Reciprocating saws are versatile power cutting tools that can stand up to a lot of abuse, and that’s why a lot of contractors rely on it for all sorts of demolition and rough cutting jobs.
A reciprocating saw will also serve you well for a lot of outdoor applications, from pruning and tree maintenance to building outdoor projects such as decks and fencing.
Your reciprocating saw is a rugged tool, and considerably so compared to equipment like, say, circular saws or miter saws.
That said, it pays to know about a few simple tips to care and maintain your reciprocating saw so that it will continue to give you years of safe and efficient operation.
Proper Reciprocating Saw Use
The best way to care for your reciprocating saw is to make sure that you are using and handling it properly.
Not only does proper usage ensure that you are not shortening the useful life of your tool; using your saw properly also ensures your personal safety.
The first tip you need to keep in mind is to make sure you are using the right tool for the job at hand. Reciprocating saws are, indeed, versatile tools that you can use to cut wood, plastic, metal, ceramic and even concrete and masonry.
That said, there are limits to the material that you can cut with a reciprocating saw, and it’s important that you don’t force the tool to make cuts that it can’t.
Sometimes, you need a bigger power tool to do the job safer and better. Using the wrong blade can also contribute to damage (usually a far too aggressive one).
For some cuts through tougher material, it’s a good idea to help your reciprocating saw along with a bit of lubrication.
A bit of oil or lubricant will go a long way towards keeping the saw blade cool as you cut through a metal pipe, to give a common example. Cooler blades not only last longer, but they also stay sharp longer as well.
Just make sure that you are not using a flammable liquid to lubricate your cut. That means not using gasoline or solvents – in fact, you need to make sure that you are not using your reciprocating saw anywhere near these substances.
Always Use the Right Power Source
Always check the user’s manual as to the proper power ratings and accessories to use with your reciprocating saw. If you are using a corded tool, check that you are plugging it into an outlet with the right voltage.
The same goes for cordless reciprocating saws – make sure that you are using the right battery packs designed to deliver the proper voltage to the tool.
If you are using a pneumatic reciprocating saw, make sure that you have the right air compressor to hook the tool up to. That means the right pressure (PSI) as well as enough volume (CFM) to drive your pneumatic tool.
Inserting and Removing Reciprocating Saw Blades (Safety & Maintenance)
Different reciprocating saws may require different ways to insert and remove the blade. There are tool-less chucks that require you to disengage a lever or turn a blade holder to loosen the chuck.
Others may call for an Allen wrench or a similar tool before you can remove or attach a blade. Sometimes, you may have to deal with a locking pin first in order to fit a blade, in addition to other mechanisms that secure the blade to the power saw.
It’s always a good idea to check your user’s manual if you’re not sure as to the proper way to install and remove blades on your reciprocating saw.
Lubricating these areas regularly and checking to make sure they work properly will make sure that these parts perform on a regular basis and don't snap or break, which can happen over time.
Always make sure that the reciprocating saw is not connected to a power source before attempting to attach or replace a blade.
For corded tools, that means checking if the tool is unplugged; for cordless saws, you will need to detach the battery pack first before you put your fingers anywhere near the chuck or the blade. If you have a pneumatic model, that means pulling out the hose, too.
Reciprocating blades get hot really quickly, so it’s best to wait for a bit for the blade to cool down before touching it with your hands.
Once you have replaced the blade, make sure that your new blade (or accessory) is securely installed to your reciprocating saw. Check that the blade is straight, and give it a tug or two to make sure that there’s no chance it will come flying off when you turn on the tool.
Also, make sure that you have removed any wrenches or adjusting key on the chuck before plugging in the tool. A wrench or key left in the slot may come flying off when you turn on the tool and cause personal injury.
A Note On Dust, Moisture & Chemicals...
Reciprocating saws are used in demolition work, so it’s more than likely that these tools are exposed to dust and grime. These saws are also popular for outdoor work, too. While reciprocating saws are usually made to last, they are not usually built to be waterproof.
Always dry off your reciprocating saw if it gets exposed to a bit of rain or snow. To clean off accumulated dirt and grime on your power tool, most manufacturers recommend a damp rag and a bit of mild soap.
Avoid solvents and harsh cleaning chemicals – these can degrade the plastic and rubber parts of your reciprocating saw.
You can also use a vacuum cleaner or blower to clean the vents of your reciprocating saw. Be sure to wear eye protection when blowing air into a reciprocating saw, since the ejected dust and debris can get to your eyes.
This can be especially hazardous if you have been using your reciprocating saw to cut metal and ceramic – there could be sharp shards, sand or other particles stuck in the tool that might be blown free.
Regularly blowing air through the tool housing will keep dust and dirt from accumulating inside the tool. A clean tool is one that is not likely to overheat, which also helps extend the useful life of the tool.
As always, make sure that the tool is turned off and disconnected from power before cleaning or doing maintenance on your reciprocating saw.
Simple Troubleshooting and A Little More Maintenance Info:
The first step to properly maintaining your reciprocating saw is to inspect it. Check that the tool freely reciprocates and that there are no parts that seem “stuck” or binding.
Also, check that the tool body is free of cracks and breakages. For corded models, it’s important to check that the power cord is in good shape – never plug in a power tool with a frayed power cord.
Check that the switch of the reciprocating saw can reliably turn the tool on and off. A power switch that cannot control a power tool means that you have a dangerous piece of equipment – have the tool checked and repaired by a competent service center before using it.
If you have a cordless model, check the condition of the battery pack. Look out for any signs of liquid leaking out, but avoid touching any leaks – the liquid that leaks out of a battery pack may cause chemical burns and severe irritation.
When using the tool, pay attention to its performance. If the tool seems wobbly or imbalanced, the reciprocating saw may not be reciprocating as it should, which could mean that there is a problem with the gearing inside the tool.
In the case of a tool with inconsistent movement, have it checked at a qualified service center.
Check for signs of sparks coming out from the air vents, or a burnt smell whenever you use the tool. Sparks and a burnt smell may be caused by electrical issues in the tool – more likely, these are signs of worn-out brushes. Have the tool checked by a service technician just to make sure.
Excessive rattling can also be a sign of worn-out brushes or bearings. Anytime your reciprocating saw makes an unusual noise, stop the tool and disconnect the power. Check the tool for signs of burn-out or damage.
Some reciprocating saws come with brushes that can be easily replaced by the owner, and these are often accessible via two or more large screws on the sides of the tool.
If you are changing a worn out brush, consider changing all the brushes at the same time. This will make your maintenance task simpler, since you know that you have all-new brushes in your reciprocating saw.
If your reciprocating saw overheats, you may be forcing it to work too fast. Try going for a slower cut at a lower speed, to let the tool work at its own rate.
If the tool seems to cut too slowly, it may simply be a matter of a blade that’s become too dull to cut. Check the blade and change as needed.
If you have a cordless model, the battery and charger needs their own maintenance work as well. Check that the indicator on the charger lights up when you connect it into an outlet – some charger models will warn you with a flashing red light if there is something wrong with the charger or battery pack.
In case of a battery or charger fault, you may need to replace the battery pack with a new one.
