DEWALT DC308 36 Volt Cordless Jig Saw Instruction Manual

Safety Guidelines

The following definitions describe the level of severity for each signal word. Please read the manual and pay attention to these symbols:

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION: Used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

For questions or comments, contact DEWALT: Australia: 1800 654 155, New Zealand: 09 526 2556.

General Safety Instructions

WARNING! Read all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury. The term "power tool" refers to mains-operated or battery-operated tools.

1. Work Area

• Keep work area clean and well lit.
• Do not operate in explosive atmospheres (flammable liquids, gases, dust). Power tools create sparks.
• Keep children and bystanders away.

2. Electrical Safety

• Ensure power tool plugs match outlets; do not modify plugs.
• Avoid body contact with earthed/grounded surfaces (pipes, radiators).
• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
• Do not abuse the cord; keep it away from heat, oil, sharp edges.
• Use outdoor-suitable extension cords for outdoor use.

3. Personal Safety

• Stay alert, use common sense; do not use while tired or under the influence of drugs/alcohol.
• Use safety equipment: always wear eye protection, dust mask, non-skid shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection as appropriate.
• Avoid accidental starting: ensure switch is off before plugging in.
• Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the tool on.
• Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
• Dress properly: no loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair near moving parts.
• If dust extraction facilities are provided, ensure they are connected and used.

Power Tool Use and Care

• Do not force the tool; use the correct tool for the application.
• Do not use if the switch does not turn it on/off.
• Disconnect from power source before making adjustments, changing accessories, or storing.
• Store idle tools out of reach of children and untrained persons.
• Maintain tools: check for misalignment, binding, or broken parts. Have damaged tools repaired before use.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.
• Use tool, accessories, and bits according to instructions and intended use.

Battery Tool Use and Care

• Ensure switch is off before inserting battery pack.
• Recharge only with the specified charger.
• Use only designated battery packs.
• Keep battery away from metal objects when not in use to prevent short circuits.
• Avoid contact with battery liquid if ejected; flush with water if contact occurs.

Service

Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.

Additional Safety Instructions (Australia & New Zealand)

• Appliance not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision.
• If supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or an authorized DEWALT Service Centre.

Additional Specific Safety Rules for Jig Saws

• Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when cutting near hidden wiring.
• Allow the motor to stop completely before withdrawing the blade from the kerf.
• Keep hands away from moving parts and the cutting area. Never reach underneath or behind material being cut.
• Never hold work in your hand, lap, or against your body when sawing.
• Keep handles dry, clean, free from oil and grease.
• Keep blades sharp.
• Use extra caution when cutting overhead, paying attention to hidden wires.
• Clean tool often, especially after heavy use.
• Do not operate for long periods; vibration may cause injury. Use gloves and take rest periods.

Safety Equipment Requirements:

• Always wear safety glasses conforming to ANSI Z87.1 (CAN/CSA Z94.3).
• Use NIOSH/OSHA/MSHA respiratory protection if dust is present.
• Use ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) hearing protection.

Chemical Exposure Warnings:

Some dust from construction activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm (e.g., lead, crystalline silica, arsenic, chromium). Reduce exposure by working in a well-ventilated area and using approved safety equipment.

Avoid prolonged contact with dust. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas.

WARNING: Tool use can generate dust causing serious respiratory injury. Always use appropriate NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection.

WARNING: Always use eye protection conforming to ANSI Z87.1.

CAUTION: When not in use, place tool on its side on a stable surface to avoid tripping hazards.

CAUTION: Wear appropriate hearing protection during use.

Tool Symbols:

• V: Volts
• Hz: Hertz
• min: Minutes
• ---: Direct Current
• ~: Alternating Current
• A: Amperes
• W: Watts
• no: No Load Speed
• ⏚: Earthing Terminal
• ☡: Safety Alert Symbol
• /min: Revolutions per minute
• BPM: Beats per minute
• ☷: Class I Construction (grounded)
• ⛶: Class II Construction (double insulated)

Important Safety Instructions for Battery Chargers

WARNING: Shock hazard. Do not allow liquid inside charger.

CAUTION: Burn hazard. Charge only DEWALT batteries.

CAUTION: Keep conductive foreign materials away from charger cavities. Unplug charger when not in use or before cleaning.

• Use only specified chargers for DEWALT batteries.
• Do not expose charger to rain or snow.
• Pull by plug, not cord, when disconnecting.
• Ensure cord is not damaged or stressed.
• Use extension cords with adequate wire size (AWG) if necessary.

Extension Cord Gauge Chart:

• Do not block ventilation slots or place charger on soft surfaces.
• Place charger away from heat sources.
• Do not mount charger on wall; use on a flat, stable surface.
• Do not operate with damaged cord or plug.
• Do not operate if charger has been dropped or damaged.
• Do not disassemble charger; return to authorized service center.
• Disconnect from outlet before cleaning.
• Never connect 2 chargers together.
• Use only standard household electrical power.

Introduction to Charger

The DC9000-XE charger is designed to charge DEWALT battery packs in approximately 1 hour. It operates automatically when the battery pack is inserted into a plugged-in charger.

Important Safety Instructions for Battery Packs

WARNING: Read this manual and original tool manuals before using the charger.

When ordering replacement battery packs, include catalog number and voltage. Consult the compatibility chart.

• Do not incinerate battery packs, even if damaged; they can explode and release toxic fumes.
• Do not charge or use battery in explosive atmospheres.
• If battery contents contact skin, wash immediately with soap and water. If in eyes, rinse for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Contents of opened cells may cause respiratory irritation; provide fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

WARNING: Burn hazard. Battery liquid may be flammable.

• Charge battery packs only in DEWALT chargers.
• Do not splash or immerse in water or other liquids.
• Do not store or use in locations exceeding 40°C (105°F).

WARNING: Never attempt to open the battery pack. If cracked or damaged, do not insert into charger. Do not crush, drop, or damage battery pack.

WARNING: Fire hazard. Do not store or carry battery so that metal objects can contact exposed terminals (e.g., in pockets with keys, coins).

The RBRC™ Seal

The RBRC™ (Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation) Seal indicates that DEWALT has paid for the recycling costs of the lithium ion battery at the end of its useful life. Help protect the environment by returning spent batteries to an authorized DEWALT service center or local retailer for recycling.

Storage Recommendations

1. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
2. Long storage (up to 5 years or more) will not harm the battery pack or charger under proper conditions.

Charger Operation

Charging Procedure

1. Plug the charger into an appropriate outlet.
2. Insert the battery pack into the charger. The three-light fuel gauge will blink according to the state of charge.
3. Charge completion is indicated by all three red lights remaining ON continuously. The pack is fully charged and ready for use or can be left on the charger.

Charger Diagnostics

Problems are indicated by the three red lights flashing together in different patterns:

• Powerline Issue: Two fast blinks followed by a pause. Indicates the power source is out of limits (e.g., generator).
• Bad Battery: Rapid blinking. The battery will no longer charge and should be returned for recycling.
• Bad Charger: One fast blink followed by a long blink. The charger is not functioning properly and should be returned for service or replacement.

Leaving the Battery in the Charger

The charger and battery pack can be left connected. The charger maintains the battery pack's charge and features an automatic tune-up mode to balance individual cells. Battery packs should be tuned up weekly or whenever performance decreases. Use the automatic tune-up mode by leaving the pack in the charger for at least 8 hours.

Important Charging Notes

1. Charge battery packs between 18°-24°C (65°F-75°F) for best performance and life. Do not charge below +4.5°C (+40°F) or above +40.5°C (+105°F).
2. Charger and battery pack may become warm during charging; this is normal.
3. To cool the battery pack after use, avoid warm environments.
4. If the battery pack does not charge properly: check receptacle power, ensure switch is on, move to a location with appropriate temperature (18°-24°C / 65°F-75°F), or take tool, battery, and charger to a service center.
5. Recharge the battery pack when it fails to produce sufficient power for jobs previously done easily. Do not continue to use under these conditions. Partially used packs can be recharged without adverse effects.

Components (Fig. 1, 2)

Diagrams show the following components:

• A. Battery release button
• B. Battery pack
• C. Trigger switch
• D. Lock-off button
• E. Blade lever
• F. Bevel lever
• G. Shoe
• H. Cutting action lever
• I. Dust blower control
• J. No-mar shoe cover

Motor

The DEWALT tool is powered by a DEWALT-built motor. Voltage decrease of more than 10% will cause loss of power and overheating. If the tool does not operate, check the battery pack.

Operation

Installing and Removing the Battery Pack (Fig. 3)

Ensure battery pack is fully charged. Make sure the lock-off button (D) is engaged before installing or removing.

• To Install: Align the base of the tool with the rails inside the handle and slide the battery pack firmly until it snaps into place.
• To Remove: Press the battery release button (A) and pull the battery pack out.

Trigger Switch (Fig. 1, 4)

Squeeze the trigger switch (C) to start the jig saw. Release to slow and stop. Variable speed is achieved by the degree to which the trigger is squeezed.

The lock-off button (D) should be engaged when the tool is not in use to prevent accidental starting.

Blade Installation and Removal

CAUTION: Turn off tool and remove battery before making adjustments or changing accessories.

To Install a Blade (Fig. 5)

This jig saw uses T-shank blades. The DT2074 flush cutting blade is for use with DW331, DC330, and DC308 jig saws only. Remove the anti-splinter insert and set the shoe to 0° positive stop position when using flush cutting blades.

1. Lift the keyless blade lever (E).
2. Insert the T-shank blade into the clamp mechanism (K), guiding it into the guide rollers (L).
3. Ensure the T-shank is completely inside the clamp mechanism.
4. Release the keyless blade lever.

CAUTION: Do not touch used blades; they may be hot.

To Remove a Blade

1. Lift the keyless blade lever (E).
2. With a slight shake, the blade will drop out.

Beveling the Shoe (Fig. 6)

The shoe can be beveled to the left or right for angled cuts.

• To Unlock Shoe: Pull the keyless bevel lever (F) to the side.
• To Lock Shoe: Push the keyless bevel lever back under the body of the jigsaw.
• To Bevel Shoe: Unlock the shoe, slide it forward to release from the 0° stop. Bevel to the desired angle (detents at 15°, 30°, 45°). Lock the shoe into place once the angle is set.
• To Set Shoe Back to 0°: Unlock the shoe, rotate it back to 0°, slide it back into the 0° positive stop position, and lock the shoe.

Cutting Action – Orbital or Straight (Fig. 7)

This jig saw has four cutting actions: three orbital and one straight.

• Orbital Action: Provides a more aggressive blade motion for faster cuts in soft materials (wood, plastic). The blade moves forward during the cutting stroke. Not for metal or hardwoods.
• Straight Action: Provides a smoother cut.

To adjust cutting action, move the cutting action lever (H) between positions 0 (straight) and 1, 2, 3 (orbital). Aggressiveness increases from 1 to 3.

Dust Blower (Fig. 8)

The dust blower clears debris from the cutting area. Slide the dust blower control (I) to the top to turn ON, and to the bottom to turn OFF.

NOTE: Turn the dust blower OFF when cutting metal to prevent blowing away cutting fluids.

Removeable No-Mar Shoe Cover (Fig. 9)

Use the no-mar shoe cover (J) when cutting surfaces that scratch easily (laminate, veneer, paint). To attach, align the front of the shoe (G) with the front of the cover (J) and lower the jig saw until it clicks. To remove, grasp the cover from the bottom and pull using the rear tabs (M).

Anti-Splinter Insert (Fig. 10)

Use the anti-splinter insert (N) to minimize tear-out on surfaces like veneer or laminate. Install into the no-mar shoe cover (J) or directly into the shoe (G) if the no-mar cover is not used.

NOTE: Do not use the anti-splinter insert with the flush cutting blade.

WARNING: The jig saw should not be operated with the shoe removed.

Cutting Techniques

Pocket Cutting (Fig. 11)

Allows an inside cut without a pilot hole. Tip the saw forward until the shoe sits firmly on the work surface, blade clearing the work. Switch on, attain maximum speed. Grip firmly and lower the back edge of the tool slowly until the blade reaches depth. Hold shoe flat and begin cutting. Do not remove the blade while it is still moving.

Flush Cutting (Fig. 12)

Used for cuts up to a wall or obstacle. Use a flush cutting blade (DT2074). Remove anti-splinter insert and set shoe to 0° positive stop. Use 0 or 1 orbital position for best cut quality. Do not start the cut with a flush cutting blade as the shoe will not be supported.

Wood Cutting

Support the workpiece adequately. Use higher speed for wood. Do not turn the tool on when the blade is against the material. Place the front of the shoe on the material and hold it firmly. Let the blade cut at its own speed. Turn off the tool, let the blade stop, then lay the saw aside.

Metal Cutting

For thin gauge sheet metals, clamp wood to the bottom to prevent vibration or tearing. Use a finer blade for ferrous metals and a coarser blade for non-ferrous metals. Use high speed for soft metals (aluminum, copper, brass, mild steel) and lower speed for hard metals and cast iron.

Maintenance

Cleaning

WARNING: Never use solvents or harsh chemicals on non-metallic parts. Use a cloth dampened with water and mild soap. Do not use gasoline, turpentine, lacquer thinner, dry cleaning fluids, etc. Never let liquid get inside the tool or immerse any part in liquid.

Charger Cleaning Instructions

WARNING: Disconnect charger from outlet before cleaning. Remove dirt and grease with a cloth or soft non-metallic brush. Do not use water or cleaning solutions.

Lubrication

NOTE: NEVER spray lubricants or cleaning solvents inside the tool. DEWALT tools are properly lubricated at the factory. For thorough cleaning and inspection, take the tool to a certified service center annually.

Accessories

Recommended accessories are available from your local service center. Contact DEWALT Industrial Tool Co. (Australia: 1800 654 155, NZ: 09 526 2556) for assistance.

NOTE: The DT2074 flush cutting blade is for use with DEWALT DW331, DC330, and DC308 jig saws only.

CAUTION: Use of any other accessory not recommended could be hazardous.

Repairs

The charger is not user serviceable. For repairs, maintenance, and adjustments, contact a DEWALT factory service center, authorized service center, or qualified personnel. Always use identical replacement parts.

Guarantee

Three Year Limited Warranty

DEWALT will repair defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from purchase date. Return the complete unit, transportation prepaid, to any DEWALT Service Centre or authorized service station.

For warranty repair information, call (AUS) 1800 654 155 or (NZ) 09 526 2556.

Warranty does not apply to:

• Accessories
• Damage from repairs made by others
• Damage due to misuse, neglect, wear and tear, alteration, or modification.

This warranty grants specific legal rights. Other rights may exist under local legislation.

FREE ONE YEAR SERVICE CONTRACT

DEWALT will maintain the tool for free during the first year of purchase, including labor, parts, and lubrication. Normal wear parts are not covered. Carbon brushes worn more than 50% will be replaced.

NOTE: Three Year Warranty does not apply to consumables. Radial arm saws have a one-year warranty.

30 DAY NO SATISFACTION GUARANTEE

If dissatisfied with any DEWALT power tool, laser, or nailer, return it to the point of purchase within 30 days with receipt for replacement or refund.

FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT

If warning labels are illegible or missing, call (AUS) 1800 654 155 or (NZ) 09 526 2556 for a free replacement.

Patent Notification

Manufactured under one or more of the following U.S. patents:

• 6859013, 6133713
• 6329788, 6057608
• 6175211, 6653815
• Other patents pending.

DEWALT Battery and Charger Systems

The following table details DEWALT battery compatibility with various chargers and approximate charge times.

X Indicates that the battery pack is not compatible with that specific charger.

All charge times are approximate. Actual charge time may vary. Read the instruction manual for more specific information.

The battery voltage is nominal; it can measure above or below depending on the state of charge.

DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286 20 Fletcher Road, Mooroolbark, VIC 3138 Australia (JUL06) Form No. 494583-00 DC308-XE Copyright © 2006 DEWALT

The following are trademarks for one or more DEWALT power tools: the yellow and black color scheme; the "D" shaped air intake grill; the array of pyramids on the handgrip; the kit box configuration; and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool.