Experiencing a Dewalt Chop Saw that’s running slow can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an important project.
Fortunately, many common issues leading to this problem can be identified and fixed with some basic troubleshooting.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 8 simple fixes to get your Dewalt Chop Saw back to its optimal performance. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, these tips will help keep your saw running smoothly and efficiently.
Why Is the Dewalt Chop Saw Running Slow?
Several factors might contribute to your Dewalt Chop Saw running slower than expected. It’s essential to understand these causes to effectively troubleshoot and address the issue.
Common reasons include a dull or damaged blade, incorrect blade installation, buildup of sawdust and debris, motor wear, inadequate power supply, and incorrect operation technique.
Each of these factors can significantly impact the saw’s performance, causing it to run slower than its optimal speed and affecting the quality of your cuts.
By identifying the specific cause, you can apply the appropriate fix to restore your chop saw’s functionality.
How to Fix Dewalt Chop Saw Running Slow?
1. Motor Brushes:
One of the most common causes for a Dewalt chop saw running slow is worn out motor brushes. These small, carbon blocks are responsible for conducting electricity to power the motor and can wear over time due to normal use.
When they become too worn, they can decrease the power output of the motor and cause it to run slower than usual.
To fix this issue, you will need to replace the motor brushes. This can be done by removing the old ones and replacing them with new ones, which can easily be purchased from a hardware store or online.
It’s important to check and replace the motor brushes regularly to ensure your chop saw is running at its full potential.
2. Worn Out Drive Belt:
Another common cause for a Dewalt chop saw running slow is a worn out drive belt. The drive belt is responsible for transferring power from the motor to the blade, and if it becomes too worn or loose, it can cause a decrease in speed.
You can check the condition of your drive belt by inspecting it for any cracks, tears, or signs of wear.
If you notice that your drive belt is damaged, it will need to be replaced. This can typically be done by loosening the tension on the belt and removing it from the pulleys, then replacing it with a new one. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model of chop saw.
3. Motor Strain:
If your chop saw is running slow, it could also be due to the motor being strained. This can happen if you are cutting through materials that are too thick or dense for the saw to handle.
Overworking the motor in this way can cause it to run slower than usual and may even lead to overheating.
To avoid straining the motor, make sure you are using the chop saw for its intended purpose and not pushing it beyond its limits.
If you are consistently working with thicker materials, consider upgrading to a more heavy-duty model that can handle the workload.
4. Dull Blade:
A dull blade can also be a culprit behind a Dewalt chop saw running slow. As the blade becomes dull, it requires more power from the motor to make cuts, which can cause the saw to run slower.
Not only does this decrease efficiency, but it can also be dangerous as a dull blade is more prone to kickback and accidents.
To fix this issue, you will need to sharpen or replace the blade. Make sure to use the correct tools and techniques for sharpening your specific type of blade.
5. Clogged Air Vents:
Your Dewalt chop saw relies on proper air flow to keep its motor cool during use. If the air vents become clogged with debris, such as sawdust or dirt, it can hinder the motor’s performance and cause it to run slower.
This is a common issue for chop saws that are used in dusty work environments.
To fix this issue, simply clean out the air vents using compressed air or a small brush. It’s important to regularly clean the vents to prevent this issue from occurring and to maintain your chop saw’s performance.
6. Armature Damage:
The armature is the central component of a chop saw’s motor and is responsible for rotating the blade. If it becomes damaged or worn, it can cause the motor to run slower than usual. This can happen due to normal wear and tear or from excessive use.
If you suspect that your armature is damaged, it will need to be replaced. This can be a more complex repair and may require the help of a professional. However, regular maintenance and avoiding excessive use can help prevent this issue from occurring.
7. Power Supply Issues:
Sometimes, a Dewalt chop saw running slow can be due to issues with the power supply. If the outlet or extension cord being used is faulty or not providing enough power, it can cause the motor to run slower than usual. This is especially common if multiple power tools are being used on the same circuit.
To fix this issue, try using a different outlet or extension cord and make sure it can handle the power requirements of your chop saw. It’s also important to regularly check and maintain your power tools and their cords to prevent any potential issues.
8. Damaged Motor:
If none of the above solutions fix the issue of your Dewalt chop saw running slow, it is possible that the motor itself may be damaged.
This can happen due to normal wear and tear or from using the chop saw beyond its recommended capabilities. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the motor or have it professionally repaired.
To prevent this issue from occurring in the future, make sure to only use your chop saw for its intended purposes and follow all safety guidelines provided by Dewalt. Regular maintenance and proper use can help prolong the life of your chop saw’s motor.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a Dewalt chop saw running slower than expected can be due to various factors, such as worn out motor brushes, a damaged drive belt, motor strain, a dull blade, clogged air vents, armature damage, power supply issues, or a damaged motor itself.
By pinpointing the exact cause, you can apply the appropriate remedy to improve your chop saw’s performance.
Remember, regular maintenance and proper use are key to extending the life and efficiency of your power tools.
