How to Fix a Wobbly Miter Saw Blade
If your miter saw blade is wobbling, not only will it become difficult to make a straight cut, but it can also pose a safety hazard! Don’t worry though, because we’re going to help you troubleshoot a wobbly miter saw blade. We’ll show you the six main problems that can cause this, as well as how to fix each problem!
Bad Bearings
In addition to a wobble, bad ball bearings can cause a grinding sound and vibration. To check the bearings, remove the outer flange, the blade, and the inner flange. Once you have access to it, visually inspect the bearing for any signs of wear or other damage. If you need to replace your bearings, check out the video above showing you the installation process!
Shop Manufacturer-Approved Ball Bearings >
Damaged Bushing
Another common cause of a wobbly saw blade is a damaged bushing. To inspect it, remove the outer flange and blade, the bushing is the inner flange that secures the saw blade. If your bushing is cracked, chipped, warped, or otherwise damaged, you will need to replace it. For help installing a new bushing, check out the step-by-step installation video above!
Shop Manufacturer-Approved Replacement Bushings >
Worn Flange or Clamp
If the outer flange or clamp can’t make proper contact on the blade, it can cause the blade to be wobbly. Inspecting the flange is simple as it can be accessed without removing any other parts. Simply remove the flange and inspect it for any signs of cracking, warping, or other damage, and replace it if necessary. To learn how to replace this part, check out the installation video above!
Shop Manufacturer-Approved Replacement Flanges >
Warped or Bent Saw Blade
A blade is typically bent by the user binding the blade in a workpiece or by the blade being struck while in transport. With low-quality blades, you may find that the blade is already warped when you purchase it. Inspecting a blade to see if it is warped is very easy, just remove the blade and place it on a flat surface for inspection. If you notice any warping, be sure to replace it immediately. If you need help replacing your blade, watch the step-by-step video above.
Shop Manufacturer-Approved Replacement Blades >
Warped Blade Washer
If your washer is warped, it’s likely a defective washer came right from the manufacturer, as washers are not generally placed under enough stress to warp during regular use. Regardless, to inspect your blade washes, remove the outer flange, blade, and inner flange to access the blade washer. Lay the blade washer on a flat surface to determine if it is warped and replace it if necessary.
Shop Manufacturer-Approved Replacement Blade Washers >
Worn Out Plate
If the wobble is coming from the base, the plate is likely the cause. You can usually find the plate between the base of the saw and the saw itself. Inspect it for signs of excessive wear or damage and replace it if necessary. If you need assistance replacing yours, check out the installation video above!
Shop Manufacturer Approved Plates >
Wrap-up
We hope that this guide helped you fix your wobbly saw blade! Keep in mind that blade wobble issues are usually measured in hundreds of an inch. Rarely will the blade wobble be visible, so the best way to detect a wobble is poor cut quality and vibration in your saw.
For more repair and troubleshooting tips, check out the entire eReplacementParts.com blog!
