Ryobi TS1553 User manual

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
Your miter 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.
Thank you for your purchase.
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
12 in. Compound Miter Saw
TS1553 - Double Insulated

2
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Warranty .......................................................................................................................................................................... 2
General Safety Rules ....................................................................................................................................................3-4
Specific Safety Rules.................................................................................................................................................... 4-5
Symbols........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Electrical .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Glossary of Terms............................................................................................................................................................ 8
Features......................................................................................................................................................................9-11
Tools Needed................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Loose Parts List............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Assembly .................................................................................................................................................................. 13-18
Operation.................................................................................................................................................................. 19-25
Adjustments................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................................. 27
Parts Ordering / Service ...................................................................................................................................Back Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
This tool has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance, and dependability have
been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.
WARRANTY
RYOBI®POWER TOOL - LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY AND 30 DAY EXCHANGE POLICY
One World Technologies, Inc., warrants its RYOBI® power tools with the following conditions:
30-DAY EXCHANGE POLICY: During the first 30 days after date of purchase, you may either request service under this
warranty or you may exchange any RYOBI®power tool which does not work properly due to defective workmanship or
materials by returning the power tool to the dealer from which it was purchased. To receive a replacement power tool
or requested warranty service, you must present proof of purchase and return all original equipment packaged with the
original product. The replacement power tool will be covered by the limited warranty for the balance of the two year period
from the date of the original purchase.
WHAT THIS WARRANTY COVERS: This warranty covers all defects in workmanship or materials in your RYOBI®power
tool for a period of two years from the date of purchase. With the exception of batteries, power tool accessories are
warranted for ninety (90) days. Batteries are warranted for two years.
HOW TO GET SERVICE: Just return the power tool, properly packaged and postage prepaid, to an Authorized Service
Center. You can obtain the location of the Service Center nearest you by contacting a service representative at One
World Technologies, Inc., P.O. Box 1207, Anderson, SC 29622-1207, by calling 1-800-525-2579 or by logging on to
www.ryobitools.com. When you request warranty service, you must also present proof of purchase documentation, which
includes the date of purchase (for example, a bill of sale). We will repair any faulty workmanship, and either repair or replace
any defective part, at our option. We will do so without any charge to you. We will complete the work in a reasonable time,
but, in any case, within ninety (90) days or less.
WHAT’S NOT COVERED: This warranty applies only to the original purchaser at retail and may not be transferred. This
warranty only covers defects arising under normal usage and does not cover any malfunction, failure or defects resulting
from misuse, abuse, neglect, alteration, modification or repairs by other than Authorized Service Centers. One World
Technologies, Inc. makes no warranties, representations or promises as to the quality or performance of its power tools
other than those specifically stated in this warranty.
ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS: Any implied warranties granted under state law, including warranties of merchantability or
fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to two years from the date of purchase. One World Technologies, Inc. is not
responsible for direct, indirect, or incidental damages, so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

3
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING:
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow
all instructions listed below, may result in electric shock,
fire and/or serious personal injury.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Readtheoperator’s manual
carefully. Learn the applications and limitations as well
as the specific potential hazards related to this tool.
GUARD AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK BY PREVENT-
ING BODY CONTACT WITH GROUNDED SURFACES.
For example: pipes, radiators, ranges, refrigerator enclo-
sures.
KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and in good working order.
REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES. Form
habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting wrenches
are removed from tool before turning it on.
KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN. Clutteredareasand benches
invite accidents. DO NOT leave tools or pieces of wood
on the tool while it is in operation.
DO NOT USE IN DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS. Do
not use power tools in damp or wet locations or expose
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 extension cord while operating.
MAKE WORKSHOP CHILDPROOF with padlocks,
master switches, or by removing starter keys.
DON’T FORCE THE TOOL. It will do the job better and
safer at the feed rate for which it was designed.
USE THE RIGHT TOOL. Do not force the tool or attach-
ment to do a job for which it was not designed.
USE THE PROPER EXTENSION CORD. Make sure your
extension cord is in good condition. Use only a cord heavy
enough to carry the current your product will draw. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage result-
ing in loss of power and overheating. A wire gauge size
(A.W.G.) of at least 14 is recommended for an extension
cord 25 feet or less in length. If in doubt, use the next
heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier
the cord.
DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose clothing,
neckties, or jewelry that can get caught and draw you into
moving parts. Rubber gloves and nonskid footwear are
recommended when working outdoors. Also wear
protective hair covering to contain long hair.
ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WITH SIDE
SHIELDS. Everyday eyeglasses have only impact-
resistant lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
SECURE WORK. Use clamps or a vise to hold work
when practical, it is safer than using your hand and frees
both hands to operate the tool.
DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times.
MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools sharp
and clean for better and safer performance. Follow
instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
DISCONNECT TOOLS. When not in use, before
servicing, or when changing attachments, blades, bits,
cutters, etc., all tools should be disconnected from power
source.
AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Be sure switch is off
when plugging in any tool.
USE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES. Consult the
operator’s manual for recommended accessories. The
use of improper accessories may result in injury.
NEVER STAND ON TOOL. Serious injury could occur if
the tool is tipped.
CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before further use of the
tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be
carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly
and perform its intended function. Check for alignment
of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of
parts, mounting and any other conditions that may affect
its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged must
be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service
center to avoid risk of personal injury.
USE THE RIGHT DIRECTION OF FEED. Feed work into
a blade, cutter, or sanding spindle against the direction
or rotation of the blade, cutter, or sanding spindle only.
NEVER LEAVE TOOL RUNNING UNATTENDED. TURN
THE POWER OFF. Don’t leave tool until it comes to a
complete stop.
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.
DO NOT ABUSE CORD. Never carry tool by the cord or
yank it to disconnect from receptacle. Keep cord from
heat, oil, and sharp edges.
USE OUTDOOR EXTENSION CORDS. When tool
is used outdoors, use only extension cords with
approved ground connection that are intended for use
outdoors and so marked.
KEEP BLADES CLEAN, SHARP, AND WITH
SUFFICIENT SET. Sharp blades minimize stalling
and kickback.
BLADE COASTS AFTER BEING TURNED OFF.

4
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
NEVER USE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE.
Normal sparking of the motor could ignite fumes.
INSPECT TOOL CORDS PERIODICALLY. If
damaged, have repaired by a qualified service technician at
an authorized service facility. 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 terminal. Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord
immediately. Stay constantly aware of cord location and
keep it well away from the rotating blade.
INSPECT EXTENSION CORDS PERIODICALLY and
replace if damaged.
POLARIZED PLUGS. To reduce the risk of electric shock,
this tool has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than
the other). This plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one
way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the
plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician
to install the proper outlet. Do not change the plug in any
way.
KEEP TOOL DRY, CLEAN, AND FREE FROM OIL AND
GREASE. Always use a clean cloth when cleaning. Never
use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based products, or
any solvents to clean tool.
STAY ALERT AND EXERCISE CONTROL. Watch what
you are doing and use common sense. Do not operate
tool when you are tired. Do not rush.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
FIRMLY CLAMP OR BOLT the tool to a workbench or
table at approximately hip height.
KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM CUTTING AREA. Do not
reach underneath work or in blade cutting path with hands
and fingers for any reason. Always turn the power off.
ALWAYS SUPPORT LONG WORKPIECES while cutting
to minimize risk of blade pinching and kickback. Saw may
slip, walk or slide while cutting long or heavy boards.
ALWAYS USE A CLAMP to secure the workpiece when
possible.
BE SURE THE BLADE CLEARS THE WORKPIECE.
Never start the saw with the blade touching the
workpiece. Allow motor to come up to full speed
before starting cut.
MAKE SURE THE MITER TABLE AND SAW ARM
(BEVEL FUNCTION) ARE LOCKED IN POSITION
BEFORE OPERATING THE SAW. Lock the miter table by
securely tightening the miter lock levers. Lock the saw arm
(bevel function) by securely tightening the bevel lock
knob.
USE THIS SAW TO CUT WOOD, WOOD PRODUCTS
AND SOME PLASTICS ONLY. DO NOT CUT METALS,
CERAMICS OR MASONRY PRODUCTS.
NEVER USE A LENGTH STOP ON THE FREE SCRAP
END OF A CLAMPED WORKPIECE. NEVER hold onto
or bind the free scrap end of the workpiece in any opera-
tion. If a work clamp and length stop are used together,
they must both be installed on the same side of the saw
table to prevent the saw from catching the loose end and
kicking up.
NEVER cut more than one piece at a time. DO NOT
STACK more than one workpiece on the saw table at a
time.
NEVER PERFORM ANY OPERATION FREEHAND.
Always place the workpiece to be cut on the miter table
and position it firmly against the fence as a backstop.
Always use the fence.
DO NOT USE TOOL IF SWITCH DOES NOT TURN IT
ON AND OFF. Have defective switches replaced by an
authorized service center.
USE ONLY CORRECT BLADES. Do not use blades with
incorrect size holes. Never use blade washers or blade
bolts that are defective or incorrect. The maximum blade
capacity of your saw is 12 in.
BEFORE MAKING A CUT, BE SURE ALL ADJUST-
MENTS ARE SECURE.
BE SURE BLADE PATH IS FREE OF NAILS. Inspect for
and remove all nails from lumber before cutting.
NEVER TOUCH BLADE or other moving parts during
use.
NEVER START A TOOL WHEN ANY ROTATING COM-
PONENT IS IN CONTACT WITH THE WORKPIECE.
DO NOT OPERATE A TOOL WHILE UNDER THE
INFLUENCE OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL, OR ANY
MEDICATION.
WHEN SERVICING use only identical replacement parts.
Use of any other parts may create a hazard or cause
product damage.
DOUBLE CHECK ALL SETUPS. Make sure blade is
tight and not making contact with saw or workpiece
before connecting to power supply.

5
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
NEVER hand hold a workpiece that is too small to be
clamped. Keep hands clear of the cutting area.
NEVER reach behind, under, or within three inches of the
blade and its cutting path with your hands and fingers for
any reason.
NEVER reach to pick up a workpiece, a piece of scrap,
or anything else that is in or near the cutting path of the
blade.
AVOID AWKWARD OPERATIONS AND HAND
POSITIONS where a sudden slip could cause your
hand to move into the blade. ALWAYS make sure you
have good balance. NEVER operate your miter saw
on the floor or in a crouched position.
NEVER stand or have any part of your body in line with
the path of the saw blade.
ALWAYS release the power switch and allow the saw blade
to stop rotating before raising it out of the workpiece.
DO NOT TURN THE MOTOR SWITCH ON AND OFF
RAPIDLY. This could cause the saw blade to loosen
and could create a hazard. Should this ever occur,
stand clear and allow the saw blade to come to a
complete stop. Disconnect your saw from the power
supply and securely retighten the blade bolt.
IF ANY PART OF THIS MITER SAW IS MISSING or
should break, bend, or fail in any way, or should any
electrical component fail to perform properly, shut off
the power switch, remove the miter saw plug from the
power source and have damaged, missing, or failed parts
replaced before resuming operation.
IF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD IS DAMAGED, it must
be replaced only by the manufacturer or by an authorized
service center to avoid risk.
ALWAYS STAY ALERT! Do not allow familiarity (gained
from frequent use of your saw) to cause a careless
mistake. ALWAYS REMEMBER that a careless fraction
of a second is sufficient to inflict severe injury.
MAKE SURE THE WORK AREA HAS AMPLE LIGHTING
to see the work and that no obstructions will interfere with
safe operation BEFORE performing any work using your
saw.
ALWAYS TURN OFF THE SAW before disconnecting it
to avoid accidental starting when reconnecting to power
supply. NEVER leave the saw unattended while connected
to a power source.
THIS TOOL should have the following markings:
a) Wear eye protection.
b) Keep hands out of path of saw blade.
c) Do not operate saw without guards in place.
d) Do not perform any operation freehand.
e) Never reach around saw blade.
f) Turn off tool and wait for saw blade to stop before
raising saw arm, moving workpiece or changing
settings.
g) Disconnect the saw from the power source before
changing blade or servicing.
h) Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
ALWAYS carry the tool only by the carrying handle.
THIS SAW CAN TIP OVER if the saw head is released
suddenly and the saw is not secured to a work surface.
ALWAYS secure this saw to a stable work surface before
any use to avoid serious personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Refer to them
frequently and use to instruct other users. If you loan
someone this tool, loan them these instructions also.

6
SYMBOLS
Some of the following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper
interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.
Read The Operator’s Manual
Safety Alert
No Hands Symbol
SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
Voltage
Current
Frequency (cycles per second)
Time
Type of current
Rotational speed, at no load
Double-insulated construction
Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand opera-
tor’s manual before using this product.
Eye Protection
Precautions that involve your safety.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Wet Conditions Alert
.../min Per Minute
Class II Construction
n
o
No Load Speed
Alternating Current
min Minutes
Hz Hertz
A Amperes
V Volts
Always wear eye protection with side shields that is marked to
comply with ANSI Z87.1.
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result
in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
CAUTION Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION (Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in property
damage.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING

7
ELECTRICAL
DOUBLE INSULATION
Double insulation is a concept in safety in electric power tools,
which eliminates the need for the usual three-wire grounded
power cord. All exposed metal parts are isolated from the
internal metal motor components with protecting insulation.
Double insulated tools do not need to be grounded.
WARNING:
The double insulated system is intended to protect the
user from shock resulting from a break in the tool’s in-
ternal wiring. Observe all normal safety precautions to
avoid electrical shock.
NOTE: Servicing of a product with double insulation requires
extreme care and knowledge of the system and should be
performed only by a qualified service technician. For service,
we suggest you return the tool to your nearest authorized
service center for repair. Always use original factory replace-
ment parts when servicing.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
This tool has a precision-built electric motor. It should be
connected to a power supply that is 120 volts, AC only
(normal household current), 60 Hz. Do not operate this tool
on direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop will cause
a loss of power and the motor will overheat. If the tool does
not operate when plugged into an outlet, double-check the
power supply.
EXTENSION CORDS
When using a power tool at a considerable distance from
a power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has
the capacity to handle the current the product will draw. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in
overheating and loss of power. Use the chart to determine
the minimum wire size required in an extension cord. Only
round jacketed cords listed by Underwriter’s Laboratories
(UL) should be used.
When working outdoors with a product, use an extension
cord that is designed for outside use. This type of cord is
designated with “WA” on the cord’s jacket.
Before using any extension cord, inspect it for loose or
exposed wires and cut or worn insulation.
**Ampere rating (on product data plate)
0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0
Cord Length Wire Size (A.W.G.)
25' 16 16 16 16 14 14
50' 16 16 16 14 14 12
100' 16 16 14 12 10 —
**Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge
WARNING:
Keep the extension cord clear of the working area.
Position the cord so that it will not get caught on lum-
ber, tools, or other obstructions while you are working
with a power tool. Failure to do so can result in serious
personal injury.
WARNING:
Check extension cords before each use. If damaged
replace immediately. Never use tool with a damaged cord
since touching the damaged area could cause electrical
shock resulting in serious injury.

8
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Non-Through Cuts
Any cutting operation where the blade does not extend
completely through the thickness of the workpiece.
Push Blocks (for jointer planers)
Device used to feed the workpiece over the jointer planer
cutterhead during any operation. This aid helps keep the
operator’s hands well away from the cutterhead.
Push Blocks and Push Sticks (for table saws)
Devices used to feed the workpiece through the saw blade
during cutting operations. A push stick (not a push block)
should be used for narrow ripping operations. These aids
help keep the operator’s hands well away from the blade.
Pilot Hole (drill presses)
A small hole drilled in a workpiece that serves as a guide for
drilling large holes accurately.
Resaw
A cutting operation to reduce the thickness of the workpiece
to make thinner pieces.
Resin
A sticky, sap-based substance that has hardened.
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
The number of turns completed by a spinning object in one
minute.
Ripping or Rip Cut
A cutting operation along the length of the workpiece.
Riving Knife/Spreader/Splitter (table saws)
A metal piece, slightly thinner than the blade, which helps
keep the kerf open and also helps to prevent kickback.
Saw Blade Path
The area over, under, behind, or in front of the blade. As it
applies to the workpiece, that area which will be or has been
cut by the blade.
Set
The distance that the tip of the saw blade tooth is bent (or
set) outward from the face of the blade.
Snipe (planers)
Depression made at either end of a workpiece by cutter
blades when the workpiece is not properly supported.
Through Sawing
Any cutting operation where the blade extends completely
through the thickness of the workpiece.
Throw-Back
The throwing back of a workpiece usually caused by the
workpiece being dropped into the blade or being placed
inadvertently in contact with the blade.
Workpiece or Material
The item on which the operation is being done.
Worktable
Surface where the workpiece rests while performing a
cutting, drilling, planing, or sanding operation.
Anti-Kickback Pawls (radial arm and table saws)
A device which, when properly installed and maintained,
is designed to stop the workpiece from being kicked back
toward the front of the saw during a ripping operation.
Arbor
The shaft on which a blade or cutting tool is mounted.
Bevel Cut
A cutting operation made with the blade at any angle other
than 90° to the table surface.
Chamfer
A cut removing a wedge from a block so the end (or part of
the end) is angled rather than at 90°.
Compound Cut
A cross cut made with both a miter and a bevel angle.
Cross Cut
A cutting or shaping operation made across the grain or the
width of the workpiece.
Cutter Head (planers and jointer planers)
A rotating cutterhead with adjustable blades or knives. The
blades or knives remove material from the workpiece.
Dado Cut
A non-through cut which produces a square-sided notch or
trough in the workpiece (requires a special blade).
Featherboard
A device used to help control the workpiece by guiding
it securely against the table or fence during any ripping
operation.
FPM or SPM
Feet per minute (or strokes per minute), used in reference
to blade movement.
Freehand
Performing a cut without the workpiece being guided by a
fence, miter gauge, or other aids.
Gum
A sticky, sap-based residue from wood products.
Heel
Alignment of the blade to the fence.
Kerf
The material removed by the blade in a through cut or the
slot produced by the blade in a non-through or partial cut.
Kickback
A hazard that can occur when the blade binds or stalls,
throwing the workpiece back toward operator.
Leading End
The end of the workpiece pushed into the tool first.
Miter Cut
A cutting operation made with the workpiece at any angle
to the blade other than 90°.

9
FEATURES
Fig. 1
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Arbor......................................................................... 5/8 in.
Blade Inner Washer ..................................................... 1 in.
Blade Diameter.......................................................... 12 in.
No Load Speed ....................................4,000 r/min. (RPM)
Input ....................................... 120 V, 60 Hz, AC only, 15 A
Cutting Capacity with Miter at 0°/Bevel 0°:
Maximum nominal lumber sizes..................... 2 x 8, 4 x 4
Cutting Capacity with Miter at 45°/Bevel 0°:
Maximum nominal lumber sizes...............................2 x 6
Cutting Capacity with Miter at 0°/Bevel 45°:
Maximum nominal lumber sizes...............................2 x 8
Cutting Capacity with Miter at 45°/Bevel 45°:
Maximum nominal lumber sizes...............................2 x 6
Lower
bLade
guard
upper
bLade
guard
“d” handLe
base
Miter
Lock handLe
beveL
scaLe
beveL
Lock
knob
positive
stop(s)
switch trigger
throat
pLate
“no hands Zone”
LabeL
controL
arM
Miter
Lock pLate
“no hands Zone”
boundarY Line
Miter
scaLe
bLade
wrench
Miter
Fence
Miter
tabLe
dust bag
work
cLaMp

10
FEATURES
Fig. 3
KNOW YOUR COMPOUND MITER SAW
See Figure 1.
The safe use of this product requires an understanding of
the information on the tool and in this operator’s manual as
well as a knowledge of the project you are attempting. Before
use of this product, familiarize yourself with all operating
features and safety rules.
15 AMP MOTOR
The saw has a powerful 15 amp motor with sufficient power to
handle tough cutting jobs. It is made with all ball bearings, and
has externally accessible brushes for ease of servicing.
12 in. BLADE
A 12 in. blade is included with the compound miter saw. It
will cut materials up to 4 in. thick or 7-7/8 in. wide, depending
upon the angle at which the cut is being made.
BLADE WRENCH STORAGE
See Figure 1.
A blade wrench is packed with the saw. One end of the wrench
is a phillips screwdriver and the other end is a hex key. Use
the hex key end when installing or removing blade and the
phillips end when removing or loosening screws. A storage
area for the blade wrench is located in the saw’s base.
CARRYING HANDLE
See Figure 2.
For convenience when carrying or transporting the miter
saw from one place to another, a carrying handle has been
provided on top of the saw arm. To transport, turn off and
unplug the saw, then lower the saw arm and lock it in the
down position. Lock saw arm by depressing the lock pin.
MITER LOCK HANDLE
See Figure 2.
The miter lock handle securely locks the saw at desired
miter angles.
SPINDLE LOCK BUTTON
See Figure 3.
The spindle lock button locks the spindle stopping the
blade from rotating. Depress and hold the lock button while
installing, changing, or removing blade.
SWITCH TRIGGER
See Figure 4.
To prevent unauthorized use of the compound miter saw,
disconnect it from the power supply and lock the switch in
the off position. To lock the switch, install a padlock (not
included) through the hole in the switch trigger. A lock with
a long shackle up to 9/32 in. diameter may be used. When
the lock is installed and locked, the switch is inoperable.
Store the padlock key in another location.
Fig. 2
saw arM Locked in down position
Fig. 4
padLock
switch
trigger
spindLe
Lock button
switch
trigger
carrYing
handLe
Lock
pin
Miter Lock
handLe
“d” handLe

11
FEATURES
POSITIVE STOPS ON MITER TABLE
Positive stops have been provided at 0°, 15°, 22-1/2°, 31.62°,
and 45°. The 0°, 15°, 22-1/2°, 31.62°, and 45° positive stops
have been provided on both the left and right side of the
miter table.
BEVEL LOCK KNOB
The bevel lock knob securely locks your compound miter
saw at desired bevel angles. Positive stop adjustment
screws have been provided on each side of the saw arm.
These adjustment screws are for making fine adjustments
at 0° and 45°.
ELECTRIC BRAKE
An electric brake has been provided to quickly stop blade
rotation after the switch is released.
MITER FENCE
The miter fence on the compound miter saw has been
provided to hold your workpiece securely against when
making all cuts.
SELF-RETRACTING LOWER BLADE GUARD
The lower blade guard is made of shock-resistant, see-
through plastic that provides protection from each side of
the blade. It retracts over the upper blade guard as the saw
is lowered into the workpiece.
The following tools (not included) are needed for making adjustments or installing the blade:
TOOLS NEEDED
Fig. 5
coMbination
sQuare
FraMing sQuare
coMbination wrench (2)
(10 mm, 12 mm) heX keY
(5 mm)

12
LOOSE PARTS LIST
Fig. 6
WARNING:
The use of attachments or accessories not listed might be hazardous and could cause serious personal injury.
The following items are included with your compound miter saw:
Miter Lock Handle
Dust Bag
Work Clamp
Blade Wrench
Operator’s Manual
bLade wrench
Miter
Lock handLe
work cLaMp
dust
bag

13
ASSEMBLY
trace hoLes
at these Locations
For hoLe pattern
WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this tool or create accessories
not recommended for use with this tool. Any such altera-
tion or modification is misuse and could result in a hazard-
ous condition leading to possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Do not connect to power supply until assembly is
complete. Failure to comply could result in accidental
starting and possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Do not start the compound miter saw without checking
for interference between the blade and the miter fence.
Damage could result to the blade if it strikes the miter
fence during operation of the saw.
WARNING:
Always make sure the compound miter saw is securely
mounted to a workbench or an approved workstand. Failure
to heed this warning can result in serious personal injury.
MOUNTING HOLES
See Figure 7.
The compound miter saw should be mounted to a firm
supporting surface such as a workbench. Four bolt holes
have been provided in the saw base for this purpose. Each
of the four mounting holes should be bolted securely using
3/8 in. machine bolts, lock washers, and hex nuts (not
included).Boltsshouldbe ofsufficientlengthtoaccommodate
the saw base, lock washers, hex nuts, and the thickness of
the workbench. Tighten all four bolts securely.
The hole pattern for mounting to a workbench is shown in
figure 7. Carefully check the workbench after mounting to
make sure that no movement can occur during use. If any
tipping, sliding, or walking is noted, secure the workbench
to the floor before operating.
Fig. 7
Mounting
surFace
base
trace hoLes
at these Locations
For hoLe pattern
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.
Carefully lift saw from the carton by the carrying handle
and the saw base, and place it on a level work surface.
NOTE: This tool is heavy. To avoid back injury, lift with
your legs, not your back, and get help when needed.
WARNING:
Do not use this product if any parts on the Loose Parts List
are already assembled to your product when you unpack
it. Parts on this list are not assembled to the product by
the manufacturer and require customer installation. Use
of a product that may have been improperly assembled
could result in serious personal injury.
This saw has been shipped with the saw arm secured in
the down position. To release the saw arm, push down
on the top of the saw arm, cut the tie-wrap, and pull out
on the lock pin.
Lift the saw arm by the handle. Hand pressure should
remain on the saw arm to prevent sudden rise upon
release of the tie wrap.
Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
Do not discard the packing material until you have care-
fully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
The saw is factory set for accurate cutting. After
assembling it, check for accuracy. If shipping has
influenced the settings, refer to specific procedures
explained in this manual.
If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
1-800-525-2579 for assistance.
WARNING:
If any parts are damaged or missing do not operate this
tool until the parts are replaced. Failure to heed this warn-
ing could result in serious personal injury.

14
Miter
Lock
handLe
Miter tabLe
ASSEMBLY
MITER LOCK HANDLE
See Figure 8.
To install the miter lock handle, place the threaded stud on
the end of the miter lock handle into the threaded hole in the
control arm under miter table. Turn clockwise to tighten.
DUST BAG
See Figure 9.
A dust bag is provided for use on this miter saw. It fits over
the exhaust port on the upper blade guard. To install, squeeze
the two metal clips to open the mouth of the bag and slide
it on the exhaust port. Release the clips. The metal ring in
the bag should lock in between the grooves on the exhaust
port. To remove the dust bag for emptying, simply reverse
the above procedure.
WORK CLAMP
See Figure 10.
The work clamp provides greater control by clamping the
workpiece to the fence or the table. It also prevents the
workpiece from creeping toward the saw blade. This is very
helpful when cutting compound miters.
Depending on the cutting operation and the size of the
workpiece, it may be necessary to use a C-clamp instead
of the work clamp to secure the workpiece prior to making
the cut.
WARNING:
In some operations, the work clamp assembly may
interfere with the operation of the blade guard assembly.
Always make sure there is no interference with the blade
guard prior to beginning any cutting operation to reduce
the risk of serious personal injury.
To install the work clamp:
Place the shaft of the work clamp in either hole on the
saw table base.
Rotate the knob on the work clamp to move it in or out
as needed.
Fig. 10
base work
cLaMp
to
Loosen
to
tighten
dust
bag
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
controL
arM

15
ASSEMBLY
TO INSTALL / REPLACE THE BLADE
See Figures 11 - 12.
WARNING:
A 12 in. blade is the maximum blade capacity of the saw.
Never use a blade that is too thick to allow outer blade
washer to engage with the flats on the spindle. Larger
blades will come in contact with the blade guards, while
thicker blades will prevent the blade bolt from secur-
ing the blade on the spindle. Either of these situations
could result in a serious accident and can cause serious
personal injury.
Unplug the saw.
Raise the saw arm.
Rotate lower blade guard up and remove screw. Rotate
blade bolt cover up and back to expose the blade bolt.
Depress the spindle lock button and rotate the blade bolt
until the spindle locks.
Using the wrench provided, loosen and remove the blade
bolt.
NOTE: The blade bolt has left hand threads. Turn blade
bolt clockwise to loosen.
Remove outer blade washer. Do not remove inner blade
washer.
Wipe a drop of oil onto inner blade washer and outer
blade washer where they contact the blade.
WARNING:
If inner blade washer has been removed, replace it before
placing blade on spindle. Failure to do so could cause an
accident since blade will not tighten properly.
Fit saw blade inside lower blade guard and onto spindle.
The blade teeth point downward at the front of saw as
shown in figure 12.
Replace outer blade washer. Double “D” flats on blade
washers align with flats on spindle.
Depress spindle lock button and replace blade bolt.
NOTE: The blade bolt has left hand threads. Turn blade bolt
counterclockwise to tighten.
CAUTION:
Always install the blade with the blade teeth and the
arrow printed on the side of the blade pointing down at
the front of the saw. The direction of blade rotation is also
stamped with an arrow on the upper blade guard.
Tighten blade bolt securely.
Replace the lower blade guard and blade bolt cover.
Replace screw and tighten securely.
Fig. 12
Lower
bLade
guard
bLade
outer bLade
washer with
doubLe “d” FLats
bLade
boLt
to
tighten
to
Loosen
screw
FLat(s)
on spindLe
bLade
boLt
cover
spindLe Lock
button
Fig. 11
inner bLade
washer with
doubLe “d” FLats
note: beFore use,
repLace screw and
tighten secureLY
to prevent guard
MoveMent

16
ASSEMBLY
Fig. 13
view oF Miter tabLe sQuare with Fence
Miter
Lock pLate
Miter
Lock handLe
Miter
tabLe
throat pLate
FraMing
sQuare
NOTE: Many of the illustrations in this manual show only
portions of the compound miter saw. This is intentional so
that we can clearly show points being made in the illustra-
tions. Never operate the saw without all guards securely
in place and in good operating condition.
SQUARING THE MITER TABLE TO THE
FENCE
See Figures 13 - 16.
Unplug the saw.
Push down on the saw arm and pull out the lock pin to
release the saw arm.
Raise the saw arm.
Loosen the miter lock handle approximately one-half
turn.
Lift and hold the miter lock plate then rotate the miter table
until the pointer aligns with zero on the miter scale.
Release the miter lock plate and securely tighten the miter
lock handle.
Lay a framing square flat on the miter table. Place one
leg of the square against the fence. Place the other leg
of the square beside the throat plate in the miter table.
The edge of the square and the throat plate in the miter
table should be parallel as shown in figure 13.
If the edge of the framing square and the throat plate
in the miter table are not parallel as shown in figures 14
and 15, adjustments are needed.
Using the blade wrench provided, loosen the socket head
screws securing the fence. Adjust the fence left or right
until the framing square and throat plate are parallel.
Retighten the screws securely and recheck the fence-to-
table alignment.
FraMing
sQuare
Fig. 14
view oF Miter tabLe not sQuare with
Fence, adJustMents are reQuired
throat pLate
Miter
tabLe
FraMing
sQuare
Fig. 15
view oF Miter tabLe not sQuare with
Fence, adJustMents are reQuired
Miter
tabLe
throat pLate
Miter
Fence
Miter
Fence
Miter
Fence

17
ASSEMBLY
SQUARING THE BLADE TO THE FENCE
See Figures 17 - 19.
Unplug the saw.
Pull the saw arm all the way down and engage the lock
pin to hold the saw arm in transport position.
Loosen the miter lock handle approximately one-half
turn.
Lift and hold the miter lock plate then rotate the miter table
until the pointer aligns with zero on the miter scale.
Release the miter lock plate and securely tighten the miter
lock handle.
Lay a framing square flat on the miter table. Place one
leg of the square against the fence. Slide the other leg
of the square against the flat part of saw blade.
NOTE: Make sure that the square contacts the flat part
of the saw blade, not the blade teeth.
The edge of the square and the saw blade should be
parallel as shown in figure 17.
If the front or back edge of the saw blade angles away
from the square as shown in figures 18 - 19, adjustments
are needed.
Loosen the socket head screws that secure the miter
fence to the miter table.
Rotate the miter fence left or right until the saw blade is
parallel with the square.
Retighten the screws securely and recheck the blade-to-
fence alignment.
The saw has three scale indicators, two on the bevel scale
and one on the miter scale. After squaring adjustments have
been made, it may be necessary to loosen the indicator
screws and reset them to zero.
Miter
Lock
handLe
Fig. 17
Miter
tabLe
view oF bLade sQuare with Fence
Miter
Lock
pLate
FraMing
sQuare
view oF bLade not sQuare with Fence, adJustMents
are reQuired Fig. 18
Fig. 16
Fence
socket head
screw(s) socket head
screw(s)
Fig. 19
view oF bLade not sQuare with Fence, adJustMents
are reQuired
Miter
Fence
bLade
Miter
Lock
handLe
Miter
tabLe
Miter
Lock
pLate
FraMing
sQuare
bLade
Miter
Lock
handLe
Miter
tabLe
Miter
Lock
pLate
FraMing
sQuare
bLade
Miter
Fence
Miter
Fence

18
ASSEMBLY
scaLe
indicator
Miter
scaLe
indicator
screw
beveL
scaLe
SQUARING THE BLADE TO THE MITER TABLE
See Figures 20 - 23.
Unplug the saw.
Pull the saw arm all the way down and engage the lock
pin to hold the saw arm in transport position.
Loosen the miter lock handle approximately one-half
turn.
Lift and hold the miter lock plate then rotate the miter table
until the pointer aligns with zero on the miter scale.
Release the miter lock plate and securely tighten the miter
lock handle.
Loosen bevel lock knob and set saw arm at 0°bevel (blade
set 90°to miter table). Tighten bevel lock knob.
Place a combination square against the miter table and
the flat part of saw blade.
NOTE: Make sure that the square contacts the flat part
of the saw blade, not the blade teeth.
Rotate the blade by hand and check the blade-to-table
alignment at several points.
The edge of the square and the saw blade should be
parallel as shown in figure 21.
If the top or bottom of the saw blade angles away from
the square as shown in figures 22 and 23, adjustments
are needed.
Loosen the lock nut securing positive stop adjustment
screw. Also loosen bevel lock knob.
Adjust positive stop adjustment screw to bring saw blade
into alignment with the square. See Positive Stop Adjust-
ment in the Adjustments section.
Retighten bevel lock knob. Next, retighten lock nut
securing the positive stop adjustment screw. Recheck
blade-to-table alignment.
NOTE: The above procedure can be used to check blade
squareness of the saw blade to the miter table at both 0°
and 45°angles.
The saw has two scale indicators, one on the bevel scale
and one on the miter scale. After squaring adjustments have
been made, it may be necessary to loosen the indicator
screws and reset them to zero.
Fig. 21
correct view oF bLade sQuare with Miter tabLe
view oF bLade not sQuare with Miter tabLe,
adJustMents are reQuired Fig. 22
Fig. 23
view oF bLade not sQuare with Miter tabLe,
adJustMents are reQuired
Fig. 20
Miter
Lock
pLate
Miter
tabLe Miter
Lock
handLe
coMbination
sQuare
bLade
beveL
Lock
knob
Miter
Fence
Miter
Lock
pLate
Miter
tabLe
Miter
Lock
handLe
coMbination
sQuare
bLade
beveL
Lock
knob
Miter
Fence
Miter
Lock
pLate
Miter
tabLe
Miter
Lock
handLe
coMbination
sQuare
bLade
beveL
Lock
knob
Miter
Fence

19
OPERATION
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you care-
less. Remember that a careless fraction of a second is
sufficient to inflict serious injury.
WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to
comply with ANSI Z87.1. Failure to do so could result in
objects being thrown into your eyes, resulting in possible
serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not use any attachments or accessories not
recommended by the manufacturer of this tool. The use
of attachments or accessories not recommended can
result in serious personal injury.
APPLICATIONS
This product has been designed only for the purposes listed
below:
Cross cutting wood and plastic (do not cut metals,
ceramics or masonry products.)
Cross cutting miters, joints, etc. for picture frames mold-
ings, door casings, and fine joinery
Bevel cutting and compound cutting
NOTE: The blade provided is fine for most wood cutting
operations, but for fine joinery cuts or cutting plastic, use
one of the accessory blades available from the dealer.
WARNING:
Before starting any cutting operation, clamp or bolt the
compound miter saw to a workbench. Never operate the
miter saw on the floor or in a crouched position. Failure to
heed this warning can result in serious personal injury.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, always tighten the miter
lock handle securely before making a cut. Failure to do
so could result in movement of the control arm or miter
table while making a cut.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, keep hands outside
the no hands zone, at least 3 in. from the blade. Never
perform any cutting operation freehand (without holding
workpiece against the fence). The blade could grab the
workpiece if it slips or twists.
CUTTING WITH YOUR COMPOUND
MITER SAW
WARNING:
When using a work clamp or C-clamp to secure your
workpiece, clamp workpiece on one side of the blade
only. The workpiece must remain free on one side of the
blade to prevent the blade from binding in workpiece. The
workpiece binding the blade will cause motor stalling and
kickback. This situation could cause an accident resulting
in possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
NEVER move the workpiece or make adjustment to any
cutting angle while the saw is running and the blade is
rotating. Any slip can result in contact with the blade
causing serious personal injury.
TO CROSS CUT
See Figures 24 - 25.
A cross cut is made by cutting across the grain of the
workpiece. A straight cross cut is made with the miter table
set at the 0° position. Miter cross cuts are made with the
miter table set at some angle other than zero.
Pull out the lock pin and lift saw arm to its full height.
Loosen the miter lock handle. Rotate the miter lock handle
approximately one-half turn to the left to loosen.
Fig. 24
work
cLaMp
cross cut

20
OPERATION
Lift and hold the miter lock plate then rotate the miter table
until the pointer aligns with zero on the miter scale.
Release the miter lock plate.
NOTE: You can quickly locate 0°, 15°, 22-1/2°, left or
right, 31.62° and 45° left or right by releasing the miter
lock plate as you rotate the control arm. The miter lock
plate will seat itself in one of the positive stop notches,
located in base.
Tighten the miter lock handle securely.
Place the workpiece flat on the miter table with one edge
securely against the fence. If the board is warped, place
the convex side against the fence. If the concave edge of
a board is placed against the fence, the board could col-
lapse on the blade at the end of the cut, jamming the blade.
When cutting long pieces of lumber or molding, support
the opposite end of the stock with a roller stand or with
a work surface level with the saw table. See Figure 30.
Align cutting line on workpiece with edge of saw blade.
Grasp the stock firmly with one hand and secure it against
the fence. Use the optional work clamp or a C-clamp to
secure the workpiece when possible.
Before turning on the saw, perform a dry run of the cutting
operation just to make sure that no problems will occur
when the cut is made.
Grasp the saw handle firmly then squeeze the switch
trigger. Allow several seconds for the blade to reach
maximum speed.
Slowly lower the blade into and through the workpiece.
Release the switch trigger and allow the blade to stop
rotating before raising the blade out of the workpiece. Wait
until the electric brake stops blade from turning before
removing the workpiece from the miter table.
TO BEVEL CUT
See Figures 26 - 27.
Abevelcutismadebycuttingacross thegrainofthe workpiece
with the blade angled to the workpiece. A straight bevel cut
is made with the miter table set at the zero degree position
and the blade set at an angle between 0° and 45°.
Pull out the lock pin and lift saw arm to its full height.
Loosen the miter lock handle. Rotate the miter lock handle
approximately one-half turn to the left to loosen.
Lift and hold the miter lock plate then rotate the miter table
until the pointer aligns with zero on the miter scale.
Release the miter lock plate.
NOTE: You can quickly locate zero by releasing the lock
plate as you rotate the control arm. The lock plate will seat
itself in one of the built-in positive stop notches, located
in the base.
Tighten the miter lock handle securely.
beveL
scaLe
scaLe
indicator
Fig. 27
work
cLaMp
Fig. 25
work
cLaMp
beveL cut
Miter cut
indicator
point
Fig. 26
indicator
screw