Knowing the typical malfunctions of power tools is necessary for both the home handyman and the professional. Being able to correctly identify the source of the problem and quickly repair the tool saves time and money. And knowing the causes that lead to the breakdown allows you to act proactively, preventing such modes of operation in which the tool will be damaged prematurely.
The jigsaw is a versatile power tool suitable for a variety of materials. It can work with wood, metal, plastic, etc. This versatility is ensured by the use of a huge variety of saw blades, which are available for all occasions.
The jigsaw and its components are subjected to great mechanical stress during operation. The experience of power tool repair centers, as well as the advice of professionals, helps to identify the main faults of jigsaws and their causes.
Typical jigsaw faults and their causes.
- Breaking of the jigsaw support roller. The saw blade, which is attached to the jigsaw, is its main working element that performs useful work. The jigsaw blade attaches to the jigsaw’s support roller, and this roller takes the greatest load as it cuts material.
The reasons why the support roller can be overloaded and fail prematurely are:
- Use of a poor-quality saw blade;
- Use of an overly blunt saw blade;
- Use of a saw that is not suitable for the type of work being performed.
As a result of overheating, the roller can simply jam. In another case, the saw blade may cut the roller itself.
Methods to prevent this breakdown
- Use only quality accessories;
- Replace blades in time and not wait until they become too dull;
- Use blades that are suitable for the type of work being done;
- Use the jigsaw with care not to cut with excessive force and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Breakage of the blade locking assembly. The tool-free locking of the saw blade is a convenient feature that is present in many models of electric jigsaws. It allows you to quickly change the cutting tip without wasting a lot of time. The problem is that this assembly can fail due to the frequent ingress of dust created by the jigsaw during operation.
Preventive measures
- periodically clean dust from the blade holder;
- lubricate it with WD-40 type lubricants if necessary;
- use the possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner or dust collector to the jigsaw.
- Damage to Gear Parts. The cause is all the same dust, which can get inside the gearbox through the ventilation holes and lead to breakdowns. As in step 2, a vacuum cleaner or dust can help.
- Breaking or bending of the support rod. The breakage can be prevented by developing a culture of careful work with the power tool. In particular, you should not drop the jigsaw; try to avoid collisions of the body and stem with protruding parts of the material you are working on.
- Breakage of teeth on the jigsaw collet. Happens when you try to tighten a not fully inserted jigsaw. Nothing but caution will help here.
- Premature wear of the worm gear of the armature of the jigsaw armature and its helical pinion. This occurs when the cutting process itself starts before the motor has reached full speed. Warning: Do not bring the jigsaw blade close to the material to be cut until the jigsaw has reached its normal cutting speed.
By following these simple tips you will prolong the trouble-free operation of your jigsaw.
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