Hey folks! I'm just a DIY enthusiast and I'm a bit confused here. I recently switched out the blade on my FLEXVOLT 60V MAX saw from a 24-tooth to a 40-tooth to achieve a cleaner cut on some fiberboard. However, when I tried to spin the new blade by hand, it started clicking and wouldn't turn. It sounded like some sort of ratchet mechanism engaging. After messing around for a bit, I put the battery in and it powered up perfectly! It ran like a champ! Is this behavior normal? I'm just wanting to understand what's going on with it.
3 Answers
It could also be the brake! Many newer saws with safety brakes do this clicking when you try to spin the blade without power. Older models usually don't have that feature, so that might explain the difference!
Yeah, brushless DC motors tend to do this, so you're all good! Just part of the design to keep everything in check.
What you're experiencing is pretty normal with brushless motors! Many tools, like saws and grinders, do this. It’s all about the rotor indexing, which helps ensure the motor can start properly without stalling. Think of it like an old fan that has to start at max speed instead of low to prevent stalling. So yeah, it's just how these types of motors operate!

Totally agree, it's a common behavior!