Introduction
Reciprocating saws are a common equipment in most households or job sites these days. However, people often encounter a wobbling blade in their reciprocating saws. We understand if you encountered this and wondering what could be the reasons behind it.
So, why did your reciprocating saw blade wobble?
Well, there could be several culprits behind your wobbling saw blade. You could have a bent blade. Your arbor could be bent or filthy. The bearings could be worn out. You could have a belt that’s too tight or nuts and bolts that are loose. The culprit could also be splinterings in your washers.
That’s not all! There is much more in store for you. We have discussed all these probable reasons thoroughly in this article for your convenience!
So, what’s stopping you from reading on? Let’s begin, shall we?
7 Common Reasons Why Reciprocating Saw Blade Wobbles!
In this section, we will be discussing the aforementioned potential causes behind this issue. Fixing these is important for troubleshooting your malfunctioning reciprocating saw.
Reason 1: A Saw Blade That Is Bent
We need to make sure the saw blade remains flat before using it. The saw blade may occasionally be seen to have been bent by several outside causes.
It may occasionally bend as a result of unexpected steel cutting through the wood. It can easily wobble if the diameter has a little incline. Therefore, maintain the blade level and then examine for any inclinations.
Use a hammer to straighten out any minor bending. Avoid striking the blade with the hammer. It will scratch the workpiece and therefore create more friction.
Due to the possibility of the blade being bent, you should use any piece of wood on it before striking it.
Reason 2: A Filthy Arbor
Dust can spread widely when we work with wood for an extended period of time. And for this, certain pieces may rust from the water in the air.
Because of filth on the arbor, those won’t tighten properly when we tighten them all together.
As a result, ensure the arbor is tidy and dust-free.
In a case where the arbor is dirty, clean it with a tool cleaner. Then, the rest can be put together.
Reason 3: An Arbor That Is Bent
We might be able to anticipate this from the tool. The arbor, as explained earlier, is a steel rod that is utilized to secure the saw blade with the flange.
The saw table may heat up when it is operating. As a result, the arbor may sustain damage from several causes. We cannot ignore that. as it is a possibility.
You must prevent the plunge and saw blade from being too tight. For this, make absolutely sure that the arbor is straight. This is why sometimes Miter Saw clamp malfunctions.
Reason 4: Worn Out Bearings
The table saw and arbor are joined by bearings. You might hear some strange sounds right away whenever the bearings become worn out.
Check the bearings to see if they are worn out or if there is an issue with them. All alignments are changeable whenever the bearings deteriorate. The saw blade may bob while the alignment is adjusted.
Using your hand, you can see this. You should get closer and examine the saw blade using your hand. Higher tolerance indicates that there may be a bearing issue.
Try replacing the bearings immediately to tackle the blade wobbling. If not, it may also compromise safety.
Here we are mentioning some amazing bearings for your reciprocating saw:
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You will love using them!
Reason 5: The Belt Is Too Tight
The belt and motor are linked to your saw blade arbor. Hence, you need to be aware of the belt tension.
Whenever the belt is extremely tight, it might firmly pull one side. As a result, bearings are susceptible to wear, and then saw blades could wobble under stress.
So, as a safe value, tighten the belt that holds the saw blades. Don’t make it too tight.
Additionally, avoid tightening it down. If there is a weight on the saw blade, the belt will snag.
Reason 6: Nuts And Bolts Are Loose
This circumstance occurs rather frequently. Normally, vibrations can cause nuts and bolts to loosen. Though uncommon, it is conceivable.
Therefore, check to see if any parts are missing before starting the saw table.
The table saw’s loudness serves as a good indicator of this. Before using, tighten any loose parts if there are any. It can stop a lot of issues.
Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of these reasons that could cause the wobbling. These reasons could result in uneven cuts using your miter saw.
How Can You Inspect Your Reciprocating Saw Blade Wobbling?
It’s crucial to understand how to determine whether the saw blade is wobbly or not. In general, you may do this using both a basic way and a complex method.
Simply mark the spot in the saw blade’s teeth and hold the ruler. Make sure you do this so that it is almost in contact. Once more meeting the mark, turn the saw blade a total of 360 degrees.
Don’t move the ruler around while you are turning. Secure it firmly. As a result, the distance from the ruler to the saw blade changes.
If you notice that. The blade sways somewhat. to determine the cause of something and address it. That’s how you can determine the wobbling in your reciprocating saw blade.
FAQs
How is a saw blade tightened?
Circular saws with right-handed blades often spin counterclockwise. And so, you tighten the bolt in a clockwise direction. Circular saws with left-handed blades typically spin clockwise. For that, you tighten the bolt in a counterclockwise direction. With a wrench, hold the nut’s outside flange or rim to prevent it from spinning.
What is the reason why my saw kicks back?
Kickbacks can occur as a result of overheating a saw blade. Insufficient set, dullness, unguided cuts, and sap buildup on the blades can cause this. All of these result in an overheated blade and backlash. Never put the blade deeper than what is necessary to break the workpiece between 1/8 and 1/4 in.
Can I chop tree branches with a reciprocating saw?
A reciprocating saw is a super versatile tool. It can practically cut any construction material. But pruning tree branches is another fantastic use for it. Currently, you can chop tree branches using a regular reciprocating saw blade, but a pruning blade would yield far better results.
End Note
That’s all that you have for you today. Hopefully, now you understand all the reasons why could your reciprocating saw blade wobble.
Make sure that you don’t ignore these kinds of issues for too long.
We will get back to you with another article very soon. Till then, goodbye!