I've got the M18 version of this saw, it was one of those tools they couldn't release until they figured out bigger batts like the 8.0 and 12.0's. Previously I had the corded version but I donated it once I got the M18
Anyway I happened upon some Concord branded blades on AWD (Amazon Warehouse Deals) months ago and bought them figuring they were worth a shot. I was sure they'd fit as the arbor is the same and we're only talking 1/8" on a side.
Well I went to mount one today and it wouldn't fit. It was SOOOO close I was unwilling to admit defeat. I ripped apart the excessive guarding around the blade so I could see what was going on.
There's a silver steel plate with a small vertical wall that prevents the blade from making it. I removed the plate which comes off easily with the three readily-visible screws, trimmed off the small offending wall, and reinstalled the plate.
Then there's just a small bit of the body casting where the blade BARELY hangs up. I was literally going to let this self clearance as it's aluminum (or magnesium alloy?) but the soft start motor couldn't overcome it so I took my carbide bur to it -- resolved in 3 seconds.
The problem with metalworkers is that metal is stubborn but we're more stubborn.....
I just ripped a 4' cut in 3/16" plate and it works fine (shrug).
Anyway I happened upon some Concord branded blades on AWD (Amazon Warehouse Deals) months ago and bought them figuring they were worth a shot. I was sure they'd fit as the arbor is the same and we're only talking 1/8" on a side.
Well I went to mount one today and it wouldn't fit. It was SOOOO close I was unwilling to admit defeat. I ripped apart the excessive guarding around the blade so I could see what was going on.
There's a silver steel plate with a small vertical wall that prevents the blade from making it. I removed the plate which comes off easily with the three readily-visible screws, trimmed off the small offending wall, and reinstalled the plate.
Then there's just a small bit of the body casting where the blade BARELY hangs up. I was literally going to let this self clearance as it's aluminum (or magnesium alloy?) but the soft start motor couldn't overcome it so I took my carbide bur to it -- resolved in 3 seconds.
The problem with metalworkers is that metal is stubborn but we're more stubborn.....
I just ripped a 4' cut in 3/16" plate and it works fine (shrug).