I recently got a nearly new table saw that has been sitting unused in storage for about 10 years. I only got to use it once before it got packed away. Now that I want to use it again, I'm curious about what I need to do or check before I start using it. Any tips would be appreciated!
3 Answers
First, make sure to give your table saw a thorough cleaning. Dust it off and lubricate any moving parts. Don’t forget to wax the table surface to keep it smooth. Also, check the alignment to ensure everything is set up correctly before you get started.
Remember, table saws can be dangerous, so safety should be your priority. Make sure your saw has a riving knife for safety. I suggest reading the manual thoroughly and checking online for instructional videos. Channels like Jonathan Katz-Moses and Stumpy Nubs have tons of useful content on setup and safety.
It’s a good idea to have a replacement belt ready, just in case. Even if the original belt looks okay, it might have dried out from sitting unused and can start fraying quickly. Many folks prefer link twist belts, but be sure they’re compatible with your saw.
If your saw has a non-link belt, it might actually have a specific 'set' to it, so keep that in mind when you’re making a replacement.