Description and uses
The panel saw is ideal for cutting sheet lumber. It can be used to make large sheets manageable for cutting on the table saw. In addition, heavy sheet lumber cut on the table saw usually requires the aid of an assistant and/or a work support. The panel saw can cross-cut sheet lumber and can be used for ripping.
When cross-cutting with the panel saw, slide your sheet of material along the rollers until your mark lines up to the blade. Squeeze the trigger on the handle of the saw to turn it on. Using the handle, pull the saw down until it cuts through the material then release the trigger. Always make sure the saw is allowed to reach top speed before you start your cut. Conversely, allow it to fully stop before you raise it back up to its original position.
Ripping, as opposed to crosscutting, can also be done on the panel saw. To rotate the motor, pull out the indexing pin with one hand and rotate the saw with the other hand. Lock the indexing pin into the preset holes. Loosen the carriage lock on the rail and set the saw in place following the measured mark on the work piece. Tighten the carriage lock securely. Start the motor. Place the work piece on rollers and slowly move the work piece through the saw in the direction of the feed arrow on the saw motor. Avoid placing your hands under the saw carriage. Do not look directly down the line of cut. After the cut is completed, turn off the tool and allow it to completely stop. Pull the finished work piece and the scrap away from the tool.
Further considerations
- Do not drop the work piece on the rollers. This may knock the rollers out of alignment.
- Verify location of on/off switch and/or emergency power disconnect.
- When making cuts less than 1", the chatter guard located inside the blade guard must be on the work piece and not the cut-off piece. Otherwise, jamming can occur.
- If the saw jams, turn off the tool and wait for the saw to stop completely. Back the saw out of the cut.
- Ensure that the table is clear of materials, tools, and debris.
Tip: The roller extensions are below your line of sight. Be aware of their location to avoid tripping when loading the saw and/or ripping material.