DEWALT Stacked Dado Saw Blade Set (DW812DADO)

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your DEWALT DW812DADO Stacked Dado Saw Blade Set. This set is designed for cutting grooves and dados in various wood types, including softwood, hardwood, plywood, and melamine. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and operation.

The DEWALT DW812DADO dado set features heavy gauge, laser-cut plates for accurate cuts, micro-grain carbide teeth for clean cuts and reduced splintering, and stainless steel shims for ultra-fine width adjustments. It comes with a heavy-duty storage case to protect the blades.

Image 1.1: The DEWALT DW812DADO Stacked Dado Saw Blade Set, including outer blades, chippers, spacers, and shims, housed in its protective storage case.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with power tools and saw blades. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury.

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves.
• Ensure your table saw is unplugged before installing or removing any blades.
• Refer to your table saw's instruction manual for specific safety guidelines and dado blade compatibility.
• Ensure the dado set is correctly installed and secured before operation.
• Never operate a damaged or dull blade.
• Keep hands clear of the blade path during operation. Use push sticks or push blocks when necessary.
• Ensure proper dust collection is in place to maintain a clear workspace and reduce airborne particles.

3. Package Contents

The DEWALT DW812DADO Stacked Dado Saw Blade Set includes the following components:

• 2 x Outer Blades (8 inch, 12 tooth)
• 3 x Chippers
• 3 x Spacers
• 7 x Shims (various thicknesses)
• 1 x Heavy-Duty Storage Case

Image 3.1: Illustration of the dado set components, including the outer blades, chippers, and shims, along with the heavy-duty storage case.

4. Setup and Installation

Proper installation of the dado set is critical for safe operation and accurate cuts. Always refer to your table saw's manual for specific instructions on installing dado blades.

4.1 Determining Dado Width

The DEWALT DW812DADO set allows for cutting grooves from 1/4" to 7/8" wide. The desired width is achieved by combining the two outer blades with various chippers, spacers, and shims. The outer blades alone create a 1/4" kerf.

Use the provided Cutting Width Chart (Table 4.1) to determine the correct combination of components for your desired dado width. Always perform a test cut on scrap material to verify the width before cutting your workpiece.

Image 4.1: The Cutting Width Chart provides component combinations (blades, chippers, spacers, shims) to achieve specific dado and groove widths from 1/4" to 7/8".

4.2 Installation Steps

1. Disconnect Power: Ensure your table saw is unplugged from the power source.
2. Remove Throat Plate: Remove the standard throat plate from your table saw. A zero-clearance dado throat plate is recommended for optimal support and safety.
3. Remove Standard Blade: Carefully remove your standard saw blade and any existing arbor washers.
4. Assemble Dado Set: Based on your desired width from the Cutting Width Chart, stack the components onto the arbor. The two outer blades should always be on the outside of the stack, with the chippers, spacers, and shims in between. Ensure the teeth of all components are oriented correctly for cutting.
5. Secure the Set: Place the arbor nut onto the arbor and tighten it securely. Do not overtighten.
6. Install Dado Throat Plate: Install a suitable dado throat plate. If using a zero-clearance insert, raise the dado set slowly through the insert to create the kerf.
7. Verify Setup: Double-check that all components are securely fastened and that the dado set spins freely without wobble.

Image 4.2: Stainless steel shims allow for precise adjustments to achieve the exact dado width required for your project.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the dado set is correctly installed and secured, follow these general operating guidelines:

• Adjust Blade Height: Set the blade height so that the dado set cuts through the material to the desired depth.
• Use Fences and Miter Gauges: Always use a fence or miter gauge to guide your workpiece accurately and safely. Never freehand a cut with a dado blade.
• Feed Rate: Maintain a consistent and moderate feed rate. Forcing the material too quickly can lead to kickback or a rough cut. Too slow a feed rate can cause burning.
• Workpiece Support: Ensure the workpiece is fully supported before, during, and after the cut.
• Dust Collection: Utilize your table saw's dust collection system to keep the work area clear and improve visibility.
• Types of Cuts: This dado set is suitable for through dados, stopped dados, rabbets, and grooves.

Image 5.1: The laser-cut plates of the DEWALT dado set contribute to precise and accurate groove cutting.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your dado set.

• Cleaning: After each use, clean the blades and chippers to remove pitch and resin buildup. Use a blade cleaner specifically designed for saw blades.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the teeth for damage, dullness, or missing carbide tips.
• Sharpening: The carbide teeth are resharpenable. When the blades become dull, have them professionally sharpened by a qualified service.
• Storage: Always store the dado set in its heavy-duty storage case when not in use. This protects the blades from damage and keeps all components organized.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during operation, consider the following:

• Rough Cuts: This can indicate a dull blade, incorrect feed rate, or excessive blade height. Ensure blades are sharp and adjust feed rate.
• Burning: Often caused by a dull blade or too slow a feed rate. Increase feed rate or sharpen blades.
• Inaccurate Width: Re-check your shim and chipper combination against the Cutting Width Chart. Perform a test cut and adjust as needed.
• Vibration/Wobble: Ensure the dado set is securely tightened on the arbor and that all components are clean and free of debris.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your DEWALT DW812DADO Stacked Dado Saw Blade Set, please contact DEWALT customer service or visit the official DEWALT website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Official DEWALT Website: www.dewalt.com