Masonry Magazine November 2006 Page. 22
Saws & Blades
drained of gas, Joynt said. "The main thing to know is that gas is so volatile," Joynt explained. "If storing the machine for two weeks or more, get all the gas out you can. What happens is the gas will 'varnish, and it looses its velocity. Then it won't burn nearly as hot or won't burn at all."
Leaving gas in the saw is like leaving a soda pop can open the liquid goes flat. Stale gas can impact the carburetor and coat the sparkplug, causing it not to spark, Joynt said, adding that masons should also inspect the machine before putting it in storage.
"When you put the machine away, it's a good time to check it out and make sure it's running properly," Joynt said. "That way, when you get that first job in the spring, you're ready to gox"
Safe Blade Storage
PROPER STORAGE of masonry blades can not only extend their life, it can protect employees. Otherwise, the blades can warp, diamonds segments can get knocked off, and the sharp edges can injure workers. Most blade experts agree that removing the blade from the saw when it's not in use is the best practice.
"You have a better chance of damaging the blade and knocking off a diamond if it's left on the machine," Joynt said.
Masons often go to great lengths to protect their saws, but then disregard the blades.
Bruce Coleman, product manager for Multiquip Inc., in Carson, Calif., advises mason contractors to have a dedicated storage rack for blades so they don't incur damage, especially when transporting them to and from job sites.
"The end of a diamond blade has to be protected," Coleman said. "These end pieces can be easily damaged if allowed to float freely in the back of the truck."
However, lubricating the blade isn't necessary, he said. Surface corrosion may occur on blades during storage, but it won't impact performance and will come off when in use.
Ironically, masons often go to great lengths to protect their saws, but then disregard the blades. "Masons will take the saw blade off, take care of the saw and wrap the cord around it, then throw the blade in the back of the truck, when the blade costs as much as the saw," Coleman said. "These blades are a heck of a lot more expensive than the blades you use to cut wood."
He suggested storing the diamond blades vertically, rather than laying them flat, so items don't get stacked on top of them and cause the blades to warp or bend.
Blais agreed, adding, "The most successful blades are the ones that are taken off and stored vertically."
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