DeWalt circular saws are renowned for their durability and performance, making them a popular choice among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. However, even the most reliable tools can encounter issues, and if you find that the brake on your DeWalt circular saw is not working as expected, it can be a cause for concern.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the potential causes behind dewalt circular saw brake not working and provide step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Dewalt Circular Saw Brake Not Working (6 FIXES)
When the brake on your DeWalt circular saw fails to function, it’s essential to systematically investigate potential causes. Here are the steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem:
Check for Visible Obstructions or Debris:
Start by ensuring that the saw is switched off and disconnected from any power source. Examine the saw for any visible obstructions or debris that may be impeding the brake’s functionality. Objects lodged in the saw’s mechanisms can prevent the brake from engaging properly.
Clear any debris or obstructions carefully, taking care not to damage any components during the process. Once you’ve removed any visible obstacles, proceed to test the brake to see if the issue persists.
Test the Brake:
After reconnection and securing of the brake wires, double-check all the connections to ensure they are secure and properly seated.
Once confident in the setup, plug the saw back into the power source and test the brake functionality. Toggle the power switch on and off, observing whether the brake engages and effectively stops the blade as expected.
This step is crucial for determining if the issue was resolved by clearing any obstructions or if further troubleshooting is necessary.
Clean the Commutator:
Over time, a DeWalt circular saw’s brake may lose effectiveness due to a dirty commutator, a failing armature, or a bad switch.
To address this, start by removing the motor housing from the saw. Use 600-grit aluminum oxide sandpaper to clean the commutator in the direction of travel only.
Cleaning the commutator helps ensure optimal electrical contact during braking. Additionally, use a plastic scribe to clean in between the commutator bars, eliminating any accumulated grime or residue.
Replace the Motor Brushes:
If the brake issue persists after cleaning the commutator, the next step is to inspect and potentially replace the motor brushes.
Carbon brushes that are worn too short or improperly seated may fail to make adequate contact with the commutator, affecting the brake’s functionality.
Install new brushes, allowing them a brief period to conform to the round commutator shaft. This adjustment period ensures optimal contact, restoring the brake to its normal functioning.
Check the Switch and Field:
If replacing the motor brushes doesn’t resolve the problem, it’s time to examine the switch and field. These components can contribute to brake issues over time. Inspect the switch for signs of wear, damage, or contamination.
Similarly, check the field for any abnormalities that may affect the brake’s performance. Address any identified issues by cleaning or replacing these components as necessary.
A comprehensive assessment of the switch and field ensures that all potential causes contributing to the brake malfunction are systematically addressed.
Seek Professional Assistance:
If, despite following the aforementioned steps, the brake still fails to function, it may be best to seek professional help.
Taking your DeWalt circular saw to an authorized warranty center ensures that trained technicians with specialized knowledge can diagnose and repair the problem accurately.
Conclusion:
A malfunctioning brake on your DeWalt circular saw can hinder your work efficiency and compromise safety. By systematically addressing potential causes such as visible obstructions, dirty commutators, worn brushes, and faulty switches or fields, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Regular maintenance and prompt attention to brake issues will help you keep your DeWalt circular saw in optimal working condition, ensuring smooth and safe operation for your woodworking and construction projects.
If all else fails, seeking assistance from an authorized warranty center guarantees a thorough and expert examination of your saw, leading to accurate diagnosis and effective repair.