The jigsaw cuts crookedly how to adjust

Errors when working with a jigsaw

If the technological subtleties are taken into account, and the cut line turns out to be a curve and with many chips, there may be several reasons.

jigsaw, cuts, crookedly, adjust

The master has little experience with a jigsaw. You need to practice more and as a result, you will be able to cut properly.

The material is not fixed securely enough and when sawing moves from its place, or is fixed inconveniently for the person doing the work.

If the process is performed by a worker without experience, it is necessary to use guides, and in the manufacture of complex shapes. a special template. If this is not possible, the cut quality can be improved by reducing the speed.

The main reason why a crooked cut is obtained is a malfunction of the tool or blade. In this case, there is a high probability of chips, sawing off to the side and bluntness. An incorrectly selected canvas for a specific material will lead to the fact that it will break repeatedly during work and the result will be of poor quality. It is worth carefully inspecting the jigsaw and fixing the breakage.

Too much emphasis on the jigsaw leads to unnecessary pressure, which also negatively affects the final cut.

To cut the material with a jigsaw, it is not necessary to have many years of carpentry experience, it is important to listen to the advice of professionals and follow the technology of working with the tool.

Correct sawing technique

The main thing is to remember that such files are enough for just a couple of hours of work.

And you need to handle them very carefully.

The smallest saws can only cut plywood.

If the material is harder and more dense, it means that the file must be taken of a larger size. This will also help answer the question of how to cut plywood smoothly.

Start sawing after fixing the workpiece and applying the markings. To do this, you need to turn on the jigsaw, set the maximum speed level and adjust the pendulum stroke by putting it on the number 1.

It is necessary to bring the saw to the mowing line of the marking, press the side of the platform against the guide and start working. Moving the jigsaw forward, it is necessary to monitor the location of the platform. Departure from the guide must not be allowed. When a few centimeters are left to the end of the web, it is necessary to carefully hold the free edge, avoiding a break. At this point, the process can be considered complete. So that the saw cut does not turn out to be a curve, it is worth remembering a number of nuances:

  • during work, you must not press hard on the electric jigsaw, otherwise the file will break;
  • when cutting a steel sheet, it is necessary to choose a tool with the maximum power and work at a high speed. when heated, the steel softens and becomes more pliable;
  • when processing plastic, laminate, organic glass or stainless steel, it is necessary to provide additional cooling for the file and periodically take breaks so that the tool has time to cool;
  • so that the plastic does not melt during processing, it is necessary to set the minimum speed with a frequency of 1000 rpm;
  • the figured cut will turn out to be even when choosing a narrow file with small teeth;
  • after finishing work, the electrical appliance should be cleaned of sawdust and put into a special case.

Professional builders advise to adhere to some rules to help avoid mistakes, which will not be easy to fix.

When choosing a file, you need to start from the material with which you have to work: plastic, thin or thick metal, plywood, solid wood. All additional items that may be needed in the process of sawing, marking and fastening should be prepared in advance. Particular attention should be paid to fixing the material to the surface.

It is best to try the cutting technique in advance, practice cutting with a jigsaw on unnecessary workpieces, because the curved line will be difficult to fix. Safety precautions should not be neglected, goggles should be used, sawing with gloves.

Getting Started

The movement of the cutting blade must be accurate so that the cut is the right one. It is good when the frequency of movement is high. For this, a saw of the maximum width is taken (this is suitable for a tree). The main thing in this process is the use of a guide. A flat board or rail becomes the main assistant.

Clamps are indispensable. They place the workpiece and the guide. The material to be cut should be placed on a small elevation. This helps not to push the jigsaw. Then the distance to be cut is fixed. For this, a tape measure is used. After that, risks are applied with a pencil. Then, using any ruler, these marks are connected, and a cut line is obtained.

The movement of the cutting blade must be accurate so that the cut is the right one. It is good when the frequency of movement is high. For this, a saw of the maximum width is taken (this is suitable for a tree). The main thing in this process is the use of a guide. A flat board or rail becomes the main assistant.

Correct process

If during work it becomes necessary to cut a circle inside the wood, then you need to drill a small hole in the center of the future circle. Then they put a jigsaw in it and move towards the circle indicated on the material.

In the event that you need to cut a hole in the shape of a rectangle, you need to move the saw along the side of the rectangle, then smoothly bending around the corner, cut out the next side. When the required hole is ready, you need to arrange the corners.

When performing work, it is not necessary to apply strong pressure on the tool, as this can cause overheating of the device and its failure. It is not necessary to use the saw for too long, as it becomes dull and starts to catch on the edges of the wood.

When cutting hard materials, lubricate the saw with machine oil. This makes cutting easier.

If the work is performed at low speed, then you need to take breaks, since the device overheats greatly.

When working, you need to follow safety precautions, cut with goggles and gloves.

After finishing work, the jigsaw must be cleaned and lubricated with machine oil.

The device can have a normal and pendulum motion. In the first case, the jigsaw moves vertically. At the same time, he cuts the wood when moving up. A device that uses a pendulum motion, when moving up, additionally feeds the jigsaw forward. With this method, the working speed increases, and the tool blade wears out less.

The set of tools we need will consist of:

  • Machine oil.
  • Protective gloves.
  • Points.
  • Jigsaw.
  • Processed material.

The fastening for the material to be cut must be firm, at the maximum level.

With a curved cut there is a possibility of violations in the stability of the table. It is also required to check the strength of the position of the workpiece itself.

It is better to give preference to a parallel emphasis if the need for such work nevertheless arises. On one side, the stop is connected to a jigsaw. One of the edges of the wood product should be a stop for the other side. Then it will be possible to get an even cut.

If it is nevertheless necessary to perform just such a work, then a parallel emphasis must be used. It is attached to the jigsaw with one side, and the other side should rest against the edge of the wood. This will ensure a smooth cut.

Marking the mowing line with a cut

To cut the material evenly with a jigsaw, it is necessary to correctly mark the cutting line and securely fix the workpiece to the surface. If you have to work with a long blade, it is worth using a flat rail as a guide and two clamps for fixing it and the working material. It is necessary to act in a certain sequence.

First, you need to make the markings on the chipboard using a ruler. For this, the required distance is measured on both sides, the marks are connected, forming a cut line. To make a curly mowing line, it is advisable to draw it on paper, and then transfer it to a tree using a carbon copy, having previously sanded the surface.

To cut a circle with a jigsaw, markings are applied with a construction pencil or a black marker on the surface according to a pre-made stencil made of thick paper or cardboard. In this case, cutting the material begins with drilling a hole in the center. The blade should move from the center to the line markings and then around the perimeter of the circle.

In order to avoid chips on the finished surface, the file during operation is not carried out along the mark, but near it. The laser guide on the jigsaw will help to cut exactly.

Preparing the tool for work and accessories

First of all, they are professional or household. Professional means the fixture will have a lot of power. It is usually 580-720 watts. But for household appliances it is less, only from 320 watts. But this is quite enough for a small amount of work at home.

Any type of tool can handle holes up to 15 mm in diameter. But we must take into account that jigsaws, in which 1000 rpm is equal to the lowest speed, will not cope even with plastic.

Jigsaws are sometimes divided into groups depending on how the saw is attached to them. For example, for a bore shank, smooth or cruciform. The latter two have become the most common since they are best suited to household tools.

Several recommendations from experienced professionals will help you choose the right tool for the job.

For cutting at home, a household or semi-professional D-shaped jigsaw, which is operated with one hand, is sufficient. The more power, the heavier the jigsaw, and it will be more difficult for them to cut smoothly.

The stepped speed controller, electronic stabilizer and pendulum stroke make the cutting process much easier. The presence of a plastic pad on the sole will allow you to securely attach the machine to the cutting blade. Useful features include built-in airflow and lighting.

It is worth paying attention to the fastening of the canvas. Some models have a restriction that prevents the use of any file.

Jigsaw blades vary in length and tooth frequency. It is worth giving preference to proven brands, in this case there is a quality guarantee for the metal, and the cut will be even. Saws are classified by tooth configuration:

  • on standard models, teeth of the same size are equally spaced and in the same direction;
  • the so-called saw with a missed tooth is characterized by the absence of teeth, due to which the cutting speed increases, the blade heats up less and sticks, and the chips from the surface are removed to the side;
  • with double tines, the cutting speed is lower, but the cutting quality is better. Shavings are removed from the cut;
  • in reverse webs, some of the teeth are directed upward. Using such a tool, you can saw chipboard and other wood without chips with a jigsaw, since the upper teeth cut the material during the reverse movement.

The specific thickness of the blade depends on the material to be worked with, but the basic ones for the manual model are No. 3, No. 5, No. 7.

What to do next?

How to smoothly cut, for example, a hole with a jigsaw? This is often what you want to do. In order to set the jigsaw in the center of the future hole, a small hole is made, after which a cutting unit is inserted there. Then simply follow the marked mowing line of the circle. The rectangular shape is also performed (namely, you need to move the saw along the side of the rectangle). But the corners go around smoothly. Then you need to cut out the next side.

Another important point in work is not to press hard on the jigsaw. This condition is often violated by beginners, which leads to overheating and then to breakdown. In addition, one saw should not be constantly used, otherwise it will become dull and cling to the material being cut.

Cutting tough materials is not easy. To make the procedure quick, machine oil is used. They are lubricated in the process, and the work goes quickly. Low speed is another problem with such tools. The fact is that, again, overheating occurs. No one ruled out safety precautions, and even at home you should not forget about glasses and gloves.

When all procedures are completed, it is worth wiping the equipment and lubricating it with machine oil. On sale there is an installation with a conventional and pendulum movement. The first option differs in that the movement occurs upward on any material. In the presence of a pendulum stroke and an upward movement, the additional knife is thrown forward. This allows you to increase the work process and at the same time do not greatly wear the saw.

Next, you need to fix the guide in a certain place. Clamps help with this. The fixation is carried out from the cutting line of the cut. After that, you need to position the electric device with the saw to the mowing line of the cut. Now they press the guide and also fix it, the movement should not occur, but you should not press too hard.

Then they go over to the second side and also fix it. The level of attachment is maximum, but do not forget that some materials can be squeezed. When the whole process is complete, you need to go to the first clamp. Make sure to install it correctly and clamp it. Only then can you begin to cut evenly. Otherwise, you will not be able to do quality work.

Now you can turn on the jigsaw and start the process itself. The speed is high, the pendulum stroke should be at one. And the tool itself is placed so that the saw is on the cut mowing line. Only after this, the work will be performed efficiently, and the line itself turns out to be even and flawless.

Do not forget a single moment. if a person has no experience, then any mistake becomes fatal. Especially when you need to saw parts, the number of which is limited. Experts recommend learning how to perform all actions on any unnecessary material and only after that start the main work.

JIGSAW TUNING AJUSTMENTS

Adherence to the following guidelines helps to avoid the most common mistakes.

  • The main requirement is the reliable fixing of the material for which processing is required. In addition, the cutting should be convenient for the person himself.
  • It is better to use guides if there is great doubt that the person will be able to do the job. For example, a block of wood makes an excellent guide when cutting straight. It is simply fixed along the markings. It is much more difficult when the shape of the future product is quite complex. Then the use of patterns is recommended. Otherwise, the speed of work will have to be reduced to make the result more accurate.
  • Saw problems are one of the most common problems when sawing. There is a possibility of chips, dullness. It is better to inspect the device if it is noticeable that the tool is strongly retracted to the side.
  • If there are jerks, there is a possibility that the cut will go to the side. Other failures in the instrument also lead to a drop in accuracy. It is recommended to start fixing such problems immediately, on the spot.
  • The skill of the performer himself also affects the accuracy of the final work.

Another important point in work is that you should not press hard on the jigsaw. This condition is often violated by beginners, which leads to overheating and then to breakdown. In addition, one saw should not be constantly used, otherwise it will become dull and cling to the material being cut.

Cutting tough materials is not easy. To make the procedure quick, machine oil is used. They are lubricated in the process, and the work goes quickly. Low speed is another problem with such tools. The fact is that, again, overheating occurs. No one ruled out safety precautions, and even at home you should not forget about glasses and gloves.

Then they go over to the second side and also fix it. The level of attachment is maximum, but do not forget that some materials can be squeezed. When the whole process is complete, you need to go to the first clamp. Make sure to install it correctly and clamp it. Only then can you begin to cut evenly. Otherwise, you will not be able to do quality work.

Do not forget a single moment. if a person has no experience, then any mistake becomes fatal. Especially when you need to saw parts, the number of which is limited. Experts recommend learning how to perform all actions on any unnecessary material and only after that start the main work.

How to complete the process correctly

The tool allows you to cut almost any material, namely metal, wood, plastic, ceramics, and even stone. The cutting blade is capable of plunge cuts, straight cuts, curved cuts, as well as cutting circles. In the article we will analyze how to saw with a jigsaw correctly, to ensure that the cut matches the given markings.

The jigsaw can have a normal and pendulum motion. In normal travel, the blade moves vertically, cutting through the material on its way up. The tool, which has a pendulum stroke, additionally, when moving up, feeds the blade forward. This achieves a higher working speed, as well as reduced blade wear due to the deflection of the saw in the opposite direction when moving down.

A reasonable question arises about how to saw with a jigsaw with a pendulum motion? The work is carried out in the same way, but it is taken into account that with the maximum deviation of the saw, it is best to cut soft wood and plastic. When cutting chipboard, MDF, soft metal, thick wood, it is necessary to reduce the range of motion of the blade. This mode is not recommended for use at all when working with steel sheets.

How to saw with a jigsaw in a curve

To cut a round hole, you need to drill an initial hole in the workpiece, into which the file is then inserted. After that, a cut is made at the mark. If a rectangular or square hole is to be cut, then the cutting is done in a straight line to each of the edges, after which the blade is pulled back slightly and follows the curve of the mowing line to the next side. This will cut all four sides. After removing the cut area, the remaining triangular parts are cut out.

If it is not possible to make an initial hole in the workpiece, plunge sawing can be used. To do this, the working jigsaw is tilted forward until the file reaches the workpiece. Gradually, the file will make a through hole in the workpiece. The plunging point of the saw should be located in the cut-off part of the workpiece.

The jigsaw is able to cut bevels, as a result of which the edge of the resulting product will have an even cut in one direction. For such a cut, it is necessary to change the installation angle of the jigsaw ski, and then cut.

How to cut smoothly with a jigsaw

And how to cut smoothly with a jigsaw? This is the easiest way. It is enough to fix the guide on the jigsaw, and then bring it over the edge of the workpiece. The file will now move evenly relative to the edge. If the edge of the workpiece is curved, cutting is performed according to the preliminary marking applied to the workpiece.

If a thin wooden sheet is cut, then there is a high probability of chips on the front of the product, since the file cuts the material when moving up. To prevent this phenomenon, it is recommended to place the workpiece face down or use anti-splinter liners.

It is recommended in advance to start by cutting a small hole where the circle will later be. If you need to create a product that has exactly this shape.

Another thing is when the hole should be rectangular. Then the saw moves along one of the sides in the rectangle. The next side is cut smoothly.

In this case, the corners should be bypassed as carefully as possible. Making holes starts when the product itself is almost finished. This is also necessary for those who are interested in how to smoothly cut chipboard with a jigsaw.

Do not put strong pressure on the tool during work. Otherwise, it is highly likely that it will simply overheat, fail too quickly.

There are other recommendations, following which will help to achieve the desired result:

Aggregates with a pendulum or conventional stroke are produced. In the normal course, the movement of the jigsaw is in a vertical plane. And the wood is cut upward as the tool moves.

For devices with a pendulum movement, the main parts also move upward. But in addition, the jigsaw is also fed forward. This situation contributes to an increase in the speed limit, less wear of parts.

Replacing the file holder

In jigsaws, the most common malfunction is replacing the quick-release saw blade mount. Fixing requires a tool of a certain thickness. If its size is smaller, then the file will “play”.

There is an entrance from this situation: you can put the holder on bolts. Then the equipment will become quite versatile. To do this, cut the square reinforcement into two pieces, drill holes with a diameter of 3-4 mm in them and fasten them with M5 bolts. You will have to tinker, because the operation is quite laborious, but after that the tool will be cut for sure.

You can also reduce the movement of the file in the perpendicular motion vector. A plate is cut out of the aluminum sheet (it must correspond to the parameters of the jigsaw sole). Then a recess is cut according to the dimensions of the tool. Burrs are removed with a small file. Bevels must be made on the ledges. A blade cuts into the saw blade, it is mounted on the sole of the tool.

Holes are then drilled to install the fasteners. A piece of plexiglass is inserted into a metal plate. You only need to cut at the point where it will be based.

As a result, during operation, the blade will have a limitation in lateral movement at the point of the cut itself. This will create even more straightforwardness.

Frequent malfunctions

Like any mechanism, a jigsaw may experience various malfunctions:

  • the tool cuts crookedly, the blade “leads” to the side at an angle that is unacceptable;
  • the mounting of the cutting tool has broken, the file flies out;
  • the unit does not turn on;
  • the gear wheel or its teeth breaks down;
  • the worm gear, which is anchored, wears out;
  • the blade jumps or falls out when sawing;
  • the clamp does not work, the file does not hold;

The nature of the jigsaw’s work is cutting out curves of cuts. The curvature can be different, so there are also some indicators here. A large load during such work falls on the main support roller, which often becomes unusable. So that it does not go out of order ahead of time, it is recommended to observe all operating modes.

Mechanisms often fail when mechanical microparticles hit dynamic elements. It is imperative to carry out timely preventive inspection and cleaning of the internal components of the device. It is necessary to flush the unit with a special composition WD-40. It is also useful to use a vacuum cleaner to clean the power tool: the cause of the breakdown of the gearbox can be if dust gets on it.

Stem breakage most often occurs during mechanical damage.

Breaking a tooth on the collet also happens most often due to the fault of the master. This happens if the working blade is fastened too tightly.

The worm gear cannot withstand the loads, if you “drive” the tool on afterburner.

It is recommended to start work after a short warm-up of the engine at idle speed.

If you do not follow the recommendations, then such malfunctions occur:

  • the bearing wears out quickly;
  • the cam block is erased;
  • gear wheel breaks down.

Also, a fairly frequent breakdown is the abrasion of brushes, which are easy to replace. Preventive cleaning of running units is a must. Lubrication should also be done regularly.

Another common malfunction is the breakage of the holder, which causes the blade to fall out.

Often, the attachment of the jigsaw loses its rigidity, as a result of which backlash appears, which affects the quality of work. Clamps are almost impossible to repair. they have to be changed.

Some unscrupulous manufacturers make bolts from fragile materials. Such cheap alloys break at the slightest load and are extremely short-lived. you have to change the “native” bolts for fasteners made of strong steel.

The more complex the design, the more often breakdowns are possible. Modern gadgets, which manufacturers “stuff” the tool with, do a disservice. They are often the cause of breakdowns in electrical appliances.

For example, the standard web feeding function (available on almost all models) greatly assists in the job by reducing stress on the worker’s hands. However, the presence of such a mechanism leads to a great deal of wear and tear of individual unit components, such as:

  • guide roller;
  • bushings (especially in the stock).

Another example can be cited when too much load appears, which can be caused by the physical impact of an inexperienced worker: if the model is not too expensive, then, as a rule, the file in it can break the fragile holder.

The platter roller may suddenly “freeze”. The reasons may be as follows:

  • lack of lubrication;
  • bearing breakage.

To change the roller, you need to dismantle the microsaw, separate the body by unscrewing the bolts. Pull the roller out of the niche and put the “fresh” one. You can do this operation yourself. it is simple.

If the protection is triggered, which protects the unit from overheating, then there may be several reasons, for example, the air duct is clogged with dust, which does not allow the engine to fully cool. You should take a brush or an old toothbrush and clean the sections of the grill. You can also use the following “tools” for cleaning:

  • a needle;
  • cotton rag;
  • alcohol.

Thermal protection is available to protect the motor from overheating. It can be triggered due to contamination of the air intake grilles with dust and sawdust. Clean the grates, let the jigsaw cool down a little. After a while, the thermal switch will turn on automatically.

The cord may be damaged and the engine will not run. You can check the cord with a tester. If there is a defect, the readings on the device will be equal to infinity. The cord is inexpensive, it will need to be changed.

There are models that operate on portable chargers. When working with such jigsaws, the battery must not be discharged by more than 15-20%.

If this happens regularly, the battery will lose its resource, which will significantly reduce its life.

Start button

Device

The jigsaw is a tool that is suitable for working with a wide variety of materials:

  • solid wood;
  • Chipboard;
  • plywood;
  • hardboard;
  • soft metal;
  • PVC materials.

The versatility of this wonderful tool allows you to perform complex complex work that another tool is not able to do. Saw blades are actively involved during operation, they are subjected to considerable mechanical stress, after a period of time they fail.

The jigsaw mechanism is also under heavy stress. If such a unit is used regularly, then you should know its layout, how it works.

The principle of this unit is simple, its main blocks are:

  • engine;
  • reducer;
  • stock.

Air cooler, speed control, swinging assembly are all auxiliary retention elements that ensure the duration and productivity of the work.

In some models, the electric jigsaw is provided with a separate start button, which can also adjust the frequency of the torque.

From the point of view of the transformation of electrical energy, the following process occurs:

  • an electrical impulse entering the tool goes to the brushes (they are made of graphite), which ensures the appearance of a torque on the rotor;
  • the impulse of rotation is transmitted to the gearbox. a unit that transforms the torque into a translational movement, which is directed to the stem.

In this scheme, a special role is assigned to the fastening unit, which ensures a reliable connection of the rod with the moving blade.

As you can see, the principle of the jigsaw is the same for all models. The difference is present only in the quality of assembly, fit of assemblies, materials.

Knowing the “general outline” and the operation algorithm of the elements, it is easy to understand what breakdowns and malfunctions may occur, as well as to find out the reasons due to which they arise.

Features of jigsaw repair

  • Device
  • Frequent malfunctions
  • Repairs
  • Start button
  • Replacing the file holder
  • Breakdown prevention

A wide variety of power tools from different manufacturers are presented on the trading floors. There are a wide variety of models: both amateur cheap and “sophisticated” professional, which cost a lot of money.

Jigsaws occupy a special place, they are also in great demand. There are units of various sizes from domestic manufacturers and imported.

Repairs

Before you repair the instrument yourself, it is recommended to collect information, paying attention to some of the phenomena that occur in case of malfunctions:

  • the case gets very hot;
  • there are extraneous noises at the very beginning of the unit’s operation;
  • sheaves of sparks appear when the jigsaw starts to operate.

There are two types of breakdowns that you can fix yourself:

  • the electrical unit fails;
  • mechanical elements break.

If the rotor or stator breaks down, then such a malfunction cannot be eliminated by yourself. the easiest way is to return the machine to a service center. This usually happens from excessive contamination of working units and the lack of preventive cleaning of the unit.

If the brushes are worn out, then you can replace them yourself. there is no difficulty here.

If the regulator, which is responsible for the speed, breaks down, then only a specialist can repair this unit. The tool can be disassembled in a matter of minutes. The case can be “cut in half” by unscrewing the screws. Old grease should be removed first, after cleaning, apply a new one.

The easiest to repair are devices where there is a rounded stem exit. The bushing is either selected, or the cone-shaped cavity is enlarged by tapering. Such procedures remove backlash if it occurs in the mount.

For some models, special clips should be made; for their installation, copper foil is used (as a gasket). If the model has a budget, the stem is usually made of a metal plate. Manufacturers save on metal, so the thickness parameters of this plate are extremely insignificant. The plate often does not withstand loads and bursts.

In this case, the machine is disassembled, each stage is recorded, photographed with a digital camera. The part is removed (the plate has a complex configuration). The plate fragments are taken by the owner to select the correct replacement part on site. After installing a new part in place of a broken one, be sure to renew the lubricant.

It doesn’t take much skill to change brushes. It is enough to open the body of the jigsaw and take out the worn brushes, gently wipe all the cavities and units of the unit with a piece of bandage. Then the new brushes should be installed in place of the old elements. It is best to use rubbing alcohol for wiping.

The advantage of modern models is that there is no need to use a soldering iron. The thermal fuse also fails, but not as often. This part is easy to replace. If sparking is observed in the unit, then this primarily indicates that the brushes are worn out or the lubricant is outdated.

Any tool requires a preventive examination. this is a prerequisite for it to serve for a long time. In this case, additional revision or material expenditures for putting it in order will not be required.

After the end of the working cycle, the power tool is de-energized. this rule is not recommended to be forgotten. For some jigsaws, the socket has an additional fuse, which may fail. this should also be remembered.

Breakdown prevention

Preventive measures always extend the life of any tool, including jigsaws. At the beginning of work, unscrew the screws, open the case. With the help of alcohol and a cotton cloth, it is necessary to clean all units of old grease. Then a new lubricant is applied to the desired points (in accordance with the recommendations prescribed in the instructions-memo). It is very important to process precisely the dynamic parts of the unit (current, gearbox).

There are also a number of preventive measures:

  • using only “native” parts;
  • produce canvases by 70 percent and then change them;
  • use canvases only those that correspond to the nature of these works;
  • during operation, do not “strain” with excessive mechanical loads;
  • clean the tool from accumulated dust at least once a week;
  • use WD-40 lubricant;
  • use a vacuum cleaner for cleaning;
  • do not hit or drop the tool. this often leads to damage to the bearing rod;
  • do not tighten the file too tightly in the mount;
  • for too dense materials, there are special devices, they must be used;
  • each material has its own optimal operating mode (speed, angle of inclination, etc.);
  • the base of the support roller should be treated with special technical grease at least once a week;
  • you should actively use technical brushes to process the tool after finishing work;
  • always monitor the ventilation grill of the instrument and clean it of mechanical microparticles.

How to repair a jigsaw with your own hands, you will learn from the video below.

Why the jigsaw saws crooked

There can be several reasons for the saw blade to drift off the pre-mapped mowing line. The operator may lack experience with the tool, the file may be defective, and the jigsaw stem and guide roller may seriously play. In order not to guess on the coffee grounds, it is worth starting to screen out the factors that determine the accuracy and evenness of the mowing line of the cut in your, individual case.

As usual, it’s best to start with yourself and your approach to sawing. Often, novice craftsmen rush things and, wanting to speed up the cut, put a lot of pressure on the jigsaw. The tool does not have time to evenly bite into the material and create a clear groove for the file, which begins to follow the path of least resistance and makes unpredictable movements. This problem is especially common when working with thick beams (from 40 mm) and varnished plywood of the Soviet era.

This is one of the reasons why the jigsaw will pull to the side. What to do with this? The answer is obvious. Apply the minimum pressure just enough to guide the tool along the mowing line and set the maximum speed (when working with wood). The pendulum mode usually does not affect the evenness of the cut, if its design is in good order.

The build quality and wear of the tool parts can be a good reason for the formation of beveled lines when cutting. There are basically no complaints about devices from the budget segment (up to 2500 rubles), as well as hopes for their conscientious assembly. It’s another matter when such Fortely begin to perform original, branded instruments. Often, the cause of the crooked cut is the guide roller, jigsaw rod or its sole.

You can check the reliability of the fixation of the element by simply jerking it with your hand. Looseness of the rod or roller by more than 1 mm determines that this device is not capable of producing a perfectly straight cut. The greater the backlash of the parts, the less accurate the cutting line they form. This problem should be corrected based on the circumstances. If the part itself is worn out, it can be replaced with a similar one. It is difficult to fix a breakdown if the attachment to the mechanism is worn out. Not every modern Kulibin undertakes such repairs, and usually this problem is solved by buying a new tool.

The products of many proven brands, unfortunately, are often counterfeited, and jigsaw files are very popular in this regard. It so happened that low-quality and counterfeit products have a rather short service life, which brings many problems to the owner. One of these problems is the cutting curve. An initially flat blade can bend due to low-quality metal, which can deform the tooth gap, if it was present at all. In this regard, if your jigsaw cuts crookedly, replacing the saw blade can correct the situation. The process of choosing a high-quality jigsaw file was described in detail by us in a separate topic.

Why the jigsaw cuts crooked and how to fix it

In most cases, the process of straight and figured cutting of materials requires the utmost precision of the tool. This statement is most true for an electric jigsaw. The thin saw blades used in this device can easily change the cutting angle, which can negatively affect the accuracy of the line. The clarity of the edges of the product and the evenness of the mowing line of the cut depend on the skills of the operator, the serviceability of the device and the saw. Next, we will tell you how to get the planned contour with perfectly clear edges and what to do if the jigsaw goes to the side.

Jigsaw guide rail

The jigsaw guide is an elementary device at first glance, similar to a large metal ruler or rule. The main difference between the tire and the above devices is a special groove, along which the sole with a jigsaw installed on it moves, like on rails. Most of the guides have rubberized strips that prevent sliding on the surface of the material, and as additional fixation, they are attached with small clamps. The average length of such devices is from 1.5 to 3 meters, and can be increased by another, similar ruler, using an adapter.

DIY jigsaw guide

If the jigsaw cuts crookedly, and it is not advisable to buy an expensive guide, you can completely do with improvised means. Any flat edge with a thickness of 5 mm or more can become an improvised emphasis: a straight rail, as a rule, a piece of plywood and other straight surfaces of suitable dimensions. A pair of conventional clamps can be used as fixators of the guide to the material. If the surface condition of the opposite part of the material to be cut is not very important, the guide can be screwed onto a pair of self-tapping screws.

To keep the line as neat and even as possible, use the optimal file for the material being cut. visual processes of making and using a homemade guide are demonstrated in the following videos.

Wood

When cutting this material, special attention is paid to the choice of the file. You need to choose standard nozzles, with an average size of teeth and a step interval from 0.25 to 0.4 cm.

The purity of the stroke must be set to the maximum value. As for the work itself, you should start sawing carefully, controlling the course of his actions without haste, without pushing the device.

Attention! To increase the cutting speed, use a function called “pendulum stroke”.

The process of setting the jigsaw for the correct cut

It is necessary to be able not only to select the equipment, but also to know how to prepare the tool before turning it on. So, first you should check the play in the actuator stem. Also, special attention should be paid to the strength of the sole attachment.

Offset of the groove for securing the file to the end of the drive rod

In this case, you need to turn the shank of the file, like the groove, but in the other direction. When performing such actions, the saw blade will be installed exactly along the axis of the sole and nothing will be able to take it away.

To avoid breakage of the file, you need to heat the place of transition of the shank to the blade on a gas stove, and then, using pliers, rotate to the desired offset angle. After completing all the steps, the file will need to be straightened with a hammer on the anvil.

Why a jigsaw can cut crooked

Even an experienced worker is faced with curvilinear sawing with a jigsaw. This problem is usually attributed to a hardware malfunction. However, the most common reasons are as follows:

How to Make Straight Rip Cuts with Your Jigsaw | Rockler Skill Builders

  • Lack of experience with the tool.
  • The blade to be cut is defective. A base of any length can be fixed to a jigsaw, but if such a problem rarely occurs with a material of short length, then the curvature of long sticks is present in almost every case.
  • Breakage of the roller. There are 2 types: the first is the wear of the bore, which is fixed by the roller, and the second is the abrasion of the inner part of the roller.
  • Broken stem prevents the tool from working properly.

In order to identify the reason why the jigsaw is leading to the side, it is required to analyze the sequence of actions taken and begin to correct them. Particular importance should also be given to the speed of movement of the tool.

Important! You do not need to press hard on the device to speed up the sawing process, since the blade will not be able to cut the material at the required speed, and the file itself will go to the side.

To determine and eliminate the cause of the crooked cut, you need to do the following manipulations:

  • do not put pressure on the tool;
  • correctly set the speed of movements using the regulator, taking into account the thickness and features of the materials being cut;
  • fix the workpiece well;
  • be sure to firmly press the jigsaw to the surface with the sole.

To cut evenly, you need to create a support

How to quickly learn to cut straight with a jigsaw

The process of sawing materials consists of many important stages, so:

  • The blade of the required length, thickness and width is selected. Then its ratio with the workpiece material is checked.
  • Preparation of the working stroke. It is important to determine the need for a pendulum stroke.
  • Installation of additional equipment in the event that it is necessary.
  • Preparation of the workplace. You will definitely need a strong and most importantly stable stand, preferably with a flat surface.
  • The cutting line is determined. For convenience, it is best to use a black marker, of course, if you can leave marks on the material. Otherwise, you should use a simple pencil, traces of which can be easily removed with an eraser.
  • The workpiece is fixed on a stand. If the part does not completely fit on the surface, a support must be installed under it, otherwise the jigsaw will lead.

Wood is the most popular cutting material

Since the cutting process differs depending on the type of surface, it is important to figure out how to properly cut different materials:

DIY jigsaw guide

If the jigsaw cuts at an angle, how to fix the situation? It should be understood that a quality tool is able to cut any material with high quality. If the tool cuts crookedly, then you should make a guide for it yourself.

  • Take a straight rail from fiberboard or chipboard with a thickness of at least 5 mm, level or steel profile.
  • Clamps or self-tapping screws are required to secure the rail.
  • That’s all, the guide is ready, you just need to adjust and test it in practice.

Important! To start using a homemade workpiece, you need to draw a cutting line and draw parallel lines to it at an equal distance from the original.

A high-quality tool guide can be made with your own hands

Plastic

For plastic, you need to choose a file with small teeth to improve the quality of work. The jigsaw should be adjusted based on what type of plastic is to be cut. In order for the cut to be smooth, the device must be set to the minimum indicator with the obligatory shutdown of the pendulum stroke.

Metal

To cut metal, it is necessary to choose files with small teeth, the pitch of which is in the range from 0.1 to 0.15 cm. A prerequisite is to turn off the “pendulum” and set the stroke rate to the lowest mark.

In the process of work, the device must not be pressed, they need to smoothly saw the metal.

Important! To prevent the metal from heating up, it is necessary to take short breaks so that it has time to cool.

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