Kapex niggle

[Ross 71]

I've had my kapex 120 for around a year now- and very good it is. I have a slight issue though. When the saw is off and in the fully raised position, the guard seems to stick, and prevent the saw from lowering onto the workpiece. If you push hard, it will yield and the guard moves as it should. If you pull on the guard itself to start it moving out the way, it then operates as it should.

Has anyone else experienced similar? I did a search and found some folks have the guard sticking in the open position, but not in the closed.

I have not yet tried dismantling the saw. It is mostly used (ok. 50/50) with a dust extractor(midi). I have been cutting a lot of tantalised softwood recently, but the problem was there before. I have had an offcut fire up into the blade guard housing which may have done a damage.

Can't think of anything else. Any advice?

Thanks, Ross

 

[Shane Holland]

Usually caused by dust build up on the roller under the bar for the guard mechanism. You can clean the roller and lubricate it. There's an old thread on here somewhere that I posted a photo, I will see if I can find it.

Found the thread, but the full size image is missing.
http://festoolownersgroup.com/festo...the-saw-head-on-my-kapex/msg123333/#msg123333

 

[Ross 71]

Thanks Shane,

I had a look at the roller but it rolls just fine. However, I did locate the cause of the problem which is just good old-fashioned operator incompetence.  I have been trying to release the cover lock an lower the blade to just above the workpiece, then press the button to start the motor turning. That is what I have always done on other saws, but clearly it isn't what this saw wants.

Thanks, Ross

 

[Shane Holland]

Glad you sorted it out.