Types of saw holders
Depending on the types of structures, the following types of saw holders are distinguished:
- quick-release;
- radial;
- Bolt-on clamp mounting.
Quick release mount
The most popular option. Used on most modern models of electric jigsaws. They became widespread due to the ease of installation of the saw blade, for which you only need to press the locking key and remove the blade.
Radial clamp
It is the easiest to use. Equipped with a spring that returns the locking cams to their original position after replacing the blade. This type of clamp is equipped with the latest models of jigsaws.
Bolt-on clamp mount
The most reliable type of blade fixation, in which two bolts with persistent threads are used to fix it. Due to the complexity of the design and the labor-intensive nature of replacing the blade, many manufacturers are abandoning it, switching to more modern options.
When replacing the blade, you should pay attention to the condition of the fastening points. In case of excessive wear of the elements, during operation, beating of the blade may occur, which negatively affects the quality of the cut.
Video description
The process of replacing equipment in a jigsaw with a block mount is shown in the video:
If in quick-release fasteners the file is automatically fixed in the desired position, then in block fasteners it needs to be controlled, which for many is a noticeable disadvantage, as it takes time. In addition, it is important to correctly determine the degree of tightening of the bolts. If you clamp too hard, the blade will be very tense and may break. And if it is weak, it will fall out or dangle in the socket, and working with a jigsaw will become impossible.
The second problem with such fasteners is the abrasion of the slots on the bolts during intensive work and frequent replacement of saw blades. Often the threads of the fastener or block break and cracks appear on its body. This mainly happens with tools made in China from low-quality materials. A damaged pad cannot be repaired, it can only be replaced.
How to insert a blade into a jigsaw
During the sawing process, the teeth of the blade wear out and the quality of the cut deteriorates. In order to correct the situation, they need to be replaced. Let's look at how to change the blade on the main types of blade fastening.
By the way, if you still don’t have an electric jigsaw, then before purchasing we recommend that you read the detailed instructions that will help you choose a jigsaw to solve your problems. Also, the article will be useful for those who decide to change the instrument to a new one.
We also recommend that you get acquainted with the current rating of the 10 best jigsaws; only the most popular models in terms of quality and reliability are included in the TOP.
How to change if the clamp is radial type
Replacing the blade on a radial-type saw holder will not take much time and effort. This takes literally one minute. To replace the file you need to do the following:
- Remove the saw guard.
- Turn the lock clockwise and, without releasing it, remove the blade.
- Turn the lock again, insert a new blade, and then mount the protective cover.
The blade must be inserted until it clicks. It signals that it is in place.
After watching the video, you can follow the replacement process from start to finish and learn how to do it yourself.
How to install in a case with a bolted clamp
The process of replacing a file in such a saw holder is the most labor-intensive. Depending on the jigsaw model, you will need a wrench, screwdriver or hexagon for this. To perform the replacement, you must perform the following steps:
- Using a screwdriver, unscrew the bolts securing the blade. There is no need to unscrew them completely. Simply loosen the fastening.
- Remove the old blade and insert the new one.
- Tighten the fixing bolts.
After this, you can begin to carry out work.
After watching the video, you can see in more detail the replacement process on a saw holder with a bolted clamp.
How to change on a quick-release fastener
In jigsaws with a saw blade holder of this type, replacement is very quick and easy. To do this, you need to follow a simple algorithm:
- Remove the protective cover.
- By pressing the locking key, pull out the old blade and install the new one until you hear a characteristic click.
- Release the key and mount the protective cover in place.
Do you have a jigsaw, but don't have the necessary files? We recommend reading the complete guide to jigsaw files; it covers all issues related to blades, from types and features to choice. There are also specific models that you should pay attention to when purchasing.
How to insert blade on Makita 4350 FCT
Like most modern electric jigsaws, the Makita 4350 FCT is equipped with a radial saw holder. Therefore, replacing the canvas on it will not take much time and effort. In order to do this, you must perform the following steps:
- Move the protective cover to its highest position. After turning the blade lock 90⁰, remove the old one and insert the new one. The blade shank should fit into the mounting hole until it clicks.
- Release the lock and return the protective cover to its original position.
Please remember that before each saw blade replacement, the tool must be disconnected from the AC power supply.
Replacing the blade on manual jigsaws
Hand jigsaws are used to perform finishing work or sawing out decorative surfaces. Installing a saw blade on them is not like changing the blade on a power tool. Everything happens much simpler here. Fixation is carried out using the tension method followed by fixation with nuts. To install, you must complete the following steps:
- Unscrew the fixing nut located closer to the handle.
- Insert the blade with the teeth down and tighten the fixing nut.
- Lightly pressing on the edges of the jigsaw body, insert the blade into the front mounting hole and secure it.
When stretching the fabric, it is very important to maintain medium tension. The fact is that the saw blade is thin and fragile. It may break during operation. Insufficient tension will not give the desired result during the sawing process.
After watching the video, you can get acquainted with the nuances of choosing a hand jigsaw, find out which model is better among those on the market today, and also how to correctly install the saw blade on a hand jigsaw.
How to install a blade in a jigsaw machine
A jigsaw is a very convenient tool. It allows you to speed up and facilitate the cutting process, since both hands of the operator can guide the workpiece, which in turn moves along the rigidly fixed work table of the machine.
In order to correctly and securely fix the blade in the clamps of the machine, it is necessary to perform the following manipulations:
- Disconnect the machine from the power supply and remove the protective casing.
- Attach the saw blade first to the top of the machine and then to the bottom.
- Tension the blade using the lever located at the top of the machine.
- Reinstall the protective cover.
With the correct tension, the blade should ring slightly after a slight click on it.
Adviсe
In order for the electric jigsaw to work flawlessly for as long as possible, you should follow simple operating rules. Namely:
- Do not tighten the blade clamps too much. This can lead to thread breakage and premature failure;
- It is necessary to pay attention to the condition of the saw blade. Its dullness can lead not only to loss of sawing quality, charring of the ends of the workpiece, but also to overheating and failure of the electric motor;
- Lubricate the jigsaw roller according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Otherwise, it's a sign of overheating and engine jamming;
- Do not press too hard on the instrument. In this case, the saw clamp may be damaged;
- do not overheat the tool. Since the electric motor is air-cooled, the frequency of its continuous operation is 20-30 minutes, depending on the power and model.
What kind of plywood is needed for cutting with a jigsaw?
Practice shows that the best material for working with a hand jigsaw is birch plywood with a thickness of 2 to 8 mm. It is affordable, easy to use and highly durable.
To create small details or a “dense” openwork pattern, it is more appropriate to use three-layer plywood up to 3 mm thick. It is easy to saw and at the same time quite durable. The likelihood that you will spoil the sawn curl when the blade jams again is significantly lower.
When choosing material for crafts, pay attention to the fact that the plywood is smooth and without a large number of knots. Examine the end for the presence of air chambers; their presence indicates uneven application of the glue. It is better to refuse such low-grade plywood, otherwise you will not avoid a large number of chips that will spoil the appearance of the product.
Read also: How to find a phase on a wire
Problems that may arise during installation
While working with a jigsaw, problems may arise that you can solve yourself.
How to remove a broken saw blade from a jigsaw
The saw blade may break during operation. In this case, one of its parts may get stuck in the latch.
In order to remove the stuck part, it is necessary to de-energize the tool and perform the following manipulations:
- Move the protective cover to its highest position.
- Loosen the saw blade fastenings. Depending on the jigsaw model, this can be done in various ways.
- Insert a screwdriver or stiff wire into the technological hole located above the saw and, without releasing the latch, knock out the blade.
After this, you can mount a new blade and continue working.
What to do if the canvas does not hold
During work, a situation may arise when the purchased blade fits into the mounting hole, but when you try to cut the workpiece, it falls out of the socket. At the same time, you should not immediately disassemble the tool and change the saw holder.
In this case, the problem may lie in improper fastening of the saw shank. The fact is that each manufacturer produces blades with a certain shape and size of shanks. The slightest discrepancy can cause the saw to fall out of the saw holder.
Blade clamp repair
Unfortunately, many manufacturers of power tools often skimp on materials, which reduces the service life of manufactured devices. The clamp for the jigsaw file, which is subject to serious pressure during operation, is also subject to periodic breakdowns. Below, we will tell you what can happen to the block fastening and how to fix the damage. During prolonged use of the jigsaw, due to the loads on the blade fastening unit, the block clamp can be seriously deformed. Damage can be minor, expressed by slight deformation of the pad, or very serious, turning the part into a useless piece of metal.
The easiest option for restoring the functionality of your jigsaw is to purchase and install a new, identical block. A similar element can be found in construction markets and tool stores. Fortunately, such details occur quite often. At the same time, it is not a fact that the quality of the new mount will be better or at least no worse than the old one. The main thing is that the tool can be used. See below for a video on installing a new pad.
A longer and more reliable option is suitable for advanced craftsmen with experience and a set of necessary equipment. The next method is to make a saw blade holder for a jigsaw with your own hands. To make your own pad, you will need:
- Piece of steel: 18x15x15 (length, width, height)
- Hacksaw for metal
- Grinder with a metal disc (preferably diamond)
- Drill with 4 mm metal drill
- Vise
- Ruler or caliper
The manufacturing process is extremely clear for an experienced tinsmith, but for greater clarity it is demonstrated in the following photos.
If you do not have enough skills in working with metal, we recommend that you take the following drawing to the nearest turning workshop, where the part will be made to order.
