The process of setting up a jigsaw for the correct cut
Regardless of the brand and age of the tool, we check the play in the saw drive rod, which should be within the limits specified in the jigsaw operating instructions. We also check the reliability of fastening the sole and, if gaps are found, tighten the standard fastening units.
Next, we begin to identify and check factors that may cause the tool to move to the side:
Checking the installation of the sole relative to the file
The angle of its installation may be initially incorrect. To eliminate such a defect, partial disassembly is required, and even then it is not yet known whether this will lead to the elimination of the error.
There is an easier way.First, we loosen the fastening of the sole, move it as far back as possible to disengage the teeth for setting the angles, adjust the sole correctly and securely fix it in this position.
Flatness of the sole over the entire surface
If this condition is not met, then remove the sole from the jigsaw and straighten it using precise blows with a bronze hammer on an anvil. We sand away traces of mechanical impact with emery cloth.
Offset of the groove for securing the saw to the end of the drive rod
Structurally, the rod is made and installed in such a way that it is impossible to correct the displacement of the groove by adjusting it.
The way out of this situation is completely simple: since the groove cannot be returned to the correct position, we turn the shank of the file by the same amount, but in the opposite direction. The result of these manipulations will be that the saw blade will be installed exactly along the axis of the sole.
Since the metal of the file is quite strong and elastic, it is not so easy to deform. If you overdo it and apply a lot of force, it can break brittlely. To prevent such undesirable consequences, let’s heat, but not red-hot, the place where the shank meets the blade on a gas stove and, using two pliers, turn the shank relative to the blade.
After trying on a slightly bent file, you may still have to turn it or, conversely, straighten it with a few blows of a hammer at the point where the shank turns.
Bottom line
The disappearance of a defect in the form of a saw blade moving to the side can occur after any stage of adjustment. But even if you have to use all the methods, in any case, it will be faster, easier and cheaper to disassemble the jigsaw, repair or replace its individual components.
