DEWALT DWS716 12-Inch Double-Bevel Compound Miter Saw Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The DEWALT DWS716 12-inch Double-Bevel Compound Miter Saw is a powerful and durable tool designed for precise cutting applications. It features a robust 15 Amp motor, delivering 3,800 RPM for efficient operation. The saw's double-bevel design allows for versatile cutting angles, making it suitable for a wide range of woodworking tasks.

Key Features:

• Stainless Steel Miter Detent Plate: Equipped with 14 positive stops for repeatable accuracy and enhanced durability.
• Tall Sliding Fences: Supports crown molding up to 6-5/8 inches nested and base molding up to 6-1/2 inches vertically against the fence.
• Double-Bevel Design: Allows bevel cuts from 0 to 48 degrees to the left and right, with positive stops at 0, 22.5, 33.9, and 45 degrees.
• Wide Miter Capacity: Offers 0 to 50 degrees left and right miter capacity.
• Cam Lock Miter Handle: Provides quick and accurate miter angle adjustments with a detent override feature.
• High-Efficiency Dust Duct: Concentrates dust collection at the point of cut for maximum efficiency.
• Lightweight Design: Features a built-in carry handle for improved portability.

Figure 1: Main view of the DEWALT DWS716 Miter Saw, showcasing its overall design and components.

2. Safety Information

Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury when operating power tools. Read and understand all instructions before use.

General Safety Rules:

• 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 in any way. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces.
• Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating noisy tools. 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.
• Specific Miter Saw Safety:
  • Ensure the blade is sharp and clean.
  • Always secure the workpiece with clamps.
  • Keep hands clear of the blade path.
  • Allow the blade to reach full speed before cutting.
  • Never attempt to free jammed material while the saw is running.

3. Setup

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the miter saw from its packaging. Inspect the tool for any damage that may have occurred during shipping. Ensure all components listed in the packing list are present. If any parts are missing or damaged, do not operate the saw and contact DEWALT customer service.

3.2 Mounting the Saw

For stable and safe operation, it is recommended to mount the miter saw to a workbench or a compatible miter saw stand. Use appropriate bolts and nuts to secure the saw through the mounting holes in its base.

Figure 2: Front view of the miter saw, showing the base with mounting holes for secure installation.

3.3 Blade Installation/Removal

1. Disconnect Power: Always unplug the saw from the power source before performing any maintenance or adjustments.
2. Raise Arm: Lift the saw arm to its highest position.
3. Open Blade Guard: Locate the blade guard release lever and open the guard to expose the blade.
4. Loosen Arbor Nut: Use the provided wrench to loosen the arbor nut while depressing the arbor lock button. The nut is typically left-hand threaded, meaning you turn it clockwise to loosen.
5. Remove Blade: Carefully remove the outer washer and the old blade.
6. Install New Blade: Place the new 12-inch carbide-tipped blade onto the arbor, ensuring the teeth are pointing in the correct direction (downwards towards the fence). Replace the outer washer and tighten the arbor nut securely by turning counter-clockwise.
7. Close Guard: Return the blade guard to its original position.

Figure 3: Close-up view of the blade guard and arbor area, illustrating where blade changes are performed.

3.4 Initial Adjustments

Before first use, verify the accuracy of the miter and bevel scales. Adjust if necessary according to the detailed instructions in the full manual.

Figure 4: The saw adjusted to a bevel angle, demonstrating the double-bevel capability.

Figure 5: Top view of the miter saw base, showing the miter scale and adjustment handle for precise angle setting.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic Cutting Operation

1. Secure Workpiece: Place the material firmly against the fence and secure it with the vertical clamp. Ensure the material is fully supported.
2. Set Angle: Adjust the miter angle using the miter detent plate and cam lock handle. For bevel cuts, adjust the bevel angle.
3. Start Saw: Depress the trigger switch to start the saw. Allow the blade to reach full operating speed before beginning the cut.
4. Make Cut: Slowly and steadily lower the saw arm through the workpiece. Do not force the cut.
5. Return Saw: Once the cut is complete, release the trigger and allow the blade to stop completely before raising the saw arm.

Figure 6: A workpiece secured by the vertical clamp, ready for cutting, highlighting proper material handling.

4.2 Miter Cuts

The miter saw allows for precise angle cuts across the face of the material. Use the miter scale on the base to set angles from 0 to 50 degrees left or right. The cam lock miter handle ensures quick and secure locking of the desired angle.

4.3 Bevel Cuts

This double-bevel miter saw can tilt the blade to cut angles on the edge of the material. The saw bevels from 0 to 48 degrees to both the left and right. Positive stops are provided at common angles for convenience.

4.4 Compound Cuts

Compound cuts involve simultaneously setting both a miter and a bevel angle. This is useful for cutting crown molding and other complex trim pieces. Refer to the full manual for specific settings for common crown molding profiles.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your DEWALT miter saw. Always disconnect the saw from the power source before performing any maintenance.

5.1 Cleaning

• Dust Collection: Regularly empty the dust bag or clear the dust duct to maintain efficient dust collection.
• General Cleaning: Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove sawdust and debris from the motor vents, blade guard, and miter table. Do not use solvents or harsh chemicals.

Figure 7: Side view of the miter saw, showing the attached dust bag for collecting debris during operation.

5.2 Blade Care

Keep the blade sharp and clean. A dull blade can cause kickback and poor cut quality. Replace worn or damaged blades promptly. Refer to Section 3.3 for blade installation/removal.

5.3 Lubrication

The saw's internal components are factory-lubricated and generally do not require additional lubrication. Consult the full manual for any specific lubrication points if necessary.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your miter saw. For problems not listed here, contact DEWALT customer service.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Warranty Information:

The DEWALT DWS716 Miter Saw comes with a Limited Warranty. For specific details regarding the warranty period, coverage, and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official DEWALT website.

Customer Support:

For technical assistance, service, or to order replacement parts, please contact DEWALT customer support. You can find contact information on the DEWALT website or in the documentation provided with your saw.

Online Resources: For additional information, FAQs, and instructional videos, visit the official DEWALT website: www.dewalt.com