Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
Scie sauteuse à vitesse variable
Manuel d’utilisation
Sierra de vaivén de velocidad variable
Manual del Operario
GJS450
WArning: rEAD AnD UnDErSTAnD ALL WArningS, CAUTiOnS
AnD OPErATing inSTrUCTiOnS BEFOrE USing THiS EQUiPMEnT. Failure
to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or
serious personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WORK AREA SAFETY:
• Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered benches and dark areas
invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the
presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite
the dust or fumes.
• Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating a
power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
• Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way.
Do not use any adapter plugs in any earthed (grounded) power tools. Double insulated tools
are equipped with a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in a
polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still
does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug
in any way. Double insulation eliminates the need for the three wire grounded power cord and
grounded power supply system.
• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a
power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as
pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of
electric shock if your body is grounded.
• Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the
power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged cords
increase the risk of electric shock.
• When operating a power tool outside, use an extension cord
suitable for outdoor use. These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk
of electric shock.
• Do not use AC only rated tools with a DC power supply. While the tool
may appear to work. The electrical components of the AC rated tool are likely to fail and rate a
hazard to the operator.
PERSONAL SAFETY
• Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool.
Do not use tool while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of
inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
• Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Safety equipment such as dust
mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection for appropriate conditions will
reduce personal injuries.
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves
away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts. Air
vents may cover moving parts and should be avoided.
• Avoid accidental starting. ensure the switch is in the off position before plugging in.
Carrying power tool with your finger on the switch or plugging in power tools that have the switch
on invites accidents.
• Remove any adjusting keys or wrenches before turning the power
tool on. A wrench or key that is left attached to a rotating part of the tool may result in personal
injury.
• Do not overreach. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times. Loss of balance can
cause an injury in an unexpected situation.
• If devices are provided for connection of dust extraction and
collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used.
use of these devices can reduce dust related hazards.
• Do not use a ladder or unstable support. Stable footing on a solid surface enables
better control of the tool in unexpected situations.
• Keep tool handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery
handles cannot safely control the tool.
TOOL USE AND CARE
• Secure the work piece. use clamp or other practical way to hold the work piece to a
stable platform. Holding the work piece by hand or against your body is unstable and may lead to
loss of control.
• Do not force the power tool. The tool will perform the job better and safer at the feed
rate for which it is designed. forcing the tool could possibly damage the tool and may result in
personal injury.
• Use the correct power tool for the job. Don’t force the tool or attachment to do a
job for which it is not designed.
• Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off. Any tool that cannot be
controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired or replaced by an authorized service
center.
• Turn power tool off, and disconnect the plug from the power source and/or
battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing the accessories, or
storing the tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of an accidental start up which
may cause personal injury.
• Store idle tool out of reach of children and other inexperienced
persons. It is dangerous in the hand of untrained users.
• Maintain power tools with care. Check for proper alignment and binding of moving
parts, component breaks, and any other conditions that may affect the tool’s operation. A guard
or any other part that is damaged must be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service
center to avoid risk of personal injury.
• Use recommended accessories. using accessories and attachments not
recommended by the manufacturer or intended for use on this type tool may cause damage to the
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
tool or result in personal injury to the user. Consult the operator’s manual for recommended
accessories.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with
sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
• Feed the work piece in the correct direction and speed. feed the
work piece into a blade, cutter, or abrasive surface against the direction of the cutting tool’s
direction of rotation only. Incorrectly feeding the work piece in the same direction may cause
the work piece to be thrown out at high speed.
• Never leave the tool running unattended, turn the power off. Do not
leave the tool until it comes to a complete stop.
• Never start the power tool when any rotating component is in
contact with the work piece.
WArning:
USE OF THiS TOOL CAn gEnErATE AnD DiSBUrSE DUST Or OTHEr
AirBOrnE PArTiCLES, inCLUDing WOOD DUST, CrYSTALLinE SiLiCA DUST
AnD ASBESTOS. Direct particles away from face and body. Always operate
tool in a well-ventilated area and provide for proper dust removal. Use dust
collection system wherever possible. Exposure to the dust may cause serious
and permanent respiratory or other injury, including silicosis (a serious lung
disease), cancer, and death. Avoid breathing the dust, and avoid prolonged
contact with the dust. Allowing dust to get into your mouth or eyes, or lay on
your skin may promote absorption of harmful material. Always use properly
fitting niOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection appropriate for dust
exposure, and wash exposed areas with soap and water.
SERVICE
• Have Your Power Tool Serviced by a qualified repair person using
only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power
tool is maintained.
• Service Your Power Tool periodically. When cleaning a tool, be careful not to
disassemble any portion of the tool since internal wires may be misplaced or pinched.
WArning:
rEAD AnD UnDErSTAnD ALL WArningS, CAUTiOnS AnD OPErATing
inSTrUCTiOnS BEFOrE USing THiS EQUiPMEnT. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious
personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
EXTEnSiOn COrDS
grounded tools require a three wire extension cord. Double insulated tools can
use either a two or three wire extension cord. As the distance from the power supply outlet increases,
you must use a heavier gauge extension cord. using extension cords with inadequately sized wire
causes a serious drop in voltage, resulting in loss of power and possible tool damage. Refer to the
table shown below to determine the required minimum wire size.
The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cord. for example: a 14-
gauge cord can carry a higher current than a 16-gauge cord. When using more than one extension
cord to make up the total length, be sure each cord contains at least the minimum wire size required.
If you are using one extension cord for more than one tool, add the nameplate amperes and use the
sum to determine the required minimum wire size.
guidelines for Using Extension Cords
• If you are using an extension cord outdoors, be sure it is marked with the suffix “W-A” (“W” in
Canada) to indicate that it is acceptable for outdoor use.
• Be sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition. Always replace a
damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified person before using it.
• Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat, and damp or wet areas.
Recommended Minimum Wire Gauge for Extension Cords (120 Volt)
Nameplate
Amperes
(At Full Load)
Extension Cord Length
25 Feet
50 Feet
75 Feet
100 Feet
150 Feet
200 Feet
0–2.0
2.1–3.4
18
18
18
18
18
14
12
18
18
18
16
14
12
10
18
18
16
14
12
10
8
18
16
14
12
10
10
8
16
14
12
12
8
16
14
12
10
8
3.5–5.0
5.1–7.0
7.1–12.0
12.1–16.0
16.1–20.0
8
6
6
6
SPECiFiC SAFETY rULES FOr Jig SAWS
WArning: DO nOT LET COMFOrT Or FAMiLiAriTY WiTH PrODUCT
(gAinED FrOM rEPEATED USE) rEPLACE STriCT ADHErEnCE TO
PrODUCT SAFETY rULES. if you use this tool unsafely or incorrectly, you can
suffer serious personal injury!
WArning: Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when performing
an operation where cutting tools may contact hidden wiring or its own cord.
Contact with a “live” wire will make exposed metal parts of the tool “live” and
shock the operator!
• Avoid cutting nails, inspect work piece for any nails and remove them before operation.
• Do not cut hollow pipe.
• Check for the proper clearance beyond the work piece before cutting so that the
blade will not strike the floor, work bench, and etc.
• Make sure the blade is NOT contacting the work piece before the switch
is turned on.
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
• Do not leave the tool running. Operate the tool only when hand-held.
• Do not touch the blade or the work piece immediately after
operation; it may be extremely hot and could burn your skin.
• Always switch off and wait for the blade to come to a complete stop
before removing from the work piece.
• Keep hands away from the moving parts.
• Some material contains chemicals which may be toxic. Take caution to
prevent dust inhalation and skin contact. follow material supplier safety data.
• Always hold the tool firmly in your hands before switching the tool “ON”.
• Wear eye and hearing protection. Always use safety glasses with side shields.
unless otherwise specified, everyday glasses provide only limited impact resistance, they are
not safety glasses. use only certified safety equipment; eye protection equipment should comply
with ANSI z87.1 standards. Protective hearing equipment should comply with ANSI s3.19
standards.
• Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty. following this
rule will reduce the risk of personal injury.
WArning: USE OF THiS TOOL CAn gEnErATE AnD DiSBUrSE DUST
Or OTHEr AirBOrnE PArTiCLES, inCLUDing WOOD DUST, CrYSTALLinE
SiLiCA DUST AnD ASBESTOS. Direct particles away from face and body.
Always operate tool in a well-ventilated area and provide for proper dust
removal. Use dust collection system wherever possible. Exposure to the dust
may cause serious and permanent respiratory or other injury, including silicosis
(a serious lung disease), cancer, and death. Avoid breathing the dust, and avoid
prolonged contact with the dust. Allowing dust to get into your mouth or eyes,
or lay on your skin may promote absorption of harmful material. Always use
properly fitting niOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection appropriate for
dust exposure, and wash exposed areas with soap and water.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
YOUr Jig SAW
FIG 1
3
2
1. Switch Trigger
2. LOCK-ON Button
3. Variable Speed Dial
4. Chip Shield
5. Blade Collet
6. Base
1
7. Orbital Setting Selector
8. Vacuum Port
9. Rip Guide Slots
4
5
9
6
7
8
Unpacking and Content
iMPOrTAnT: Due to modern mass production techniques, it is
unlikely the tool is faulty or that a part is missing. if you find anything
wrong, do not operate the tool until the parts have been replaced or the
fault has been rectified. Failure to do so could result in serious personal
injury.
Contents in Package:
Description
Jig Saw
Rip Guide
T -Shank Blades
Vacuum Adaptor
Allen Wrench
Operator’s Manual
QTY
1
1
3
1
1
1
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
OPErATiOn
WArning: Always check that the power supply corresponds to the
voltage on the rating name plate.
SWITCH ACTION
WArning: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged
before adjusting or checking function on the tool. Switch can be locked in
“On” position for ease of operator comfort during extended use. Use caution
when locking tool in “On” position and maintain a firm grasp on the tool.
your jig saw is equipped with an “ON/Off” switch trigger which is operated by squeezing
or releasing.
• To start the tool, simply pull the switch trigger.
• To stop the tool, release the switch trigger.
Using with the “Lock-On” button:
your jig saw is also equipped with a “Lock-On” button, located on the left side of the saw's
handle just above the switch trigger. using the “Lock-On” button allows the saw to be run
continuously without the operator having to constantly apply pressure to the switch trigger.
• To start the tool and run the tool continuously, pull the switch trigger then push in
the “Lock-On” button and release the switch trigger.
• To unlock the switch, pull the switch trigger fully and release it.
WArning: if the “Lock-On” button is continuously being depressed, the
trigger cannot be released.
TO INSTALL OR REMOVE THE SAW BLADE
WArning: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged
before adjusting, adding accessories, or checking a function on the tool
CAUTiOn: Always clean out all chips or foreign matter adhering to the blade
and/or blade holder. Failure to do so may cause insufficient tightening of the
blade, resulting in a serious personal injury. Do not touch the blade or the
workpiece immediately after operation; they may be extremely hot and could
burn your skin. Always secure the blade firmly. insufficient tightening of the
blade may cause blade breakage or serious personal injury.
To install the blade:
1. Position the chip shield up to allow access to the Blade
Collet.
2. Open the Blade Collet by rotating the (Spring Loaded) Collet
Lever clockwise.
FIG 2
3. With the blade teeth facing forward, insert the blade into the
Blade Collet as far as it will go.
4. Check to make sure the back edge of the blade is positioned
properly in the groove of the roller guide.
5. Release the Collet Lever. The blade should now secured in
the Blade Collet.
BLADE COLLET
COLLET LEVER
ROLLER GUIDE
6. Lower the chip shield completely.
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
To remove the blade:
1. Position the Chip Shield up to allow access to the Blade Collet.
2. Open the Blade Collet by rotating the (Spring Loaded) Collet Lever clockwise.
3. Pull the blade out from the Blade Collet.
4. Release the Collet Lever.
CAUTiOn: Always cut with the Chip Shield down and hold the base flush
with the workpiece. Failure to do so may cause blade breakage, resulting in a
serious injury.
SPEED ADJUSTMENT DIAL
your jig saw is equipped with a speed adjusting dial located on the upper, forward portion of the
saw's handle. Tool speed can be infinitely adjusted between 500 and 3,000 strokes per minute by
rotating the adjusting dial. Speed indicators appear on the dial as the numbers 1 through 6: 1 is
the slowest saw speed and number 6 represents the highest speed. Therefore, higher speed when
the dial is rotated towards number 6 speed increases; lower speed is obtained when the dial is
rotated in the direction of number 1. The speed adjusting dial can be operated while the saw is
running or when the saw is not operating. The operator has the ability to preset the saw's speed by
rotating the dial to the desired setting and then fully depressing the switch trigger, turning the saw
on for use. Please note: regardless of pressure applied on the trigger, the tool will not operate any
faster than the maximum speed setting selected. Be aware that when the jigsaw is operated at
low speed the motor temperature will begin to rise due to the slower speed of the internal cooling
fan. In such cases, it is necessary to occasionally run the tool at full speed for a few minutes to aid
internal cooling to keep the motor operating at high efficiency.
The jig saw cutting speed (or stroke rate) required depends on the material being cut, the type
of blade being used, and the feed rate used by the operator. The best speed for a particular
application is largely based on operator experience or experimentation. However, as a general rule,
slower speeds are for denser materials and faster speeds for soft materials. Saw blade life is also
largely determined by the motor speed and the type of material being cut. The following chart is
intended as a guideline only; test cuts in scrap should be performed first to determine the best
speed setting.
Workpiece being cut
Wood
Adjusting dial number
4 – 6
3 – 6
3 – 4
3 – 6
1 – 4
Mild Steel
Stainless Steel
Aluminum
Plastics
The speed adjusting dial can be turned only as far as 6 and back to 1. Do not force it past 6 or 1,
doing so may cause the speed adjusting function to no longer function properly.
SELECTING THE ORBITAL CUTTING ACTION
This jigsaw can be operated in the conventional straight line (up and down) mode or with an “orbital”
cutting action. During orbital cutting, the blade is thrust forward on the upward (cutting) stroke,
greatly increasing cutting speed. During the down stroke, the blade is cleared of accumulated debris,
enhancing cutting efficiency and extending blade life by causing the blade to run cooler. The orbital
action adjustment switch is located on the lower left hand portion of the motor housing near the
chip deflector. The motor housing is marked: 0, I, II, III. The “0” designates the straight-line mode.
“I” through “III” designate increasing levels of orbital action. Just as with blade speed, selecting the
proper orbital action is largely a matter of operator experience and experimentation on scrap. The
chart shown below is intended as a guideline only.
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
Position Cutting Action Applications
0
Straight-line
for clean cuts in wood and plywood. for cutting mild steel, stainless
steel, and plastics.
I
II
III
Small orbit
Medium orbit
Large orbit
for cutting mild steel, aluminum, and hard wood.
for cutting wood and plywood.
for fast, aggressive cutting in wood and plywood.
VACUUM ADAPTOR
your Jig Saw comes with a vacuum adaptor. This attachment allows you to connect it to a
standard 1-1/4" vacuum hose.
To connect the vacuum adaptor to the tool, align the two tabs on the narrow end of
the vacuum adaptor with the corresponding slots on the back of the jig saw just below the power
cord restraint. Insert it in and rotate counter-clockwise to lock it.
APPLiCATiOn
BLADE SELECTION
To obtain the best performance from the saw, it is important to select a specific blade for the
particular application and type of material you wish to cut. By doing this you will get a smoother,
faster cut and prolong blade life.
nOTE: This tool is designed to work with T-shank blades. Other types of saw
blades are not guaranteed to work properly and may come loose from the tool.
GENERAL CUTTING
CAUTiOn: Always hold the base flush with the workpiece. Failure to do so
may cause blade breakage, resulting in a serious injury.
Jig saws cut on the upstroke. It causes the work piece surface facing upwards to splinter.
Therefore, determine the “good” side of your work piece, and place your guidelines for cutting on the
opposite side. Properly support and clamp the workpiece with the “good” side down, and with the
guidelines clearly visible and unobstructed (above & below) the surface to be cut.
To start the cut, place the front edge of the saw base on the workpiece and align the blade with
the previously drawn guideline. Make sure the blade does not contact the workpiece. Turn the saw
on, wait for the blade to reach full speed and slowly move the blade into the work piece. Apply only
enough downward pressure to keep the saw steady on the workpiece and only enough forward
pressure to keep the blade cutting.
EDGE GUIDE CUTTING
you jig saw is equipped with a Rip Guide. It can be used for making cross cuts and rip cuts.
To install the rip guide
1. use Allen wrench provided, loosen the two screws at the front of the base.
2. Insert the rip guide arm through two slots (9-fIG 1) with scale side up.
3. Adjust rip guide to the desired width and lock in place by tightening the two screws.
BEVEL CUTTING
Bevel cutting angles may be adjusted from 0° to 45° right or left. Angles for cuts from 0° to 45° in 15°
increments are marked on a scale on both the left and right side of the base.
To adjust the bevel cutting angles
1. using Allen wrench provided, loosen the two base pivot screws until the base can be moved.
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
2. Slide base backward until base pivot screws can move freely in the grooves in base.
3. Align the mark, on the base, of the desired angle with the edge of motor housing.
4. Once desired angle is reached, slide base forward to engage stop slots to notches on
housing, tighten the base pivot screws securely.
nOTE: For angles other than the preset 15° increments, the stop notches
at the front of the base are not used.
INTERIOR CUTOUTS
An interior cutout is needed when a cutting pattern is located in the work piece without a lead-in cut
from an edge. These cuts can be performed using one of two methods: either using starting holes or by
plunge cutting.
Using starting holes
Within the cutout pattern, pre-drill one or more holes larger then saw blade being used. Then insert the
blade through the hole(s) to start your cut.
Using plunge cutting
WArning: To avoid loss of control, broken blades, or damage to the
material being cut, always use extreme caution when making plunge cuts. We
do not recommend plunge cutting on materials other than wood.
When using the plunge cutting method, a starting hole or lead in cut from the work piece edge is not
necessary. It is best to practice plunge cutting on scrap wood so the operator becomes familiar with
the technique.
1. Set the speed at 5 or 6 and orbital setting to III.
2. Tilt the saw forward so that it rests on the front edge of the base with the blade point positioned
just above the work piece surface.
3. Make sure the blade is inside the area to be cut.
4. Apply downward pressure to the tool so that the front edge of the base will not move when you
turn on the tool.
5. Turn on the tool and gently lower the back end of the saw until the blade contacts the work
surface.
6. As the blade pierces the workpiece, slowly lower the base of the tool down onto the workpiece
surface until it is in the normal cutting position.
7. Complete the cut in the normal manner.
SCROLL CUTTING
Scroll cuts can be made with the jig saw by guiding the direction of the cut with applied pressure on
the handle.
WArning: Excessive side pressure to the blade could result in broken
blades or damage to the material being cut.
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
MAinTEnAnCE
CLEANING
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most plastics are susceptible to damage from
various types of commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. use clean cloths to remove
dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WArning: Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-
based products, penetrating oils, etc., come in contact with plastic parts.
Chemicals can damage, weaken or destroy plastic which may result in serious
personal injury.
electric tools used on fiberglass material, wallboard, spackling compounds, or plaster are subject
to accelerated wear and possible premature failure because the fiberglass chips and grindings are
highly abrasive to bearings, brushes, commutators, etc. Consequently, we do not recommended using
this tool for extended work on these types of materials. However, if you do work with any of these
materials, it is extremely important to clean the tool using compressed air.
LUBRICATION
This tool is permanently lubricated at the factory and requires no additional lubrication.
TWO-YEAr WArrAnTY
This product is warranted free from defects in material and workmanship for 2 years after date
of purchase. This limited warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or damage from neglect
or accident. The original purchaser is covered by this warranty and it is not transferable. Prior to
returning your tool to store location of purchase, please call Toll-free Help Line for possible solutions.
THIS PRODUCT IS NOT WARRANTED IF USED FOR INDUSTRIAL OR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES.
TOLL-FrEE HELP LinE
for questions about this or any other GeNeSIS Product, please call Toll-free: 888-552-8665.
Or visit our website: www.richpowerinc.com
Variable Speed Jig Saw
Operator’s Manual
GJS450
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