1. Important Safety Instructions
Always read and understand all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
- Work Area Safety: Keep your work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
- Electrical Safety: Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating the saw. Dress properly; do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts.
- 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.
- Circular Saw Specific Safety:
- Keep hands away from the 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.
2. Package Contents
Upon opening the package, ensure all items are present and in good condition. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer immediately.
- Makita DHS680ZJ 18V Lithium Brushless Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
- 1 x Makita Mak Case 3 (157051)
- 1 x Makita Insert Tray 838182-6 (2492)
- Saw Blade (pre-installed or separate)
- Instruction Manual
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Makita DHS680ZJ Circular Saw for safe and efficient operation.
Key Components:
- Blade: 165mm diameter, 20mm bore.
- Blade Guard: Retracts during cutting to expose the blade.
- Handle: Ergonomic soft grip for comfortable operation.
- Battery Compartment: For 18V Lithium-Ion batteries.
- Depth Adjustment Lever: For setting cutting depth.
- Bevel Adjustment Lever: For setting bevel cutting angle (up to 50°).
- Dust Exhaust Port: Connects to a dust extractor for cleaner operation.
- Twin LED Job Light: Illuminates the cutting line.
- Electric Brake: Stops the blade quickly after releasing the trigger.
- Lock-off Lever: Prevents accidental starting.
4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
- Ensure the saw is switched off and the lock-off lever is engaged.
- Align the battery pack with the battery housing on the saw.
- Slide the battery pack into the housing until it clicks into place. Ensure it is securely latched.
- To remove, press the release button on the battery pack and slide it out.
4.2 Blade Installation/Removal
Always disconnect the battery before changing the blade.
- Place the saw on a flat, stable surface.
- Press the shaft lock button to prevent the blade from rotating.
- Using the appropriate wrench, loosen the hex bolt counter-clockwise to remove the blade.
- Clean the inner and outer flanges.
- Install the new 165mm blade, ensuring the teeth are pointing in the direction of rotation indicated by the arrow on the saw.
- Tighten the hex bolt clockwise firmly while pressing the shaft lock button.
4.3 Adjusting Cutting Depth
- Loosen the depth adjustment lever.
- Raise or lower the saw base to achieve the desired cutting depth.
- Ensure the blade extends only slightly below the workpiece (approximately one tooth height).
- Tighten the depth adjustment lever securely.
4.4 Adjusting Bevel Angle
- Loosen the bevel adjustment lever.
- Tilt the saw base to the desired angle (0° to 50°).
- Align the indicator with the desired angle on the scale.
- Tighten the bevel adjustment lever securely.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Starting and Stopping
- To start the saw, depress the lock-off lever and then pull the trigger switch. The saw features a soft start for smooth power-up.
- To stop the saw, release the trigger switch. The electric brake will quickly stop the blade rotation.
5.2 Cutting Operation
- Secure the workpiece firmly to prevent movement during cutting.
- Position the saw with the front edge of the base plate resting on the workpiece.
- Align the cutting line with the appropriate notch on the base plate (0° or 45°).
- Start the saw and allow the blade to reach full speed before entering the material.
- Apply steady, even pressure to feed the saw through the workpiece. Do not force the saw. The Automatic Speed Control will adjust cutting speed based on load.
- Maintain a firm grip with both hands.
- Once the cut is complete, release the trigger and allow the blade to stop completely before lifting the saw from the workpiece.
5.3 Features in Use
- Automatic Speed Control: The saw automatically adjusts its speed and torque for optimal performance under varying load conditions.
- Twin LED Job Light: The integrated LED lights illuminate the cutting line, improving visibility in dimly lit areas.
- Blower Function: The built-in blower clears wood dust from the cutting line, ensuring a clear view of your cut.
- Electronic Current Limiter: Protects the motor from overload by reducing power if the saw is pushed too hard.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your circular saw.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the saw, especially the dust exhaust port and blade guard mechanism, to prevent buildup of sawdust and debris. Use a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Blade Inspection: Inspect the saw blade before each use for sharpness, cracks, or missing teeth. Replace dull or damaged blades immediately.
- Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Do not expose them to extreme temperatures. Follow the charging instructions provided with your Makita charger.
- General Inspection: Periodically check all screws and fasteners for tightness. Ensure all moving parts operate smoothly.
- Carbon Brushes: This model features a brushless motor, eliminating the need for carbon brush replacement.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your saw, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Saw does not start | Battery not charged or improperly inserted; Lock-off lever not depressed; Tool overload protection activated. | Charge battery and reinsert securely; Ensure lock-off lever is fully depressed before pulling trigger; Allow tool to cool down, reduce cutting pressure. |
| Poor cutting performance / Blade binding | Dull or incorrect blade; Improper cutting depth; Workpiece not secured; Overfeeding the saw. | Replace blade with a sharp, appropriate one; Adjust cutting depth correctly; Secure workpiece firmly; Reduce feed rate. |
| Excessive vibration | Damaged or unbalanced blade; Loose blade bolt. | Replace blade; Tighten blade bolt securely. |
| Dust accumulation on cutting line | Dust exhaust port blocked. | Clear any blockages from the dust exhaust port. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact a qualified service technician or Makita customer support.
8. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | DHS680ZJ |
| Voltage | 18V |
| Blade Diameter | 165mm |
| Bore Diameter | 20mm |
| Max Cut @ 0º | 57mm |
| Max Cut @ 45º | 41mm |
| Max Cut @ 50º | 37mm |
| No Load Speed | 5,000rpm |
| Maximum Output | 680W |
| Special Features | Brushless Motor, Electric Brake, Soft Start, Electronic Current Limiter, Twin LED Job Light, Blower Function |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Surface Recommendation | Wood |
9. Warranty and Support
This Makita DHS680ZJ Circular Saw comes with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions, including warranty period and coverage details.
For technical support, service, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Makita customer service or visit the official Makita website. Ensure you have your model number (DHS680ZJ) and serial number (if applicable) ready when contacting support.
Makita Official Website: www.makitatools.com
