Replacing table saw brushes is a normal part of owning and operating a table saw. Replacing these brushes is quick and easy, if you know where to get table saw parts and how to swap the parts out.
When Should Brushes Be Replaced?
Table saw brushes conduct electrical current to the motor to keep the blade turning. They get worn down during the regular course of operating your table saw. Most table saw brushes have a limit mark indicating when it's time to replace them. If you're not sure whether the brushes have reached the limit mark, replace them when the carbon gets worn. Consult your owner's manual to determine whether you need to replace both table saw brushes simultaneously, or if you can replace one at a time as they wear.
Finding Replacement Parts
The manufacturer is your first point of contact for table saw parts. You need to make sure you get brushes designed specifically for your model, as these parts are not always interchangeable. When you buy directly from the manufacturer, you know the brushes you get are acceptable in quality and will work in your table saw. If the manufacturer doesn't sell parts directly, it should be able to point you to the right place to find your replacement parts. eBay suppliers sell many models of table saw brushes, and you can often find them cheaper than if you bought them directly from the manufacturer or in a part supply store. If you do buy from eBay, be sure to deal only with reputable sellers, and check user reviews to ensure you're getting new brushes.
Many woodworking machinery sales shops also sell replacement table saw parts. If they don't sell the parts themselves, knowledgeable woodworkers can typically point you in the right direction.
Dig Out the Manual
The exact process for brush replacement varies from model to model. Because table saw brushes wear out during regular operation, most manufacturers make it easy to replace them and include instructions in the owners' manual. Always make sure the saw is powered down before replacing the brushes. Unplug the saw and activate it again to discharge any remaining electricity.
If the manual calls for both brushes to be replaced at the same time, be sure to do this, even if only one brush is worn. Because the brushes conduct electricity, uneven wear between a new brush paired with an old one can lead to erratic behavior or electrical problems with your saw.
 | You don't need every piece of general woodworking machinery to run an effective and functional shop at home. Find out which pieces of equipment are needed for most projects. |
 | Wondering how to use a table saw? These tips will teach you how to operate your saw safely. |
 | A wood lathe allows you to do intricate shaping and carving, but you need to follow safety rules carefully to avoid serious injuries. |
Learn how to use a belt sander and how different motor styles, speed controls and belt sizes impact what you can do with a belt sander. |
It pays to know how to make a table saw fence, since building your own can save you hundreds of dollars over the cost of a fence that might be more than you need for most projects. |
