■Assembly ..............................................................................................................................................................10-11
■Adjustments..........................................................................................................................................................11-14
■Operation..............................................................................................................................................................15-18
■Maintenance......................................................................................................................................................... 18-19
■Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................................................... 19
■Exploded View and Repair Parts List................................................................................................................... 20-23
■Parts Ordering / Service............................................................................................................................................ 24
Your saw has many features for making cutting operations
more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance and
dependability have been given top priority in the design of
this saw making it easy to maintain and operate.
CAUTION:
Carefully read through this entire operator's manual
before using your new saw. Pay close attention to the
Rules For Safe Operation, and all Safety Alert Symbols
including Danger, Warning and Caution. If you use your
saw properly and only for what it is intended, you will
enjoy years of safe, reliable service.
Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means attention!!! Your safety
is involved.
WARNING:
GLASSES
SAFETY
WEAR YOUR
FORESIGHT IS BETTER
THAN NO SIGHT
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which
can result in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool 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,
available at your local Ryobi dealer.
INTRODUCTION

Page 3
IMPORTANT
Servicingrequiresextremecareandknowledgeofthe systemandshould beperformedonly byaqualified servicetechnician.
For service we suggest you return the tool to your nearest Ryobi Authorized Service Center. When servicing always use
identical Ryobi replacement parts.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to operate this tool until you have read
thoroughly and understand completely all instructions,
safety rules, etc. contained in this manual. Failure to
comply can result in accidents involving fire, electric
shock,orseriouspersonalinjury.Saveoperator'smanual
and review frequently for continuing safe operation, and
instructing others who may use this tool.
WARNING:
Donotconnectyourscrollsawtoapowersourceuntilyou
have assembled and adjusted the saw as described in
thismanualandhavereadandunderstoodallprecautions
and operating instructions in the manual and printed on
the tool.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
■KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read the operator's
manualcarefully.Learnthesaw'sapplicationsandlimita-
tions as well as the specific potential hazards related to
this tool.
■GUARD AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK BY PRE-
VENTING BODY CONTACT WITH GROUNDED SUR-
FACES.Forexample;pipes,radiators,ranges,refrigera-
tor enclosures.
■KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and in good working order.
■REMOVEADJUSTINGKEYSANDWRENCHES.Getin
the habit of checking to see that hex keys and adjusting
wrenches are removed from tool before turning on the
saw.
■KEEP THE WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered workareas
and work benches invite accidents. DO NOT leave tools
or pieces of wood on the saw while it is in operation.
■DO NOT USE IN DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS. Do
not use power tools near gasoline or other flammable
liquids, in damp or wet locations, or expose them to rain.
Keep the work area well lit.
■KEEP CHILDREN AND VISITORS AWAY. All visitors
should wear safety glasses and be kept a safe distance
from work area. Do not let visitors contact tool or exten-
sion cord while operating.
■MAKE WORKSHOP CHILD-PROOF with padlocks and
master switches or by removing starter keys.
■DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL. It will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.
■USE THE RIGHT TOOL. Do not force the tool or attach-
ment to do a job it was not designed for. Don't use it for a
purpose not intended.
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
themselveseliminateanydanger.Theinstructionsor warnings they giveare not substitutesfor proper accident
prevention measures.
SYMBOL MEANING
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL:
Indicates danger, warning or caution. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
DANGER:Failure toobey asafety warningwill resultin seriousinjury toyourself orto others.Alwaysfollow
the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.
WARNING:Failuretoobeyasafetywarningcanresultinseriousinjurytoyourselfortoothers.Alwaysfollow
the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.
CAUTION:Failure to obey a safety warning may result in property damage or personal injury to yourself or
to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.
Note: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

Page 4
■USE THE PROPER EXTENSION CORD. Make sure
your extension cord is in good condition. When using an
extensioncord,besuretouseoneheavyenoughtocarry
thecurrentyourproductwilldraw.Anundersizedcordwill
causea dropinlinevoltageresultinginloss ofpower and
overheating. A wire gage size (A.W.G.) of at least 16 is
recommended for an extension cord 100 feet or less in
length.Ifindoubt,usethenextheaviergage.Thesmaller
the gage number, the heavier the cord.
■INSPECT EXTENSION CORDS PERIODICALLY and
replace if damaged.
■DRESSPROPERLY.Donotwearlooseclothing,gloves,
neckties, rings, bracelets, or other jewelry. They can get
caught and draw you into moving parts. Rubber gloves
and nonslip footwear are recommended. Also wear pro-
tective hair covering to contain long hair.
■ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WITH SIDE
SHIELDS.Everyday eyeglasseshave onlyimpact-resis-
tant lenses; they are NOT safety glasses.
■PROTECT YOUR LUNGS. Wear a face or dust mask if
the cutting operation is dusty.
■PROTECT YOUR HEARING. Wear hearing protection
during extended periods of operation.
■SECUREWORK.Useclampsoravisetoholdworkwhen
practical. It's safer than using your hand and it frees both
hands to operate tool.
■DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and bal-
ance at all times.
■MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools sharp and
clean for better and safer performance. Follow instruc-
tions for lubricating and changing accessories.
■DISCONNECT ALL TOOLS. When not in use, before
servicing, or when changing attachments, blades, bits,
cutters,etc.,alltoolsshould bedisconnectedfrompower
supply.
■AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Be sure switch is off
when plugging in.
■USE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES. The use of
improper accessories may cause risk of injury.
■NEVER STAND ON TOOL. Serious injury could occur if
the tool is tipped or if the blade is unintentionally con-
tacted.
■CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before further use of the
tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be
carefullycheckedtodeterminethatitwilloperateproperly
andperform itsintendedfunction.Checkforalignmentof
movingparts,bindingofmovingparts,breakageofparts,
sawstability,mountingandanyotherconditionsthatmay
affectitsoperation.Aguard orotherpartthatisdamaged
must be properly repaired or replaced by a qualified
service technician at an authorized service center to
avoid risk of personal injury.
■DIRECTION OF FEED. Feed workinto bladeagainstthe
cutting portion of the blade only.
■NEVERLEAVETOOLRUNNINGUNATTENDED.TURN
THE POWER OFF. Do not leave tool until it comes to a
complete stop.
■USE ONLY CORRECT BLADES. Use the right blade
size,style andcutting speedfor thematerial andthetype
of cut. Blade teeth should point down toward the table.
Sharp blades minimize stalling and kickback. Correctly
adjust blade tension.
■TO PROTECT THE OPERATOR and minimize blade
breakage, ALWAYS adjust the hold down foot to apply
light pressure to the workpiece. Never operate the saw
with any guard or cover removed. Make sure all guards
are operating properly before each use.
■KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM CUTTING AREA. Do not
hand hold pieces so small that your fingers go under the
blade guard. Never reach underneath work or behind,
under, or within three inches of the blade and its cutting
path with your hands and fingers for any reason. Do not
attempt to remove cut material when blade is moving.
WARNING: Blades coast after turn off.
■AVOID PINCHING THE BLADE. Be cautious when cut-
ting off material which is irregular in cross section. For
example, molding must lay flat on the table and not be
permitted to rock.
■DO NOT ABUSE CORD. Neveryank cordtodisconnect
it from receptacle. Keep cord from heat, oil, and sharp
edges.
■INSPECT TOOL CORDS PERIODICALLY and if dam-
aged, have repaired by a qualified service technician at
an authorized service center. Stay constantly aware of
cord location and keep it well away from the blade.
■DO NOT USE TOOL IF SWITCH DOES NOT TURN IT
ON AND OFF. Have defective switches replaced by a
qualified service technician at an authorized service
center.
■KEEPTOOLDRY,CLEAN,ANDFREEFROMOILAND
GREASE. Always use a clean cloth when cleaning.
Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based prod-
ucts, or any solvents to clean tool.
■A LARGE PIECE OF MATERIAL SHOULD BE SUP-
PORTEDwhilecutting.Tominimizeriskofbladepinching
andkickback,alwayssupportlongworkpieces.Sawmay
slip, walk or slide while cutting long or heavy boards.
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

Page 5
■BEFORE MAKING A CUT, BE SURE ALL ADJUST-
MENTS ARE SECURE.
■BEFORE CHANGING THE SETUP, REMOVING COV-
ERS, GUARDS OR BLADE, UNPLUG THE SAW.
■DO NOT FEED THE MATERIAL TOO QUICKLY while
cutting. Do not force the workpiece against the blade.
■NEVER CUT MORE THAN ONE WORKPIECE AT A
TIME. If making a stacked cut, all of the pieces must be
secured to each other with masking tape or double stick
tape to make one workpiece. Do not put more than one
workpiece on the saw table at a time. Always hold the
work firmly against the table. See page 17.
■AVOIDCUTTINGNAILS.Inspectforandremoveallnails
from lumber before cutting.
■NEVER PERFORM LAYOUT, ASSEMBLY, OR SETUP
WORK ON THE TABLE while the cutting tool is operat-
ing.
■NEVER TOUCH BLADE or other moving parts during
use.
■NEVER START A TOOL WHEN THE BLADE IS IN
CONTACT WITH THE WORKPIECE. Clear the table of
debris before turning your scroll saw on.
■ALLOW THE MOTOR TO COME UP TO FULL SPEED
before starting a cut.
■FIRMLY CLAMP OR BOLT your scroll saw to a stable,
level workbench or table. The most comfortable table
height is at approximately waist height.
■AVOID AWKWARD OPERATIONS AND HAND POSI-
TIONS where a sudden slip could cause your hand to
moveintotheblade.ALWAYSmakesureyouhavegood
balance. Do not cut pieces of material that are too small
to hold comfortably in your hand.
■REPLACEMENT PARTS. All repairs, whether electrical
or mechanical, should be made by qualified service
technician at a authorized service center.
WARNING:
Whenservicinguse onlyidentical Ryobireplacement
parts. Use of any other parts may create a hazard or
cause product damage.
■NEVER USE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE. Nor-
mal sparking of the motor could ignite fumes.
■DO NOT OPERATE THIS TOOL WHILE UNDER THE
INFLUENCE OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL, OR ANY MEDI-
CATION.
■STAY ALERT AND EXERCISE CONTROL. Watchwhat
you are doing and use common sense. Do not operate
tool when you are tired. Do not rush.
■MAKE SURE THE WORK AREA HAS AMPLE LIGHT-
INGtoseethe workandthatnoobstructionswillinterfere
with safe operation BEFORE performing any work using
your saw.
■ALWAYS TURN OFF SAW before disconnecting it to
avoid accidental starting when reconnecting to power
supply. NEVER leave the scroll saw unattended while
connected to a power source.
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with your saw to make you
careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a
second is sufficient to inflict severe injury.
■SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS.Refertothemfrequently
and use to instruct other users. If you loan someone this
tool, loan them these instructions also.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

Page 6
EXTENSION CORDS
Use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong ground-
ing plugs and 3-pole receptacles that accept the tool's plug.
Whenusingapowertoolataconsiderabledistancefromthe
powersource,use anextensioncord heavyenough to carry
the current that the tool will draw. An undersized extension
cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in a loss of
power and causing the motor to overheat. Use the chart
providedbelowtodeterminetheminimumwiresizerequired
in an extension cord. Only round jacketed cords listed by
Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) should be used.
Length of Extension Cord Wire Size (A.W.G.)
Up to 100 feet 16
Whenworkingwith the tool outdoors,usean extension cord
that is designed for outside use. This is indicated by the
letters WA on the cord's jacket.
Before using an extension cord, inspect it for loose or
exposed wires and cut or worn insulation.
CAUTION:
Keepthecordawayfromthecuttingareaandpositionthe
cordsothat itwill notbecaught onlumber, tools,orother
objects during cutting.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
Your Scroll Saw is powered by a precision built electric
motor.Itshouldbeconnectedtoapowersupplythatis120
volts,60 Hz, AConly(normal household current).Donot
operatethistoolondirectcurrent(DC).Asubstantialvoltage
drop will cause a loss of power and the motor will overheat.
If the saw does not operate when plugged into an outlet,
double check the power supply.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding
provides a path of least resistance for electric current to
reducetheriskofelectricshock.Thistoolisequippedwithan
electriccord havinganequipment-grounding conductorand
agrounding plug.Theplug mustbe pluggedinto amatching
outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance
with all local codes and ordinances.
Donotmodifytheplugprovided.Ifitwillnotfittheoutlet,have
theproperoutletinstalledbyaqualifiedelectrician.Improper
connectionoftheequipment-groundingconductorcanresult
in a risk of electric shock. The conductor with insulation
having an outer surface that is green with or without yellow
stripes is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair or
replacement of the electric cord or plug is necessary, do not
connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a live termi-
nal.
Check with a qualified electrician or service personnel if the
groundinginstructionsarenotcompletelyunderstood,orifin
doubt as to whether the tool is properly grounded.
Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.
Thistoolisintendedforuseonacircuitthathasanoutletlike
theoneshownin Figure1. Italsohasagroundingpinlikethe
one shown.
ELECTRICAL
Fig. 1
GROUNDING
PIN
COVER OF GROUNDED
OUTLET BOX

Page 7
Bevel Cut
A cutting operation made with the table at any angle other
than 90˚ to the blade.
Crosscut
A cutting or shaping operation made across the grain of the
workpiece.
Compound Cut
A compound cut is a cut made using a miter angle and a
bevel angle at the same time.
Freehand (for scroll saw)
Performing a cut without the workpiece being guided by a
fence or miter gage. Work must be supported by the table.
Gum
A sticky, sap based residue from wood products.
Kerf
Thematerialremovedbythebladeinathroughcutortheslot
produced by the blade in a nonthrough or partial cut.
Leading End
The end of the workpiece pushed into the cutting tool first.
Miter Cut
A cutting operation made with the workpiece at any angle
other than 90˚ or parallel to the blade.
Nonferrous Metal
Metal that does not contain iron; such as aluminum, brass,
and copper.
Push Stick
A device used to feed the workpiece through the saw blade
during narrow wood cutting operations and helps keep the
operator's hands well away from the blade.
Resaw
Acuttingoperation to reducethethickness of theworkpiece
to make thinner pieces.
Resin
A sticky, sap base substance that has hardened.
Ripping
A cutting operation along the length of the workpiece.
Saw Blade Path
The area directly in line — over, under, behind, or in front of
theblade.As itappliesto theworkpiece,that areawhichwill
be, or has been, cut by the blade.
Set
Thedistancethatthetipofthesawbladetoothisbent(orset)
outward from the face of the blade.
SPM
Strokes per minute. Used in reference to blade movement.
Throw-Back
Throwing of a workpiece in a manner similar to a kickback.
Usually associated with a cause other than the kerf closing,
such as a workpiece not being against the fence, being
dropped into the blade, or being placed inadvertently in
contact with the blade.
Through Sawing
Any cutting operation where the blade extends completely
through the thickness of the workpiece.
Workpiece
The item on which the cutting operation is being done. The
surfaces of a workpiece are commonly referred to as faces,
ends, and edges.
Worktable
The surface on which the workpiece rests while performing
a cutting operation.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS FOR WOODWORKING
Throat 16 in.
Motor 120 V, 1.2 amp, 60 HZ-AC only
Drive Variable Speed
400 – 1550 Strokes per minute
Blade Length 5 in. plain or pin
Table Tilt 45˚
Net Weight 32 lb. (14 kg.)
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Page 8
UNPACKING
CAUTION:
To prevent accidental starting or electrical shock that
could cause possible serious personal injury, assemble
allpartstoyoursawbeforeconnectingittopowersupply.
Saw should never be connected to power supply when
youareassemblingparts,makingadjustments,lubricating,
installing or removing blades, cleaning, or when not in
use.
■Carefully lift saw from the carton and place it on a level
work surface.
■Remove pack of 4 extra blades and operator's manual
from the carton.
WARNING:
If any parts are missing, do not operate this tool until the
missing parts are replaced. Failure to do so could result
in possible serious personal injury.
■Do not discard the packing materials until you have
carefully inspected the saw, identified all parts, and
satisfactorily operated your new saw.
Note:Ifanypartsaredamagedormissing,donotattemptto
plug in the power cord and turn the switch on until the
damaged or missing parts are obtained and are installed
correctly.
Yourscrollsaw comescompletelyassembled.Apackageof
4 extra blades, blade changing rod, "T" handle wrench, and
an operator's manual are included with your saw.
TOOLS NEEDED
The small combination square shown in figure 2 is the only
tool (not provided) you will need for making adjustments and
alignment:
SMALL
COMBINATION
SQUARE
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
0˚
ON/OFF KNOB
MOTOR
LOCK OFF POST
TABLE LOCK LEVER

Page 9
45˚
30˚
15˚
This versatile variable speed scroll saw is great for making
toys, puzzles, games, artwork, and jewelry. It is a handy do-
it-yourself tool. It cuts wood, wood composition products,
plastic,andotherfibrousmaterialup to2inchesthick.Italso
cuts nonferrous metals (aluminum, brass, copper).
KNOW YOUR SCROLL SAW
Before attempting to use your saw, familiarize yourself with
all operating features and safety requirements of your scroll
saw. See Figures 3 and 4.
ON/OFF KNOB WITH VARIABLE SPEED
Your scroll saw has an easy access ON/OFF knob with
variable speed. Pull the knob out to turn ON the saw, and
pushtheknobintoturnOFFthesaw.Turntheknobtoadjust
the speed from the high speed of approximately 1550 SPM
(Strokes Per Minute) to the low speed of approximately 400
SPM.
LOCK OFF POST
PlaceapadlockinthelockoffpostnexttotheON/OFFknob
to lock the saw in the OFF position to prevent unauthorized
use of the saw by children or others.
BLADE HOLDERS
Blade holders retain and position the blades. Notches in
blade clamp have been designed to retain and position pin
type blades.
Convenient knobs, "T" handle wrench, and blade changing
rod are used for plain end blades.
BLADE TENSION KNOBS
Blade tension is controlled by a dual knob tension control
system. The inner (smaller) knob, tension adjusting knob, is
for making adjustments of the blade tension. The outer
(larger) knob, quick release knob, is used to quickly set and
release blade tension to facilitate blade changes.
HOLD DOWN FOOT/BLADE GUARD
The hold down foot should be adjusted to apply light pres-
sure to the top of the workpiece to prevent the workpiece
from lifting while cutting, but not so much that the workpiece
drags.Theverticalportionprovidesabladeguardtoprevent
accidental blade contact.
HOLD DOWN FOOT LOCK LEVER
Allows you to raise or lower the hold down foot/blade guard
and secure it at desired heights.
SAWDUST BLOWER
Keeps the line of cut on workpiece clean for more accurate
scroll cuts.
SAWDUST EXHAUST
Your saw has a sawdust exhaust that fits a small shop
vacuum hose.
Fig. 4
SAWDUST EXHAUST
FEATURES
QUICK
RELEASE KNOB
TENSION
ADJUSTING
KNOB
HOLD DOWN FOOT/
BLADE GUARD
SAW BLADE
AIR HOSE
SAW TABLE
HOLD DOWN
FOOT LOCK LEVER
SAWDUST
BLOWER TABLE LOCK / BEVEL
ADJUSTMENT LEVER
BEVEL SCALE
BLADE HOLDER
PLAIN END
BLADE KNOB

Page 10
FEATURES
SAW TABLE
Your scroll saw has an aluminum saw table that provides a
working surface to support your workpiece.
TABLE LOCK LEVER
Allows you to tilt the table and lock it at the desired angle up
to 45 degrees.
BEVEL SCALE
The bevel scale and indicator are located on the front of the
saw for easy viewing. They show the angle of the table.
ASSEMBLY
Your 16 in. scroll saw was fully assembled at the factory.
Before operating this tool, it is important to check all align-
ments and settings. Normal handling during shipment may
have changed settings.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury from unexpected tool
movement, always securely mount scroll saw to a
workbench.
MOUNTING SCROLL SAW TO WORKBENCH
See Figure 5.
Ifthescroll saw istobe usedina permanent application,we
recommend that you secure it in a permanent location such
as a workbench. When mounting the saw to a workbench,
holesshould bedrilledthroughthesupportingsurfaceof the
workbench using dimensions illustrated.
■Each hole in the base of the saw should be bolted
securely using 5/16 in. diameter machine bolts, lock
washers, and hex nuts (not included). Bolts should be of
sufficient length to accommodate the saw base, lock
washers, hex nuts, and the thickness of the workbench.
■Locate and mark the holes where scroll saw is to be
mounted.
■Drill (3) 3/8 in. diameter holes through workbench.
■Place scroll saw on workbench aligning holes in the
base with holes drilled in the workbench.
■Insertallthree5/16in.boltsandtightensecurelywithlock
washers and hex nuts.
Note: All bolts should be inserted from the top. Install the
lock washers and hex nuts from the underside of the bench.
Supporting surface where scroll saw is mounted should be
examined carefully after mounting to insure that no move-
mentduringusecanresult.Ifanytippingorwalkingisnoted,
secure workbench or supporting surface before beginning
cutting operations.
Fig. 5
3/8 in.
dia. hole
12 in.
2-5/32 in.
17 in.
24 in.
6-13/16 in.
2 in.
5 in.

Page 11
45˚
30˚
15˚
ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING:
To prevent accidental starting that could cause possible
serious personal injury, turn off the saw and unplug
before making any adjustments.
HOLD DOWN FOOT/BLADE GUARD
See Figure 7.
The hold down foot should be adjusted so it applies light
pressure to the top surface of the work being cut. Tighten
securely after adjustment has been made.
■Loosen the hold down foot lock lever.
■Move the hold down foot to the desired position.
■Tighten the hold down foot lock lever.
Thetall,frontpartoftheholddownfootactsasabladeguard
to prevent accidental contact with the blade.
SAWDUST BLOWER
See Figure 7.
The dust blower is designed and preset to direct air to the
most effective point on the cutting line. Be sure hold down
footisproperlyadjustedtosecureworkpieceandtodirectair
to the cutting surface.
CLAMPING SCROLL SAW TO WORKBENCH
See Figure 6.
If the scroll saw is to be used in a portable application, we
recommend that you fasten it permanently to a mounting
board that can easily be clamped to a workbench or other
supporting surface. The mounting board should be of suffi-
cient size to avoid tipping of saw while in use.
■Mountsawtoboardusingholesinframeasatemplatefor
holepatternor the diagramin Figure5 .Locateand mark
the holes where scroll saw is to be mounted.
■Follow last three steps in previous section called Mount-
ing Scroll Saw to Workbench.
Make sure mounting bolts are long enough to go through
holes in the saw frame, material being mounted to, lock
washers, and hex nuts.
Note: It may be necessary to countersink hex nuts and
washers on bottom side of mounting board.
Fig. 6
C-CLAMP
MOUNTING
BOARD
WORKBENCH
C-CLAMP
ASSEMBLY
Fig. 7
AIR
HOSE
SAWDUST
BLOWER
HOLD DOWN FOOT
LOCK LEVER
HOLD DOWN FOOT/
BLADE GUARD
45˚
30˚
15˚

Page 12
15˚
30˚
45˚
0˚
45˚
30˚
15˚
SQUARING TABLE TO THE BLADE
See Figures 8 and 9.
■Loosentheholddownfootlockleverandmoveholddown
rod all the way up. Tighten lever.
■Loosen the table lock lever and move the table until it is
approximately perpendicular, or at right angle to the
blade.
■Place a small square on the table next to the blade to
checkifthetableis90degreestotheblade.Ifadjustment
isneeded,raiseorlowerthetableuntiltableis90degrees
to the blade and securely tighten the table lock lever.
■Loosen the screw holding the scale indicator, move
indicatortothe0degreemarkandsecurelytightenscrew.
Remember, the bevel scale is a convenient guide but
should not be relied upon for precision. Make practice
cuts on scrap material to determine if your angle settings
are correct.
■Adjusttheholddownfoottodesiredpositionandsecurely
tighten the hold down foot lock lever.
SETTING THE TABLE FOR HORIZONTAL OR
BEVEL CUTTING
See Figure 9.
A bevel scale is provided under the work table as a conve-
nient guide for setting the approximate table angle for bevel
cutting. When greater precision is required, make practice
cuts on scrap material and adjust the table as necessary for
your requirements.
INSTALLING BLADES
Scroll saw blades wear out quickly and must be replaced
frequently for best cutting results. Expect to break some
blades while you learn to use and adjust your saw. Blades
generally stay sharp for 1/2 hour to 2 hours of cutting,
depending on type of material and speed of operation.
Pin End Blades
See Figures 10 and 11.
■Turn off and unplug the saw from outlet.
WARNING:
To avoid injury from accidental starting, always turn off
andunplugthesawbeforeinstalling,removingorreplacing
the blade.
■Onthetop back ofthe saw, rotatethe quick releaseknob
to the left or counterclockwise to loosen blade tension.
See Figure 4.
■Place blade through the opening with the teeth of the
bladetothefrontofthesawandpointingdowntowardthe
table.Engagethepinintothe"V"notchofthelowerblade
holder. See Figure 10.
■Pull up on the blade and push down on the saw arm to
engage the upper pin in the "V" notch of the upper blade
holder. See Figure 11.
ADJUSTMENTS
Fig. 9
TABLE LOCK
LEVER
BEVEL
SCALE SCALE
INDICATOR
SCREW
Fig. 8
HOLD DOWN FOOT/
BLADE GUARD
HOLD DOWN FOOT
LOCK LEVER
SMALL
COMBINATION
SQUARE
SAW
BLADE
HOLD
DOWN ROD
TABLE LOCK
LEVER
Note: If the blade touches the hold down foot on either side
then the hold down foot must be adjusted.
■Loosen the hold down foot lock lever. See Figure 8.
■To center the hold down foot around the saw blade, slide
the hold down foot to the side.
■Tighten the hold down foot lock lever.
■Totensiontheblade,rotatethequickreleaseknob(outer,
larger knob) 1/4 turn to the right or clockwise to apply
tension to the blade. Fine adjustments of the blade

Page 13
ADJUSTMENTS
Fig. 10
Fig. 11
Fig. 12
Fig. 13
LOWER BLADE HOLDER FOR PIN END BLADES
UPPER BLADE HOLDER FOR PIN END BLADES
PIN
END BLADE
CORRECT ORIENTATION
FOR BLADE HOLDER BLOCK
BLADE HOLDER BLOCK
CORRECT ORIENTATION
FOR BLADE HOLDER BLOCK
LOWER BLADE HOLDER FOR PLAIN END BLADES
CORRECT ORIENTATION
FOR BLADE HOLDER BLOCK
BLADE
HOLDER BLOCK
LOWER BLADE HOLDER FOR PLAIN END BLADES
BLADE KNOB WITH
SOCKET HEAD INSERT
tension may be performed using the tension adjusting
knob (inner, smaller knob) at any time, while the blade is
under tension or not.
Plain End Blades
See Figures 12 – 15.
■Turn off and unplug the saw from outlet.
WARNING:
To avoid injury from accidental starting, always turn off
and unplug the saw before installing, removing, or
replacing the blade.
■Onthetop back ofthe saw, rotatethe quick releaseknob
totheleftorcounterclockwisetoloosenthebladetension.
See Figure 4.
■Insert blade changing rod into blade clamp slot in lower
blade holder. See Figure 12.
■Using the "T" handle wrench provided, loosen the blade
knob. SeeFigure12. Removethebladechangingrodand
repeat procedure with upper blade holder.
■Remove the blade.
■Take notice of the orientation of the blade holder blocks
on both the upper and lower blade holders. Note the
location of both the "V" notch and chamfer on each.
■Carefullyloosenlowerbladeknobuntilbladeholderblock
can be removed.
■Flipbladeholder block180°, thenrotate"V" notchup90°
as shown in figure 13. Blade holder block will fit flush
against blade holder.
■Secure in place with lower blade knob.
■Carefully loosen upper blade knob until blade holder
block can be removed.
■Flip blade holder block 180°, then rotate "V" notch down
90°as shown in figure 14. Blade holder block will fit flush
against blade holder.
■Secure in place with upper blade knob.
■Placenewbladethroughtheopeningin thetablewiththe
teethofthebladetothefrontofthesawandpointingdown
toward the table. Next, place blade in the lower blade
holder into the slot that enlarges as you loosen the blade
knob.
■Position blade and securely tighten lower blade knob.
■Remove blade changing rod and reposition it in blade
clamp slot in upper blade holder.
■Pull up on the blade and down on the saw's upper arm to
install blade into upper blade holder.
Note: If the blade touches the hold down foot on either side
then the hold down foot must be adjusted.
■Loosen the hold down foot lock lever. See Figure 8.
■To center the hold down foot around the saw blade, slide
the hold down foot to the side.
BLADE CLAMP
CHAMFER
BLADE KNOB
BLADE
HOLDER BLOCK
BLADE
CLAMP
PIN END BLADE BLADE KNOB
(FOR USE WITH PLAIN
END BLADES ONLY)
CHAMFER
CHAMFER
BLADE KNOB
"T" HANDLE WRENCH
BLADE CHANGING ROD
BLADE
CLAMP

Page 14
ADJUSTMENTS
Fig. 17
Fig. 16
Fig. 15
Fig. 14
■Tighten the hold down foot lock lever.
■Position blade and securely tighten upper blade knob.
■Remove blade changing rod.
■Turn the quick release knob to the right or clockwise to
tension the blade.
■Turn the tension adjusting knob to the right, clockwise or
to the left, counterclockwise until the blade is in desired
tension.
ADJUSTING BLADE TENSION
See Figures 16 and 17.
■Turn off and unplug the saw.
WARNING:
Failure to unplug your saw could result in accidental
starting causing possible serious personal injury.
■Tension adjusting knob is on the top of the saw. See
Figure 17. Rotate the quick release knob (outer, larger
knob) 1/4 turn to the left or counterclockwise to release
blade tension.
■Turn tension adjusting knob (upper, smaller knob) to the
rightorclockwise toincreasetension. Turnit to theleft or
counterclockwise to decrease blade tension.
Note: Adjustments of blade tension can be made at any-
time. The quick release knob can be either released
or engaged while making adjustments with the ten-
sion adjusting knob.
■Rotate quick release knob to the right or clockwise 1/4
turn to engage tension before using the scroll saw.
Check tension by the sound the blade makes when plucked
likeaguitarstring.Thismethodofaddingtensiontotheblade
can be developed with practice and requires knowing your
scroll saw.
■Pluck the back straight edge of blade while turning
tension adjusting knob. Sound should be a musical note.
Sound becomes less flat as tension increases. Sound
decreases with too much tension.
Note: Be careful not to over tension the blade. Too much
tensionmaycausebladetobreakassoonasyoustart
cutting. Too little tension may cause blade to bend or
break before teeth wear out.
UPPER BLADE HOLDER FOR PLAIN END BLADES
BLADE KNOB
BLADE
HOLDER BLOCK
CORRECT ORIENTATION
FOR BLADE HOLDER BLOCK
PLAIN
END BLADE
BLADE
CLAMP
UPPER BLADE HOLDER FOR PLAIN END BLADES
BLADE KNOB WITH
SOCKET HEAD INSERT
CHAMFER
TO
ENGAGE
QUICK RELEASE KNOB
TO
RELEASE
TENSION ADJUSTING KNOB
TO INCREASE
TENSION
TO DECREASE
TENSION
"T" HANDLE
WRENCH
BLADE
CHANGING ROD

Page 15
0˚
ON/OFF KNOB WITH VARIABLE SPEED
See Figure 18.
Your scroll saw has an easy access On/Off knob with
variable speed.
■Pull the knob out to turn ON the saw, and push the knob
in to turn OFF the saw.
Note: After saw is turned on, a hesitation before blade
movement is normal.
WARNING:
Neverleavethesawunattendeduntilthebladehascome
to a complete stop to prevent serious personal injury.
This scroll saw is designed to cut wood, wood composition
products, plastic, and nonferrous metals (aluminum, brass,
copper).
GENERAL OPERATION
Please read and understand the following items concerning
your scroll saw before attempting to use the saw.
■There is a learning curve for each person who wants to
usethis saw.Duringthatperiodoftimeit isexpected that
some blades will break until you learn how to use and
adjust the saw.
■Allowthesawtocutmaterialbyguidingtheworkpieceinto
the blade as it moves. Do not force the work.
■The blade teeth cut material only on the down stroke.
■You must guide the workpiece into the blade slowly
becausetheteethofthebladeareverysmallandcanonly
remove material on the down stroke.
■Scroll saw blades wear out and must be replaced fre-
quently for best cutting results. Scroll saw blades gener-
ally stay sharp for 1/2 hour to 2 hours of cutting, depend-
ing on type of material and speed of operation.
■To get accurate cuts, be prepared to compensate for the
blade's tendency to follow the wood grain as you are
cutting wood.
■In cutting wood, best results are achieved when cutting
wood less than one inch thick.
■When cutting wood thicker than one inch, the user must
guide the workpiece very slowly into the blade and take
extra care not to bend or twist the blade while cutting.
■When choosing a blade to use with your scroll saw,
consider the following carefully:
• Very fine, narrow blades should be used to scroll cut in
thin material 1/4 in. thick or less.
• Most blade packages state the size or thickness and
type of material which that blade is intended to cut.
Package should also state the radius, or size of curve,
which can be cut with that blade.
• Wider blades cannot cut curves as tight or small as
thinner blades.
■Blades wear faster:
• When cutting plywood and other laminates.
• When cutting material thicker than 3/4 in.
• When cutting hardwood.
• When side pressure is applied to the blade.
■By turning the knob, the variable speed control may be
adjustedfromthehighspeedofapproximately1550SPM
(Strokes Per Minute) to the low speed of approximately
400SPM.SuggestedspeedsareidentifiedunderChoice
ofBladeandSpeed,page17.TurntheOn/Offknobtothe
right or clockwise to increase strokes per minute and to
the left or counterclockwise to reduce the strokes per
minute.
OPERATION
ON/OFF KNOB Fig. 18
LOCK
OFF POST

Page 16
45˚
30˚
15˚
0˚
LOCK OFF POST
See Figure 19.
To prevent unauthorized use of your scroll saw, we suggest
that you disconnect it from the power supply and lock the
knob in the OFF position. A padlock with a 3/16 in. shackle
should be used. When the lock is installed and locked, as
illustrated,theswitch is inoperable.Storethe padlockkeyin
another location.
■Tolock sawinthe OFFposition,installapadlock through
thelockoffpostbesidetheknobasillustratedandlockthe
padlock. (Padlock is not supplied with the saw.)
WARNING:
For your own safety, always push the knob OFF when
machineisnotinuse.Also,intheeventofapowerfailure,
push knob OFF. Lock the scroll saw switch OFF with a
padlock. This will prevent the machine from starting up
againwhenthepowercomesbackon.Failuretoheedthis
warning can result in serious personal injury.
INTERIOR SCROLL CUTTING
See Figure 20.
■One of the features of a scroll saw is that it can be used
to make scroll cuts on the interior of a board without
breaking or cutting through the edge or perimeter of the
board.
WARNING:
To avoid possible serious injury from accidental starting,
always turn the switch OFF and remove plug from power
source outlet before removing or replacing the blade.
■To make interior cuts in a board, remove the scroll saw
blade as explained in the Installing Blades section on
pages 12 – 14.
■Drilla1/4 in. holeinthe board tobeused to makeinterior
cuts.
■Placetheboardonthesawtablewiththeholeintheboard
over the access hole in the table.
■Install blade through hole in board then adjust the hold
down foot and the blade tension. See pages 16 and 17.
■When finished making the interior scroll cuts, simply
remove the blade from the blade holders as described in
the Installing Blades section, and remove the board
from the table.
OPERATION
Fig. 19
ON/OFF KNOB
PADLOCK
Fig. 20
DRILL HOLE
INTERIOR
CUT
WORKPIECE

Page 17
45˚
30˚
15˚
CHOICE OF BLADE AND SPEED
Thescroll sawaccepts awide varietyofbladewidthsandthicknessesfor cuttingwood andother fibrousmaterials. Yoursaw
uses 5 inch long blades of either the pin end or the plain end style. The blade width and thickness and the number of teeth
perinch touse aredetermined bythetypeofmaterialandthe sizeof theradius beingcut. Afullselectionofscrollsawblades
are available at your local Ryobi dealer.
Note: As a general rule, always select narrow blades for intricate curve cutting, and wide blades for straight and large curve
cutting.
BEFORE EACH USE:
■INSPECT YOUR SAW. Disconnect the saw. To avoid
injury from accidental starting, turn the switch OFF and
unplug the saw before changing the setup or removing
covers, guards, or blade.
■INSPECT YOUR WORKPIECE. Make sure there are no
nails or foreign objects in the workpiece to be cut.
■USE EXTRA CAUTION WITH LARGE, VERY SMALL,
OR AWKWARD WORKPIECES.
•Never use this tool to cut pieces too small to hold by
hand.
Speed or
Teeth/Inch Width Thickness Strokes Per Material Cut
Minute
• Alwaysuseextra supports(tables,sawhorses,blocks,
etc.) for any workpiece large enough to tip when not
held down to the table top.
• Never use another person as a substitute for a table
extension,orasadditionalsupportforaworkpieceorto
help feed, support, or pull the workpiece.
• When cutting an irregularly shaped workpiece, plan
your work so it will not pinch the blade. A piece of
molding,forexample,mustlayflatorbeheldbyafixture
orjig thatwillnot letittwist,rock,or slipwhilebeingcut.
Fig. 21
STACK CUTTING
See Figure 21.
After becoming well acquainted with your saw through
practice and experience, you may wish to try stack cutting.
Stack cutting may be used when several identical shapes
need to be cut. Several pieces of wood may be stacked on
top and secured to each other before cutting. The wood
pieces may be joined together by placing double sided tape
betweeneachpieceorbywrappingmaskingtapearoundthe
corners or ends of the stacked wood. You must attach the
stackedpiecesofwoodtoeachothersotheywillmoveonthe
table as a single piece of material.
WARNING:
Toavoidpossibleseriouspersonalinjury,donotcutmore
than one loose piece of material at a time.
10 .110 in. .020 in. 1200-1550 Popular size for cutting hard and soft
woods 3/16 in. up to 2 in. Plastics, paper,
felt, bone, etc.
15 .110 in. .020 in. 600-1200 Wood, plastics, extremely thin cuts on
materials 3/32 in. to 1/2 in. thick.
18 .095 in. .010 in. 400-600 For tight radius work in thin materials
3/32 in. to 1/8 in. wood, veneer, bone,
fiber, ivory, plastic, etc.
WOOD
PIECES
TAPE
OPERATION

Page 18
0˚
WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical Ryobi replacement
parts.Useofanyotherpartmaycreateahazardorcause
product damage.
WARNING:
To prevent accidental starting that could cause possible
serious personal injury, turn off and unplug the saw
before maintaining or lubricating your scroll saw.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
■Keep your Scroll Saw clean.
■After cleaning the table top initially, apply a thin coat of
automobile type (paste) wax to the table top so the wood
slides easily while cutting.
WARNING:
If the power cord is worn, cut, or damaged in any way,
have it replaced immediately by a qualified service
technicianat anauthorizedservice centerto avoidriskof
personal injury.
MOTOR BRUSHES
See Figure 22.
Your saw has externally accessible brush assemblies that
should be checked periodically for wear. When one of the
two brushes becomes worn, replace both brushes.
■Unplug your saw.
• Properly support round material such as dowel rods.
They have a tendency to roll during a cut, causing the
blade to "bite." To avoid this, always use a "v" block.
• Clear everything except the workpiece and related
supportdevicesoffthetablebeforepluggingintopower
and turning the saw on.
■PLAN THE WAY YOU WILL HOLD THE WORKPIECE
FROM START TO FINISH. Do not hand hold pieces so
small that your fingers will go under the work hold-down.
■BEFORE FREEING ANY JAMMED MATERIAL:
• Turn switch OFF.
• Wait for all moving parts to stop.
• Unplug the saw.
■WHEN BACKING OUT OF THE WORKPIECE, THE
BLADE MAY BIND IN THE KERF (CUT). THIS IS
USUALLY CAUSED BY SAWDUST CLOGGING UP
THE KERF. IF THIS HAPPENS:
• Turn switch OFF.
• Wait for all moving parts to stop.
• Unplug the saw.
• Remove the blade from the blade holders.
• Remove the workpiece with blade from the table.
• Remove blade from workpiece.
WARNING:
Beforeremovingloosepiecesfromthetable,turnsawoff
and wait for all moving parts to stop to avoid serious
personal injury.
Fig. 22
OPERATION
MAINTENANCE
BRUSH CAP
MOTOR BRUSH
WARNING:
Failure to unplug your saw could result in accidental
starting causing serious injury.
■Remove brush cap with a flat blade screwdriver.
■Removebrush assembly.Gentlyprythebrushassembly
outusinga small screwdriver, pointofa nail orpaperclip,
etc.
■Check for wear. If one brush is worn down shorter than
1/4 in., replace both brushes. Do not replace one side
without replacing the other.
BRUSH CAP
MOTOR BRUSH

Page 19
MAINTENANCE
■Reassemble using new brush assembly. Make sure
curvature of brush matches curvature of motor and that
brush moves freely in brush tube. Use the blunt end of
something thin (eraser end of pencil, etc.) to push the
brush into the tube until it stays.
■Make sure brush cap is oriented correctly (straight) and
replace.
■Tighten brush cap using a hand powered screwdriver
only. Do not overtighten.
■Repeat for other brush.
WARNING:
For your own safety, turn switch OFF and remove plug from power outlet before adjusting or aligning your scroll saw.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Motor will not run.
Blades breaking.
Vibration (there is always
some vibration when the saw
is running).
Excessive Noise.
1. Problem with ON-OFF switch,
power cord, or outlet.
2. Motor defective.
1. Too much tension.
2. Feeding too quickly.
3. Wrong blade.
4. Blade twisting in wood.
1. Improper mounting of saw.
2. Mounting surface.
3. Loose table or table resting
against motor.
4. Loose motor mounting.
1. Blade tension rod has been
overtightened.
1. Have worn parts replaced before using
Scroll Saw again. Have the proper
outlet installed by a qualified electri-
cian.
2. Do not attempt any repair. Have
repaired by a qualified service techni-
cian at an authorized service center.
1. Adjust tension.
2. Reduce feed rate.
3. Narrow blades for cutting thin wood or
tight corners and turns, wide blades for
thicker wood or wide turns.
4. Reduce side pressure on blade, check
blade tension.
1. Check mounting.
2. Check mounting in manual.
3. Tighten table lock lever.
4. Tighten mounting screws.
1. Loosen tension adjusting knob.
2. Check blade length. Blade should be 5
inches long.
3. Make sure plain end blades have been
installed fully in blade clamp for correct
blade clamp engagement.
PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION

Page 20
RYOBI 16 in. SCROLL SAW – MODEL NUMBER SC155VS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
10
12
13
14
15
16 17
18
20
19
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
25
24
34
35
35
34
37
38
38 19
37
43
42
39
40
41
44
45
46
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50 46
45
53
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36
FIGURE A