Makita DHS 680 RMJ Cordless Circular Saw Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Makita DHS 680 RMJ is an 18V cordless circular saw designed for efficient and precise cutting tasks. It features a powerful brushless motor for increased durability and extended tool life, along with a compact design. The saw is equipped with a 165 mm diameter blade and offers automatic speed adjustment to match the load, ensuring optimal cutting performance in various materials. Its cutting angle can be adjusted up to 50 degrees, and a dual LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility.

Figure 1: The Makita DHS 680 RMJ 18V Cordless Circular Saw, featuring its ergonomic design and blade guard.

2. Safety Instructions

Always observe the following safety precautions when operating the Makita DHS 680 RMJ circular saw to prevent injury and damage to the tool.

• Read the entire manual: Familiarize yourself with the tool's controls and operation before use.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask. Gloves are recommended.
• Ensure a safe work area: Keep the work area clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions. Do not operate in damp or wet conditions.
• Secure the workpiece: Always clamp or otherwise secure the material being cut to prevent movement during operation.
• Maintain proper grip: Hold the tool firmly with both hands during operation.
• Keep hands clear of the blade: Never reach under the workpiece or near the blade while the saw is running.
• Use the correct blade: Ensure the blade is sharp, clean, and suitable for the material being cut.
• Disconnect power: Always remove the battery pack before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool.
• Avoid kickback: Ensure the blade is not binding in the cut and maintain a firm grip. Do not force the saw.
• Store safely: Store the tool in a dry, secure place out of reach of children.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your supplier.

• 1x Makita DHS 680 18V Cordless Circular Saw
• 2x Makita BL1840 4.0 Ah Li-Ion Batteries
• 1x Makita DC18RC 7.2-18V Li-Ion Charger
• 1x Makita HM165 mm 24T Saw Blade (P-05256)
• 1x Makita MAKPAC 3 Transport Case with inlay
• 1x Makita Parallel Guide (164095-8)
• 1x Dust Nozzle
• 1x Assembly Wrench

Figure 2: The Makita MAKPAC 3 transport case, designed for secure storage and transport of the circular saw and accessories.

Figure 3: Two Makita BL1840 4.0 Ah Li-Ion batteries and the DC18RC charger, included with the saw.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation and Charging

1. Charging the Battery: Connect the DC18RC charger to a power outlet. Insert the BL1840 battery pack into the charger. The charging indicator light will show the charging status. A full charge typically takes approximately 36 minutes for a 4.0 Ah battery.
2. Installing the Battery: Align the battery pack with the battery slot on the circular saw. Slide the battery into place until it clicks, indicating it is securely locked.
3. Removing the Battery: Press the release button on the battery pack and slide it out of the tool.

4.2 Saw Blade Installation

1. Safety First: Ensure the battery pack is removed from the saw before attempting to change the blade.
2. Unlock Blade Guard: Lift the blade guard lever to expose the blade arbor.
3. Press Shaft Lock: Press and hold the shaft lock button to prevent the blade from rotating.
4. Loosen Arbor Bolt: Use the provided assembly wrench to loosen the arbor bolt by turning it counter-clockwise.
5. Remove Old Blade: Remove the arbor bolt, outer flange, and the old saw blade.
6. Install New Blade: Place the new 165 mm saw blade onto the arbor, ensuring the teeth are pointing in the direction of the arrow on the blade guard.
7. Reassemble: Replace the outer flange and arbor bolt. Tighten the arbor bolt securely by turning it clockwise while holding the shaft lock button.
8. Check Blade: Ensure the blade is properly seated and rotates freely without wobbling.

4.3 Adjusting Cutting Depth

The cutting depth can be adjusted to suit the thickness of the workpiece.

1. Loosen the depth adjustment lever located on the side of the saw.
2. Raise or lower the base plate to achieve the desired cutting depth. A scale indicates the current depth.
3. Tighten the depth adjustment lever firmly to secure the setting.
4. For optimal cutting, set the blade depth so that approximately one tooth extends below the workpiece.

4.4 Adjusting Bevel Angle

The saw can make bevel cuts up to 50 degrees.

1. Loosen the bevel adjustment knob at the front of the saw.
2. Tilt the base plate to the desired angle, indicated on the bevel scale.
3. Tighten the bevel adjustment knob securely.

4.5 Installing the Parallel Guide

The parallel guide assists in making straight cuts parallel to the edge of the workpiece.

1. Slide the parallel guide into the slots on the front of the saw's base plate.
2. Adjust the guide to the desired cutting width.
3. Tighten the screw or lever to secure the parallel guide in position.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Starting and Stopping the Saw

• To Start: Ensure the battery is installed. Press the lock-off button (if present) and then pull the trigger switch. The saw will start.
• To Stop: Release the trigger switch. The blade will stop rotating.
• LED Light: The dual LED light will illuminate the cutting line when the trigger is pulled, improving visibility.

5.2 Making a Cut

1. Prepare Workpiece: Mark your cutting line clearly on the material. Secure the workpiece to prevent movement.
2. Position Saw: Place the front edge of the saw's base plate on the workpiece, aligning the blade with the cutting line. Ensure the blade is not touching the workpiece before starting.
3. Start Saw: Start the saw and allow the blade to reach full speed before beginning the cut.
4. Begin Cut: Slowly and steadily push the saw forward along the cutting line. Do not force the saw; let the blade do the work. Maintain a firm grip and keep both hands on the tool.
5. Complete Cut: Continue pushing until the cut is complete. Once the cut is finished, release the trigger switch and allow the blade to stop completely before lifting the saw from the workpiece.

5.3 Dust Extraction

For a cleaner work environment and improved visibility, connect a dust extractor to the dust nozzle on the saw.

• Attach a suitable vacuum hose to the dust nozzle.
• Ensure the dust extractor is turned on during operation.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Makita DHS 680 RMJ circular saw. Always remove the battery pack before performing any maintenance.

6.1 Cleaning

• Regularly clean the tool's ventilation openings to prevent overheating.
• Wipe down the tool with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Remove sawdust and debris from the blade guard and base plate to ensure smooth operation.

6.2 Blade Care and Replacement

• Inspect the saw blade before each use for sharpness, cracks, or missing teeth. Replace damaged blades immediately.
• Refer to Section 4.2 for detailed instructions on saw blade installation.
• Use only genuine Makita replacement blades or blades recommended by Makita for optimal performance and safety.

6.3 Battery and Charger Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Do not store fully discharged batteries for extended periods. Charge them periodically.
• Keep battery terminals clean and free from debris.
• Do not attempt to charge damaged battery packs.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your circular saw. For problems not listed here, contact Makita service personnel.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Makita power tools are manufactured under strict quality control standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Makita website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, you may contact Makita customer service through their official channels.