![Craftsman Table Saw Motor Problems [Causes and Fixes]](https://sawdorks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Craftsman-Table-Saw-Motor-Problems-Causes-and-Fixes.jpg)
Craftsman table saws are rated as one of the most durable and accurate saws on the market. The best thing about these saws is their powerful motor that lasts for 10-15 years without creating any issues, provided that you keep the motor clean and the air vents free from sawdust and dirt.
However, problems can happen from time to time. The good news is that you can check the motor yourself and troubleshoot it to avoid a costly replacement. You can also take precautions to avoid motor problems.
Today, we will discuss Craftsman table motor problems causes and fixes. Read on to discover why your Craftsman table saw is creating motor problems.
How can I know if my Craftsman Table Saw Motor is bad?
This section will explain all the warning signs that indicate if your Craftsman table saw has gone bad or is about to go bad in a short time.
Motor getting overheated
The biggest symptom indicating that the motor on your table saw is having trouble is overheating. Latest Craftsman saws come with brushless motors that get overheated if the motor is not 100%.
Overheating may also happen due to excessive load on the blade if you use a dull blade. Hence, you need to make sure that the blade is sharp and you are using the right blade according to the material being cut.
You must also check that the vents on the motor are free from sawdust and are not blocked. This can also lead to overheating, and you may think that the motor has gone bad. If the vents are blocked, the heat generated by the motor will not find a way to dissipate.
Table Saw Motor starting slow
Another common Craftsman table saw motor problem reported by users is a slow startup. The motor starts slow but takes up speed gradually. It may get to its optimum speed after some time but lacks cutting agility.
This can happen due to malfunctioning components in your saw. Older models have carbon brushes that get old over time. Mechanical wear and tear is the main cause behind worn-out brushes. Please note that you can only replace these brushes if they have worn out. If the brushes have burnt, you’ll need to replace the motor.
Electricity Problems
Craftsman table saw motor can start creating problems if it faces some electrical issues. For example, if the power cord connecting the saw and AC outlet has gone bad or is not connected properly. Moreover, if there is some issue with the fuse on which you are running, the saw can also cause craftsman table saw motor problems.
Many users mention that the extension cord can also be behind a table saw motor problem. Woodworking experts recommend that you always use a manufacturer-recommended extension cord, and its length must not exceed 25 feet.
Slow Blade Speed
Another indication behind a dying motor on your Craftsman table saw is slow blade speed. If you have checked all the above factors and the blade speed is still slow, it means that the motor has some irreversible damage.
Blocked Motor Vents
Sometimes all the motor problems can be due to the operator’s negligence. The sawdust blocks the motor vents and overheats the motor by blocking heat dissipation. Make sure you check the vents on the motor and clean them thoroughly. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to remove the gunk.
Be Careful before you repair or replace the motor
Replacing the motor on your table saw is not cheap. Hence, it is better to rule out the possibility that some other component or carelessness on your part is causing motor problems. Make sure you check the following points before you decide to repair or replace the motor.
- Ensure that the saw receives the right voltage and that all the electrical connections are properly made.
- You must use manufacturer recommended fuse to run the saw.
- The blade must be sharp, undamaged, and used according to the material you are cutting.
Troubleshooting a Craftsman Table Saw Motor
Testing the table saw motor involves technical skills. Most woodworkers will not be comfortable doing it. Hence, it is better to call a technician to do the hard part for you. However, you can DIY motor test if you know how these things work. Below are some points that’ll help you during the troubleshooting process.
General Cleanup
Overheating is the biggest enemy of a table saw motor. If your saw is new and you are experiencing a drop in RPM or notice overheating on the motor, the best remedy is to clean your saw. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove the sawdust. It is better to avoid compressed air while cleaning the motor as it can push the sawdust further into the motor. If you haven’t cleaned the motor vents recently, you’ll have to use a screwdriver or some WD-40 to remove the blocked gunk.
On/Off Switch
The on/off switch can also go bad and lead to motor problems. You must look at the on/off switch. Sometimes dust buildup or mechanical failure can prevent proper current flow to the motor, leading to overheating.
Motor Brushes
As mentioned and explained, worn-out brushes could be the reason your saw is not working optimally. Hence, you need to check the carbon brushes on your motor.
Capacitor and Windings
The capacitor in the motor is responsible for firing up the motor and providing the extra power you need to rev up the blade. A slow-starting blade and a humming noise when the motor is running indicate that the capacitor has gone bad. You can check the capacitor using a multi-meter. To do this, remove the plug and see if the capacitor shows any continuity. You’ll have to replace the capacitor if there is no continuity. Overheating damages the motor windings. You can replace the winding if it is not burnt.
Copper Bar
There is a thin copper bar at the end of the motor. This bar rubs the round disk. It can develop build-ups overtime at the spot where it touches the round disk. Remove the buildup and polish it off. This buildup breaks the connection off from the start capacitor.
If you have accessed this bar, make sure that you pull out the wire connectors and clean them thoroughly to avoid any disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you repair a Craftsman table saw motor?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Components like a damaged breaker, faulty switch, or tripped breaker can be repaired, but burnt windings cannot be repaired. You can either go for a new motor in this scenario or buy a new table saw as the price difference between both is negligible.
What are the different types of motors on a Craftsman table saw?
You can find two types of motors on a Craftsman table saw. One is the direct drive, and the other is the belt drive. A belt drive motor uses a belt and bearings to drive the load, whereas a direct-drive motor uses magnets to drive the load.
Final Words
You rarely need to replace the motor on a saw. The problem can be fixed by cleanup or replacing a component like a capacitor or brush most of the time. The best way to prevent motor problems on your craftsman saw is to keep it clean, use a sharp blade and follow manufacturer problems while working on your saw.