RBI G4 Blade clamp Modification.

[Rolf]

Working for wood, I forgot that I also had problems with my blade clamps separating. The clamp shells look like they are made out of aluminum or pot metal and held together with 2 4-40 screws.
I am a bit heavy handed and the thumb screws give you a good grip. So eventually I striped the small threads and clamps started to split.

To solve the problem I took all off my clamps apart drilled out the threaded holes and put heli-coil inserts in the holes and used good quality 4-40 allen screws in place of the ones from the factory.

I haven't had a problem since.

[CanadianScroller]

good tip...Little braver than I am

[Rolf]

I was raised by a German toolmaker, fixing things is in my blood.

[workin for wood]

I haven't had any problems with the new blade chucks, but they sure arent finger friendly. I have to use needle nose pliers to hold the chuck so i can tighten the handle enough that the blade doesn't pop out. but i'm used to this. my old sears has a 12 inch allen wrench to tighten the blade, and u have to use a wooden dowl to push the top spring down to the blade at the same time...so i'm getting off real easy with the g4 !

[Rolf]

Jeff,

I will take a couple of pictures later and post them. you don't need pliers.

[Rolf]

Jeff,

I use the side support arm on my saw when I tighten the clamp, no tools needed.
The pictures explain what I mean. The 2nd picture is a bit fuzzy I was taking it with my left hand and holding the clamp with my right. I sprinkled sawdust around to give the illusion that I actually use the saw. And my wife says I need a manicure.

[Grizz]

Rolf... that don't work if you are a Top Feeder.

[Rolf]

Grizz,

You are absolutly right. Even when I am top feeding I don't need pliers to hold the clamp while tightening.

Jeff,
How old is your saw? RBI sent me new inserts that are harder and a bit rougher, my blades very rarely slip out. Only if I get sloppy.