There you were, cutting away. And then it breaks: A Skil jigsaw blade snap. This usually happens at a critical moment during your project.
Suddenly, the saw doesn’t work right anymore. It just becomes an expensive paperweight and won’t cut. Don’t throw out the saw!
Replacing the blade are easy. But many folks fumble through this process, misunderstanding how it works. Result?
Broken saw. Most newer Skils uses a tool-less system. Sounds nice.
The lever can be cumbersome. Older systems use a hex wrench. You have a screw that you tighten down to hold the blade in place.
It is a slower process. It is more secure, though. First thing you need to know is which type of system it is.
Don’t try and jam a lever onto a screw style. You’ll break off some plastic tab. Those are harder to replace than blades.
Look at the manual before proceeding. Examine the tool so you don’t mess anything up. The release mechanism is simple to spot.
Step By Step Guide To Changing Jigsaw Blades
Identifying Your Skil Jigsaw System
Raise the jigsaw. Inspect the foot plate. Locate where the saw blade engage the tool.
On certain models, you’ll find a lever. Typically, it’s red or yellow. That signals a quick-release system.
You’re able to change blades in no time. No additional tool are required. Other models may feature a small hex socket.
This is a screw-style system. For this style, you’ll require a wrench. The blade stay engaged more tightly.
It is great for aggressive cutting application. Not having to wrestle with different mechanism makes all the difference. With quick release models, here is the easy part.
Changing Blades on Quick Release Models
Grab it hard. Disengage the lever (from the blade). Open the clamp.
Install the new blade. Make sure teeth face forward. Push the lever back into the locked position.
Listen for a click. That means the blade are in place. Perform a wiggle test.
If unlocked, blade is free. It will move when operated. Cut becomes oversized.
Blade may potentially kick back if it bind in the material. Test first for stability. Don’t squeeze trigger until stable.
Replacing Blades on Screw Style Models
Be careful with screw types, like choosing the right hex wrench. Yes, there’s a right one. Make sure to use it.
It should of been snug in the socket. Too loose and it’ll strip the head. That’s a repair.
It is not a simple replacement. Loosen the screw just enough to allow the blade to slide out. Slide the blade out.
Pull it all the way off. Drop the new blade on. Make sure it’s sitting flush with the base plate.
Snug-tight the screw. Don’t crush it. Overtightening cause warping.
It makes swapping hard later. Find that balance between secure and maintainable. Grip firmly.
Do not mash the grip. TPI means teeth per inch. The number of teeth on a blade determine the quality of your cut.
Choosing the Right Blade TPI
More teeth = higher TPI = clean cuts. You want high TPI for softer woods and plastics. Fewer teeth = lower TPI = larger teeth, which clear away material quickly.
These would be used for thicker hardwoods. This is a demolition blade. Splintering occurs when you choose the wrong blade.
If it looks rough around the edges, you chose the wrong blade. Choose the correct blade for your project, so that everything look like a pro did it. Select the appropriate tool for the job But then there’s maintenance.
Maintaining Your Jigsaw for Precision
That means keeping the tool clean. Clean the blade slots. Wipe off the foot plate.
Buildup of sawdust and resin can interferes with the locking mechanism. Levers gets stiff. Don’t respond.
Clean with cloth or brush. Keeping your tool clean makes it safer. Works like you expect it to.
Taking care of things results in precision. This results in a tool that you can always count on. Next time a blade snaps, you’ll be set to change it out fast.
And you will complete the job.