SafetySpeed C Series User manual

Panel Saw
Owner’s Manual
C-Series, H-Series, 6400 & 6800
H-Series vertical panel saw with optional accessories Proudly made in the USA
www.SafetySpeed.com
Read and understand this manual before operating this tool. Failure to follow the safety precautions and
instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep this manual in an accessible and safe location for
future reference.

2
A message from all of us at SAFETY SPEED MANUFACTURING:
Thank you for purchasing a Safety Speed Manufacturing (SSM) vertical panel saw. We take pride in building these
fine products in the U.S.A.
Each SSM product is designed to give years of dependable service. Your new panel saw was built from the finest
components available, and every machine is individually assembled by craftsmen - some of whom have been
building these products for more than 25 years. We appreciate you choosing SSM products for your facility.
Team Safety Speed
Ham Lake, Minnesota
Limited Warranty
Safety Speed Manufacturing (SSM) warrants the parts and workmanship of this tool, except for the electric
motor, for one year from the date of purchase. SSM will repair or replace, at our discretion, any
component that is determined to be defective. Repair or replacement is limited to providing replacement
parts from the factory. SSM assumes no responsibility for making repairs on site. Parts returned to the
factory must be returned freight prepaid and include a Return Authorization (R.A.) number.Please call
SSM 763-755-1600 for a R.A. number.
All motors are warranted directly by the motor manufacturer. See local repair and maintenance centers
for warranty claims for motors.
Safety Speed Manufacturing assumes no responsibility for any damage or accidents resulting from the
misuse of this tool, its misapplication, or failure to follow precautionary safety measures. SSM assumes
no responsibility for any consequential damage or loss of production. SSM will not be responsible for
claims made for machines that are not used or maintained in the normal course of business, used for
applications not intended, or modified in any way. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you
may also have other rights which vary from state to state. SSM # 763-755-1600.
This manual applies to the following SSM panel saw models:
6480-20C C4 H4 H6 6400
C5 H5 6800
Enter your model number and serial number for quick and easy reference when ordering accessories, supplies or
parts.
Note: The Model and Serial No. label can be found on the upper, left side of the frame, when facing the saw.
Model No:____________________________
Serial No:_____________________________
Serial & Model
Label
Figure 1: Serial & Model label (6400
shown)
Safety Speed Mfg.
13943 LINCOLN ST. NE
HAM LAKE, MN 55304
763-755-1600

3
CONTENTS
Safety…………………………………………………………………. 4
Safety & Warning Label Placement…………………………………………. 4
Safety & Warning Labels Identified….…………………………………….…. 5
Safety Procedures……………………………………………………………... 6
Propostion 65 Warning………………………………………………………… 10
Electrical Safety………………………………………………………………... 10
Extension Cords ........................................................................................ 11
Short-Circuit Protection ............................................................................. 12
Vertical Panel Saw Components………………………………………….…. 12
Installation................................................................................... 13
Tools Required for Installation................................................................... 13
Operating Environment ............................................................................. 13
Inventory…...…………………………………………………………………... 14
Unpacking.................................................................................................. 14
Machine Assembly .................................................................................... 16
Operation .................................................................................... 25
Capacities of the Tool................................................................................ 25
Selecting a Saw Blade .............................................................................. 27
Basic Operating Functions ........................................................................ 28
General Operating Tips ............................................................................. 32
Operating Procedure: Crosscutting .......................................................... 32
Operating Procedure: Rip cutting ............................................................. 34
Maintenance ............................................................................... 37
General Maintenance ................................................................................ 37
Cleaning .................................................................................................... 37
Maintaining the Motor ................................................................................ 37
Lubricating the Guides .............................................................................. 38
Service ........................................................................................ 38
Repairs ...................................................................................................... 38
Replacement Parts .................................................................................... 38
Alignment................................................................................................... 38
Accessories................................................................................. 42
Tools Required for Installation……………………………………………….. 42
Frame Wheels ........................................................................................... 42
Frame Stand.............................................................................................. 43
Frame Extensions...................................................................................... 45
Dust Collection Kits ................................................................................... 46
Stop Bar..................................................................................................... 47
Quick Stop ................................................................................................. 49
Midway Fence ........................................................................................... 50
Hold-Down Bar .......................................................................................... 53
Laser……………………………………………………………………………. 54
Accessory List…………………………………………………………………. 55
Specifications.............................................................................. 55
SSM is a registered trademark of Safety Speed Manufacturing Co., Inc.

4
SAFETY
Read and understand this manual before operating this tool. Failure to follow the safety
precautions and instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep this manual in an
accessible and safe location for future reference. Electronic copies of this manual are available
at www.safetyspeed.com. Printed copies are available by calling SSM 763-755-1600.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury.
Safety & Warning Label Placement
Cable under tension DO NOT disassemble
Figure 2: Safety & Warning Label locations
Pinch Point
Horizontal Cutting
Direction
Indexing Pins
DO NOT Operate In
Wet Conditions
Prevent Kickback
DO NOT Operate Without
Guards in Place
DO NOT Place Hands
Under Carriage or Near
Blade
Blade Size & Rotation
DO NOT Operate Saw If
Label Can Be Read
(Under blade guard on saw
foot)
Motor Specifications

5

6
When using electric tools, always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire,
electric shock, and personal injury.
READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE USE. Before use, be sure everyone using this tool reads
and understands this manual as well as any labels packaged with or attached to the tool.
1. KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read this manual carefully to learn your power tool’s applications and limitations
as well as potential hazards associated with this type of tool.
2. DO NOT ALLOW UNQUALIFIED PEOPLE TO OPERATE the tool.
3. AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS. Do not use your power tool in rain, damp or wet locations, or in the
presence of explosive atmospheres (gaseous fumes, dust, or flammable materials). Remove materials or
debris that may be ignited by sparks.
4. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN AND WELL LIT. Cluttered, dark work areas invite accidents. Provide at least 200
watts of lighting at the front work area of the tool. Eliminate all shadows that could interfere with clear viewing
of the work area.
5. DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing or jewelry. Wear a protective hair covering to contain
long hair, as it may be caught in moving parts. When working outdoors, wear rubber gloves and insulated,
nonskid footwear. Keep hands and gloves away from moving parts.
6. USE SAFETY EQUIPMENT. Everyone in the work area should wear safety goggles or glasses with side
shields that comply with current safety standards. Wear hearing protection during extended use and a dust
mask for dusty operations. Hard hats, face shields, safety shoes, etc. should be used when specified or
necessary. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
7. KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY. Keep children and bystanders at a safe distance from the work area to avoid
distracting the operator and contacting the tool or extension cord.
8. MAKE THE WORKSHOP CHILD PROOF with padlocks, master switches, etc.
9. NEVER LEAVE THE TOOL RUNNING UNATTENDED. Turn the power off. Do not leave the tool until it comes
to a complete stop.
10. PROTECT OTHERS IN THE WORK AREA from debris such as chips and sparks. Provide barriers or shields
as needed.
11. SECURE THE WORK. Use a clamp, vise, or other practical means to hold your work securely, freeing both
hands to control the tool.
12. USE THE RIGHT TOOL. Do not use a tool or attachment to do a job for which it is not recommended. For
example, do not use a circular saw to cut tree limbs or logs. Do not alter the tool, remove guards, or operate
the saw when removed from the carriage and frame.
13. USE PROPER ACCESSORIES. Using non-recommended accessories may be hazardous. Be sure
accessories are properly installed and maintained. Do not defeat a guard or other safety device when installing
an accessory or attachment.
14. CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS. Inspect guards and other parts before use. Check for misalignment, binding
of moving parts, improper mounting, broken parts, and any other conditions that may affect operation. If
abnormal noise or vibration occurs, turn the tool off immediately and have the problem corrected before further
use. Do not use a damaged tool. Tag damaged tools “DO NOT USE” until repaired. Repair or replace a
damaged guard or other part. For all repairs, insist on identical replacement parts or factory certified
conversions.
15. REMOVE ALL ADJUSTING WRENCHES AND TOOLS from the tool before turning it on. Make this a habit.
16. GROUND YOUR TOOL. See “Electrical Safety,” page 10.

7
17. AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Be sure your tool is turned off before plugging it in. Do not use the tool if
the power switch does not turn it on and off. Observe correct lockout/tag out procedures when performing
maintenance on the tool.
18. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL. Your tool will perform best at the rate for which it was designed. Excessive
force only causes operator fatigue, increased wear, increased risk of binding or sudden breakage, and reduced
control.
19. KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM ALL CUTTING EDGES, MOVING PARTS AND PINCH POINTS.
20. DO NOT ABUSE THE CORD. Never unplug the cord by yanking it from the outlet. Pull the plug rather than
the cord to reduce the risk of damage. Keep the cord away from heat, oil, sharp objects, cutting edges, and
moving parts.
21. DO NOT OVERREACH. MAINTAIN CONTROL. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Maintain a firm
grip.
22. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing, and use common sense. Do not use a tool when you are tired,
distracted, or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any medication causing decreased control.
23. UNPLUG THE TOOL when it is not in use, before changing items such as blades, and before performing
recommended maintenance. Observe appropriate lockout/tag out procedures.
24. MAINTAIN TOOLS CAREFULLY. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Keep cutting edges
sharp and clean. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Periodically inspect tool cords
and extension cords for damage. Have damaged parts repaired or replaced.
25. MAINTAIN LABELS AND NAMEPLATES. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing, contact
Safety Speed for a free replacement.
26. AVOID KICKBACK. Kickback is a violent reaction to a pinched or binding saw blade. It throws the saw upward
when crosscutting and throws the work piece out when ripping. Firm control, proper support of the work piece,
and concentration on the job are essential to reduce the risk of injury from kickback:
a. KEEP SAW BLADE CLEAN AND SHARP. A dull or improperly sharpened blade produces a narrow
kerf and is likely to be pinched by the work piece. Any blade with a small set, even though sharp, may
be likely to kick back. A dull blade encourages you to force the saw, causing reduced control and blade
binding. The excessive friction generated can cause the blade to warp or bind. Use only blades that are
recommended for use with your tool. Do not use blades with mounting holes that are not the correct
size or shape. Never use defective or incorrect blade flanges or bolts. Be sure the blade bolt is tight.
Select the proper blade for the application. Blade speed specifications must be at least as high as the
nameplate RPM.
b. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL. Let the saw do the work. A saw is more easily controlled and will do a
better job when used in the manner for which it was designed.

8
c. SECURE WORK PROPERLY. If a piece is supported on both sides of the cut in such a way that it allows
the material to bow and pinch the blade, it may produce kickback. Do not cut pieces smaller than the
saw carriage. Support large panels properly.
d. IF THE BLADE BINDS, TURN SAW OFF!The saw or work piece may kick back. Keep hands, body,
and bystanders out of the path of the blade and material.
e. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not allow yourself to be
distracted. Do not operate the tool when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Hold
the tool and material firmly and exercise control at all times. Position yourself and co-workers out of the
kickback path. Repetitive cuts that lull you into careless movements can also cause kickback. A brief
“stretch” may be all that is necessary to avoid a problem.
f. RESTARTING IN MID-CUT. If the saw is stopped in mid-cut, TURN SAW OFF! Allow the blade to
stop. Then back up the saw (if crosscutting) or the board (if rip cutting) before restarting.
g. IF THE BLADE STALLS, TURN SAW OFF! DO NOT TURN THE SWITCH ON AND OFF. A dull blade
or excess pressure may cause stalling. TURN OFF the switch immediately if the blade binds or the saw
stalls, and remove the saw from the cut.
h. AVOID CUTTING NAILS OR OTHER FASTENERS. Inspect for and remove all metal fasteners before
cutting.
i. SUPPORT THIN MATERIAL. Large sheets such as paneling, Formica, etc., tend to warp or sag and
must be well supported over their entire length to avoid pinching the blade. Optional hold down bar
recommended for this application.
27. HANDLE THE COUNTERBALANCE WITH CARE. The counterbalance cable is under tension. See page 16.
Always attach the cable to the saw carriage before removing the cable clip. Do not pull on the cable by hand
or attempt to disassemble or repair the counterbalance. Replacement counterbalances can be purchased
directly from Safety Speed, or an authorized dealer.
28. DO NOT USE PUSH STICKS.
29. CROSSCUTTING (VERTICAL CUTTING) MUST ALWAYS BE DONE FROM THE TOP DOWN. Raise the saw
carriage to the uppermost position on the guides and lock it into position with the carriage lock whenever the
tool is not in use. See “Operating Procedure: Crosscutting”, for more information.
30. RIPPING (HORIZONTAL CUTTING) MUST ALWAYS BE DONE WITH THE DIRECTION OF THE ARROW.
Raise the saw carriage to the top of the guides and lock it into position with the carriage lock whenever the tool
is not in use. See “Operating Procedure: Rip cutting”, for more information.
31. ALWAYS WAIT FOR THE BLADE TO STOP COMPLETELY BEFORE CHANGING POSITIONS. Unplug the
tool before transporting or moving it.
32. DO NOT PLACE YOUR HANDS ON OR UNDER THE SAW CARRIAGE OR IN THE PATH OF THE BLADE.

9
Do not try to retrieve a piece of cut material while the blade is rotating. This symbol is to remind you:
33. DO NOT DEFEAT THE GUARDS OR OPERATE THE TOOL WITHOUT THE GUARDS IN PLACE. Do not
remove the saw motor from the carriage.
34. NEVER STAND ON THE TOOL. Serious injury could occur if the tool is tipped or if you unintentionally contact
the cutting tool.
35. DIRECTION OF FEED. Always feed work into the blade or cutter against the direction of the rotation of the
blade or cutter.
36. HOME CENTERS AND COMMERCIAL LOCATIONS should check with their local electrical contractor to be
sure the proper amount of electrical power (volts/amps) will be available for this machine during all operating
hours and conditions. Be aware of any special electrical safety requirements for this machine (examples: key
lock offs, timers, coded security, touch pads, disconnects, or time lockouts) required by local codes.
37. DISCONNECT AND LOCK THE POWER OFF before changing saw blades or making any adjustments.
38. BEFORE CONNECTING THE SAW MOTOR TO THE POWER SUPPLY BE SURE THE SAW MOTOR
SWITCH IS IN THE OFF POSITION.
39. KEEP THE CARRIAGE LOCK SECURELY TIGHTENED when the machine is not in use.
40. DO NOT PLACE HANDS UNDER CARRIAGE OR IN LINE WITH CARRIAGE TRAVEL. Be aware of potential
pinch points at top of saw carriage. Only hold or operate saw with designated handles. Do not place hands
under carriage or in-line with carriage travel.
41. REFER TO PAGE 5 FOR WARNING LABEL IDENTIFICATION.
Please Read Before Operating the Saw

10
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities
contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:
• Lead from lead-based paint
• Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
• Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your
exposure to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as
those dust masks that are specifically designed to filter out microscopic particles. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/wood
Electrical Safety
Improperly connecting the grounding wire can result in the risk of electric shock. Check
with a qualified electrician if you are not sure that the outlet is properly grounded. Do not
modify the plug provided with the tool. Never remove the grounding prong from the plug.
Do not use the tool if the cord or plug is damaged. If damaged, have it repaired by a
qualified electrician before use. If the plug will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet
installed by a qualified electrician.
Some of our machines are equipped with 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 a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug in any
way. Double insulation eliminates the need for the three wire grounded power supply system mentioned above.
Do not expose your tool to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of
electric shock.
For best performance and to prevent damage use a dedicated electrical circuit for all SSM tools.
The plug must be connected to a properly grounded outlet (Fig. 3). If the tool should electrically malfunction or
break down, grounding provides a low-resistance path to carry electricity away from you, reducing the risk of electric
shock.
Figure 3: Grounded Plug and Outlet
The grounding prong on the plug is connected through the green wire inside the cord to the grounding system in
the tool. The green wire in the cord must be the only wire connected to the tool’s grounding system and must never
be attached to an electrically “live” terminal.
Your tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet, properly installed and grounded in accordance with all codes

11
and ordinances. The plug and outlet should look like those in Figure 3.
Figure 4 illustrates a temporary adapter available for connecting grounded plugs. The green rigid ear or lug
extending from the adapter must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box or
receptacle. Simply remove the center screw from the outlet, insert the adapter and reattach the screw through the
green grounding ear to the outlet. If in doubt of proper grounding, call a qualified electrician. A temporary adapter
should only be used until a qualified electrician can install a properly grounded outlet. The Canadian Electrical
Code prohibits the use of temporary adapters.
Figure 4: Temporary Grounding Adapter
Extension Cords
Extension cords are not recommended. If an extension cord is used, please adhere to the following suggestions.
Grounded tools require a three-wire extension cord. As the distance from the supply outlet increases a heavier-
gauge extension cord must be used. Extension cords with inadequately sized wire causes a serious drop in voltage,
resulting in loss of power and possible motor damage. Refer to Table I below to determine the required minimum
wire size.
Table I: Recommended Minimum Wire Gauge for Extension Cords
* Based on limiting the line voltage drop to 5V at 150% of rated amperes.
Not recommended
The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cord. For example, a 14-gauge cord can
carry a higher current than a 16-gauge cord.
Guidelines for Using Extension Cords
For longest motor life and optimum performance extensions cords are not recommended.
If you are using an extension cord outdoors, be sure it is marked with the suffix “W-A” (“W” in Canada) to indicate
that it is acceptable for outdoor use.
Be sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition. Always replace a damaged extension
cord or have it repaired by a qualified person before using it.
Protect extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat, and damp or wet areas.
Short-Circuit Protection
This tool must only be plugged into a dedicated circuit that has a short-circuit protection device which is located
Extension Cord Length*
Nameplate Amps
25’(7.6m) 50’(15m) 75’(23m) 100’(31m) 150’(46m) 200’(61m)
< 5
16 16 16 14 12 12
5 - 8
16 16 14 12 10 
8 - 12
14 14 12 10 
12 - 15
12 12 10 10 
15 - 20
10 10 10 

12
ahead of the equipment in the circuit, in accordance with local codes.
General guidelines are as follows:
120 volts: 20-amp protection
These models can include: C-Series, H-series, 6400/6800
220 volt: 10 amp protection
These models can include: C-Series, H-series, 6400/6800
Reference your motor label and your local codes before installation.
Electrical Connections
Connect the power cord from the panel saw to a dedicated circuit that meets the requirement of the saw and local
codes. Connect the power cord from the dust collector to a circuit that meets the requirement of the dust collector.
READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
Vertical Panel Saw Components
Figure 5: Vertical Panel Saw reference guide, shown with accessories
(Saw) Carriage
Cord Keeper
Counterbalance
(Counterweight)
Carriage
Lock
Handle
Stand
Frame
Guides
Wheels
Material Rollers
Serial and Model #
(Saw) Carriage
Cord Keeper
Counterbalance
(Counterweight)
Carriage
Lock
Handle
Stand
Frame
Guides
Wheels
Material Rollers
(behind Faceplate)
Serial and Model #
Faceplate
Blade Guard
(aka Dust Bonnet)

13
INSTALLATION
Your Safety Speed saw comes from the factory assembled and aligned. You will only have to mount the following
parts before you can run this tool:
•Counterbalance (on Models C-series, and H-Series)
•Motor (except for Models 6400/6800)
•Cord keeper
If you ordered any optional accessories, (e.g. Frame Stand, Frame Wheels, Dust Kit, Vacuum, or other
accessories), you will find assembly instructions packed with that item (and repeated at the end of this manual,
page 42). Please note there are some packaged machines that do include optional accessories, see specifications.
Tools Required for Installation
NOTE: Additional tools may be required for installing accessories.
•7/16” wrench (C & H Series)
•5/8” wrench (C & H Series)
•9/16” blade wrench (6400 & 6800) included
•¼” blade hex wrench (C & H Series) included
Operating Environment
For safe operation, install the tool in an area that is well lit. Eliminate all shadows that could interfere with clear
viewing of the work area.
Do not locate the tool in a damp or wet location, or a location where it may be exposed to rain.
If the tool will be operated in an enclosed area, SSM recommends installing the optional Dust Kit and Vacuum. (see
pg. 46 & 55).
Avoid explosive atmospheres (gaseous fumes, dust, or flammable materials).
Secure the area so that children and bystanders are kept a safe distance from the work area. Provide barriers and
shields as needed.
NOTE: The average noise level of SSM saws is less than 80 dB.

14
Inventory
Each model incudes the saw frame, motor and counterbalance/counterweight. These items may be installed on
the saw or packaged in separate boxes. The C-Series saws include a separate box for the motor, counterbalance
and dust bonnet, (Fig.6 C-Series shown). Accessories may be packaged and included with saw frame or shipped
separately. Carefully remove and inspect all items before operation.
Figure 6: Packaged saw and boxes
Unpacking
1. Removing plastic sheeting, protective cardboard, and wood crating. NOTE: Uncrating methods vary by model
and accessories.
Caution: Have a helper hold saw frame for the next steps.
2. Remove wood crate by cutting (a reciprocating saw is used as an example) the wood frame along the
outside/back corners (Fig. 7) being careful not to damage panel saw. Cut around base. NOTE: Do not cut
through (across) crate base (Fig.8).
NOTE: 6400 Only, cut between block of wood and base of wood crate, supporting counter weight in back. This
will ease removal of wood block supporting counter weight.
Figure 7: Cutting back of wood crate

15
Figure 8: Cutting along base of wood crate, do not cut through (across) base
3. Cut top of crate near saw frame, to release crate, Fig. 9.Remove back side of crate as it should be loose from
saw and crate. Make sure helper is holding saw frame.
Figure 9: Cutting top (back) of wood crate
4. Make sure helper is holding saw frame. NOTE: If you purchased an optional stand, install it before removing
saw from crate. Refer to stand installation instructions.
5. Push sides of crate away from saw frame to release and remove saw and set saw out of crate and place in the
desired and secure position. See page 18, Standing Up the Tool.
6. One or more boxes of parts are attached to the frame. The cord keeper is attached to the carriage. Remove
these items for later installation.

16
Machine Assembly
Installing the Counterbalance, C-series and H-series, (6400 & 6800, Counterweight is
factory installed).
To reduce the risk of injury or damage to components, do not attempt to disassemble or
repair the Counterbalance. Do not pull on the Counterbalance cable. The cable is under
strong spring force: the unit must be properly assembled before you remove the cable
clip to prevent damaging the Counterbalance.
A Counterbalance is used on Models C-Series and H-Series to offset the weight of the carriage and saw. The
6400 and 6800 models use a Counterweight system that is factory installed. When unpacking a 6400 or 6800,
loosen carriage lock (Fig. 13), move saw carriage to center. Remove wood support block from bottom, center of
weight canister.
The Counterbalance on Models C-Series and H-Series (Fig. 10) is shipped with the necessary hardware attached,
and is in the box marked “Saw Motor.”
Figure 10: Counterbalance
Do not remove the bolt and nut from the Counterbalance cable.

17
1. Remove the two 1/4-20 x 5/8” carriage bolts, nuts, and washers (Fig. 12) from the counterbalance.
2. Set the Counterbalance on top of the tool frame, slightly off-center to the right, so that the cable is aligned
vertically with an oval hole near the top/right of the Saw Carriage (Fig.11 & 12). NOTE: Do not mount the
Counter balance in the center holes.
Figure 11: Attaching Counterbalance
3. Secure the Counterbalance to the top of the tool frame, using the two attached carriage bolts, washers, and
nuts, using right-side holes. Tighten the nuts securely. NOTE: Confirm Counterbalance is attached to right-
side holes and cable aligns with saw carriage.
Figure 12: Installing the Counterbalance
4. Hold the Saw Carriage (Page 12) securely while you loosen the Carriage Lock (Fig. 13). Raise the Saw Carriage
until the right hole (Fig. 13) in the top of the Saw Carriage aligns with the eye in the end of the Counterbalance
Cable (Fig. 13) making sure the cable is behind the Saw Carriage (Fig. 14). Tighten Carriage Lock (Fig. 13).
Figure 13: Attaching the Counterbalance Cable
5. Hold the cable end behind the carriage. Remove the carriage bolt and nut, on operators side of carriage, and
use them to attach the eyelet of the Counterbalance cable end to the right side, oval hole in the Saw Carriage
(Fig. 14). Tighten securely. The cable should be straight up and down (Fig. 16).
Carriage Lock
Hole in Top of Saw Carriage

18
Figure 14: Attaching Counterbalance Cable
6. Bend the Cable Clip (Fig. 15) tabs forward by hand, so they look like the ones in Fig. 12 & 13.
Figure 15: Cable Clip
7. Loosen the Carriage Lock (Fig. 13) and lower the Saw Carriage until the Cable Clip is fully exposed, tighten
Carriage Lock (Fig. 13). Remove the Cable Clip (Fig. 15) from the Counterbalance Cable and save it for
future use (e.g., if you remove the Counterbalance in the future, you will need the Cable Clip to support the
tension in the Counterbalance).
Figure 16: Counterbalance Attached
Standing Up the Tool
Do not attempt to lift tool without help of an assistant.
With the help of an assistant, stand up the tool and position it in its intended operating location:
Counterbalance Cable

19
•If the tool is to be mounted to the floor, a wall or post, it must be securely attached to prevent injury from tipping.
Position the saw frame with a 10 – 15 degree angle of back-lean for optimum saw performance.
•If installing the optional Folding or Fixed Frame Stand. Follow the mounting instructions packed with
the stand (and repeated at the end of this manual). The stand will correctly support the tool under normal
operating conditions.
A freestanding saw must be located away from areas where it could be accidentally tipped
over.
Mounting the Motor on the Carriage
Do not use panel saw motor for applications not intended. Do not use panel saw motor removed
from saw carriage or frame for any application. The saw motor is engineered for SSM and built
specifically, for the intended use as a vertical panel saw.
Models-All C-series and H-series
The saw motor is inside the box marked “Saw Motor”. It is shipped with two washers, three nuts, and one bolt
installed. Remove these items to mount the saw to the turntable on the carriage, creating the saw carriage.
1. Loosen the carriage lock and lower the carriage to a comfortable working height. Then tighten the carriage
lock securely.
2. Mount the motor to the carriage by inserting the studs (Fig. 17, #6) on the saw motor through the holes in the
turntable (#5). Install the washers and nuts (#7), and hand-tighten only.
3. The bracket (Fig. 17, #8) that extends from the saw handle has a single hole. Place the spacer (#9) between
the bracket on the turntable and the bracket on the saw handle. Align that hole with the hole in the turntable as
shown in Fig. 17, and insert the bolt (#10). Install the nut (#12), and hand-tighten only.
4. Make sure the bolt (Fig. 17, #11) on the saw motor plate is flush against the turntable bracket as shown, to
ensure the saw is square. This bolt (#11) is factory-set and does not require adjustment when the tool is being
installed.
5. Tighten the two bottom nuts first (Fig. 17, #7), and the top nut (#12) last.
Models 6400, 6800
The Models 6400 and 6800 are shipped with the saw motor already mounted.

20
Figure 17: Mounting the Saw Motor (C-Series and H-Series)
Installing a Blade C & H Series
1. Observe appropriate lock-out/tag-out procedures to insure the tool cannot accidentally be powered.
2. Select the correct blade for your needs. Refer to “Selecting a Blade”, page 27.
IMPORTANT: Because the saw blade must be carefully matched to the materials being cut, Safety Speed does
not supply a blade as standard equipment on the saw. Improper blade selection can result in reduced tool life,
inaccurate, poor quality cuts, and safety risks. Consult with your machinery dealer or with our customer service
department (763-755-1600) to determine the best blade for your cutting needs.
NOTE: It is a good idea to have spare blades available to prevent downtime.