When to Perform a Tune-Up on a Table Saw

During Reassembly

• If you disassemble a significant portion of your table saw for any reason, go through the tune-up and alignment process as you reassemble it. You may disassemble your saw to make it easier to move, diagnose a problem or install a new motor. Whatever the reason, disassembly introduces many opportunities to let your saw go out of alignment. Since you'll already have it disassembled, this is also one of the easiest times to perform a tune-up.

After Heeling

• Always perform a tune-up when you notice your table saw heeling. Heeling occurs when the blade is out of alignment and its furthest end makes contact with the inside of the kerf, which is the slit you cut in a piece of wood. Heeling can occur after normal use and may not represent a serious or persistent problem. However, you should tune up the saw and align the blade assembly to ensure straight cuts in the future.

Following Heavy Use

• When you complete a major job using your table saw, it's likely a good time to perform a basic tune-up. Cleaning out the saw with a brush, shop vacuum or air hose will remove sawdust and scrap material. Running your table saw for extended periods of time may also leave the moving parts that need lubrication ready for a fresh application of oil. Strain on the blade and guides make this a good time to adjust your saw so that it's ready to go when your next project arises.

When Pieces Don't Line Up

• The pieces of wood you produce from using your table saw properly serve as a measure of the saw's accuracy and overall condition. If you notice inconsistent cuts or pieces that don't line up with one another as they should, it's time for a tune-up. These problems may stem from problems with the rip fence, miter gauge and any other adjustable component that has a scale or gauge printed on it for precise alignment.