DEWALT DCS578 Cordless Circular Saw Instruction Manual

DEWALT DCS578 Cordless Circular Saw

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: DCS578
• Intended Use: Professional wood-cutting applications
• Do not cut: Metal, plastic, concrete, masonry, or fibre cement materials

Product Usage Instructions

Section 1: Getting Started

1. Ensure the work area is clean and well-lit to prevent accidents.
2. Do not operate the power tool in explosive atmospheres where flammable liquids, gases, or dust are present.
3. Review all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with the power tool before use.
4. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Section 2: Safety Precautions

1. Read and follow all safety warnings and instructions to avoid electric shock, fire, and serious injury.
2. Do not use the power tool under wet conditions or in the\ presence of flammable liquids or gases.
3. Keep children away from the tool and provide supervision when inexperienced operators use it.

Section 3: Product Components
The product consists of the following components:

• Trigger switch lock-off button (1)
• Trigger switch (2)
• Battery pack (3)
• Depth adjustment lever (4)
• Shoes (5)
• Lower blade guard retracting lever (6)
• Lower blade guard (7)
• Blade clamping screw (8)
• Kerf indicator (9)
• Bevel adjustment lever (10)
• Blade lock button (11)
• Auxiliary handle (12)
• Battery release button (13)
• Blade wrench (14)
• Worklight (15)
• Hang hook (16)

Section 4: Operating the Circular Saw

1. Ensure the battery pack is properly inserted and locked in place.
2. Adjust the depth of cut using the depth adjustment lever.
3. Set the desired bevel angle using the bevel adjustment lever.
4. Secure the blade in place using the blade clamping screw.
5. Press and hold the trigger switch to activate the saw.
6. Release the trigger switch to stop the saw.
7. Use the auxiliary handle for added stability and control.
8. When finished, press the battery release button to remove the battery pack.

Section 5: Maintenance and Care
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the circular saw, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Regularly clean the saw and remove any debris.
• Check for any loose or damaged parts before each use.
• Keep the blade sharp and replace when necessary.
• Store the saw in a clean and dry place.

FAQs

• Q: Can I use this circular saw to cut metal?
  A: No, this circular saw is designed for professional wood cutting applications only. It should not be used to cut metal, plastic, concrete, masonry, or fiber cement materials.

• Q: Can I use the circular saw in wet conditions?
  A: No, the circular saw should not be used under wet conditions or in the presence of flammable liquids or gases.

• Q: Can children use this circular saw?
  A: No, children should not come into contact with the tool. Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use this tool.

OVERVIEW

1. Trigger switch lock-off button
2. Trigger switch
3. Battery pack
4. Depth adjustment lever (Fig. B)
5. Shoe
6. Lower blade guard retracting lever
7. Lower blade guard
8. Blade clamping screw
9. Kerf indicator
10. Bevel adjustment lever
11. Blade lock button
12. Auxiliary handle
13. Battery release button
14. Blade wrench (Fig. G)
15. Worklight
16. Hang hook

If you have questions or comments, contact us. WWW.DEWALT.com

WARNING: Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications in this manual, including the battery and charger sections provided in an original tool manual or the separate Batteries and Chargers manual. Manuals can be obtained by contacting Customer Service as described elsewhere in this manual. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Definitions: Safety Alert Symbols and Words
This instruction manual uses the following safety alert symbols and words to alert you to hazardous situations and your risk of personal injury or property damage.

• DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
• WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
• CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. (Used without word) Indicates a safety related message.
• NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

Intended Use
This heavy-duty circular saw is designed for professional wood cutting applications. Do not cut metal, plastic, concrete, masonry or fiber cement materials. DO NOT use under wet conditions or in presence of flammable liquids or gases. DO NOT let children come into contact with the tool. Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use this tool.

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING: Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE. The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery- operated (cordless) power tool.

1. Work Area Safety
   • Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
   • Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
   • Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
2. Electrical Safety
   • Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
   • Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
   • Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
   • Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
   • When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
   • If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
3. Personal Safety
   • Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
   • Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
   • Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
   • Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
   • Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
   • Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
   • If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
   • Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.
4. Power Tool Use and Care
   • Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
   • Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
   • Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack, if detachable, from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
   • Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
   • Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
   • Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
   • Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
   • h )Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in unexpected situations.
5. Battery Tool Use and Care
   • Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
   • Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
   • When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
   • Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
   • Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
   • Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 265 °F (130 °C) may cause explosion.
   • Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
6. Service
   • Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
   • Never service damaged battery packs. Service of battery packs should only be performed by the manufacturer or authorized service providers.

Safety Instructions for All Saws

• DANGER: Keep hands away from cutting area and the blade. Keep your second hand on auxiliary handle, or motor housing. If both hands are holding the saw, they cannot be cut by the blade.
• Do not reach underneath the workpiece. The guard cannot protect you from the blade below the workpiece.
• Adjust the cutting depth to the thickness of the workpiece. Less than a full tooth of the blade teeth should be visible below the workpiece.
• Never hold the workpiece in your hands or across your leg while cutting. Secure the workpiece to a stable platform. It is important to support the work properly to minimize body exposure, blade binding, or loss of control.
• Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces when performing an operation where the cutting tool may contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Contact with a “live” wire will also make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.
• When ripping always use a rip fence or straight edge guide. This improves the accuracy of cut and reduces the chance of blade binding.
• Always use blades with correct size and shape (diamond versus round) of arbor holes. Blades that do not match the mounting hardware of the saw will run off-center, causing loss of control.
• Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers or bolt. The blade washers and bolt were specially designed for your saw, for optimum performance and safety of operation.

Further Safety Instructions for All Saws Kickback Causes and Related Warnings

• Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, jammed or misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the workpiece toward the operator;
• When the blade is pinched or jammed tightly by the kerf closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit rapidly back toward the operator;
• If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of the wood causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump back toward the operator.

Kickback is the result of saw misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

• Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and position your arms to resist kickback forces. Position your body to either side of the blade, but not in line with the blade. Kickback could cause the saw to jump backwards, but kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
• When blade is binding, or when interrupting a cut for any reason, release the trigger and hold the saw motionless in the material until the blade comes to a complete stop. Never attempt to remove the saw from the work or pull the saw backward while the blade is in motion or kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective actions to eliminate the cause of blade binding.
• When restarting a saw in the workpiece, center the saw blade in the kerf and check that saw teeth are not engaged into the material. If a saw blade binds, it may walk up or kickback from the workpiece as the saw is restarted.
• Support large panels to minimize the risk of blade pinching and kickback. Large panels tend to sag under their weight. Supports must be placed under the panel on both sides, near the line of cut and the edge of the panel.
• Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing excessive friction, blade binding and kickback.
• Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers must be tight and secure before cutting. If blade adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and kickback.
• Use extra caution when sawing into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade may cut objects that can cause kickback.

Lower Guard Function Safety Instructions

• Check lower guard for proper closing before each use. Do not operate the saw if lower guard does not move freely and close instantly. Never clamp or tie the lower guard into the open position. If saw is accidentally dropped, lower guard may be bent. Raise the lower guard with the retracting handle and make sure it moves freely and does not touch the blade or any other part, in all angles and depths of cut.
• Check the operation of the lower guard spring. If the guard and the spring are not operating properly, they must be serviced before use. Lower guard may operate sluggishly due to damaged parts, gummy deposits, or a build-up of debris.
• Lower guard should be retracted manually only for special cuts such as “plunge cuts” and “compound cuts.” Raise lower guard by retracting handle and as soon as blade enters the material, the lower guard must be released. For all other sawing, the lower guard should operate automatically.
• Always observe that the lower guard is covering the blade before placing saw down on bench or floor. An unprotected, coasting blade will cause the saw to walk backwards, cutting whatever is in its path. Be aware of the time it takes for the blade to stop after switch is released.

Additional Safety Information
WARNING: Never modify the power tool or any part of it. Damage or personal injury could result.
WARNING: ALWAYS use safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses are NOT safety glasses. Also use face or dust mask if cutting operation is dusty. ALWAYS WEAR CERTIFIED SAFETY EQUIPMENT:

• ANSI Z87.1 eye protection (CAN/CSA Z94.3),
• ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) hearing protection,
• NIOSH/OSHA/MSHA respiratory protection.

WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:

• lead from lead-based paints,
• crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
• arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.

Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well-ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.

• Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas with soap and water. Allowing dust to get into your mouth, eyes, or lay on the skin may promote absorption of harmful chemicals.
• WARNING: Use of this tool can generate and/or disperse dust, which may cause serious and permanent respiratory or other injury. Always use NIOSH/OSHA-approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles away from face and body.
• WARNING: Always wear proper personal hearing protection that conforms to ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) during use. Under some conditions and duration of use, noise from this product may contribute to hearing loss.
• CAUTION: When not in use, place tool on its side on a stable surface where it will not cause a tripping or falling hazard. Some tools with large battery packs will stand upright on the battery pack but may be easily knocked over.
• Air vents often cover moving parts and should be avoided. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

The label on your tool may include the following symbols. The symbols and their definitions are as follows:

ASSEMBLY AND ADJUSTMENTS

• WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn unit off and remove the battery pack before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental start-up can cause injury.
• WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, always wear ANSI-compliant eye protection.

Assembling the Dust Port (Fig. B, C) (Optional Accessory)

1. Fully loosen depth adjustment lever ( 4 , Fig. B).
2. Align the dust port–back half 19 over upper blade guard 20 as shown. Be sure to insert the tab 21 into the casting notch on the tool as shown in Figure C. When installed correctly, it will snap fully over the original depth of cut pointer.
3. Align the dust port 22 with the dust port–back half 19.
4. Insert two dust port screws 23 as shown and tighten securely.

OPERATION

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn unit off and remove the battery pack before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental start-up can cause injury.

Installing and Removing the Battery Pack (Fig. D)
NOTE: For best results, make sure your battery pack is fully charged.

• To install battery pack 3 into the tool handle, align the battery pack with the rails inside the tool’s handle and slide it into the handle until the battery pack is firmly seated in the tool and ensure that it does not disengage.
• To remove the battery pack from the tool, press the release button 13 and firmly pull the battery pack out of the tool handle. Insert it into the charger.

Worklight (Fig. A)
CAUTION: Do not stare into worklight. Serious eye injury could result.
There is a worklight 15 located just below the blade lock button 11 . The worklight is activated when the trigger switch is depressed, and will automatically turn off 20 seconds after the trigger switch is released. If the trigger switch remains depressed, the worklight will remain on.
NOTE: The worklight is for lighting the immediate work surface and is not intended to be used as a flashlight.

Trigger Switch (Fig. E)
WARNING: This tool has no provision to lock the trigger switch in the ON position and should never be locked ON by any other means. Release the trigger switch lock-off button 1 by pressing the button as shown. Pull the trigger switch 2 to turn the motor on. Releasing the trigger switch turns the motor off.

Changing Blades (Fig. F, G)
WARNING: Remove battery from tool before changing blades.

To install the Blade (Fig. F, G)

1. Retract the lower blade guard 7 using the lower blade retracting lever 6 and place the blade on the saw spindle against the inner clamp washer, making sure that the blade will rotate in the proper direction (the direction of the rotation arrow on the saw blade and the teeth must point in the same direction as the direction of rotation arrow on the lower blade guard). Do not assume that the printing on the blade will always be facing you when properly installed. When retracting the lower blade guard to install the blade, check the condition and operation of the lower blade guard to assure that it is working properly. Make sure it moves freely and does not touch the blade or any other part, in all angles and depths of cut.
2. Place outer clamp washer 17 on saw spindle with the large flat surface against the blade with beveled side facing out.
3. Thread blade clamping screw 8 into saw spindle by hand (screw has right-hand threads and must be turned clockwise to tighten).
4. Depress the blade lock button 11 while turning the saw spindle with the blade wrench 14 until the blade lock engages and the blade stops rotating (Fig. G).
5. Tighten the blade clamping screw firmly with the blade wrench.
   NOTE: Never engage the blade lock while saw is running, or engage to stop the tool. Never turn the saw on while the blade lock is engaged. Serious damage to your saw will result.

To Replace the Blade (Fig. F, G)

1. To loosen the blade clamping screw 8 , depress the blade lock button 11 and turn the saw spindle with the blade wrench 14 until the blade lock engages and the blade stops rotating. With the blade lock engaged, turn the blade clamping screw counterclockwise with the blade wrench (screw has right-hand threads and must be turned counterclockwise to loosen).
2. Remove the blade clamping screw 8 and outer clamp washer 17 only. Remove old blade.
3. Clean any sawdust that may have accumulated in the guard or clamp washer area and check the condition and operation of the lower blade guard as previously outlined. Do not lubricate this area.
4. Select the proper blade for the application (see Blades). Always use blades that are the correct size (diameter) with the proper size and shape center hole for mounting on the saw spindle. Always assure that the maximum recommended speed (rpm) on the saw blade meets or exceeds the speed (rpm) of the saw.
5. Follow steps 2 through 5 under To Install the Blade, making sure that the blade will rotate in the proper direction.

Lower Blade Guard
WARNING: The lower blade guard is a safety feature that reduces the risk of serious personal injury. Never use the saw if the lower blade guard is missing, damaged, misassembled or not working properly. Do not rely on the lower blade guard to protect you under all circumstances. Your safety depends on following all warnings and precautions as well as proper operation of the saw. Check lower blade guard for proper closing before each use as outlined in Further Safety Instructions for All Saws. If the lower blade guard is missing or not working properly, have the saw serviced before using it. To assure product safety and reliability, repair, maintenance and adjustment should be performed by an authorized service center or other qualified service organization, always using identical replacement parts.

Blades

WARNING: To minimize the risk of eye injury, always use eye protection. Carbide is a hard but brittle material. Foreign objects in the workpiece such as wire or nails can cause tips to crack or break. Only operate saw when proper saw blade guard is in place. Mount blade securely in proper rotation before using, and always use a clean, sharp blade.
WARNING: Do not cut metal, plastic, concrete, masonry or fiber cement materials with this saw. Do not use abrasive wheels or blades. A dull blade will cause slow inefficient cutting, overload on the saw motor, excessive splintering, and could increase the possibility of kickback. Please refer to the table below to determine the correct size replacement blade for your model saw.

If you need assistance regarding blades, please call 1–800–4-DeWALT (1–800–433–9258).

Kickback
Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound or misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the workpiece toward the operator. When the blade is pinched or bound tightly by the kerf closing down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit rapidly back toward the operator. If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned in the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of the wood causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump back toward the operator.
Kickback is more likely to occur when any of the following conditions exists.

1. IMPROPER WORKPIECE SUPPORT
   • Sagging or improper lifting of the cut off piece can cause pinching of the blade and lead to kickback.
   • Cutting through material supported at the outer ends only can cause kickback. As the material weakens it sags, closing down the kerf and pinching the blade (Fig. O).
   • Cutting off a cantilevered or overhanging piece of material from the bottom up in a vertical direction can cause kickback. The falling cut off piece can pinch the blade.
   • Cutting off long narrow strips (as in ripping) can cause kickback. The cut off strip can sag or twist closing the kerf and pinching the blade.
   • Snagging the lower guard on a surface below the material being cut momentarily reduces operator control. The saw can lift partially out of the cut increasing the chance of blade twist.
2. IMPROPER DEPTH OF CUT SETTING ON SAW
   • To make the most efficient cut, the blade should protrude only far enough to expose one-half of a tooth as shown in Figure I. This allows the shoe to support the blade and minimizes twisting and pinching in the material. See the section titled Cutting Depth Adjustment.
3. BLADE TWIS TING (MIS ALIGN MENT IN CUT)
   • Pushing harder to cut through a knot, a nail or a hard grain area can cause the blade to twist.
   • Trying to turn the saw in the cut (trying to get back on the marked line) can cause blade twist.
   • Overreaching or operating the saw with poor body control (out of balance), can result in twisting the blade.
   • Changing hand grip or body position while cutting can result in blade twist.
   • Backing up the saw to clear blade can lead to twist.
4. MATERIALS THAT REQUIRE EXTRA ATTENTION
   • Wet lumber
   • Green lumber (material freshly cut or not kiln-dried)
   • Pressure-treated lumber (material treated with preservatives or anti-rot chemicals)
5. USE OF DULL OR DIRTY BLADES
   • Dull blades cause increased loading of the saw. To compensate, an operator will usually push harder which further loads the unit and promotes twisting of the blade in the kerf. Worn blades may also have insufficient body clearance which increases the chance of binding and increased loading.
6. LIFTING THE SAW WHEN MAKING A BEVEL CUT
   • Bevel cuts require special operator attention to proper cutting techniques – especially guidance of the saw. Both blade angle to the shoe and greater blade surface in the material increase the chance for binding and misalignment (twist) to occur.
7. RESTARTING A CUT WITH THE BLADE TEETH JAMMED AGAINST THE MATERIAL
   • The saw should be brought up to full operating speed before starting a cut or restarting a cut after the unit has been stopped with the blade in the kerf. Failure to do so can cause stalling and kickback. Any other conditions which could result in pinching, binding, twisting, or misalignment of the blade could cause kickback. Refer to the sections Further Safety Instructions for All Saws and Blades for procedures and techniques that will minimize the occurrence of kickback.

Cutting Depth Adjustment (Fig. A, H, I)
NOTE: The maximum depth of cut for this saw is 2-9/16″ (65 mm) at 90°.

1. Hold the saw firmly and loosen (clockwise) the depth adjustment lever  4  and move shoe ( 5 , Fig. A) to obtain the desired depth of cut.
2. Make sure the depth adjustment lever has been retightened (counterclockwise) before operating saw.

For the most efficient cutting action, set the depth adjustment so that one- half tooth of the blade will project below the material to be cut. This distance is from the tip of the tooth to the bottom of the gullet in front of it. This keeps blade friction at a minimum, removes sawdust from the cut, results in cooler, faster sawing and reduces the chance of kickback. A method for checking for correct cutting depth is shown in Figure I. Lay a piece of the material you plan to cut along the side of the blade, as shown, and observe how much tooth projects beyond the material.

Bevel Angle Adjustment (Fig. A, J)
The full range of the bevel adjustment is from 0° to 57°. The quadrant is graduated in increments of 1°. On the front of the saw is a bevel angle adjustment mechanism consisting of a calibrated quadrant and a bevel adjustment lever  10 .

• To set the saw for a bevel cut

1. Loosen (counterclockwise) the bevel adjustment lever  10  and tilt shoe ( 5 , Fig. A) to the desired angle by aligning the pointer with the desired angle mark.
2. Retighten lever firmly (clockwise).

Shoe Adjustment for 90°Cuts (Fig. J, K) If additional adjustment is needed:

1. Adjust the saw to 0° bevel.
2. Retract the lower blade guard. Place the saw on blade side.
3. Loosen bevel adjustment lever ( 10 , Fig. J). Place a square against the blade and shoe to adjust the 90° setting.
4. Turn the calibration screw  18  so that the shoe will stop at the proper angle.
5. Confirm the accuracy of the setting by checking the squareness of an actual cut on a scrap piece of material.

Kerf Indicator (Fig. L)
The front of the saw shoe has a kerf indicator  9  for vertical and bevel cutting. This indicator enables you to guide the saw along cutting lines penciled on the material being cut. The kerf indicator lines up with the left (inner) side of the saw blade, which makes the slot or “kerf” cut by the moving blade fall to the right of the indicator. Guide along the penciled cutting line so that the kerf falls into the waste or surplus material.

Workpiece Support (Fig. M–O)
WARNING: It is important to support the work properly and to hold the saw firmly to prevent loss of control which could cause personal injury. Figure M illustrates proper hand support of the saw. Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback if it occurs. ALWAYS TURN OFF TOOL AND REMOVE BATTERY BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS!Figure M shows proper sawing position. Note that hands are kept away from cutting area. To avoid kickback, DO support board or panel NEAR the cut (Fig. N). DON’T support board or panel away from the cut (Fig. O). Place the work with its “good” side – the one on which appearance is most important – down. The saw cuts upward, so any splintering will be on the work face that is up when you cut it.

Cutting (Fig. N)
Place the wider portion of the saw shoe on that part of the workpiece which is solidly supported, not on the section that will fall off when the cut is made. As an example, Figure N illustrates the RIGHT way to cut off the end of a board. Always clamp work. Don’t try to hold short pieces by hand! Remember to support cantilevered and overhanging material. Use caution when sawing material from below. Be sure saw is up to full speed before blade contacts material to be cut. Starting saw with blade against material to be cut or pushed forward into kerf can result in kickback. Push the saw forward at a speed that allows the blade to cut without laboring. Hardness and toughness can vary even in the same piece of material, and knotty or damp sections can put a heavy load on the saw. When this happens, push the saw more slowly, but hard enough to keep working without much decrease in speed. Forcing the saw can cause rough cuts, inaccuracy, kickback, and overheating of the motor. Should your cut begin to go off the line, don’t try to force it back on. Release the trigger switch and allow blade to come to a complete stop. Then you can withdraw the saw, sight anew, and start a new cut slightly inside the wrong one. Withdraw the saw if you must shift the cut. Forcing a correction inside the cut can stall the saw and lead to kickback.

IF SAW STALLS, RELEASE THE TRIGGER SWITCH AND BACK THE SAW UNTIL IT IS LOOSE. BE SURE BLADE IS STRAIGHT IN THE CUT AND CLEAR OF THE CUTTING EDGE BEFORE RESTARTING.
As you finish a cut, release the trigger switch and allow the blade to stop before lifting the saw from the work. As you lift the saw, the spring- tensioned lower blade guard will automatically close under the blade. Remember the blade is exposed until this occurs. Never reach under the work for any reason. When you have to retract the lower blade guard manually (as is necessary for starting pocket cuts), always use the retracting lever.

WARNING: When cutting thin strips, be careful to ensure that small cutoff pieces don’t hang up on the inside of the lower blade guard.

Ripping (Fig. P)
Ripping is the process of cutting wider boards into narrower strips – cutting grain lengthwise. Hand guiding is more difficult for this type of sawing and the use of a DEWALT rip fence is recommended.

Pocket Cutting (Fig. Q)
WARNING: Never tie the lower blade guard in a raised position. Never move the saw backwards when pocket cutting. This may cause the saw to raise up off the work surface, which could cause injury.
A pocket cut is made in a floor, wall or other flat surface.

1. Adjust the saw shoe so the blade cuts at desired depth.
2. Tilt the saw forward and rest front of the shoe on material to be cut.
3. Using the lower blade guard retracting lever, retract the lower blade guard to an upward position. Lower the rear of the shoe until the blade teeth almost touch the cutting line.
4. Release the lower blade guard (its contact with the work will keep it in position to open freely as you start the cut). Remove your hand from the lower blade guard retracting lever and firmly grip the auxiliary handle  12 , as shown in Figure Q. Position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback if it occurs.
5. Make sure blade is not in contact with cutting surface before starting saw.
6. Start the motor and gradually lower the saw until its shoe rests flat on the material to be cut. Advance saw along the cutting line until cut is completed.
7. Release the trigger switch and allow the blade to stop completely before withdrawing the blade from the material.
8. When starting each new cut, repeat the above steps.

Hang Hook (Fig. A)
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, do not use the tool’s hang hook to hang the tool from your body. DO NOT use the hang hook for tethering or securing the tool to a person or object during use. DO NOT suspend tool overhead or suspend objects from the hang hook.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury from the circular saw falling on operators or bystanders, make sure it is supported securely when using the hang hook, or resting in a secure and stable location when not in use. Be sure to keep the area below clear to reduce the risk of the tool or off-cut material falling and striking someone or something below. The circular saw has a convenient hang hook  16  that allows it to hang on a suitable, stable structure between uses. The hang hook is not for tethering or securing the tool to a person or object during use when elevated.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn unit off and remove the battery pack before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental start-up can cause injury. Your DEWALT power tool has been designed to operate over a long period with a minimum of maintenance. Continuous satisfactory operation depends upon proper tool care and regular cleaning.

Cleaning
WARNING: Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with clean, dry air at least once a week. To minimize the risk of eye injury, always wear ANSI Z87.1-approved eye protection when performing this procedure.
WARNING: Never use solvents or other harsh chemicals for cleaning the non-metallic parts of the tool. These chemicals may weaken the plastic materials used in these parts. Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let any liquid get inside the tool; never immerse any part of the tool into a liquid.

Accessories
WARNING: Since accessories, other than those offered by DEWALT, have not been tested with this product, use of such accessories with this tool could be hazardous. To reduce the risk of injury, only DEWALT-recommended accessories should be used with this product. Recommended accessories for use with your tool are available at extra cost from your local dealer or authorized service centre. If you need assistance in locating any accessory, please contact DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD 21286, call 1-800-4-DEWALT (1-800-433-9258) or visit our website: www.dewalt.com.

Repairs
The charger and battery pack are not serviceable.

WARNING: To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustment (including brush inspection and replacement, when applicable) should be performed by a DEWALT factory service center or a DEWALT authorized service center. Always use identical replacement parts.

Register Online
Thank you for your purchase. Register your product now for:

• WARRANTY SERVICE: Registering your product will help you obtain more efficient warranty service in case there is a problem with your product.
• CONFIRMATION OF OWNERSHIP: In case of an insurance loss, such as fire, flood or theft, your registration of ownership will serve as your proof of purchase.
• FOR YOUR SAFETY: Registering your product will allow us to contact you in the unlikely event a safety notification is required under the Federal Consumer Safety Act.
• Register online at www.dewalt.com.

Three-Year Limited Warranty

For warranty terms, go to https://www.dewalt.com/support/warranty. To request a written copy of the warranty terms, contact: Customer Service at DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD 21286 or call 1-800-4-DEWALT (1-800-433-9258).
LATIN AMERICA: This warranty does not apply to products sold in Latin America. For products sold in Latin America, see country-specific warranty information contained in the packaging, call the local company or see website for warranty information.
FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT: If your warning labels become illegible or are missing, call 1-800-4-DEWALT (1-800-433-9258) for a free replacement.

Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20, 60 or 120 volts. The nominal voltage is 18, 54 or 108. (120V Max is based on using 2 DeWALT 60V Max lithium-ion batteries combined.)

BT – Bluetooth®
NOTE: The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by the Bluetooth®, SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by DeWALT is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

WARNING: Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.

DeWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD 21286
(Sep 23) Part No. NA494654 DCS578 Copyright © 2019, 2020, 2023 DeWALT
The following are trademarks for one or more DeWALT power tools: the yellow and black color scheme, the “D” shaped air intake grill, the array of pyramids on the handgrip, the kit box configuration, and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool.

References

• DEWALT® Power Tools Official Site | Guaranteed Tough®
• DEWALT® Power Tools Official Site | Guaranteed Tough®

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