Having a Problem With Blades

[pddesertrat]

I use and love the FD New Spiral 3/0 blade.  It is my favorite blade, but, lately I have been having a problem with them.  When I put a new blade in, at least 50% of the time when I tighten the blade the bottom or top will bend and crimp.  That means throw it away because it will break off as soon as I start the saw.  I think it has something to do with the twist at the end.  When I first started using them I didn't seem to have any problem.  I checked the alignment and the blade is 90' to the table.  This is the second batch of these blades, no problem with the first dozen or so I purchased.  Any suggestions.

[tdub4ever]

The only thing I can think of is maybe a burr on the end of the thumb screw.

[EIEIO]

You can flatten the twisted end so the thumb screw is hitting a flat surface. Tap it with a small hammer on a hard surface.

Is it possible that the backing setscrew has moved on your blade clamp? When I set mine I put a drop of Locktite Blue to keep it from moving. The blue kind is soft enough that you can get it out without heat.

[pddesertrat]

I didn't think it was the screws because the blade remains 90' to the table.  I will definitely give the screws a look.  Run to the store and get some Loctite.

Thanks for your replies.

[ChuckD]

EIEIO had some good advice.  If the screw is out even a tiny bit it won't change the degree to the table.  By sticking out is like pushing a blade in the middle, it will bend.  This happens.  And at least for me, it does not cause the blade to break, just makes it harder to get the blade thru a hole.  As suggested, a "light" tap with a hammer will straighten out the blade.  Also you could be tightening it to much.  Good luck

[pddesertrat]

I checked the allen screws and was very surprised how easily they move so yes I went to the store and picked up some blue Permatex to put on the threads.  Cleaned the srews up and also the thumb screws and maybe that will fix my problem.  So far so good.  I also ordered some new screws to have on hand.

 

Thanks again all for your help.

[dirtrider73068]

This is one issue i had with spiral blades the ends want to twist and bend trying to get them to mount up, then once I do the other issue I had is they are very hard to control, much like a 2/0 straight blade I tried those and they wanted to follow the grain in the wood and wonder very easy, I went back to my no 1 blades of choice and like them.