Scroll saw problem

[PChristy]

This might need to be moved but I have a problem with this type of saw

I am having trouble with the blades coming lose - it has thumb screws for a quick change - I can tell when they are getting lose by the sound - plus I have to break about an eight of an inch off of the blades because when I tighten the blade tension the toggle screw bottoms out - it has been doing this for a couple of weeks now and I have tried tightening the thumb screws tighter with pliers and I don't want to do that for the chance of breaking the thumb screw - I don't know what else to do - anybody had any problems like this with their machine? I thought I would ask my fellow wood workers befor I called Dremel and they try to sell me a new machine

 

[Splint Eastwood]

This might need to be moved but I have a problem with this type of saw

I am having trouble with the blades coming lose - it has thumb screws for a quick change - I can tell when they are getting lose by the sound - plus I have to break about an eight of an inch off of the blades because when I tighten the blade tension the toggle screw bottoms out - it has been doing this for a couple of weeks now and I have tried tightening the thumb screws tighter with pliers and I don't want to do that for the chance of breaking the thumb screw - I don't know what else to do - anybody had any problems like this with their machine? I thought I would ask my fellow wood workers befor I called Dremel and they try to sell me a new machine

I wouldn't be shy about calling/emailing Dremmel! Perhaps it is a known issue and they have a quick remedy (replace thumb screws, etc..) Sometimes tool lots are shipped with the wrong part sizes attached and are not caught until after fact.

A temporary fix until you do decide to call, is maybe use some lock-tite in the threads to make more secure. It's a little tougher to loosen, but it is a quick temporary solution.

One other thought comes to mind: excess vibration, how is the tool mounted? If not properly, excess vibration will loosen screws, nuts, etc..
I have used tool padding (a couple of layers) directly under the saw, and secured the saw to the base, to min. vibration.

That's all I got!
Matt

 

[CaptnA]

Like Splint said - CALL THE MAN!
Has this happened since you've had it or is it a new problem?
Either way, call the manufacturer.
If they know the problem hopefully they'll have a fix. If not, they need to be working on one.
It isn't complaining - its getting customer service.
Let us know what they say?

 

[b4man]

Phillip,
I have the same problem with my DeWalt.:BangHead: 2 things might help: rough up the end of the thumb screw with sand paper to get a better bite. Only tighten the screw by hand. Over tightening will cause the blade holder to fail.

You'll get more help when the other real good scrollers chime in!


Barbara

 

[ScottM]

Barbara was right on. If there is even a slight ridge you will not be making good contact. Also every blade is treated with some form of oil to prevent rust. Over time that oil can build up on the treads and end of the thumb screw. Try cleaning with DA. If that fails call Dremel...they have great customer service.

 

[sawduster]

Barb is right on the money :icon_thum remove the thumbscrews and abrade the end of them lightly on some sandpaper. Use an emory board for the stationary side .
SS blades have oil on them due to the manufacturing process. Over time this oil builds up on the screws and makes them slippery
I also clean the ends of the blades with solvent ( sometimes ) to remove the problem all together
finger tight should always be enough :eusa_danc Hopefully you haven't sprung the clamps by tightening with pliers :eusa_pray

If this trick doesn't work you might indeed have some issues and I would call Dremel

 

[PChristy]

Thanks everyone for all of the input - My machine is about five years old and I have noticed alot more vibration in the machine - I have some one inch thick foam under it - I am going to take that out and try to get some of that anti-vibration padding from Sloan's and see if that helps with the vibration = I will also take the holders out and clean the screws - Robert I don't think that I have sprung anything - I only did the pliers thing twice last night and I really don't even think that the thumb screws turned at all :eusa_pray- If this fails I will give Dremel a call - I would much rather chat with all of you tho:eusa_danc

 

[wdkits1]

Hi Phillip
I just saw on the Scroll saw woodworking and crafts message board that several folks were discussing problems they were having with their Dremal saws. You might have a look to see if it will help.
Mike