1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Bosch PKS 66 AF Circular Saw. Please read all instructions carefully before using the tool to ensure proper function and user safety. Keep this manual for future reference.
2. Safety Instructions
Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Familiarize yourself with all safety warnings and instructions provided.
General Power Tool Safety
- Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
- Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, and a dust mask when operating the saw. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Secure long hair.
- Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
Circular Saw Specific Safety
- Keep hands away from cutting area and the blade. Keep your second hand on the auxiliary handle, or motor housing. If both hands are holding the saw, they cannot be cut by the blade.
- Do not reach underneath the workpiece. The guard cannot protect you from the blade below the workpiece.
- Adjust the cutting depth to the thickness of the workpiece. Less than a full tooth of the blade should be visible below the workpiece.
- Never hold the workpiece in your hands or across your leg while cutting. Secure the workpiece to a stable platform.
- Always use blades of the correct size and type.
3. Product Overview
The Bosch PKS 66 AF is a powerful circular saw designed for precise straight cuts in various wood materials. It features a 1600 Watt motor and is compatible with 190 mm diameter saw blades. The tool comes with a guide rail system and a CleanSystem Box for efficient dust collection.
Figure 1: Bosch PKS 66 AF Circular Saw with included guide rail and packaging.
4. Setup
4.1 Unpacking
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Verify that all items listed in the 'Box contents' section are present and undamaged. Retain packaging for storage or transport.
4.2 Attaching the Guide Rail
The PKS 66 AF includes a guide rail system for precise, long cuts. Assemble the three guide rail elements (each 35 cm long) by sliding them together until they lock securely. Position the guide rail on the workpiece and secure it firmly to prevent movement during cutting.
Figure 2: The circular saw being used with the guide rail for precise cuts on a large panel.
4.3 Installing/Changing the Saw Blade
- Ensure the saw is unplugged from the power source.
- Press the spindle lock button to secure the saw blade.
- Use the provided wrench to loosen the blade retaining screw.
- Remove the outer flange and the old saw blade.
- Install the new 190 mm diameter saw blade, ensuring the rotation direction arrow on the blade matches the arrow on the saw's guard.
- Replace the outer flange and tighten the retaining screw firmly while holding the spindle lock.
4.4 Adjusting Cutting Depth and Bevel Angle
The cutting depth can be adjusted to match the workpiece thickness. Loosen the depth adjustment lever, set the desired depth using the scale, and re-tighten the lever. For angled cuts, loosen the bevel adjustment lever, set the desired angle (up to 45 degrees), and re-tighten.
Figure 3: Detail of the saw's handle and the depth adjustment mechanism.
4.5 Connecting the CleanSystem Box
Attach the CleanSystem Box to the dust extraction port on the saw. This box collects up to 80% of chips, ensuring a cleaner work environment. Empty the box regularly.
5. Operating Instructions
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask before operating the saw.
5.1 Powering On/Off
To start the saw, press and hold the safety lock-off button, then press the trigger switch. To stop the saw, release the trigger switch.
5.2 Making Straight Cuts with the Guide Rail
- Secure the workpiece and guide rail.
- Set the desired cutting depth.
- Place the saw on the guide rail, ensuring it slides smoothly.
- Start the saw and allow the blade to reach full speed before engaging the workpiece.
- Push the saw smoothly along the guide rail through the workpiece.
- Once the cut is complete, release the trigger and allow the blade to stop before lifting the saw.
Figure 4: Proper technique for operating the circular saw on a workbench.
5.3 Making Freehand Cuts
For freehand cuts, ensure the workpiece is securely clamped. Use a straight edge or marking line as a guide. Maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands and guide it steadily through the material.
Figure 5: The circular saw being used to cut wood for a deck installation.
Figure 6: The saw in operation, demonstrating its capability to cut larger wood pieces.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Bosch PKS 66 AF Circular Saw.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean the tool, especially the ventilation slots and the CleanSystem Box, to prevent dust buildup. Use a soft brush or compressed air.
- Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect the saw blade for sharpness, damage, or missing teeth. Replace dull or damaged blades immediately.
- Power Cord: Check the power cord for any signs of damage, cuts, or fraying. If damaged, have it repaired by a qualified technician.
- Storage: Store the saw in a dry, secure location, out of reach of children.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your circular saw.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Saw does not start | No power supply; faulty switch; carbon brushes worn | Check power connection; contact service center for switch/brush replacement. |
| Poor cut quality / excessive splintering | Dull or incorrect blade; incorrect cutting depth; feeding too fast | Replace blade; adjust cutting depth; reduce feed rate. |
| Excessive dust despite CleanSystem Box | CleanSystem Box full or improperly attached | Empty CleanSystem Box; ensure it is securely attached. |
| Saw binds or kicks back | Workpiece not secured; blade pinched; dull blade | Secure workpiece firmly; ensure blade is free; replace blade. |
8. Specifications
Key technical data for the Bosch PKS 66 AF Circular Saw:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 0603502000 |
| Power Input | 1600 Watts |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| No-load Speed | 5000 RPM |
| Saw Blade Diameter | 190 mm |
| Weight | 5.4 kg |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 46 x 34 x 28.5 cm |
| Noise Level | 103 Decibels |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
9. Warranty and Support
Bosch provides a manufacturer's warranty for this product. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions, including the warranty period and coverage details.
For technical assistance, spare parts, or warranty claims, please contact Bosch customer service or an authorized Bosch service center. Contact information can typically be found on the Bosch official website or in your product documentation.