1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective operation, setup, and maintenance of your Makita DHS660Z 18V Cordless Circular Saw. The DHS660Z is a compact and lightweight cordless circular saw designed for smooth cutting, powered by an 18V LXT Li-ion slide battery (not included). It features a brushless motor for enhanced efficiency and a soft start function for increased control. Please read this manual thoroughly before use and retain it for future reference.
2. Safety Instructions
Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury.
- 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: Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating power tools. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Secure long hair. Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a power tool.
- Power Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Store idle power tools out of the reach of children.
- Service: Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
3. Product Overview
The Makita DHS660Z is an 18V cordless circular saw designed for precision and durability. Key features include a brushless motor, soft start, electric motor brake, and an LED work light.
Figure 1: Makita DHS660Z 18V Cordless Circular Saw. This image shows the overall design of the circular saw, highlighting the blade, handle, and motor housing.
Key Components:
- Brushless Motor: Provides increased endurance, longer life, and a more compact design.
- Electric Motor Brake: Stops the blade quickly for enhanced safety.
- LED Work Light: Illuminates the cutting line for improved visibility.
- Aluminum Base: Durable base with bevel cutting capacity up to 50 degrees.
- Soft Start: Suppresses start-up for increased control and accuracy.
Figure 2: Front view of the Makita DHS660Z. This image details the blade, lower guard, and the front handle, which is optimized for vision.
4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
The DHS660Z requires an 18V LXT Li-ion slide battery (not included). Ensure the battery is fully charged before use.
- Align the battery pack with the battery housing on the saw.
- Slide the battery into the housing until it clicks securely into place.
- To remove, press the release button on the battery pack and slide it out.
4.2 Blade Installation
Always ensure the battery is removed before installing or changing the saw blade.
- Press the shaft lock button to secure the blade shaft.
- Use the provided wrench to loosen the blade bolt.
- Lift the lower blade guard and remove the old blade, if applicable.
- Place the new 57mm circular saw blade onto the shaft, ensuring the teeth are pointing in the direction of rotation indicated on the saw.
- Secure the blade with the blade bolt and tighten it firmly using the wrench while holding the shaft lock button.
4.3 Adjusting Cutting Depth and Bevel Angle
Figure 3: Side view of the Makita DHS660Z, illustrating the depth and bevel adjustment mechanisms.
The saw features an aluminum base with a bevel cutting capacity of 45 and 50 degrees.
- Depth Adjustment: Loosen the depth adjustment lever, move the base to the desired cutting depth, and then firmly tighten the lever.
- Bevel Angle Adjustment: Loosen the bevel adjustment lever, tilt the base to the desired angle (up to 50 degrees), and then firmly tighten the lever.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Starting and Stopping
- To Start: Depress the lock-off button (if present) and then pull the trigger switch. The soft start feature will ensure a smooth ramp-up of the blade speed.
- To Stop: Release the trigger switch. The electric motor brake will quickly stop the blade rotation.
5.2 Cutting Techniques
- Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped or supported.
- Align the blade with the cutting line. The LED work light can assist with visibility.
- Allow the blade to reach full speed before beginning the cut.
- Maintain a steady, even pressure and feed rate. Do not force the saw.
- After completing the cut, release the trigger and allow the blade to stop completely before removing the saw from the workpiece.
5.3 Deep Discharge Protection
The DHS660Z is equipped with deep discharge protection. The device will automatically switch off when the battery is almost empty to prevent damage to the battery. Recharge the battery immediately when this occurs.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
- Always remove the battery pack before performing any cleaning or maintenance.
- Regularly clean the ventilation openings of the saw to prevent overheating.
- Wipe the tool housing with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Keep the blade guard clean and free of sawdust to ensure proper operation.
6.2 Blade Care
- Inspect the saw blade regularly for sharpness and damage. Replace dull or damaged blades immediately.
- Ensure the blade is clean and free of resin buildup for optimal cutting performance.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Makita DHS660Z, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Saw does not start | Battery not inserted correctly or discharged; Lock-off button not depressed. | Ensure battery is fully charged and properly inserted. Depress lock-off button before pulling trigger. |
| Reduced cutting performance | Dull or damaged blade; Sawdust buildup; Incorrect cutting depth. | Replace blade. Clean saw and blade. Adjust cutting depth appropriately for material. |
| Saw stops during operation | Battery deep discharge protection activated; Overload. | Recharge battery. Reduce cutting pressure or use a sharper blade. |
8. Specifications
The following are the technical specifications for the Makita DHS660Z 18V Cordless Circular Saw:
- Model Number: DHS660Z
- Brand: Makita
- Voltage: 18 Volts
- Power Source: Battery Powered (LXT Li-ion)
- Blade Length: 57 Millimeters
- Speed: Up to 5000 RPM (no-load)
- Wattage: 50 watts
- Item Weight: 3.2 kg
- Product Dimensions: 27L x 18.6W x 25H Centimetres (approx. 10.63 x 7.32 x 9.84 cm)
- Handle Material: Plastic or composite
- Special Features: Brushless Motor, Electric Brake, Soft Start, LED Work Light, Deep Discharge Protection
- Included Components: Cordless circular saw 57 mm 18.0 V (without battery, without charger)
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, service, or technical support regarding your Makita DHS660Z circular saw, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Makita website. You may also contact Makita customer service directly for assistance.
Makita Official Website: www.makita.ca (or your regional Makita website)