Sears 172.10855 Chainsaw User Manual


 
REV 10855
2-12-08
17
OPERATION cont.
1. Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched,
bound or misaligned saw blade, which
causes an uncontrolled saw to lift up and
out of the workpiece and toward
the operator.
2. When the blade is pinched or bound tightly
by the kerf closing down, the blade stalls and
the motor reaction drives the unit rapidly back
towards the operator.
3. If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in
the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the blade
can dig into the top surface of the wood. This
causes the blade to climb out of the kerf and
jump back towards the operator.
4. Sawing into knots or nails in the workpiece
can cause Kickback.
5. Sawing into wet or warped lumber can
cause Kickback. (see Fig. 6a)
6. Forcing a cut, or not supporting the workpiece
correctly can cause Kickback. (see Fig. 6a)
7. Kickback is a result of tool misuse and/or
incorrect operating procedures or conditions.
It can be avoided by taking the proper
precautions, on page 19.
KICKBACK…WHAT CAUSES IT AND WAYS TO HELP PREVENT IT (Fig. 5)
The Causes of Kickback
Fig. 5
KICKBACK
Correct Blade Depth
(should not exceed 1/4-in.
below work piece)
Blade is Set Too Deep
Right
Support
Fig. 6
Wrong
Support
Fig. 6a
16
OPERATION
SAW BLADES
All saw blades need to be
kept clean, sharp and properly
set in order to cut efficiently.
Using a dull blade places a
heavy load on the saw and
increases the danger of
kickback. Keep extra blades on
hand, so sharp blades are
always available. Gum and
wood pitch hardened on the
blade slows the saw down.
Use gum and pitch remover,
hot water or kerosene to
remove them. DO NOT use
gasoline.
BLADE GUARD
SYSTEM (Fig. 4)
The lower blade guard, attached to your circular saw, is there for your protection and
safety. It should NEVER be altered for any reason. If it becomes damaged or begins
to return slowly or sluggishly, DO NOT operate your saw until the damage has been
repaired or replaced. ALWAYS leave the guard in its correct operating position when
using the saw.
Fig. 4
Blade 1/4-in. or less
is Exposed on
Underside of Workpiece
Lower Blade
Guard lever is
in UP position
when making
a cut
CAUTION: NEVER use the saw when the guard is not operating properly.
The guard should be checked for correct operation before each use. If you drop
your saw, check the lower blade guard and bumper for damage at all depth
settings before using.
NOTE: The guard is operating properly when it moves freely and then readily
returns to the closed position. If for any reason your lower blade guard and
bumper does not close freely, take the saw to your nearest Sears Repair Center
for service before using it.
!
Lower Blade
Guard retracts
automatically
when cut is
being made
®