DEWALT Band Saw Parts Guide: How to Identify and Match Replacement Components
You own a DEWALT 20V band saw and the blade guide bearings are making noise. You need to order replacement parts, but you are not sure which model you have or what part numbers to order. DEWALT makes several band saw models that look similar but take different parts. You need a guide to identify your saw and find the right components.
DEWALT makes a range of portable band saws for the 20V MAX and 12V MAX battery platforms, plus corded models. Each model has specific parts that are not always interchangeable. Here is how to identify your saw and find the right replacement parts.
DEWALT Band Saw Model Lineup
20V MAX XR Deep Cut (DCS374B, DCS374P2)
- Cut capacity: 5 x 4-3/4 inches
- Blade length: 44-7/8 inches
- Motor: Brushless
- Bare tool (DCS374B) or kit with battery (DCS374P2)
20V MAX XR Deep Cut with Variable Speed (DCS376B, DCS376P2)
- Same as DCS374B but with variable speed dial (100 to 350 SFPM)
- Useful for cutting different materials
20V MAX ATOMIC Compact (DCS377B, DCS377Q1)
- Cut capacity: 1-3/4 inches
- Blade length: 32-7/8 inches
- Motor: Brushless
- The smallest DEWALT band saw
20V MAX XR Mid-Size (DCS378B, DCS378P1)
- Cut capacity: 3-3/8 inches
- Blade length: 35-3/8 inches
- Motor: Brushless
- Between the compact and deep cut in size
20V MAX Compact (DCS379B, DCS379P1)
- Cut capacity: 2-1/2 inches
- Blade length: 32-7/8 inches
- Motor: Brushless
- Updated version of the older DCS371B
Corded Deep Cut (DWM120, DWM120K)
- Cut capacity: 5 x 4-3/4 inches
- Blade length: 44-7/8 inches
- Motor: 10 amp, corded
- DWM120K is the kit with case
Older 20V MAX Compact (DCS371B, DCS371P1)
- Cut capacity: 1-3/4 inches
- Blade length: 32-7/8 inches
- Motor: Brushed (not brushless)
- Discontinued, replaced by DCS377B and DCS379B
How to Identify Your Saw
Check the nameplate on the side of the motor housing. The model number is printed there. It will start with DCS (cordless) or DWM (corded) followed by a number.
If the nameplate is worn or missing, you can identify the saw by the blade length and cut capacity:
- 32-7/8 inch blade, 1-3/4 inch capacity: DCS377B or DCS371B (compact)
- 32-7/8 inch blade, 2-1/2 inch capacity: DCS379B (newer compact)
- 35-3/8 inch blade, 3-3/8 inch capacity: DCS378B (mid-size)
- 44-7/8 inch blade, 5 inch capacity: DCS374B or DCS376B (deep cut) or DWM120 (corded)
Common Wear Parts
Blade Guide Bearings
The blade guide bearings are the most frequently replaced part. They support the blade during cutting and wear over time. Symptoms include blade wandering, poor cut quality, and grinding or rumbling noises.
Replacement: DEWALT sells guide bearing kits. The kit includes both upper and lower guide bearings. Replacement takes about 30 minutes with basic tools. Remove the blade, remove the guide assembly, press out the old bearings, press in the new ones, and reassemble.
Blade Tension Spring
The tension spring provides the force to tension the blade. Over time, the spring can weaken, causing poor blade tension and tracking problems.
Replacement: Remove the tension knob, remove the old spring, install the new spring, and reassemble. Cost is 10 to 20 dollars.
Switch
The trigger switch can fail after years of use. Symptoms include intermittent operation or the saw not starting.
Replacement: Disassemble the handle, disconnect the old switch, connect the new switch, and reassemble. Cost is 15 to 30 dollars. Takes about 15 minutes.
Shoe
The shoe is the flat plate that guides the cut. It can wear from contact with the workpiece. A worn shoe will not produce square cuts.
Replacement: Remove the shoe mounting screws, remove the old shoe, install the new shoe, and tighten the screws. Cost is 15 to 25 dollars.
Battery Connector
The battery connector inside the tool can wear after years of battery insertion and removal. Symptoms include the saw cutting out during use or not starting reliably.
Replacement: Disassemble the handle, remove the old connector, install the new connector, and reassemble. Cost is 10 to 20 dollars.
Motor Brushes (Brushed Models Only)
The DCS371B and DWM120 have brushed motors. The brushes wear over time and need replacement. Brushless models (DCS374B, DCS376B, DCS377B, DCS378B, DCS379B) do not have brushes.
Replacement: Remove the brush caps, pull out the old brushes, insert the new brushes, and replace the caps. Cost is 10 to 15 dollars per pair.
Parts Sourcing
DEWALT Service: DEWALT maintains a parts website with diagrams for all models. Enter your model number to find exploded diagrams and part numbers. Common wear parts are in stock.
eReplacementParts: A good source for DEWALT parts. Has diagrams and part numbers for most models.
DEWALT Service Centers: DEWALT has authorized service centers nationwide. For complex repairs (motor, gearbox), sending the saw to a service center may be more practical than doing it yourself.
Aftermarket parts: Some aftermarket suppliers make replacement bearings, switches, and springs for DEWALT band saws. Quality varies. For critical parts like switches, use genuine DEWALT parts.
Maintenance Schedule
After each use: Clean the saw with compressed air or a brush. Remove chips from the blade guides and wheels. Wipe the shoe clean.
Monthly: Check the blade guide bearings for play. Check the tension spring for weakness. Lubricate any pivot points.
Yearly: Replace the blade guide bearings if they show wear. Check the switch for smooth operation. Inspect the cord (corded models) for damage.
As needed: Replace the blade when it dulls. Replace the switch if it becomes intermittent. Replace the shoe if it is worn.
FAQ
How do I find parts for my DEWALT band saw?
Go to DEWALT’s parts website, enter your model number (found on the nameplate on the motor housing), and view the exploded diagram with part numbers.
Are DEWALT band saw parts interchangeable between models?
Some parts are shared between models with the same blade length. For example, the DCS374B and DCS376B share the 44-7/8 inch blade and some guide components. But many parts are model-specific. Always check by model number.
Can I replace DEWALT band saw parts myself?
Yes, most wear parts (blade guides, switches, springs, shoes) are designed for owner replacement. Complex repairs like motor or gearbox work may require a service center.
What is the most common part to replace on a DEWALT band saw?
The blade guide bearings. They support the blade during cutting and wear over time. Symptoms include blade wandering and grinding noises.
Where can I find an exploded diagram of my DEWALT band saw?
DEWALT’s parts website and eReplacementParts both have exploded diagrams for all DEWALT band saw models.
How long do DEWALT band saw guide bearings last?
With regular use, 1 to 3 years depending on cutting volume. Heavy daily use may require annual replacement. Light occasional use may last 5+ years.
References
- DEWALT. “20V MAX XR Deep Cut Band Saw Owner’s Manual.” Model DCS374B.
- DEWALT. “Service Parts Diagrams.” DEWALT Service and Support.
- eReplacementParts. “DEWALT Band Saw Parts Reference.” eReplacementParts.com.
- DEWALT. “20V MAX ATOMIC Compact Band Saw Owner’s Manual.” Model DCS377B.
- DEWALT. “Corded Deep Cut Band Saw Owner’s Manual.” Model DWM120.
