Miter saws are one of the most popular types of saws on the market. They are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of projects. DeWalt is one of the most well-known brands in this category, and its miter saws are highly sought after.
If you have just purchased a DeWalt miter saw, or if you have had yours for some time and have never used it, you may be wondering how to unlock it!
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide that answers all of your questions about unlocking your DeWalt miter saw!
What is a Miter Saw Used for?
Miter saws are often used for trim work, molding, and framing. They can also be used to make cuts for window and door casings, as well as for cabinetry.
There are 3 types of miter saws:
- The standard miter saw is the most basic type of miter saw. It can make straight cuts at a 90-degree angle;
- The compound miter saw is a more versatile type of miter saw. It can make both miter cuts and bevel cuts. Miter cuts are angled cuts, while bevel cuts are angled cuts that are made at an incline;
- The sliding compound miter saw is the most versatile type of miter saw. It can make all the same cuts as a compound miter saw, plus it can also make sliding cuts. Sliding cuts are helpful when you need to make long or wide cuts;
Most miter saws come with a laser guide that helps you make precise cuts. The laser guide projects a line onto the material that you’re cutting, which shows you exactly where the blade will cut.
There are two types of miter saws – electric and gas. Electric miter saws are more common because they’re portable and easier to use. Gas-powered miter saws are mostly used by professionals because they’re more powerful.
Unlocking a DeWalt Miter Saw
Unlocking the Head
The locking mechanism on most DeWalt miter saws helps to keep the head and table in place during use. This is a safety feature that prevents the saw from moving around too much while it is in use.
However, sometimes this locking mechanism can make it difficult to move the saw when you need to. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few things you can do to unlock your DeWalt miter saw.
To unlock the head of your miter saw, start by loosening the knob that is located at the back of the saw. This knob is usually near the handle. Once it is loosened, you should be able to move the head up and down.
If the head is still not moving, you may need to remove the pin that is holding it in place. The pin is usually located on the side of the saw near the front.
With the head and table unlocked, you should now be able to move your DeWalt miter saw around as needed. Be sure to lock the head and table back in place before beginning any cuts. [1]
Down Lock and Push Lock
To unlock a DeWalt miter saw, you need to understand how the two locking mechanisms work. The down lock is engaged when the blade is in the down position and prevents the blade from moving.
The push lock is engaged when the blade is in the up position and prevents the saw from being turned on.
Unlocking the Angle Lock Mechanism
Adjusting the Miter Angle
Once the angle lock mechanism is unlocked, you can adjust the miter angle. To do this, simply grab the blade arm and rotate it to the desired position.
If you’re having trouble adjusting the miter angle, consult your saw’s manual for specific instructions.
Knurled Knob Lock
The first step is to identify the lock on your DeWalt miter saw. If your saw has a knurled knob, it is most likely locked by default. To unlock, simply turn the knob counterclockwise until it comes loose.
Once the knob is unscrewed, the blade guard will be able to move freely. Be sure to hold the guard down while you turn the knob, or else the guard could spring up and hit you.
Unlock Bevel
If your saw has a lever lock, it will be located near the blade. To unlock, simply push the lever away from the blade. If your saw has a knob lock, it will be located on the side of the motor housing. To unlock, turn the knob counterclockwise. [1]
Unlocking the Base
Most DeWalt miter saws have a locking lever on the back of the base near the dust chute. The locking lever is used to keep the base from moving during use. To unlock the base, simply push down on the locking lever.
Some Additional Tips to Follow
When it comes to unlocking your DeWalt miter saw, there are a few additional tips that you should follow in order to ensure success:
- First, be sure that you have the correct key for the model of saw that you own. Different models require different keys, so using the wrong one can cause damage to the saw or make it difficult to unlock;
- Additionally, be sure to lubricate the keyhole before inserting the key. This will help to prevent the key from getting stuck and make it easier to remove when you’re finished;
- Finally, remember to turn the key slowly and carefully in order to avoid stripping the threads;
With these tips in mind, unlocking your DeWalt miter saw should be a quick and easy process. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and you’ll be back to making precision cuts in no time.
FAQ
How do you unlock a miter saw DeWalt?
The first thing you need to do is find the locking lever on your DeWalt miter saw. This is usually located on the back of the saw near the blade. Once you have found the lever, simply push it up to unlock the blade.
How do you release a miter saw lock?
There are a few different ways that you can release the lock on your DeWalt miter saw:
- The first way is to simply push the lever that is located on the side of the blade guard. This will disengage the blade and allow you to move it freely;
- Another way to release the lock is to use the key that is provided with the saw. This key is usually located on the back of the saw near the power cord;
Simply insert the key into the hole and turn it to the left. This will release the blade and allow you to move it freely.
If neither of these methods works, you may need to consult your owner’s manual for further instructions.
How do you unlock a DeWalt miter saw?
The first thing you’ll need to do is locate the release lever on the side of the blade guard. Once you’ve found it, simply push it to the side and the blade will be released.
If you can’t find the release lever, or if it doesn’t work, you can use the key that came with the saw. The key is usually on the back of the saw near the power cord. Put the key in and turn it to the left to release the blade.
If neither of these methods works, you may need to consult your owner’s manual for further instructions.
How do you unlock a DeWalt miter saw DWS774?
DeWalt miter saws are designed with a safety mechanism that helps to prevent the blade from being accidentally turned on. This is a great feature that helps to keep you and others around you safe while you’re working.
However, it can also be frustrating if you’re not sure how to properly unlock the saw so that you can use it.
First, locate the lock button on the front of the saw. This is typically a red or orange button that is easy to spot. Once you’ve found the lock button, press it and hold it while you turn on the saw. The saw should now be unlocked and ready for use.
If you’re still having trouble unlocking the saw, consult the owner’s manual for further instructions. Additionally, you can contact DeWalt customer service for assistance.
What is the best way to unlock a DeWalt miter saw?
As mentioned above, the best way to unlock a DeWalt miter saw is by pressing in the lock button and holding it while you turn on the saw. If you’re having trouble finding the lock button, consult the owner’s manual or contact DeWalt customer service.
How do you lock a DeWalt miter saw?
Locking your DeWalt miter saw is just as easy as unlocking it. Simply turn off the saw and press in the lock button. The saw will now be locked and safe to store or transport.
As always, consult the owner’s manual if you have any questions about locking or unlocking the saw.
How do I unlock my DeWalt DWS779?
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about how to unlock a miter saw until you need to use it. Fortunately, unlocking your DeWalt DWS779 is a relatively simple process that only requires a few steps.
First, make sure that the power switch is in the “Off” position. Next, locate the blade lock lever on the side of the saw. To unlock the blade, simply push down on the lever and release it.
The blade should now rotate by hand. If it doesn’t, check the power switch to make sure it is in the “Off” position and that the blade lock lever is in the “Unlock” position.
If both of these are true and the blade still doesn’t rotate, then you may need to consult your owner’s manual or contact DeWalt customer service for further assistance.
How do you lock the slide on a DeWalt miter saw?
If both of these things are true and the blade still won’t budge, then you may need to consult your owner’s manual or contact DeWalt customer service for further assistance.
How do I change the blade on a DeWalt miter saw?
Changing the blade on your DeWalt miter saw is a relatively simple process that only requires a few steps:
- First, make sure that the power switch is in the “Off” position. Next, locate the blade lock lever on the side of the saw. To unlock the blade, simply push down on the lever and release it;
- With the blade unlocked, you should now be able to rotate the blade by hand. Rotate the blade until it is in the position where you can access the bolt that holds it in place;
- Using a wrench or socket, loosen the bolt and remove the old blade. Install the new blade and tighten the bolt. Be sure not to overtighten the bolt, as this could damage the saw;
- Once the new blade is in place, you can lock it by pushing it down on the blade lock lever. The blade should now be locked in place and you can proceed to turn on the power switch and start using the saw;
Useful Video: How to Unlock your Dewalt Miter Saw Arm
Conclusion
The Dewalt miter saw is a great tool for cutting wood, but there may be times when the saw becomes locked and will not power on. If this happens, there are a few things you can do to unlock the saw and get it working again.
Hopefully, by following these simple instructions, you’ll be able to get your saw up and running again in no time. Have you ever had this problem with your Dewalt miter saw? What did you do to fix it? Let us know in the comments below.
References:
- https://ipowertoolz.com/how-to-unlock-dewalt-miter-saw/
