Foot Switch For The Knee

[smitty0312]

I mounted my foot switch to my saw stand right at knee height while sitting, I think I'm going to like it, it don't take much, just push in with my knee a little to start it up. Feels pretty comfortable. Anybody else do this?

[stephenD]

Yeah, I did that on my previous saw. Forgot about that. Hummmm, gona try it again.
I did like it.
My grandson's came over for a week and I put it on a block so it would be easier for them and never put it back up for the knee.
Thanks for the reminder.

[Chase]

I did it and fasten it with velcro. Use it for my Dremel drill press.

Chase

[Mick Walker]

I stand while sawing and have mine mounted at knee height, it is up off the floor and out of the way. Don't have to worry about stepping or tripping over it.

[KarlB]

That kinda reminds me of my mother's old sewing machine where you started it by pressing your leg against a bar.

Cool idea.

Karl

[tdub4ever]

I wonder if a foot switch off a sewing machine would work for a foot switch on my scroll saw?

[Mick Walker]

No, different type of switch. Will ruin your scroll saw motor.

[tvman44]

Have not thought of using the foot switch with my knee but that sounds like a good idea. One thing for sure I don't think I will ever be without a foot switch again, love it.

[louhodson]

A sewing machine foot pedal is a rheostat,(variable resistor) not a switch. The previous post was correct in that it will destroy your motor. It requires a motor specifically made for that kind of use.
Hope this helps, Lou Hodson

[f250]

Never thought about using it as a knee switch, I'll have to think about that. I know I can't live without it though.

Tom

[stephenD]

I put mine on the saw at knee height yesterday and I sure like it.

[ceramic cat]

Newbie with dumb question: Just got a DW scrollsaw on Craigslist. It sawed for 5 minutes, and then the switch gave out. I see this is a common problem with DW, so I'm not too anxious...
Before I take it in for repair, what can I (no elect background) try on my own. What kind of foot pedal should I purchase? How do I attach it to the saw? Sorry if too dumb!

[shadowfx97]

Remove the plastic cover over the switch and blow the switch out with condensed air. I have my switch covered with a plastic bag and tape; the problem is caused by an accumulation of dust in the (unsealed) switch.

I prefer the foot switch that turns on and stays on until it is depressed again. Others like the bulb type, which stays on only as long as you hold the swith down with your foot. Installation is simple--plug the switch into an outlet, plug the saw into the switch, and make sure that your machine is turned on. That's all there is to it.

[ubgoofy2003]

I mounted mine on the saw leg at a comfortable highth for my foot. I don't want to have to hold the switch on with my knee, as it has to be held to keep it running. I like the idea of just taking my foot off the switch to stop the saw. It sure is worth having & not a problem with dust any more. I just used packing tape over my switch. Works great.

[ceramic cat]

Thanks. I did as directed, and it worked like a charm. I then covered the switch with saran wrap to give it some play and taped down the edges of the wrap with packing tape. Next: hunting down a foot pedal. You folks allowed to recommend brands on this forum?