How to Replace the Switch on a DeWALT Chop Saw (Model D28715)

Saw chopping into your budget? It's time to face the fix. Whether you are a commercial contractor or a weekend welder, eReplacementParts.com provides the parts, procedures and facts you need to fearlessly fix what fails you.

Due to frequent use, most power tool switches will eventually fail. Once this happens, your chop saw might not turn on at all. Or, it might turn on some of the time; but not every time. Occasionally, a faulty switch will stick in the "on" position. This is a very dangerous problem and should be fixed immediately.

A bad switch will often display many of the same symptoms as a bad power cord and/or faulty motor brushes, so you'll want to perform some simple tests with a multimeter to isolate the exact problem.

This article provides step-by-step instructions for removing and installing the switch on a DeWALT chop saw (model D28715).

Let's talk chop.   REMOVING THE SWITCH [top] 1. Unplug the saw.

Disconnect power to the saw.

  2. Remove the handle.

Remove the screws securing the top half of the handle.

Lift the top half of the handle away from the lower half.

  3. Remove the switch.

Remove the screw securing the switch to the lower handle.

Lift the switch assembly (and wires) away from the lower handle.

Remove the (4) screws securing the wires to the switch assembly.

Remove the switch.

  INSTALLING THE NEW SWITCH [top] 4. Connect the switch.

Secure the black MOTOR wire to the LOWER terminal on the bottom of the switch.

Secure the black CORD wire to the UPPER terminal on the bottom of the switch.

Secure the white MOTOR wire to the LOWER terminal on the top of the switch.

Secure the white CORD wire to the UPPER terminal on the top of the switch.

  5. Install the switch into the handle.

Install the switch assembly into the lower handle.

Secure the switch to the lower handle with the screw (using the hole closest to the body of the switch).

Tuck the switch and motor wires into the channels on the lower handle.

  REASSEMBLING THE UNIT [top] 6. Reinstall the top half of the handle.

Install the top half of the handle.

Secure the handle with the screws.

Do-it-yourself repairs like these are easier than you might think: From lawn machines to cordless drills, kitchen mixers to outdoor grills. Our "how-to" articles walk you through each repair from start to finish.

So, doing-it-yourself means never having to do it alone.

Find your next fix here.   [top]