Craftsman 315.212120 User Manual

Owner's Manual

12 in. COMPOUND
MITER SAW

Double Insulated

Model No.

315.212120

Save this manual for
future reference.

A CAUTION: Read and follow

all Safety Rules and Operating
Instructions before first use of
this product.

Customer Help Line: 1-800-932-3188

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 USA

Visit the Craftsman web page:

972000-557

9-98

www.sears.com/craftsman

• Safety

• Features

• Adjustments

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts List

@®

NRTiyC

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents.............................................................................................................................................................. 2

Warranty and Introduction............................................................................................................................................. 2

Rules For Safe Operation................................................................................................................................................ 3-6

Glossary.......................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Product Specifications and Unpacking................................................................................................................................ 7

Labels...............................................................................................................................................................................8

Loose Parts and Tools Needed......................................................................................................................................... 9

Feeitures.................................................................................................................................................................... 10-12

Adjustments................................................................................................................................................................ 13-19

Operation....................................................................................................................................................................20-26

Maintenance.............................................................................................................................................................. 27-28

Exploded View and Repair Parts List.............................................................................................................................. 30-35

Parts Ordering / Service................................................................................................................................................... 36

WARRANTY

FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY

If this product fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within one year from the date of purchase,
Sears will repair it free of charge.

Contact a Sears Service Center for repair.
If this product is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies only for 90 days from the date

of purchase.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Dept. 81 TWA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

INTRODUCTION

Your saw has many features for making cutting

operations more pleasant arfo enjoyable. Safety,

performance and dependability have been given top
priority in the design of this saw making it easy to
maintain and operate.

A Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means attention!!!

Your safety is involved.

WARNING:

The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always
wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields and a full face shield when needed.
We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over eyeglasses or standard safety
glasses with side shields, available at Sears Retail Stores.

CAUTION: Carefully read through this entire
owner's manual before using your new saw. Pay
close attention to the Rules For Safe Operation,
and all Safety Alert Symbols including Danger,

Warning and Caution. If you use your saw

properly and only for what it is intended, you will

enjoy years of safe, reliable service.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and
the explanations with them, deserve your careful attention and uriderstanding. The safety warnings do
not by themselves eliminate any |langer. The Instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for
proper accident prevention measures.

SYMBOL MEANING

^ SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL:

Indicates danger, warning or caution. May be used in conjunction with o№er symbols or picto-

graphs.

iV DANGER: Failure to obey a safety warning will result in serious injury to yourself or to others.

Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

A WARNING: Failure to obey a safety warning can result in serious injury to yourself or to others.

Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

A CAUTION: Failure to obey a safety warning may result in property damage or personal injury to

yourself or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, elecWc shock

and personal injury.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipirtent.

DOUBLE INSULATION

Double insulation is a concept in safety, in electric
power tools, which eliminates the need for the usual
three-wire grounded power cord. All exposed metal
parts are isolated from internal metal motor
components with protecting insulation. Double

insulated tools do not need to be grounded.

A WARNING; Do not attempt to operate this tool

until you have read thoroughly arid understand
completely all instructions, safety rules, etc.
contsuned in this manual. Failure to comply can
result in accidents iirvolving fire, electric shock,
or serious personal injury. Save owner's manual
arxl review frequently for continuing safe
operation, aixl instructing others who may use
this tool.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

■ KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read the owner's
manual carefully. Learn toe saw's applications
and limitations as well as the specific potential
hazards related to this tool.

■ GUARD AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK BY

PREVENTING BODY CONTACT WITH

GROUNDED SURFACES. For example; pipes,

radiators, ranges, refrigerator enclosures.

■ KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and in good working
order.

■ REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND

WRENCHES. Get in the habit of checking to see

that hex keys and adjusting wrerrehes are
removed from tool before turning on saw.

IMPORTANT

Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge of toe
system and should be performed only by a qualified
service technician. For service we ^gest you return
the tool to your nearest Sears store for repair. Always

use origin^ factory replacement parts when ser^cing.

KEEP THE WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered work
areas and work benches invite accidents. DO
NOT leave tools or pieces of wood on the saw
while it is in operation.

DO NOT USE IN DANGEROUS ENVIRON
MENTS. Do not use power tools near gasoline or
other flammable liquids, in damp or wet locations,
or expose toem to rain. Keep the work area well
lit

KEEP CHILDREN AND VISITORS AWAY. All
visitors should wear safety glasses and be kept a
safe distance from work area. Do not let visitors
contact tool or extension cord while operating.

MAKE WORKSHOP CHILD-PROOF with pad
locks and master switches, or by removing starter

keys.
DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL It will do the job

better and safer at the rate for which it was

designed.

USE THE RIGHT TOOL Do not force the tool or

attachment to do a job it was not designed for.

Don't use it for a purpose not intended.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION (Continued)

USE THE PROPER EXTENSION CORD. Make

sure your extension cord is in good condition.

When using an extension cord, be sure to use

one heavy enough to carry the current your

product will draw. An undersized cord will cause
a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power
and overheating. A wire gage size (A.W.G.) of at
least 14 is recommended for an extension cord
25 feet or less in length. If in doubt, use the next
heavier gage. The smaller the gage number, the
heavier the cord.

INSPECT EXTENSION CORDS PERIODI

CALLY and replace if damaged.

DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose clothing,
gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets, or other

jewelry. They can get caught and draw you into

moving parts. Rubber gloves and nonslip foot
wear are recommended when working putdoors.
Also wear protective hair covering to contain long

hair.
ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WITH

SIDE SHIELDS. Everyday eyeglasses have only
impact-resistant ienses; they are NOT safety
glasses.

PROTECT YOUR LUNGS. Wear a face or dust
mask if the cutting operation is dusty.

PROTECT YOUR HEARING. Wear hearing

protection during extended periods of operation.

SECURE WORK. Use clamps or a vise to hold
work when practical. If s safer than using your
hand and it frees both hands to operate tooi.

DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and

balance at all times.

MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools

sharp and clean for better and safer perfor

mance. Follow instructions for lubricating and

changing accessories.

DISCONNECT ALL TOOLS. When not in use,
before servicing, or when changing attachments,
blades, bits, cutters, etc., ail tools should be
disconnected.

AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Be sure

switch is off when plugging in.

USE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES. The

use of improper accessories may cause risk of
injury.

NEVER STAND ON TOOL. Serious injury could

occur if the tool is tipped or if the blade is unin

tentionally contacted.
CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before further use

of the tool, a guard or other part that is damaged
should be carefully checked to determine that it
will operate properly and perform its intended

function. Check for alignment of moving parts,
binding of moving parts, breakage of parts,
mounting and any other conditions that may
affect its operation. A guard or other part that is
damaged must be properly repaired or replaced

by a qualified service technician at a Sears store

to avoid risk of personal injury.

NEVER LEAVE TOOL RUNNING UNAT
TENDED. TURN THE POWER OFF. Do not
leave tool until it comes to a complete stop.

FIRMLY CLAMP OR BOLT your miter saw to a
workbench or table at approximately hip height.

USE ONLY CORRECT BLADES. Do not use
blades with incorrect size holes. Never use blade
washers or blade bolts that are defective or

incorrect. The maximum blade capacity of your
saw is 12 in.

KEEP BLADES CLEAN, SHARP AND WITH
SUFFICIENT SET. Sharp blades minimize
stailing and kickback.

DO NOT REMOVE THE SAW'S BLADE
GUARDS. Never operate the saw with any guard
or cover removed. Make sure all guards are

operating properly before each use.

KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM CUTTING AREA.

Keep hands away from blades. Do not reach
underneath work or around or under the blade
white blade is rotating. Do not attempt to remove
cut material when blade is moving.

WARNING: Blade coasts after turn off.

DO NOT ABUSE CORD. Never yank cord to

disconnect it from receptacle. Keep cord from

heat, oil, and sharp edges.

INSPECT TOOL CORDS PERIODICALLY and if

damaged, have repaired by a qualified service

technician at a Sears store. Stay constantly
aware of cord location and keep it well away
from the rotating blade.

USE OUTDOOR EXTENSION CORDS. V\men

tool is used outdoors, use only extension cords

with approved ground connection №at are

intended for use outdoors and so marked.

DO NOT USE TOOL IF SWITCH DOES NOT
TURN IT ON AND OFF. Have defective switches
replaced by a qualified service technician at a

Sears store.
KEEP TOOL DRY, CLEAN, AND FREE FROM

OIL AND GREASE. Aiways use a clean cloth
when cleaning. Never use brake fluids, gasoiine,
petroleum-based products, or any solvents to
clean tool.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION (ContinuecQ

ALWAYS SUPPORT LONG WORKPIECES to
minimize risk of blade pinching and kickback.

Saw may siip, waik, or siide whiie cutting iong or

heavy boards.
BEFORE MAKING A CUT, BE SURE ALL

ADJUSTMENTS ARE SECURE.
GUARD AGAINST KICKBACK. Kickback occurs

when the biade staiis rapidly and wol1фiece is

driven back towards the operator, it can puii your

har>d into the biade resuiting in serious personal
injury. Stay out of blade path and turn switeh off
immediately if blade binds or stalls.

AVOID CUTTING NAILS. Inspect tor and
remove all nails from lumber before cutting.

ALWAYS USE A CLAMP to secure the work

piece when possible.

NEVER TOUCH BLADE or other moving parts
during use.

NEVER START A TOOL WHEN THE BLADE IS
IN CONTACT WITH WORKPIECE. Allow motor
to come up to full speed before starting cut.

MAKE SURE TNE MITER TABLE AND SAW
ARM (BEVEL FUNCTION) ARE LOCKED IN
POSITION BEFORE OPERATING YOUR SAW.
Lock the miter table by securely tightening the
miter lock handle. Lock the saw arm (bevel
function) by securely tightening the bevel lock
knob.

NEVER USE A LENGTH STOP ON THE FREE

SCRAP END OF A CLAMPED WORKPIECE.
NEVER hold onto or bind toe free scrap end of

toe workpiece in any operation. If a work damp

and length stop are used together, they must
both be installed on toe same side of toe saw

table to prevent the saw from catching the loose

end and kicking up.
NEVER cut more than one piece at a time. DO

NOT STACK more than one workpiece on the
saw table at a time.

NEVER PERFORM ANY OPERATION "FREE

HAND". Always place the workpiece to be cut on
the miter table and position it firmly against toe
fence as a backstop. Always use the fence.

NEVER hand hold a workpiece that is too small

to be clamped. Keep hands clear of the no hartos

zone.

NEVER reach behind, under, or within three

inches of the blade and its cutting path with your

hands and fingers for any reason.

NEVER reach to pick up a workpiece, a piece of
scrap, or anything else that is in or near the

cutting path of the blade.

AVOID AWKWARD OPERATIONS AND HAND
POSITIONS where a sudden slip could cause
your hand to move into toe blade. ALWAYS
make sure you have good balance. NEVER
operate your miter saw on toe floor or in a
crouched position.

NEVER stand or have any part of your body in
line with the path of the saw blade.

ALWAYS release the power switch and allow toe
saw blade to stop rotating before raising it out of
the workpiece.

DO NOT TURN THE MOTOR SWITCH ON AND

OFF RAPIDLY. This could cause toe saw blade
to loosen and could create a hazard. Should this
ever occur, stand clear and allow the saw blade

to come to a complete stop. Disconnect your saw

from the power supply and securely retighten tod

blade bolt.

REPLACEMENT PARTS. All repairs, whether

electrical or mechanical, should be made by

qualified service technician at a Sears store.

WARNING: When servicing use only identical

' Craftsman replacement parts. Use of any otoer

parts may create a hazard or cause product

damage.

NEVER USE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMO
SPHERE. Normal sparking of the motor could
ignite fumes.

NEVER leave toe miter saw unattended while
connected to a power source.

POLARIZED PLUGS. To reduce toe risk of
electric shock, this tool has a polarized plug (one

blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in

a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does

not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still
does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to
install the proper outlet. Do not change toe plug
in any way.

IF ANY PART OF THIS MITER SAW IS MISS
ING or should break, bend, or fail in any way, or

should any electrical component fail to perfoim
properly, shut off the power switch, remove the
miter saw plug from toe power source and have

damaged, missing, or failed parts replaced

before resuming operation.
DO NOT OPERATE THIS TOOL WHILE UN

DER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL,
OR ANY MEDICATION.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION (Continued)

■ ALWAYS STAY ALERT! Do not allow familiarity

(gained from frequent use of your saw) to cause

a careless mistake. ALWAYS REMEMBER that
a careless fraction of a second is sufficient to

inflict severe injury.

■ STAY ALERT AND EXERCISE CONTROL

Watch what you are doing and use common
sense. Do not operate tool when you are tired.

Do not rush.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

GLOSSARY OF TERMS FOR WOODWORKING

Arbor

The shaft on which a biade or cutting tool is mounted.

Bevel Cut

A cutting operation made with the blade at emy angle
other than 90’ to the miter table.

Crosscut

A cutting or shaping operation made across the grain
of the workpiece.

Compound Miter Cut

A compound miter cut Is a cut made using a miter
angle arvl a bevel angle at the same time.

Freehand

Performing a cut without using a fence, miter gage,
fixture, work damp, or other proper device to keep the
workpiece from twisting or moving during the cut.

Gum

A sticky, sap based residue from wood products.

Miter Cut

A cutting operation made witti the blade at any angle
other than 90' to ttie fence,

Resin

A sticky, sap base substance ttiat has hardened.

Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)

The number of turns completed by a spinning object
in one minute.

Saw Blade Path

The area over, under, behind, or in front of the blade.
As it applies to the workpiece, that area which will be,
or has been, cut by the blade.

MAKE SURE THE WORK AREA HAS AMPLE

LIGHTING to see the work and that no obstruc

tions will interfere with safe operaflon BEFORE
performing any work using your saw.

ALWAYS TURN OFF SAW before disconnecting

it, to avoid accidental starting when re-connect
ing to power supply.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Refer to them

frequently and use to instruct other users. If you
loan someone this tool, loan them these instruc
tions also.

Set

The distance that the tip of the sawbiade tooth is bent
(or set) outward from the face of the blade.

Throw-Back

Throwing of a workpiece in a manner similar to a
kickback. Usually associated with a cause other than
the kerf closing, such as a workpiece not being
against the fence, being dropped into the blade, or
being placed inadvertently in contact wi№ the blade.

Through Sawing

Any cutting operation where the blade extends
completely through the thickness of the workpiece.

Workpiece

The item on which the cutting operation is being done.
The surfaces of a workpiece are commonly referred to
as faces, ends, and edges.

Zero Clearance Throat Plate

A plastic throat plate inserted in the miter table that
allows for blade clearance. When you make your first
cut with your compound miter saw, the saw blade cuts
a slot through the throat plate the exact width of the
blade. This provides for a zero clearance kerf that
minimizes workpiece tear-out.

No Hands Zone

The area between the marked lines on ttie left and
right side of the miter table base. This zone Is
identified by no hands zone Itesels placed inside the
marked lines on the miter table base.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Blade Diameter
Blade Arbor
No Load Speed
Rating
Input
Net Weight

Your Compound Miter Saw has been shipped

completely assembled except for the blade, miter lock

handle, and dust guide.

A WARNING; If any parts are missing, do not

operate №is ^1 until the missing parte are

replaced. Failure to do so could result in possible
serious personal injury.

' ■ Remove all loose parts from №e carton. Separate

arxf check with the list of loose parte. See Figure 2.

■ Remove the packing materials from around your

saw.

■ Carefully lift saw from the carton and place it on a

level work surface. This saw is heavy. To avoid

back injury, get help when needed.

120 Volts, 60 Hz-AC Only

12 in.

5/8 in.

4000 RPM

15 Amperes

41 lbs.

UNPACKING

Cutting Capacity with Miter at O^/Bevel 0°:

max width x resulting height 7-7/8 in. x 2-1/2 in.

Maximum Cutting Capacity with Miter at 45°/Bevel 0°:

max width x resulting height 5-1/2 in. x 2-1/2 in.

Maximum Cutting Capacity with Miter at 0°/Bevel 45®:

max width x resulting height 7-7/B in. x 1-3/4 in.

■ Do not discard the packing materials until you
have carefully inspected the saw, identified all
loose parte, and satisfactorily operated your new
saw.

■ Your saw has been shipped with №e saw arm
locked in the down position. To release saw arm,
push down on top of saw arm and pull out the lock
pin. See Figure 4.

■ Hand pressure should remain on the saw arm to

prevent sudden rise upon release of the lock pin.

■ Examine all parte to make sure no breakage or
damage has occurred during shipping.

If any parts are damaged or missing, do not attempt to
plug in the power cord and turn the switch on until the
damaged or missing parte are obtained and are

installed correctly.

The following labels are on the miter saw with loca
tions indicated.

Restore lower blade guard

and securely tighten screw

before use

DANGER: DO NOT REMOVE

ANY GUARD. USE OF SAW

WTTHOUT THEIS GUARD WILL

RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

AWARNING / ADVERTENCIA

• For your sifaty, rud owners manual before operating miter saw.

• Wear eye protection.

• Keop bands out of path of saw blade.

• Do not operala saw without guards In place.

• Do not perform any operaHoa freehand.

• Nneer reach around the saw blade.

• Ihm off fool and wait lor saw blade to slop before moving
woifipiece or changing settings.

• Disconnect the saw from the power source before changing
blade or servicing.

• Do not expose to rain or use In damp places.

• Para su pregia tegurldad, lea el manual del usuario ames de
usar la sletra fngletadora.

12 inch Compound Miter Saw

DOWtEMSUUm 4,e00RPM 120V0US Mill K0M.Y 15«

WARNING: when servicing, use om.Y ioentical craftsman

REPLACEMENT MRTS. .

MODEL 315.212120

MADE IN TAIWAN
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND Ca

Customer Help Line 1‘80i>-932‘3188

SER. NO.

□

Fig. 1

LOOSE PARTS LIST

The following items are included with your Compound Miter Saw:

Saw Blade -12 in.
Miter Lock Handle
Dust Guide
Blade Wrench

5 mm Hex Key Wrench
6 mm Hex Key Wrench

10 mm Hex Key Wrench

Owner's Manual

WARNING: The use of attachments or accessories not listed might be hazardous and could

‘ cause serious personal injury.

TOOLS NEEDED

The following tools (not included) are needed for
checking adjustments of your saw or for

installing the blade:

17 mm COMBINATION WRENCH
12 mm COMBINATION WRENCH

PHILUPS SCREWDRIVER

Fig. 2

FEATURES

KNOW YOUR COMPOUND MITER SAW

See Figure 3.

Before attempting to use your saw, familiarize yourself

with all operating features and safety requirements,

WARNING: Do not allow familiarity with your

saw to make you careless. Remember that a
careless fraction of a second is sufficient to inflict

severe injury.

15 AMP MOTOR

Your saw has a powerful 15 amp motor with sufficient
power to handle tough cutting jobs. It is made with all
ball bearings, and has externally accessible brushes
for ease of servicing.

12 in. BLADE

A 12 in. saw blade is included with your compound
miter saw. It will cut materials up to 7-7/8 in. wide,
depending upon the thickness of the material and the
setting at which the cut is being made.

SWITCH

LOCK-OFF LEVER

CUTTING CAPACITIES

When the miter angle (miter table) Is set at 0° and
the bevel angle Is set at 0°:

Your saw will cut materials up to:

max width x resulting height 7-7/8 in. x 2-1/2 in.

When the miter angle (miter table) Is set at 45° and
the bevel angle Is set at 0°:

Your saw will cut materials up to:

max width x resulting height 5-1/2 in. x 2-1/2 in.

When the miter angle (miter table) Is set at 0° and
the bevel angle Is set at 45°:

Your saw will cut materials up to:

max width x resulting height 7-7/8 in. x 1-3/4 in.

HEX KEY

STORAGE AREA

TABLE FRAME

UPPER

BLADE GUARD

MITER

POSITIVE STOP (S)

10

_ _

LOWER

BLADE GUARD

N0 HANDS ZONP BOUNDARY UNE

N0 HANDS

ZONE LABEL

ZERO CLEARANCE

THROAT PLATE

MITER SCALE

MITER

LOCK PLATE

MrTER

LOCK HANDLE

Fig.3

FEMURES

CARRYING HANDLE

See Figure 4.

For convenience when carrying or tiwisporting your
miter saw from one place to aitother, a carrying
handle has been provided on top of the saw arm as
shown in figure 4. To transport, turn off and unplug
your saw, then lower the saw arm and lock it in the
down position. Lock saw arm by depressing the lock
pin.

LOCK PIN

CARRYING

SAW ARM

MITER LOCK

HANDLE

LOCKED IN DOWN POSITION

SAW ARM

Fig. 4

MITER LOCK HANDLE

See Figure 4.

The miter lock handle securely locks your saw at
desired miter angles.

LOCK-OFF LEVER

See Figure 5.

The switoh trigger is equipped with a lock-off lever to

reduce the possibility of accidental starting. TTie lock­off lever must be pressed down with the palm of your

hand to turn saw on. The spring loaded lever will

spring back into the lock-off position when the switch
trigger is released.

SPINDLE LOCK BUTTON

See Figure 5.

A spindle lock button has been provided tor locking
the spindle which keeps toe blade in your saw from
rotating. Depress and hold toe lock button while
installing, changing, or removing blade only.

TRIGGER LOCK

See Figure 6.

To prevent unauthorized use of your compound miter
saw, we suggest that you disconnect it from the power
supply and lock the switch in the off position. To lock
the switoh, install a padlock through the hole In toe
swritch trigger. A lock with a shackle up to 13/64 in.
diameter may be used. When toe lock is installed and
locked, the switch is inoperable. Store the padlock key
in another location.

SWITCH

TRIGGER

11

Fig. 6

POSITIVE STOPS ON MITER TABLE

Positive stops have been provided at 0“, 15“, 22-1^,

31.62“, and 45“ on both ttie left and right side of the
miter table.

BEVEL LOCK KNOB

The bevel lock knob securely locks your compound
miter saw at desired bevel angles. Positive stop
adjustment screws have been provided on each side
of the saw arm. These adjustment screws are for

making fine adjustments at 0“ and 45°. See pages 18

and 19.

ELECTRIC BRAKE

An elecbic brake has been provided to quickly stop
blade rotation after the switch is released.

FENCE

The fence on your compourKi miter saw has been

provided to hold your workpiece securely against

when making all cuts.

SELF-RETRACTING LOWER BLADE GUARD

The lower blade guard is made of shock-resistant,
see-through plastic that provides protection from each
side of the blade. It retracts over die upper blade
guard as the saw is lowered into the workpiece.

MOUNTING HOLES

See Figure 7.
Your compound miter saw ^ould be permanently

mounted to a firm supporting surface slk^ as work

bench. Four 7/16 in. bolt holes have been provided in
the saw base for this purpose. Each of the four
mounting holes should be bolted securely using 7/16
In. machine bolts, lock washers, and hex nuts (not

included). Bofts should be of sufficient length to

accomrrKXlate the saw base, lock weishers, hex nuts,
and the thickness of the workbench.

Tighten alt four bolts securely.
The hole r>attern for an 20 in. x 30 in. workbench is

shown in Figure 7. Carefully check the workbench

after mounting to make sure that no movement can
occur during use. If any tipping, sliding, or walking is

noted, secure the workbench to the floor before
operating.

WARNING: Aiways make sure your compound

miter saw is securely mounted to a workbench or

an approved workstand. Failure to do so could

result in an accident resulting in possible serious
personal injury.

FEATURES

Fig. 7

Next to the bolt holes, four nail holes have been
provided in the saw base for temporarily mounting

your compound miter saw. Use 4 nails about 2-1/2 in.

long to secure your saw temporarily.

Note: Make sure the surface where you are mounting

your saw, is thick enough to accomnKxIate the nails

being used.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

Your saw has a precision built electric motor. It should
be connected to a power supply that is 120 volts,

60 Hz, AC only (normal household current). Do not

operate this tool on direct current (DC). A substantial

voltage drop will cause a loss of power and the motor

wilt overheat. If your tool does not operate when

plugged into an outlet, double-check the power
supply.

A WARNING: The operation of any saw can

result in foreign objects being thrown into your
eyes, which can result in severe eye damage.

Before starting power tool operation, always
wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields and a full face shield when needed. We
recommend wide vision safety mask for use over
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side
shields.

WARNING: Do not attempt to modify this tool or

create accessories not recommended for use
with this tool. Any such alteration or modification

is misuse and could result in a hazardous
condition leading to possible serious personal

injury.

12

ADJUSTMENTS

A WARNING: To prevent accidental starting that

could cause possible serious personal injury,
assemble all parts to your saw before connecting
it to power supply. Saw should never be
connected to power supply when you are
assembling parts, making adjustments, installing
or removing blades, or when not In use.

As mentioned previously your saw has been factory
assembled and adjusted. The miter lock handle, dust
guide, and blade are the only parts that have to be
installed.

MITER LOCK HANDLE

See Figure 8.

To install the miter lock handle, place the threaded
stud on the end of the miter lock handle into the
threaded hole in the control arm. Turn clockwise to
tighten.

TO INSTALL BLADE

See Figures 10, 11, and 12.

WARNING: A12 in. blade is the maximum
blade capacity of your saw. Never use a blade

that is too thick to allow outer blade washer to

engage with the flats on the spindle. Larger
blades will come in contact with the blade
guards, while thicker blades will prevent the
blade screw from securing the blade on the
spindle. Either of these situations could result in
a serious accident and can cause serious
personal Injury.

■ Unplug your saw.

WARNING: Failure to unplug your saw could

result In accidental starting causing possible
serious personal injury.

■ Push down on the saw arm and pull out the lock
pin to release saw arm. Raise saw arm to its full
raised position. Be cautious, saw arm is spring
loaded to raise.

■ Loosen the phillips screw on the blade bolt
cover until blade bolt cover can be raised.

See Figure 10.

■ Gently raise the lower blade guard bracket so that
the lower blade guard and blade bolt cover can be
rotated up and back to expose the blade bolt. See

Figures 10.

DUST GUIDE

See Figure 9.

To install the dust guide, place the end marked

INSERT over the exhaust port in the upper blade
guard. Turn the guide so that the open end is facing
down or toward the rear of the saw.

Fig. 9

13

LOWER

BLADE GUARD

LOWER BUDE

GUARD BRACKET

PHILUPS

SCREW

BUDE

BOLT

Fig. 10

ADJUSTMENTS

LOWER

BLADE GUARD

BLADE BOLT

OUTER BLADE WASHER

WITH DOUBLE "O'FLATS

Depress the spindle lock button and rotate the
blade bolt until the spindle locks. See Figure 12.

Using the blade wrench provided, loosen and
remove the blade bolt.

Note: The blade bolt has left hand threads. Turn

blade bolt clockwise to loosen.
Remove outer blade washer. Do not remove

inner blade washer.

ARROW

FUT(S)

ON SPINDLE

INNER BLADE

WASHER WITH

DOUBLE'ly FLATS

BLADE

Fig. 11

■ Wipe a drop of oil onto inner blade washer and
outer blade washer where they contact the blade.

A WARNING: If inner blade washer has been

renfwved, replace it before placing blade on
spindle. Failure to do so could cause an accident
since blade will not tighten properly.

■ Fit saw blade inside lower blade guard and onto
spindle. The blade teeth point downward at №e
front of saw as shown in figure 11.

CAUTION: Always install the blade with the

blade teeth and the arrow printed on the side of
the blade pointing down at the front of the saw.
The direction of blade rotation is also stamped
with an arrow on the upper blade guard.

■ Replace outer blade washer. The double "D" flats
on the blade washers align with the flats on the
spindle.

■ Depress spindle lock button and replace blade
bolt.

Note: The blade bolt has left hand threads. Turn
blade bolt counterclockwise to tighten.

■ Tighten blade bolt securely.

■ Remove the blade wrench and store it in a safe
place for future use.

■ Replace the lower blade guard and blade bolt
cover.

■ Retighten phillips screw securing blade bolt cover.
Tighten screw securely. See Figure 11.

iV WARNING: To prevent damage to the spindle

lock, always allow motor to come to a complete
stop before engagii^ spindle lock. Make sure the
spindle lock button is not engaged before
reconnecting saw into power source.

Your compound miter saw has been adjusted at the
factory for making very accurate cuts. However, some
of tee components might have been jarred out of
alignment during shipping. Also, over a period of time,
readjustment will probably become necessary due to
wear. After unpacking your saw, check tee following
adjustments before you begin using saw. Make any
readjustments that are necessary and periodically
check tee parts alignment to make sure that your saw
is cutting accurately.

WARNING: Your saw should never be

connected to power supply when you are
assembling p^, making adjustments, installing
or removing blades, or when not in use.
Disconnecting your saw will prevent accidental
starting that could cause serious injury.

14

Note: Many of the illustrations in this manual show

only portions of your compourKi miter saw. This is
intentional so that we can clearly show points being
made in the illustrations. Never operate your saw
without all guards securely in place and in good

operating condition.

CUTTING A SLOT IN THE ZERO
CLEARANCE THROAT PLATE

In order to use your compound miter saw, you must

cut a slot through the zero clearance throat plate to

allow for blade cleararrce. To cut the ^t, set your
saw at 0 degrees miter, turn saw on and allow the
blade to reach full speed, then carefully make a

straight cut as far as it will go through the throat plate.
Turn your saw off and allow the blade to come to a
complete stop before raising the saw arm.

Next, adjust the bevel angle to 45 degrees, turn your

saw on and allow the blade to reach full speed, then
carefully make another cut through the zero clearance
throat plate. The throat plate will then be wide enough
to allow the blade to pass through it at any angle from

0 to 45 degrees.

SQUARING THE MITER TABLE

TO THE FENCE

See Figures 13 -16.

■ Unplug your saw.

ADJUSTMENTS

FRAMING FENCE

SQUARE

VIEW OF MITER TABLE SQUARE WITH FENCE

ZERO CLEARANCE

MITER

LOCK PLATE

AND CORRECTLY ADJUSTED

LOCK HANDLE

THROAT PLATE

MITER

Fig. 13

WARNING: Failure to unplug your saw could

result in accidental starting causing possible

serious personal injury.

■ Push down on the saw arm and putt out the tock
pin to release the saw arm.

■ Raise saw arm to its full raised position.

■ Loosen the miter lock handle approximately one­half turn.

■ Depress toe miter lock plate and rotate the miter
table until toe pointer on the control arm is posi
tioned at 0°.

■ Release toe miter lock plate and securely tighten
the miter lock handle.

■ Lay a framing square flat on the miter table. Place
one leg of toe square against toe fence. Place toe
otoer leg of the square beside toe zero clearance
throat plate in toe miter table. The edge of toe
square and toe zero clearance throat plate in
the miter table should be parallel as shown in
figure 13.

■ If the edge of toe framing square and toe zero
clearance throat plate in toe miter table are not
parallel as shown in figures 14 and 15, adjust
ments are needed.

FRAMNG

SQUARE

VIEW OF MITER TABLE NOT SQUARE WITH

FENCE, ADJUSTMENTS ARE REQUIRED

FENCE

FRMWNG

SQUMTE

ZERO CLEARANCE

THROAT PLATE

MITER TABLE

ZERO CLEARANCE

THROAT PLATE

VIEW OF MITER TABLE NOT SQUARE WITH

FENCE, ADJUSTMENTS ARE REQUIRED

Fig. 14

Fig. 15

15

Using a 6 mm hex key, kx>sen the socket head
screws securing the fence. See Figure 16. Adjust

the fence ieft or right untii №e framing square and
zero ctearanoe throat ptate are paraltei.

Retighten the screws secureiy and recheck the

fence-to-tabie alignment.

ADJUSTMENTS

6 mm SOCKET

HEAD SCREWS

6 mm SOCKET

HEAD SCREWS

Fig. 16

SQUARING THE SAW BLADE TO THE FENCE

See Figures 17-20.

■ Unplug your saw.

WARNING: Failure to unplug your saw could

result in accidental startirtg causing possible

serious personal injury.

■ Pull the saw arm tdl the way down and engage
the lock pin to hold the saw arm in transport
position.

■ Loosen the miter lock hartole approximately
one-half turn.

■ Depress the miter lock plate and rotate the miter
table until the pointer on the control arm is
positioned at 0°.

■ Release the miter lock plate and securely tighten
the miter lock handle.

■ Lay a framing square flat on the miter table. Place
one leg of the square against the fence. Slide toe
other teg of toe square against the flat part of saw
blade.

Note: Make sure that the square contacts the flat
part of the saw blade, not the blade teeth.

MITER

TABLE

MITER

TABLE MITER

WEW OF BLADE NOT SQUARE WITH

FENCE, ADJUSTMENTS ARE REQUIRED

MITER

LOCK PLATE

VIEW OF BLADE

SQUARE WITH FENCE

LOCKPUTE

MITER

LOCK HANDLE

Fig. 17

Fig. 18

16

VIEW OF BLADE NOT SQUARE WITH

FENCE, ADJUSTMENTS ARE REQUIRED

Fig. 19

ADJUSTMENTS

The edge of the square and the saw blade should

be parallel as shown in figure 17.
If the front or back edge of №e saw blade angles

away from the square as shown in figures 18 and

19, adjustments are needed.

Using the 10 mm hex key provided, loosen the
socket head screws that secure the mounting
bracket to the miter table. See Figure 20.

10 mm SOCKET

HEADSCREW(S)

10 mm

HEX KEY

MOUNTING

BRACKET

MITER

TABLE

■ Rotate the mounting bracket left or right until the

saw blade is parallel with the square.

■ Retighten the screws securely and recheck the

blade-to-fence alignment.

SQUARING THE BLADE TO THE MITER TABLE

See Figures 21-24.

■ Unplug your saw.

Fig. 20

Loosen bevel lock knob and set saw arm at 0°
bevel (blade set 90° to miter table). Tighten bevel
lock knob.

Place a combination square against the miter
table and the flat part of saw blade.

Note; Make sure that the square contacts the flat
part of the saw blade, not the blade teeth.

Rotate the blade by hand and check the blade-to­table alignment at several points.

The edge of the square and the saw blade should
be parallel as shown in figure 21.

MITER

LOCK PLATE

CORRECT VIEW OF BLADE

SQUARE WITH MITER TABLE

If the top or bottom of the saw blade angles away
from the square as shown in figures 22 and 23,
adjustments are needed.

LOCK HANDLE

MITER

Fig. 21

WARNING; Failure to unplug your saw could
result in accidental starting causing possible
serious personal injury.

■ Pull the saw arm ail the way down and engage
the lock pin to hold the saw arm in transport
position.

■ Loosen ttie miter lock handle approximately one­half turn.

■ Depress the miter lock plate and rotate the miter

table until the pointer on the control arm is posi
tioned at 0®.

■ Release the miter lock plate and securely tighten

the miter lock handle.

VIEW OF BLADE NOT SQUARE WITH MITER

TABLE, ADJUSTMENTS ARE REQUIRED Fig. 22

17

ADJUSTMENTS

FENCE

MITER

TABLE BLADE

VIEW OF BLADE NOT SQUARE WITH MITER

TABLE, ADJUSTMENTS ARE REQUIRED Rg. 23

Using a 10 mm wrench or adjustable wrench,
loosen the lock nut securing positive stop adju^­ment screw. Also loosen bevel lock knob.

Adjust positive stop adjustment screw to bring
saw blade into alignment with the square. See

Figure 24.

L0CKNUT(S) Fig. 24

■ Retighten bevel lock knob. Next, retighten lock nut
securing the positive stop adjustment screw.
Recheck blade-to-table alignment.

Note: The above procedure can be used to check
blade squareness of the saw blade to the miter
table at both 0“ and 45“ angles.

Your saw has three scale indicators, two on either
side of the bevel scale and one on the miter scale.
After squaring adjustments have been made, it may
be necessary to loosen the indicators screws and
reset them to zero.

BEVEL LOCK

KNOB

POSITIVE STOP

ADJUSTMENT

SCREW FOR

45° ANGLES

PIVOT ADJUSTMENTS

Note: These adjustments were made at the factory
and normally do not require readjustment.

TRAVEL PIVOT ADJUSTMENT

■ The saw arm should rise completely to the up
position by itself.

■ If tile saw arm does not raise by itself or if there is
play in the pivot joints, have saw repaired by a
qualified service technician at your nearest Sears
store to avoid risk of personal injury.

BEVEL PIVOT ADJUSTMENT

■ Your compound miter saw should bevel easily by
loosening the bevel lock knob and tilting the saw
su'm to the left.

■ If movement is tight or if there is play in the pivot,
have saw repaired by a qualified service techni
cian at your nearest Sears store to avoid risk of
personal injury.

DEPTH STOP

The depth stop limits the blade's downward travel. It

allows the blade to go below the miter table enough to
maintain full cutting capacities. The depth stop posi
tions the blade 1/4 in. from the miter taible support.

Note: ITie miter table support is located inside miter
table.

The depth stop is factory set to provide maximum
cutting capacity for the 12 In. saw blade provided with
your saw. Therefore, the saw blade provided should
never need adjustments.

However, when the diameter of the blade has been
reduced due to sharpening, it may be necessary to
adjust the depth stop to provide maximum cutting
capacity. Also, when a new blade is installed, it is
necessary to check the cleararwe of the blade to the
miter table support before starting the saw. Make
adjustments if needed.

DEPTH STOP ADJUSTMENTS

See Figure 25.

■ Unplug your saw.

WARNING: Failure to unplug your saw could

result in accidental starting causing possible
serious personal injury.

■ To adjust the depth stop use a 17 mm wrench or
adjustable wrench and loosen the hex nut at the
rear of the miter saw arm.

■ Use the 5 mm hex key wrench provided to adjust
the depth stop adjustment screw. The saw Wade
is lowered by turning the screw counter-clockwise
and raised by turning the screw clockwise.

18

ADJUSTMENTS

■ Lower the blade into the zero clearance throat
plate of the miter table. Check blade clearance
and maximum cutting distance (distance from
fence where biade enters) to front of miter tabie
slot

■ Readjust if necessary.

A WARNING: Do not start your compound miter

saw without checking for interference between
the blade and the miter tabie support. Damage
could result to №e blade if it strikes the miter
table support during operation of the saw.

■ Tighten the hex nut with a 17 mm wrench or
adjustable wrench.

■ To prevent the depth stop adjustment screw from
turning while tightening the hex nut, carefully hold

it with the hex key white tightening the hex nut.

APPLICATIONS

(Use only for the purposes listed below)

■ Cross ojtting wood and plastic.

■ Cross cutting miters, joints, etc. for picture frames,
moldings, door casings, and fine joinery.

Note: The blade provided is fine for most wood
cutting ojserations, but for fine joinery cuts or cutting
plastic, use one of the accessory blades available
from your nearest Sears store.

WARNING: Before starting any cutting

operation, clamp, bolt or nail your compound
miter saw to a workbench. Never operate your
miter saw on the floor or in a crouched position.

Failure to heed friis warning can result in serious
personal injury.

CUTTING WITH YOUR COMPOUND MITER SAW

A WARNING: When using a work clamp or

C-clamp to secure your workpiece, clamp
workpiece on one side of the blade only. The
workpiece must remain free on one side of the

blade to prevent the blade from binding in
workpiece. The workpiece binding the blade will
cause motor stalling and kickback. This situation
couid cause an accident resulting in possible
serious personal injury.

CROSSCUTTING

See Figure 26.

A crosscut is made by cutting across the grain of the
workpiece. A straight crosscut is made with the miter
tabie set at the zero degree position. Miter crosscuts
are made with the miter table set at some angle other
than zero.

TO CROSSCUT WITH YOUR MITER

SAW:

■ Pull out the lock pin and lift saw arm to its full
height.

■ Loosen the miter lock handle. Rotate the miter
lock handle approximately one-half turn to the left

to loosen.

■ Press the miter lock plate down with your thumb
and hold.

■ Rotate the control arm until the pointer aligns with
the desired angle on the miter scale.

■ Release the miter lock plate.

Note: You can quickly locate 0“, 15°, 22-1/2°,

31.62°, and 45° left or right by releasing the lock
plate as you rotate frie control arm. The lock plate
will seat itself in one of the positive stop notches,
located in the miter table frame.

■ Tighten the miter lock handle securely.

ik WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

** ftiways tighten the miter lock handle securely

before making a cut. Failure to do so could result
in movement of frie control arm or miter table
while making a cut.

19

OPERATION

■ Slowly lower the blade into and through the
workpiece. See Figure 26. .

■ Release the switch trigger and allow the saw
blade to stop rotating before raising the blade out
of workpiece. Wait until the electric brake stops
blade from turning before removing the workpiece

from the miter table.

BEVEL CUT

See Figures 27 and 26.

A bevel cut is made by cutting across the grain of the
workpiece with the blade angled to the workpiece. A
straight bevel cut is made wifri the miter table set at
the zero degree position and the blade set at an angle
between 0" and 45“.

Place the workpiece flat on the miter table with

one edge securely against the fence. If the board

is waiped, place the convex side against the
fence. If the concave edge of a board is placed
against the fence, the board could collapse on the
blade at the end of the cut, jamming the blade.

See Figures 33 and 34.

When cutting long pieces of lumber or molding,
support the opposite end of the stock with a roller
stand or H^th a work surface level with the saw
table.

Align cutting line on the workpiece with the edge
of saw blade.

Grasp the stock firmly with one hand and secure
it against the fence. Use the optional work clamp
or a C-ciamp to secure the workpiece when
possible. See Figure 26.

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

^ keep your hands outside the no hands zone; at

least 3 in. from blade. Never perform any cutting
operation freehand (without holding workpiece
against the fence). The blade could grab the
workpiece if it slips or twists.

Before tumirig on the saw, perform a dry run of the
cutting operation just to make sure that no
problems will occur when the cut is made.

Grasp the saw handle firmly, press the lock-off tab
down, then squeeze the switch trigger. Allow
several seconds for the blade to reach maximum
speed.

Fig. 26

LEFTSIDE

LEFT

INDICATOR

POINT '

SCALE

MOUNTING BRACKET

RIGHT SIDE

TO BEVEL CUT WITH YOUR MITER

SAW:

■ Pull out the lock pin and lift saw arm to its full
height. '

■ Loosen the miter lock handle. Rotate the miter
lock handle approximately one-half turn to the left

to loosen.

■ Press the miter lock plate down with your thumb
and hold.

■ Rotate the control arm until the pointer aligns with
zero on the miter scale.

■ Release the miter lock plate.
Note: You can quickly locate zero by releasing

the iock plate as you rotate the control arm. The
lock plate will seat itself in one of the built-in
positive stop notches, located in the miter table
frame.

■ Tighten the miter lock handle securely.

^ WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

always tighten the miter lock handle securely
before making a cut. Failure to do so could result
in movement of the control arm or miter table
while making a cut.

20

RIGHT

INDICATOR

POINT

SCALE Fig. 27

OPERATION

BEVEL CVrr

Loosen the bevel lock knob and move the saw
atm to the left to the desired bevel angle.

Bevel angles can be set from 0” to 45*’.
For your convenience there is a double scale

located on the mounting bracket See Figure 27. If
one side becomes difficult to read as you move
the saw arm to №e left, simply refer to the other

side. Align the indicator pcnnt tor toe side you

choose with the desired angle.

Once toe saw ann has been set at the desired
angle, securely tighten the bevel lock knob.

Place the workpiece flat on toe miter table with
one edge securely against the fence. If the board
is warped, place the convex side against the
fence. If toe concave edge of a board Is placed
against the fence, the board could collapse on the

blade at the end of toe cut, jamming toe blade.

See Figures 33 and 34.

When cutting long pieces of lumber or molding,
support the opposite end of the stock with a roller
stand or with a work surface level with toe saw
table.

Align the cutting line on toe workpiece with the
edge of saw blade.

Grasp toe stock firmly with one hand and secure it

against toe fence. Use toe optional work clamp or
a C-clamp to secure toe workpiece when pos
sible. See Figure 28.

Fig. 28

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

keep your hands outside the no hands zone; at
least 3 in. from blade. Never perform any cutting
operation freehand (without holding workpiece
against toe fence). The blade could grab toe
workpiece if it slips or twists.

■ Before turning on the saw, perform a dry run of

the cutting operation just to make sure that no

problems will occur when the cut is made.

■ Grasp the saw handle firmly, press toe tock-off tab
down, then squeeze the switch trigger. Allow
several seconds for the blade to reach maximum
speed.

■ Slowly lower the blade into and through the

workpiece. See Figure 28.

■ Release the switcto trigger and allow the saw
blade to stop rotating before raising the blade out

of workpiece. Wait until the electric brake stops

blade from turning before removing the workpiece
from miter table.

COMPOUND MITER CUT

A compound miter cut is a cut made using a miter
angle and a bevel angle at the same time. This type of
cut is used to make picture frames, cut molding, make
boxes with sloping sides, and for certain roof framing
cuts.

To make this type of cut the control arm on toe miter
table must be rotated to the correct angle and toe saw
arm must be tilted to the correct bevel angle. Care

should always be taken when m£d<ing compound miter
setups due to toe interaction of the two angle settings.

Adjustments of miter and bevel settings are interde
pendent with one another. Each time you adjust the
miter setting you change the effect of toe bevel
setting. Also, each time you adjust the bevel setting
you change the effect of the miter setting.

It may take several settings to obtain the desired cut.
The first angle setting should be checked after setting
the second angle, since adjusting toe second angle

affects the first.

Once the two correct settings for a particular cut have

been obtained, always make a test cut in scrap

material before making a finish cut in good materieti.

21

OPERATION

TO MAKE A COMPOUND CUT WITH

YOUR MITER SAW;

■ Pull out the lock pin and lift saw arm to its fuli
height.

■ Loosen the miter lock handle. Rotate the miter lock
handle approximately one-half turn to the left to
loosen.

■ Press the miter iock piate down with your thumb
and hold.

■ Rotate the ccxitrol arm until the pointer aligns with
the desired angie on the miter scale.

■ Release the miter lock piate.

Note: You can quickly locate 0°, 15°, 22-1/2®,

31.62®, and 45® left or right by releasing the miter
lock plate as you rotate the control arm. The miter
kx:k plate will seat itself in one of the positive stop
notches, located in miter table frame.

■ Tighten the miter lock harxlle securely.

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

always tighten the miter lock handle securely
before making a cut Failure te do so could result
In movement of the control arm or miter table
while making a cut.

■ Recheck miter angle setting. Make a test cut in
scrap material.

■ Place the workpiece flat on the miter table with
one edge securely against the fence. If the board

is warped, place the convex side against the
fence. If the concave edge of a board could
collapse on the blade at the end of the cut,
jamming the blade. See Figures 33 and 34.

■ When cutting long pieces of lumber or molding,
support the opposite end of the stock with a roller
stand or with a work surface level with the saw

table.

■ Align the cutting line on the workpiece with the

edge of saw blade.

■ Grasp the stock firmly with one hand eind secure it

against the fence. Use the optional work deimp or
a C-clamp to secure the workpiece when possible.

See Figure 29.

A WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

always keep your hands outside the no hands
zone; at least 3 in. from blade. Never perform any
cutting operation frediand (without holding
workpiece against the fence). The blade could
grab the workpiece if it slips or twists.

■ Loosen the bevel lock knob and move the saw arm
te the left to the desired bevel angle.

■ Bevel angles can be set from 0' to 45*.

■ For your convenience there is a double scale
located on the mounting bracket See Figure 27. If
one side becomes difficult te read as you move fríe
saw arm to fríe left, simply refer te the other side.
Align the indicator point for the side you choose
with the desired £uigle.

■ Once the saw arm fute been set at the desired
angle, securely tighten the bevel lock knob.

OCLAMP

COMPOUND

MITER CUT

Fig. 29

22

OPERATION

■ Before turning on the saw, perform a dry run of the
cutting (^ration just to make sure that no problems
will occur when the cut is made.

■ Grasp the saw handle firmly, press the lock-off tab
down, then squeeze the switch trigger. Allow sev
eral seconds for the blade to reach maximum speed.

■ Slowly lower the blade into and through the
workpiece. See Figures 29 and 30.

■ Release №e switch trigger and allow the saw blade
to stop rotating before raising the blade out of
workpiece. Wait until the electric brake stops blade
from turning before removing the workpiece from

miter table.

SUPPORT LONG WORKPIECES

See Figure 31.

Long workpieces need extra supports. Supports
should be placed along the worltpiece so it does not
sag. The support should let the workpiece lay flat on
the base of the saw and work table during the cutting ,
operation. Use the optional work clamp or a C-clamp
to secure the workpiece.

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,

always keep your hands outside the no hands

OPERATION

CUTTING COMPOUND MITERS

To aid in making the correct settings, the compound angle setting chart below has been provided. Since com
pound cuts are the most difficult to accurately obtain, trial cuts should be made in scrap material, and much
thought and planning made, prior to making your required cut.

PITCH

0F9DE

0°

5“

10'

15“

20'

25'

30'

35'

40°

45'

50'

55'

60'

65'

70'

75°

80°

85'

90'

4

M- 45.00'
B- 0.00'

M- 44.89'
B- 3.53'

M- 44.56°
B- 7.05'

M- 44.01°
B-10.55'

M- 43.22°

B-14.00'

M-42.19°
B-17.39'

M- 40.89'
B-20.70°

M- 39.32°
B- 23.93'

M- 37.45°
B- 27.03'

M- 35.26'
B- 30.00'

M- 32.73'
B- 32.80'

M- 29.84'

B- 35.40'
M- 26.57'

B- 37.76'
M- 22.91'

B- 39.86'
M-18.88'

B-41.64'
M-14.51°

B-43.08'
M- 9.85'

B-44.14'
M- 4.98°

B- 44.78'
M- 0.00'

B- 45.00°

5

M- 36.00'
B- 0.00'

M- 35.90'
B- 2.94°

M- 35.58'
B- 5.86°

M- 35.06°
B- 8.75'

M- 34.32'
B-11.60'

M- 33.36'
B-14.38'

M- 32.18°
B-17.09'

M- 30.76°
B-19.70'

M- 29.10'
B-22.20°

M- 27.19°
B- 24.56'

M- 25.03'
B- 26.76°

M- 22.62'
B- 28.78°

M-19.96°
B- 30.60'

M-17.07'
B- 32.19'

M-13.95'
B- 33.53'

M-10.65°
B- 34.59'

M- 7.19'
B- 35.37“

M- 3.62°
B- 35.84'

M- 0.00°
B- 36.00°

■ nUMDCn MT
6 7

M- 30.00'
B- 0.00'

M- 29.91°
B- 2.50'

M- 29.62°
B- 4.98°

M- 29.15'
B- 7.44°

M- 28.48'
B- 9.85'

M- 27.62°
B-12.20'

M- 26.57°
B-14.48'

M- 25.31'
B-16.67'

M- 23.86'
B- 18.75°

M- 22.21'
B- 20.70'

M- 20.36°
B-22.52°

M-18.32°
B-24.18'

M- 16.10°
B- 25.66'

M-13.71'
B- 26.95'

M-11.17'
B- 28.02'

M- 8.50°
B- 28.88'

M- 5.73'
B- 29.50'

M- 2.88'
B- 29.87'

M- 0.00°
B- 30.00'

M- 25.71°
B- 0.00'

M- 25.63'
B- 2.17'

M- 25.37°
B- 4.32°

M- 24.95°
B- 6.45'

M- 24.35'
B- 8.53°

M- 23.56'
B-10.57°

M- 22.64'
B-12.53'

M-21.53'
B-14.41°

M- 20.25°
B-16.19'

M-18.80'
B-17.87°

M-17.20'
B-19.41'

M-15.44°
B- 20.82'

M-13.54'
B- 22.07°

M-11.50'
B-23.16'

M- 9.35'
B- 24.06'

M- 7.10'
B- 24.78°

M- 4.78'
B- 25.30'

M- 2.40'
B-25.61'

M- 0.00°
B- 25.71'

8 9

M- 22.50°
B- 0.00'

M- 22.42'
B- 1.91'

M- 22.19'
B- 3.81'

M-21.81'
B- 5.68°

M-21.27°
B- 7.52°

M- 20.58'
B- 9.31'

M-19.73'
B- 11.03'

M-18.74'
B-12.68'

M-17.60'
B-14.24'

M-16.32'
B-15.70'

M-14.91°
B- 17.05'

M-13.36'
B-18.27'

M-11.70'
B-19.35'

M- 9.93'
B- 20.29'

M- 8.06'
B-21.08'

M- 6.12'
B-21,69'

M- 4.11°
B-22.14'

M- 2.07'
B-22.41'

M- 0.00'
B-22.50°

M- 20.00'
B- 0.00°

M-19.93'
B- 1.71'

M-19.72°
B- 3.40°

M-19.37'

B- 5.08'
M-18.88'

B- 6.72°
M-18.26'

B- 8.31'

M-17.50°
B- 9.85°

M-16.60'
B-11.31'

M-15.58'
B-12.70'

M-14.43'
B-14.00'

M-13.17'
B-15.19'

M-11.79“
B-16.27'

M-10.31'
B-17.23'

M- 8.74'
B-18.06°

M- 7.10°
B-18.75'

M- 5.38'
B- 19.29°

M- 3.62°
B-19.68'

M- 1.82'
B-19.92'

M- 0.00°
B- 20.00'

10

M-18.00'
B- 0.00°

M- 17.94'
B- 1.54'

M-17.74'
B- 3.08'

M-17.42°
B- 4.59'

M-16.98'
B- 6.07'

M-16.41'
B- 7.50'

M-15.72°
B- 8.89'

M-14.90'
B-10.21°

M-13.98'
B-11.46°

M-12.94'
B-12.62'

M-11.80'
B-13.69'

M-10.56'
B-14.66°

M- 9.23'
B-15.52°

M- 7.82'
B-16.26'

M- 6.34“
B-16.88'

M- 4.81'
B- 17.37°

M- 3.23'
B-17.72'

M- 1.62°
B-17.93“

M- 0.00°
B-18.00°

Each B (Bevel) and M (Miter) Setting is Given to the Closest 0.005°.

COMPOUND-ANGLE SETTINGS FOR POPULAR STRUCTURES

24

OPERATION

CUTTING CROWN MOLDING

Your compound miter saw does an excellent job of
cutting crown molding. In gerreral, compound miter
saws do a better job of cutting crown molding than
any other tool made.

In order to fit properly, crown molding must be com
pound mitered with exb'eme accuracy.

The two contact surfaces on a piece of crown molding
that fit flat against the ceiling and the wall of a room
are at angles that, when added together, equal
exactly 90°. Most crown rrolding has a top rear angle
(the section that fits flat against the ceiling) of 52° and
a bottom rear angle (the section that fits flat against
the wall) of 38°.

CEHJNG

LAYING MOLDING FLAT ON THE

MITER TABLE

See Figure 32.

To use this method for accurately cutting crown
molding for a 90° inside or outside comer, lay the
molding with its broad back surface flat on the miter
table and against the fence.

When setting toe bevel and miter angles for com
pound miters, remember that toe settings are interde
pendent; changing one angle changes toe other angle
as well.

Keep in mind that the angles for crown moldings are
very precise and difficult to set. Since it is very easy
for these angles to shift, all settings should first be
tested on scrap molding. Also most walls do not have
angles of exar^y 90°, therefore, you will need to fine
tune your settings.

FENCE

TOP EDGE AGAINST FENCE =

LEFT SIDE, mSU)E CORNER

• RKMT SIDE, OUTSffiE CORNei
WTER TABLE

CROWN MOLDING FUT ON MfTER TABLE Fig. 32

INSIDE

CORNER

OUTSIDE

FENCE CORNER

BOTTOM B)GE AGAINST FENCE!

• RIGHT SIDE, INSIDE CORNER

• LEFT SIDE, OUTSIDE CORNER
MITER TABLE

25

When cutting crown molding by this method the bevel
angle should be set at 33.85°. The miter angle should
be set at 31.62° either right or left, depending on the
desired cut for the application. See the chart below for
correct angle settings and correct positioning of crown

molding on miter table.

The settings in the chart below can be used for cutting
All Standard (U.S.) crown molding with 52° and 38°

angles. The crown molding is placed flat on the miter

table using the compound features of your miter saw.

Bevel

Angle

Type of Cut

Setting

OPERATION

Left side, Inside comer

33.85°

1. Top edge of molding against fence

2. Miter table set right 31.62°

3. Save left end of cut

Right side, inside comer

33.85°

1. Bottom edge of molding against fence

2. Miter table set left 31.62°

3. Save left end of cut

Left side, outside comer

33.85°

1. Bottom edge of molding against fence

2. Miter table set left 31.62°

3. Save right end of cut

Right side, outside comer

33.85°

1. Top edge of molding against fence

2. Miter table set right 31.62°

3. Save right end of cut

CUTTING WARPED MATERIAL

See Figures 33 and 34.

Fig. 34

When cutting warped material, always make sure it is

positioned on the miter table with the convex side
against the fence as shown in figure 33.

If the warped material is positioned the wrong way as
shown in figure 34, it will pinch the blade near the
completion of the cut.

iV WARNING: To avoid a kickback and to avoid

serious personal injury, never position the
concave edge of bowed or warped material
against the fence.

CLAMPING WIDE WORKPIECES

See Figure 35.

WIDE

BOARD

RIGHT

Fig. 35

Fig. 33 When cutting wide workpieces such as a 2 in. x 6 in.,

boards should be clamped with a C-clamp as shown in
figure 35.

26

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: When servicing, use only identicat

Craftsman replacement parts. Use of any other
part may create a hazard or cause product
damage.

GENERAL

Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts.

Most plastics are susceptible to damage from various

types of commercial solvents and may be damaged

by №eir use. Use clean cloths to remove dirt, carbon

dust, etc.

WARNING: Do not at any time let brake fluids,

gasoline, petroleum-based products, penetrating
oils, etc. come in contact with plastic parts. They

contain chemicals that can damage, weaken or

destroy plastic.

It has been found that electric tools are subject to
acc^erated wear and possible premature failure when
they are used on fiberglass boats, sports cars,
wallboard, spackling compounds, or plaster. The
chips and grindings from these materials are highly
abrasive to electric tool parts such as bearings,
brushes, commutators, etc. Consequently, it is not

recommended that this tool be used for extended
work on any fiberglass material, wallboard, spackling
compounds, or plaster. During any use on these

materials it is extremely important that the tool is
cleaned frequently by blowing with an air jet.

LUBRICATION

All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a

sufficient amount of high grade lubricant for №e life of
the unit under normal operating conditions. Therefore,

no further lubrication is required.

EXTENSION CORDS

The use of any extension cord will cause some loss of

power. To keep the loss to a minimum and to prevent

tool overheating, use an extension cord that is heavy

enough to carry the current the tool will draw.
A wire gage size (A. W.G.) of at least 14 is recom

mended for an extension cord 25 feet or less in
length. When working outdoors, use an extension
cord that is suitable for outdoor use. The cord's jacket
will be marked WA.

CAUTION: Keep extension cords away from the

cutting area and position the cord so that it will
not get caught on lumber, tools, ete., during
cutting operation.

WARNING: Check extension cords before each

use. If damaged, replace immediately. Never use
tool wito a damaged cord since touching the
damaged area could cause electrical shock
resulting in serious injury.

WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or

safety glasses with side shields during power
tool operation or when blowing dust. If operation

is dusty, also wear a dust mask.

27

MAINTENANCE

iW WARNING; To ensure safety and reliability, all

repairs — with the exception of the externally
accessible brushes — should be performed by a

qualified service technician at a Sears store to

avoid risk of personal injury.

BRUSH REPLACEMENT

See Figure 36. ■

BRUSH

ASSEMBLY

BRUSH

CAP BRUSH

ASSEMBLY

BRUSH

CAP

Fig. 36

Your saw has externally accessible brush assemblies
that should be periodicaiiy checked for wear.

Proceed as follovro when replacement is required:

■ Unplug your saw.

WARNING: Failure to unplug your saw could

result in accidental starting causing serious
injury.

■ Remove brush cap with a screwdriver. Brush
assembly is spring loaded and will pop out when

you remove brush cap.

■ Remove brush assembly.

■ Check for wear. Replace both brushes when

either has less than 1 /4 in. length of carbon
remaining. Do not replace one side without
replacing the other.

■ Reassemble using new brush assemblies. Make
sure curvature of brush matches curvature of
motor and that brush moves freely in brush tube.

■ Make sure brush cap is oriented correctly
(straight) and replace.

■ Tighten brush cap securely. Do not overtighten.

28

29

CRAFTSMAN COMPOUND MITER SAW - MODEL NUMBER 315.212120

Figure A

30

CRAFTSMAN COMPOUND MITER SAW - MODEL NUMBER 315.212120

The model number will be found on a plate attached to the motor housing. Always mention the model
number in all correspondence regarding your COMPOUND MITER SAW or when ordering repair

parts.

SEE BACK PAGE FOR PARTS ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS

KEY PART

NO. NUMBER DESCRIPTION QUAN.

1 976512-001 Flat Washer............................................................................................

2 976578-001 Self-Locking Nut......................................................................................

3 980229-001

4 980230-001 Miter Table Frame...................................................................................

5 980253-001 Table Spindle..........................................................................................

6 980232-001 Fence...................................................................................................

7 360308-142 Spring Washer........................................................................................

8 980117-001 Bolt (Hex Hd.)........................................................................................

9 980261-001

976568-001 Blade Wrench

' 10
11 976605-001

12 976570-001 Hex Key (5 mm).....................................................................................

980418-001

13

14 980243-001 Miter Table............................................................................................

15 980259-001

980244-001

16

980245-001 Bevel Pivot Bracket

17

980234-001 Bevei Scale...........................................................................................

18

19 976531-001 Rivet.....................................................................................................

20 980239-001 Bolt (Hex Hd.)........................................................................................

21 980263-001 Spring Washer.......................................................................................

22 980256-001 Screw (Pan Hd.).....................................................................................

23 980250-001

24 976507-001 Fiat Washer...........................................................................................

25 980257-001 Throat Plate...........................................................................................

26 980251-001

27 980258-001 Clamp Nut.............................................................................................

28 980233-001
29 976242-001

30 980252-001 Screw (Pan Hd.).....................................................................................

980^-001 Lock Plate............................................................................................

31

980260-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)....................................................................................

32

980231-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)....................................................................................

33
34 980240-001
35 977435-001

977434-001 Hand Warning Label

36

PARTS LIST FOR FIGURE A

Spring Washer........................................................................................

Hex Key Holder.......................................................................................

..................................

Hex Key (6 mm).....................................................................................

Hex Key (10 mm)...................................................................................

Hex Nut................................................................................................

Hex Bolt...............................................................;................................

................................................................................

Screw (Pan Hd.).....................................................................................

Miter Scale Indicator

Miter Lock Handle

Fixed Plate............................................................................................

Miter Scale...........................................................................................

Line Warning Label...............................................................................

..............................................................................

..................................................................................

.............................................................................

;....................................................

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

...........

............

............

...........

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

............

2
1
1

1
1

1
4
4
1

1
1

1

1

1

2

2

1

1

3

2

2

6

1

1
1
1
1
1

1
2
1
2
3

1

2

2

31

CRAFTSMAN COMPOUND MITER SAW - MODEL NUMBER 315.212120

ro

Figure B

CRAFTSMAN COMPOUND MITER SAW - MODEL NUMBER 315.212120

The model number will be found on a plate attached to the motor housing. Always mention the model number in all correspondence regarding your

COMPOUND MITER SAW or when ordering repair parts.

KEY PART

NO. NUMBER

1

976512-001 Flat Washer

2

980249-001 Stop...................................

3

980255-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)

4

980262-001 Shoulder Screw.................

5 980238-001
6 980235-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)
7

980247-001 Link Holder.........................

8 976643-001 Retaining 'E' Ring
9

CO

CO

980254-001

10

980246-001 Pivot Shaft

11

980237-001 Bevel Lock Knob

12

976512-001 Flat Washer

13 980236-001 Support Bracket

14

976641-001 "0" Ring
15 980266-001 Stop Pin
16 980276-001 Lock Bolt
17

980275-001
18

980281-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)

19 976526-001 Fiat Washer
20 980287-001 Scale Indicator (R)

21

980248-001 Scale Indicator (L)..............

22

976526-001 Fiat Washer
23 980265-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)
24

979693-001 Logo Plate
25 976567-001
26 980293-001 Upper Blade Guard
27

976733-001

DESCRIPTION

Link Assembly....................

Washer...............................

..............................

.............................

............................

Tension Shaft

Dust Guide..........................

Lower Blade Guard Label.............................

SEE BACK PAGE FOR PARTS ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS

......................

...............

................

..............

.........................

................

.......................

.................

.....................

................

.......................

.............

.......................

................

..........................

............

PARTS LIST FOR FIGURE B

KEY

QUAN. NO.

............................1

............................1

............................1

............................

1

28
29
30

31 980269-001

............................1 32

............................2

............................1

............................

............................1

............................1

............................

...........................

...........................

...........................1

1 37

1
1
1

35
36

38
39
40

41
42

43

...........................1 44

...........................1

...........................

...........................

...........................1

...........................

...........................

...........................

...........................

...........................1

1
1

1

1
1 51
1 52

45
46
47
48 980280-001
49
50

53

...........................1 54

...........................

1

55

1

PART
NUMBER

976540-001 Caution Label
980290-001 Spring Position Locator
980282-001 Tension Spring

976599-001

976507-001 Flat Washer
980297-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)
980299-501 Dust Shield
980291-501 Stop Block
980274-501 Screw (Pan Hd.)

DESCRIPTION

..........................

Spring Washer
Screw (Pan Hd.)

.............................

..............................

........

...........

........................

........................

......................

......................

.‘.

....................

......................

980278-501 Sleeve......................................

980268-501
180030-501 Set Screw
300030-001

980298-001
980285-001 Clamp Nut
980417-001
980416-001 Screw

980286-001 Fixed Screw
980279-001 Screw (Pan Hd.)
980267-001
976554-001
980292-001
976507-001

980277-001

Screw (Pan Hd.)

......................

................................

Hex Nut (17mm)
Clamp Bolt (5mm)

......................

...................

................................

Roller

.......................................

.......................................

Blade Bolt Cover

......................

.............................

.......................

Lower Blade Guard
Tension Spring
Tension Spring Holder

..................

.........................

.............

Flat Washer..............................

Screw (Pan Hd.)

.......................

QUAN.

......................

......................

......................

.....................

......................

......................

.....................

.....................

.....................

.....................

.....................

.....................

.....................

.....................

....................

....................

....................

1
1
1
4
4

1

1

1
2
1
1

1

1

1
1
1

1

CRAFTSMAN COMPOUND MITER SAW - MODEL NUMBER 315.212120

SEE NOTE “A”

21 20

Figure C

CRAFTSMAN COMPOUND MiTER SAW - MODEL NUMBER 315.212120

The model number will be found on a plate attached to the motor housing. Always mention the model number in all correspondence regarding your

COMPOUND’MITER SAW or when ordering repair parts.

SEE BACK PAGE FOR PARTS ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS

PARTS LIST FOR FIGURE C

Key

No.

u

tn

Part
Number

1 980296-001

2 980288-001
3
4
5 980283-001
6
7 980271-001
8
9

10

11

12 980083-001
13
14 980284-001
15
16
17 976682-001

18
19 976650-001
20

21

***

980270-001

980294-001

976648-001

980272-001 Gear Shaft....................................................................................................................

976653-001

980289-001 Gear..............................................................................

980295-001

979695-001
976683-001

979697-001

976651-001 Retaining 'E' Ring.........................................................................................................

976649-001
972000-557 Owner’s Manual

Description

Blade Bolt

..........................................................

..........................................................

Outer Blade Washer....................................................................................................

Blade............................................................................................................................

Inner Blade Washer........................................................................................

Screw {Pan Hd.)...........................................................................................................

Bearing Plate.................................................................

..............................................

Ball Bearing.................................................................................................................

Retaining 'C Ring.........................................................................................................

Lock Ring....................................................................................................................

.

..............................................

Ball Bearing.................................................................................................................

Paralled Key................................................................................................................

Phillips Pan Head Screw.............................................................................................

Warning Label..............................................................................................................

Carbon Brush...............................................................................................................

Brush Cap....................................................................................................................

Data Plate...

................................................................................................................

Spindle Lock Pin..........................................................................................................

Compression Spring....................................................................................................

.............

Quan.

............................

............................1

......................

......................

...........................

............................1

............................ 1

............................ 1

......................

............................1

......................

......................

......................

......................

......................

......................2

.....................

..........................

...........................1

...........................1

...........................1

1

1
1

2

1

1

1
1

2
1

2
1

NOTE;

"A"-THE ASSEMBLY SHOWN REPRESENTS AN IMPORTANT PART OFTHEDOUBLE INSULATED SYSTEM. TO AVOIDTHE POSSIBILITY

OF ALTERATION OR DAMAGE TO THE SYSTEM, SERVICE SHOULD BE PERFORMED BY YOUR NEAREST SEARS REPAIR
CENTER. CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SEARS CATALOG ORDER OR RETAIL STORE FOR SERVICE CENTER INFORMATION.

For in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-Home®« (1-800-469-4663)

Para pedir servicio de reparación a domiciiio -1-800-676-5811

in Canada for all your service and parts needs call _ ^ 665-4455

Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pièces ' '

For the repair or replacement parts you need:

Call 7 am - 7 pm, 7 days a week

1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domiciiio -1-800-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center in your area:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance Agreement

or to inquire about an existing Agreement:

Call 9 am - 5 pm, Monday - Saturday

1-800-827-6655

The Service Side of Sears®“