Oil Electric Table Saws: Yes Or No?

Electric table saws are powerful tools, but they require regular maintenance to keep them in good working condition. One of the most important aspects of maintaining an electric table saw is keeping it clean and lubricated. Over time, sawdust and grime can build up inside the saw, leading to decreased performance and even safety hazards. Therefore, it is essential to periodically clean out the sawdust and apply lubricant to the appropriate areas. Various types of lubricants can be used, including wax, oil, and grease, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss the steps for properly cleaning and lubricating an electric table saw, as well as the different types of lubricants available and their effectiveness.

Characteristics and Values Table for Electric Table Saws

Using paste wax as a lubricant

Lubricating your table saw is essential to ensure smooth performance and prevent damage. While there are various lubricants available, paste wax is a popular and effective option. Here's a comprehensive guide on using paste wax as a lubricant for your table saw.

First, it's important to clean your table saw thoroughly before applying any lubricant. Use a brush or a vacuum to remove sawdust, dirt, and debris, especially from the gears and other moving parts. A clean surface will allow the wax to adhere properly and prevent build-up.

Once your table saw is clean, it's time to apply the paste wax. Use a soft cloth or an old toothbrush to apply a light, even coat of paste wax across the entire surface of the table saw. Make sure to cover all areas that come into contact with wood during operation. You can also use paste wax on the gears and other metal-to-metal contact points, as it is an excellent low-speed lubricant.

After applying the wax, wait for it to dry. The drying time may vary depending on the type of paste wax used and the environmental conditions, but generally, it should take around 10 minutes. Once the wax has dried, use a clean, soft cloth to buff the surface in small circular motions. This will help create a smooth, polished finish.

Paste wax is a great option for table saw lubrication because it is inexpensive, readily available, and easy to apply. It doesn't attract or hold sawdust and grease, which means less maintenance and fewer cleanups. Additionally, it helps keep your table saw surface clean and prevents hang-ups, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

However, it's important to note that not all waxes are suitable for table saws. Avoid automotive paste waxes as they often contain silicone-based ingredients that may interfere with the saw's performance. Always choose a wax specifically recommended for table saws or woodworking applications. Additionally, while paste wax is excellent for the table surface and low-speed gears, you may need to use a different lubricant for high-speed bearings or other specific components, as suggested by the manufacturer.

Cleaning sawdust and grime

Step 1: Unplug the Saw and Remove Key Components

Start by unplugging the saw for safety. Then, remove the throat plate, blade guard, and blade. This will give you access to the interior for cleaning.

Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Blade

Check the blade for any resin buildup and clean if necessary. You can use a product like CMT Blade Cleaner, which is effective and won't damage protective coatings. Spray it on, let it sit, then wipe away the pitch or resin. Simple Green is another option, but be careful as it can damage heat-resistant coatings if not thoroughly wiped off.

Step 3: Remove Sawdust and Grime

Use a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment to remove most of the sawdust and grime from the interior and exterior of the saw. An old paintbrush can help loosen stubborn pockets of dust. You can also tilt the arbor assembly to dump out more dust.

Step 4: Compressed Air and Brushing

Use compressed air to blow out any remaining dust. This step is important as it ensures the removal of fine dust particles that can build up over time. You can use compressed air canisters or an air compressor. Additionally, use brushes to scrub away any hardened sawdust. An old toothbrush works well for gear teeth and other small areas. For deeper recesses, consider taping a nylon brush to a piece of wood for better reach.

Step 5: Clean the Trunnion Assembly

Pay close attention to the trunnion assembly, including the front and rear trunnion bracket grooves. These areas are prone to sawdust buildup, which can affect the tilt mechanism of the blade. A combination of brushing and using a product like WD-40 can help clean these areas effectively.

Step 6: Lubricate Moving Parts

Once everything is clean, it's important to lubricate the moving parts. This will help prevent sawdust from gumming up the mechanism again. Use a drying lubricant to avoid attracting sawdust and clogging the moving parts. You can use paste wax, lithium grease, or a drying lubricant spray specifically designed for this purpose.

Remember to always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions for your particular model of the table saw.

Lubricating oil points

Lubricating the moving parts of a table saw is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Here are some key lubricating oil points to consider:

Cleaning Before Lubrication:

Before lubricating your table saw, it is crucial to clean it thoroughly. Start by unplugging the saw and removing the blade. Use a vacuum to remove sawdust and debris from the cabinet and the trunnion assembly, which includes the front and rear trunnions that support the blade arbor and enable blade tilting. Pay special attention to the gears, using brushes to remove hardened sawdust. An old toothbrush can be useful for reaching gear teeth and tight spaces. For more challenging areas, consider taping a stiffer-bristled nylon brush to a piece of wood. After brushing, use compressed air to ensure all dust is removed.

Lubricating the Gears:

The choice of lubricant for the gears depends on personal preference and the specific saw. Some common options include paste wax, lithium grease, and oil. Paste wax, such as Johnsons Paste Wax or ordinary furniture paste wax, is a popular choice as it works well at low speeds and does not attract or hold grease. It can be applied with an old toothbrush, ensuring it coats all gear surfaces. Lithium grease, specifically white lithium grease, is another recommended option. It can be applied with a spray can or manually with a brush. It is essential to wipe off any excess lubricant with a rag.

Lubricating Bearings and Pivot Points:

When lubricating the bearings that support the shafts for raising and tilting the blade, a drop or two of 20-weight electric motor oil can be used. For the pivots of the arbor assembly and the shafts behind the worm gears, white lithium grease is suitable. Ensure that the arbor flange is clean and smooth, and check for any unusual noises or movements when turning the arbor by hand.

Other Lubricating Points:

In addition to the gears and bearings, consider lubricating other moving parts such as hand crank shafts and pivot points. A dry silicon bicycle chain lube or a spray-on chain lube can be used for these areas. For the fence and the table's surface, a non-silicone paste wax or a product like Boeshield T-9 can be applied.

Remember to consult your table saw's user manual or seek advice from a professional if you are unsure about specific lubricating points or the frequency of lubrication required for your particular model.

Cleaning table tops

To clean the tabletop of your table saw, you should first inspect the blade for resin buildup and clean it if necessary. You can use a product like CMT Blade Cleaner, which won't damage protective coatings. Alternatively, you can use Simple Green, but be sure to thoroughly wipe it off, as it can damage heat-resistant coatings.

Next, you'll want to clean out any sawdust and grime from inside and outside the saw. You can use a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment to remove most of the chips, and an old paintbrush will help loosen stubborn pockets of dust. You can also tilt the arbor assembly to dump more dust, and use compressed air to complete the job.

If your tabletop is made of cast iron, you might see some rust spots developing. To remove these, use high-grit sandpaper (400-1200 grit) or steel wool. Give the tabletop a light spritz with a lubricant for the sandpaper, and then rub down the whole tabletop before wiping it clean with a rag or paper towel. For serious rust issues, you can use distilled white vinegar diluted with water.

Finally, don't forget to clean the belt. Check the condition and tension of the motor belt, and replace it if it's cracked or frayed. Give it a quick once-over with a shop vacuum, and lubricate every couple of months.

Using drying lubricants

One recommended drying lubricant for table saws is paste wax. Apply a light coat of paste wax, such as Johnson's Paste Wax, to the gear surfaces using an old toothbrush. Work the wax into the gears by rotating them, ensuring that all surfaces are covered. You can also use paste wax on the table surfaces of your saw. This type of lubricant is ideal for low-speed applications and will not attract or hold grease or sawdust.

Another option for a drying lubricant is a spray-on product, such as Teflon Multi-Use Lubricant by DuPont. This product dries quickly and can be used on the blade height wheel, allowing for easy adjustments with minimal effort. It is important to note that some lubricants are incompatible with each other, so be sure to clean off any old lubricant before applying a new one or ensure they are compatible.

Additionally, you can use a small amount of motor oil, such as 20-weight electric motor oil, on the bearings that support the shafts for raising and tilting the blade. This will help keep those components well-lubricated and functioning smoothly.

When lubricating your table saw, it is important to first unplug the saw and remove the blade. Clean the saw thoroughly, paying special attention to the gears and mechanisms, to remove any built-up sawdust. You can use a combination of brushes, vacuuming, and compressed air to ensure a thorough cleaning. Once the saw is clean, you can proceed to apply the chosen lubricant to the appropriate areas.

Frequently asked questions