I was working on a project of mine and cutting a bunch of 2x4’s, when my saw stopped working and I couldn’t get it to start again. Of course I wasn’t even close to finishing my project. So I sat and messed with it to see if it was just a loose part or something. But it still wouldn’t work. So I hopped online looking for a troubleshooting guide on my saw. Come to find out I had damaged my blade somehow. So I looked up Ridgid tool parts and found the blade I needed for my model. Make sure to check for your model number. I had my blade in my cart ready to buy before I realized there were different blades to fit different model numbers. Trust me you would be very disappointed to have to send it back for the right one. It took them about a week to send it to me. So when I got it I was ready to finish my project so I started replacing my blade right away.
Here are the steps to help properly replace your blades:
Make sure it is not plugged in. Or if it’s battery operated remove the battery. (This part is crucial, or you could end up with a big accident).
Lay your saw down with the blade facing up.
Find the spindle lock button, and then push it down to stop the blade from moving.
Grab a wrench. Then still holding the lock button, use the wrench to turn the bolt clockwise.
To lift up the corresponding guard move the lower lever guide. Remove the blade from the spindle. To stop the lower guard from falling back into place you will need to hold it.
Before replacing your new bade clean all your Ridgid tool parts from all the dirt and sawdust that may have built up inside there.
Get the new blade and put it into place, making sure it’s on the right spot on the spindle. The teeth of the blade should be pointing the same direction as the rotation that is indicated by the manufacturer on the outside of the saw.
Put the blade flange back on the spindle.
Pushing down on the lock button again use your wrench and tighten the bolt going counter-clockwise this time. Making sure that the bolt is well tightened.
Then turn your saw over and plug it in and give it a try.
When reading about how to replace my old saw blade I saw that it’s a good idea to replace your blade with a new one when working on different types of materials. So depending on if you're using wood or metal you may want to switch blades before working with the other one. To help save you from damaging your old blade. It really wasn’t too big of a deal to switch the blades out. Just from reading, it always sounds a lot harder than it is. Just make sure not to rush it though and take your time cause you are messing with a sharp object. I always get my blades for my cutting blades at https://www.plumbersstock.com/
