This page contains answers to frequently asked questions about the CRAFTSMAN® radial arm saw guard kit.

General Questions:

Installing and Using the New Guard:

General Questions:

What is the CRAFTSMAN® radial arm saw blade guard kit?

The kit contains the revolutionary blade guarding system that was included on all CRAFTSMAN® 10-inch radial arm saws made by Emerson Tool Co. since January 1993. The kit package includes all of the necessary parts and instructions so you can install it on your saw.

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Why should I get the new guard kit?

The new guard kit makes safety easier by providing CRAFTSMAN® radial arm saw users with an additional measure of protection against operator error which can result in blade contact at the out-feed side of the blade when ripping. The older-style guard, which was included as standard equipment on CRAFTSMAN® radial arm saws manufactured by Emerson Tool Co. prior to 1993, provides similar protection if the operator correctly adjusts it. The new guard provides protection at the out-feed side of the blade while ripping if the operator fails or neglects to properly adjust the anti-kickback device. The new guard also helps prevent wrong-way feeding when ripping.

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Can I see through the lower part of the blade guard?

Yes, the lower part of the blade guard is made out of clear plastic. Most users interviewed have indicated it does not get in the way of setting up and making accurate cuts with the saw.

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What if my radial arm saw cannot be retrofitted with the new guarding system?

The carriage of ETC radial arm saws that cannot be retrofitted should be returned to ETC. ETC will provide $100 for the return of the radial arm saw carriage/motor assembly. Details on this offer can be obtained by visiting other sections of this web site or calling toll-free (800) 511-2628. If you persist in using the saw, it is crucial that you follow all operating instructions and warnings.

If you have misplaced or no longer have the operating instructions for your model saw, contact ETC by calling the toll-free number or by responding to this web site. We will provide you a copy of the instructions at no charge.

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Why aren't all radial arm saws retofitable?

Only certain 10-inch radial arm saw models manufactured since 1977 can be equipped with the new guarding system kit. The retrofit kit is only compatible with certain types of motor hub and handle/bevel locking mechanisms to which the new guarding system is attached.

The new guarding system cannot be adapted to the other Craftsman® radial arm saws for a number of reasons. In some cases the saw motor is not compatible with the guarding system mounts and the bevel-index locking mechanisms and handles will not accommodate the trigger and handle assembly of the new guarding system. In many models, saws would require new legs, bases and table assemblies to allow proper positioning of the modified fence. These saws would have to be substantially rebuilt to permit the safe and proper attachment of a fully functional new guarding system.

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Installing and Using the New Guard:

How difficult is the guard to install?

The kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions. It will take most users 1 to 2 hours to install the guard, depending on which kit is suitable for your saw. This estimate does not include the time required to check the saw blade alignment once you have installed the guard. In addition, you will be given a toll-free customer service number to call if you have any problems.

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Compared to my present guard, does this guard provide any additional benefit in crosscutting?

When the radial arm saw is in the crosscut mode and behind the fence in the down position, the new guard ordinarily prevents the carriage from rolling forward of the fence and can also prevent inadvertent frontal contact with the blade. Once activated in the crosscut mode, the new guard provides essentially the same level of protection as the older-style guard. The primary benefit the new guard provides is when the radial arm saw is used for ripping.

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Can I use the guard when I am making special cuts with my saw?

The new guard is recommended for use while making vertical and bevel cuts, including dado cuts, vertical molding cuts and cove cuts. However, like the older-style guard, the new guard cannot be used to make certain horizontal "edging" cuts. "Edging" is the use of special attachments (e.g., dado blades, molding heads) in the horizontal position, which requires the use of a special purpose accessory guard.

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