You should first consult the instruction manual for your saw. Check to see what the specifications are for dadoes on your machine. Many manufacturers limit the diameter of the dado to 6" while others allow 8" and they will likely specify the maximum width of cut. Also check to see what size throat plates are available and use the appropriate one for your saw with the appropriate size dado. Be sure to read, understand and follow all the written instructions in the instruction manual for the saw. If you do not have the manual please contact the manufacturer and they will send you one.

If your machine is rated for a 6" or 8" stacked dado, then there is the consideration of the inside arbor flange diameter, arbor length, and arbor nut size. Unfortunately there are too many saws for us to keep a list of what these specifications are for every machine and be able to keep it up to date with changes made by the manufacturers, but with some quick measurements you can determine if your saw is capable of running the Dial-A-Width.

 

  1. Inside Arbor Flange Diameter—If the inside arbor flange is under 2-1/2" diameter you are OK. If it is over that, the Dial-A-Width will not work on your machine.
  2. Arbor Length—Measure the length of the arbor on your machine and subtract the thickness of the arbor nut from that measurement. If what you have left is at least 1-3/32" then you can cut up to a 3/4" dado with your saw. If you have 1-3/16" or more then you can stack all the components on the arbor at one time. Still keep in mind that you must comply with maximums that the manufacturer of saw has for dadoes.
  3. Arbor Nut Size—The arbor nut wrench size can not be larger than 1-3/16" (30mm). The set includes a 7/8" wrench. If your arbor nut uses a wrench other than 7/8" (22mm), you will need to use a wrench other than the one that comes in the Dial-A-Width.

 

Freud Dial A Width Dado Arbor Chart

We have also heard of a few saws on the market that have an interference problem with the inside blade. To check this disconnect power to the saw, and with a blade on the saw look down inside the saw beside the blade. If there is anything like belts or structural members closer than 1/2" from the sides of the blade then this could be a problem. If there is any question after this visual inspection then take an old saw blade (can be a 10" or a 7-1/4" as long as they have the same arbor as the saw) and on the side opposite the arbor nut hot glue 6 US Pennies in a stack about 1-1/2" from the center of the arbor. Put the blade on the saw (still with the saw disconnected) and rotate the blade using the arbor wrench. If the pennies do not contact anything then you should not have an interference problem. Be sure to remove this blade and remove the pennies. Do not run the saw with the pennies attached to the blade or they will fly off and could cause serious injury or death.

If your saw will not handle a Dial-A-Width then we suggest using our Super Dado. This will give you the same great finish as the Dial-A-Width but you will have to use the included metal shims for fine adjustments.

Back To Dial-A-Width Dado Page