General 350R-T50 User Manual

SETUP &	OPERATION MANUAL
FEATURES	10" TILTING ARBOR SAW
Quick release combination riving style	– RIGHT TILT
splitter and blade guard with anti-kickback
pawls and a second European style riving
knife also included.
Powder coated, scratch resistant, high
quality reinforced steel cabinet.
Large, heavy-duty cast-iron handwheels
for effortless blade adjustments.
High-precision General “T” Fence System
with 50” long guide rails, a melamine
extension table and adjustable support
legs (“Millenium Edition only”).
2 miter gauge T-slots and deluxe cast-iron
miter gauge.
Magnetic 2-step safety switch to prevent
unwanted or unintentional start-up is
equipped with an extra-large easy access
stop panel and a lock-out key to prevent
unauthorized use of the saw.
Powerful made in USA, totally enclosed,
fan cooled industrial motor.
Matching dual V-belt drive, on balanced
cast-iron pulleys for smooth vibration-free
running.
Arbor mounted on heavy-duty,
permanently lubricated, sealed ball-
bearings.
SPECIFICATIONS
BLADE /ARBOR DIAMETER
10” (254 MM) / 5⁄8” (16 mm)
MAX. DEPTH OF CUT AT 90° / 45°
3 1⁄8” (79 mm)/ 2 1⁄8” (54 mm)
ARBOR TILT RANGE
0° À 45°
MAX. RIP TO LEFT / RIGHT OF BLADE
12” (305 mm) / 50” (1270 mm)
MAXIMUM DADO WIDTH	MODEL
28” X 36” X 34” (711 X 914 X 864 MM)
13⁄16” (21 MM)
DISTANCE AHEAD OF BLADE
12 3⁄4” (324 MM)
TABLE SIZE (L x W x H)	#350R-T50
SIZE OF T-SLOTS
3⁄8” x 3⁄4” (10 x 19 mm)
ARBOR SPEED
4000 RPM
MOTOR
M2 3 HP,230 V,1 PH, 13.7 A
M3 3 HP,230 V,3 PH, 8.1 A
M4 3 HP,208 V,3 PH, 7.8 A
M5 3 HP,600 V,3 PH, 3 A
M6 3 HP,440 V,3 PH, 3.6 A
M25 5 HP,230 V,1 PH, 19.5 A
M35 5 HP,230 V,3 PH, 12 A
M45 5 HP,208 V,3 PH, 12 A
M55 5 HP,600 V,3 PH, 4.8 A
M65 5 HP,440 V,3 PH, 6 A
WEIGHT
495 LBS (225 KG)
	REVISION 3 - June 23/11
	© Copyright General®MFG / General® International 06/2011

GENERAL® MFG (CO) LTD.

835, Cherrier Street, Drummondville (Quebec) Canada J2B 5A8 Telephone [phone] • Fax [phone] • www.general.ca

THANK YOU for choosing this General® model 350R-T50 10" Tilting Arbor Saw. This saw has been carefully tested and inspected before shipment and if properly used and maintained, will provide you with years of reliable service. To ensure optimum performance and trouble-free operation, and to get the most from your investment, please take the time to read this manual before assembling, installing and operating the unit.

The manual’s purpose is to familiarize you with the safe operation, basic function, and features of this saw as well as the set-up, maintenance and identification of its parts and components. This manual is not intended as a substitute for formal woodworking instruction, nor to offer the user instruction in the craft of woodworking. If you are not sure about the safety of performing a certain operation or procedure, do not proceed until you can confirm, from knowledgeable and qualified sources, that it is safe to do so.

Once you’ve read through these instructions, keep this manual handy for future reference.

Disclaimer: The information and specifications in this manual pertain to the unit as it was supplied from the factory at the time of printing. Because we are committed to making constant improvements, General® reserves the right to make changes to components, parts or features of this unit as deemed necessary, without prior notice and without obligation to install any such changes on previously delivered units. Reasonable care is taken at the factory to ensure that the specifications and information in this manual corresponds with that of

the unit with which it was supplied. However, special orders and “after factory” modifications may render some or all information in this manual inapplicable to your machine. Further, as several generations of this model of saw and several versions of this manual may be in circulation, if you own an earlier or later version of this unit, this manual may not depict your machine exactly. If you have any doubts or questions contact your retailer or our support line with the model and serial number of your unit for clarification.

GENERAL® & GENERAL® INTERNATIONAL WARRANT Y

All component parts of General®, General® International and Excalibur by General International ® products are carefully inspected during all stages of production and each unit is thoroughly inspected upon completion of assembly.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Because of our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, General® and General® International agree to repair or replace any part or component which upon examination, proves to be defective in either workmanship or material to the original purchaser for the life of the tool. However,the Limited Lifetime Warranty does not cover any product used for professionnal or commercial production purposes nor for industrial or educational applications. Such cases are covered by our Standard 2-year Limited Warranty only. The Limited Lifetime Warranty is also subject to the “Conditions and Exceptions” as listed below.

Standard 2-Year Limited Warranty

All products not covered by our lifetime warranty including products used in commercial, industrial and educational applications are warranted for a period of 2 years (24 months) from the date of purchase. General® and General® International agree to repair or replace any part or component which upon examination, proves to be defective in either workmanship or material to the original purchaser during this 2-year warranty period, subject to the “conditions and exceptions” as listed below.

To file a Claim

To file a claim under our Standard 2-year Limited Warranty or under our Limited Lifetime Warranty, all defective parts, components or machinery must be returned freight or postage prepaid to General® International, or to a nearby distributor, repair center or other location designated by General® International. For further details call our service department at 1-888- 949-1161 or your local distributor for assistance when filing your claim.

Along with the return of the product being claimed for warranty, a copy of the original proof of purchase and a “letter of claim” must be included (a warranty claim form can also be used and can be obtained, upon request, from General® International or an authorized distributor) clearly stating the model and serial number of the unit (if applicable) and including an explanation of the complaint or presumed defect in material or workmanship.

CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS:

This coverage is extended to the original purchaser only. Prior warranty registration is not required but documented proof of purchase i.e. a copy of original sales invoice or receipt showing the date and location of the purchase as well as the purchase price paid, must be provided at the time of claim.

Warranty does not include failures, breakage or defects deemed after inspection by General® or General® International to have been directly or indirectly caused by or resulting from; improper use, or lack of or improper maintenance, misuse or abuse, negligence, accidents, damage in handling or transport, or normal wear and tear of any generally considered consumable parts or components.

Repairs made without the written consent of General® Internationallwill void all warranty.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Electrical connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Grounding instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Circuit capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Extension cords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN PARTS AND COMPONENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

BASIC FUNCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

UNPACKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

List of contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Additional requirements for set up . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

PLACEMENT WITHIN THE SHOP / ESTABLISHING A SAFETY ZONE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

CLEAN UP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10
Install and adjust rails and fence . . . . . . . . .	10

Attach the front fence rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Adjust the front rail height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Attach the back fence rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Install and adjust riving knife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Select a riving knife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	.11
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	11
Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	12
Adjustment / Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	12
Setting the splitter/knife 90º to the table . . . . . . . .	12
Setting the splitter/knife parallel to and centered
on the blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
Remove / Install a saw blade . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
Remove a saw blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
To install a saw blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	14
Level the table insert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	14

Connecting to a dust collector . . . . . . . . . . .	15
BASIC ADJUSTMENTS AND CONTROLS . . . . . .	15

Connecting to a power source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 ON / OFF magnetic power switch . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Overload protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Blade height adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Blade tilt (bevel) adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Types of cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Ripping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	.18
Bevel ripping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
Ripping small work pieces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
Cross cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Bevel cross cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Adjusting and using the miter gauge . . . . . . .	19

Adjusting the miter gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Adding an auxiliary fence to the miter gauge . .20 Miter cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Compound miter cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Using a dado head blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Periodic maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Adjusting the 90 º bevel stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Adjusting the bevel angle pointer . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Adjusting the 45 º bevel stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Recommended optional accessories . . . . .23

Parts list and diagrams . . . . . . . . . . .

24 - 29

Contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

To help ensure safe operation, please take a moment to learn the machine’s applications and limitations, as well as potential hazards. General® MFG disclaims any real or implied warranty and holds itself harmless for any injury that may result from improper use of its equipment.

1.Do not operate the saw when tired, distracted, or under the effects of drugs, alcohol or any medication that impairs reflexes or alertness.

2.The working area should be well lit, clean and free of debris.

3.Keep children and visitors at a safe distance when the saw is in operation; do not permit them to operate the saw.

4.Childproof and tamper proof your shop and all machinery with locks, master electrical switches and switch keys, to prevent unauthorized or unsupervised use.

5.Stay alert! Give your work your undivided atten tion. Even a momentary distraction can lead to serious injury.

6.Fine particulate dust is a carcinogen that can be hazardous to health. Work in a well-ventilated area and whenever possible use a dust collector and wear eye, ear and respiratory protection devices.

7.Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, bracelets, necklaces or other jewelry while the saw is in operation. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair and wear non-slip footwear.

8.Be sure that adjusting wrenches, tools, drinks and other clutter are removed from the machine and/or the feed table surface before operating.

9.Keep hands well away from the blade and all moving parts. Use a brush, not hands, to clear away chips and dust.

10.Be sure that the blade is securely installed and in proper cutting direction before operation.

11.Be sure the blade has gained full operating speed before beginning to cut.

12.Always use a clean, properly sharpened blade. Dirty or dull blades are unsafe and can lead to accidents.

13.If using a power feeder,stop the feeder before stopping the table saw.

14.Do not push or force stock into the blade. The saw will perform better and more safely when working at the rate for which it was designed.

15.Use suitable support when cutting stock that does not have a flat surface. Always hold stock firmly against the fence when ripping, or against the miter gauge when cross-cutting.

16.To minimize risk of injury in the event of workpiece kickback, never stand directly in-line with the blade or in the potential kickback path of the work piece.

17.Avoid working from awkward or off balance positions. Do not overreach while cutting; keep both feet on floor. Never lean over or reach over the blade and never pull the work piece over the blade from behind. Use out feed support or have an assistant help when ripping long material.

18.Keep blade guards in place and in working order. If a guard must be removed for maintenance or cleaning, be sure it is properly reattached before using the tool again.

19.Never leave the machine running with the power on when not in operation.

20.Use of parts and accessories NOT recommended by GENERAL may result in equipment malfunction or risk of injury.

21.Never stand on machinery. Serious injury could result if the tool is tipped over or if the blade is unintentionally contacted.

22.Always disconnect tool from power before servicing or changing accessories such as blades, or before performing any maintenance, cleaning or adjustments, or if the machine will be left unattended.

23.Make sure that switch is in "OFF" position before plugging in the power cord.

24.Make sure the tool is properly grounded. If equipped with a 3-prong plug it should be used with a three-pole receptacle. Never remove the third prong.

25.Do not use this saw for other than its intended use. If used for other purposes, GENERAL disclaims any real implied warranty and holds itself harmless for any injury, which may result from that use.

5

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

BEFORE CONNECTING THE MACHINE TO THE POWER SOURCE, VERIFY THAT THE VOLTAGE OF YOUR POWER SUPPLY CORRESPONDS WITH THE VOLTAGE SPECIFIED ON THE MOTOR I.D. NAMEPLATE. A POWER SOURCE WITH GREATER VOLTAGE THAN NEEDED CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THE USER AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO THE MACHINE. IF IN DOUBT, CONTACT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN BEFORE CONNECTING TO THE POWER SOURCE.

THIS TOOL IS FOR INDOOR USE ONLY. DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN OR USE IN WET OR DAMP LOCATIONS.

NOTE: VOLTAGE REQUIREMENTS AND AMPERAGE DRAW FOR M3, M4, M5, M6, M25, M35, M45, M55 and M65 MOTORS MAY NOT BE FULLY DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL. FOR COMPLETE ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS REFER TO THE MOTOR I.D. NAME PLATE ON THE MACHINE. IF IN DOUBT CONSULT A LICENSED QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN BEFORE PROCEEDING.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

Both a manual circuit breaker (or similar device) as well as an electrical plug are recommended and should be installed by a qualified electrician. Use locally approved wire that includes a separate grounding wire and a 3 prong grounding type plug with a matching receptacle .

NOTE: To limit the potential for damage in transport, this saw is shipped from the factory with the switch facing inward . Before operating, the switch must be reinstalled facing outward .

For added convenience, based upon personal preference, a second mounting bracket and a second hole in the base (for the power cord) allows installation of the switch on the right side rather than the left side of the saw.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

In the event of an electrical malfunction or short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electric shock to the operator. The motor of the “M2” model of this machine is wired for 230V single phase operation. As with many stationary industrial type machines, because each installation situation is unique, this table saw is supplied without a power cord or plug. The installation of an

appropriate power cord and plug must be performed by a qualified electrician. The machine must be connected to an electrical source using a power cord that has a grounding wire, which must also be properly connected to the grounding prong on the plug. The outlet must be properly installed and grounded and all electrical connections must be made in accordance with all local codes and regulations.

CIRCUIT CAPACITY

Make sure that the wires in your circuit are capable of handling the amperage draw from your machine, as well as any other machines that could be operating on the same circuit. If you are unsure, consult a qualified electrician. If the circuit breaker trips or the fuse blows regularly, your machine may be operating on a circuit that is close to its amperage draw capacity. However,if an unusual amperage draw does not exist and a power failure still occurs, contact a qualified technician or our service department.

EXTENSION CORDS

The use of an extension cord is not generally recommended for 230V equipment. If you find it necessary, use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong grounding plug and a matching 3-pole receptacle that accepts the tool’s plug. Repair or replace a damaged extension cord or plug immediately.

If you find it necessary to use an extension cord with your machine make sure the cord rating is suitable for the amperage listed on the motor I.D. plate. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The accompanying chart shows the correct size extension cord to be used based on cord length and motor I.D. plate amp rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the number, the heavier the gauge.

TABLE - MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD
AMPERE		TOTAL LENGTH OF CORD IN FEET
		230 VOLTS	50 FEET	100 FEET	200+ FEET
RATING
			AWG
< 5		------->	16	16	* NR
6 TO 10		------->	16	16	* NR
10 TO 12		------->	14	12	* NR
12 TO 16		------->	12	10	* NR

* NR = Not Recommended

6

10" TILTING ARBOR SAW – RIGHT TILT
350R-T50
IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN PARTS AND COMPONENTS
LEFT TABLE EXTENSION	REAR RAIL
MAIN TABLE	FRONT RAIL
BLADE GUARD AND SPLITTER ASSEMBLY	BEVEL SCALE
TABLE INSERT	BLADE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT HAND WHEEL
MITER GAUGE	DUST OUTLET
FENCE	MAGNETIC SAFETY SWITCH
RIGHT TABLE EXTENSION
	7

BASIC FUNCTIONS

This cabinet saw has been designed for cutting solid wood as well as manufactured wood materials such as plywood, wood panelling, particleboard, mdf and other wood based by-products. This saw is not designed for cutting metals nor for cutting any materials other than wood or wood based stock.

This saw is designed for use with maximum 10" (254mm) diameter blades having a center hole diameter of 5/8". The blade can be raised to cut a maximum stock thickness of 3 1/8" with the blade set 90 degrees to the table. The blade can be tilted up to 45 degrees to the right for bevel cuts to a maximum stock thickness of 2 1/8". Using any standard aftermarket 8" diameter stacked dado blade set (not included), the maximum dado cutting capacity of this saw is 13/16". Note: for safer dado cutting, an optional dado table insert (part number # 350-3) can be purchased through your General / General International distributor.

To encourage safety through the proper use of either the supplied riving style splitter/blade guard assembly or the European style riving knife the 350R saw has been designed with a quick install/quick release feature allowing the user to install or remove either of these safety components in seconds.

UNPACKING

Carefully unpack and remove the saw from the crate. All other components and accessories are packed inside the saw cabinet. Check for damaged or missing items as per the list of contents below.

NOTE: Please report any damaged or missing items to your General® International distributor immediately.

LIST OF CONTENTS	QTY
SAW ................................................................................	1
SPLITTER /BLADE GUARD ASSEMBLY .............................	1
EUROPEAN STYLE RIVING KNIFE ...................................	1
ARBOR WRENCH ...........................................................	1
MITER GAUGE ................................................................	1
3/32" ALLEN KEY ............................................................	1
5/32" ALLEN KEY ............................................................	1

NOTE: F-42 rip fence and T-50 guide rails are packaged separately.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SET UP

•Phillips Screwdriver

•1/2", 7/16" and 9/16" and open end wrench

•1/8" Allen key

•Square

or

8

PLACEMENT WITHIN THE SHOP /

ESTABLISHING A SAFETY ZONE

THIS MODEL 350R 10" TILTING ARBOR SAW IS VERY HEAVY.DO NOT OVER-EXERT. A HOIST OR FORKLIFT SHOULD BE USED TO LIFT THIS MACHINE.

TO LIMIT THE RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DAMAGE TO THE MACHINE, ANY EQUIPMENT USED TO LIFT THIS MACHINE SHOULD HAVE A RATED CAPACITY IN EXCESS OF 495 LBS (225 KGS).

PLACEMENT WITHIN THE SHOP

This machine should be installed and operated only on a			84”
		36 1/4”
solid, flat and stable floor that is able to support the
weight of the saw (495 lbs - 225 kgs) and the operator.	28”			33 1/2”
Using the dimensions shown beside as a guideline, plan
for placement within your shop that will allow the opera-
tor to work unencumbered and unobstructed by foot traf-
fic (either passing shop visitors or other shop workers) or
other tools or machinery.

ESTABLISHING A SAFETY ZONE						21 3/4”
For shops with frequent visitors or multiple operators, it is
advisable to establish a safety zone around shop
machinery. A clearly defined “no-go” zone on the floor
around each machine can help avoid accidents that

could cause injury to either the operator or the shop visitor. It is advisable to take a few moments to either paint (using non-slip paint) or using tape, define on the floor the limits or perimeter of each machines safety zone. Take steps to ensure that all operators and shop visitors are aware that these areas are off limits whenever a machine is running for everyone but the individual operating the unit.

CLEAN UP

The protective coating on the saw table prevents rust from forming during shipping and storage. Remove it by rubbing with a rag dipped in kerosene, mineral spirits or paint thinner. (Dispose of potentially flammable solventsoaked rags according to manufacturer’s safety recommendations.)

A putty knife, held flat to avoid scratching the surface, may also be used to scrape off the coating followed by clean-up with solvent. Avoid rubbing the saw’s painted surfaces, as many solvent-based products will remove paint.

To prevent rust, apply a light coating of paste wax or use regular applications of any after-market surface protectant or rust inhibitor.

Tip: With a screw driver, push a solvent-saturated rag into the T-slots to remove the grease.

9