Jig Saw: Won't Cut Straight

The precision of your jig saw is extremely important, so if it isn't cutting straight this can be very frustrating. If this is the case, check the following parts: the base/plate/shoe, guide, blade support, roller, blade clamp, and control bearing. Once you have located the part that is causing the problem, read our repair guide for tips on completing a DIY repair.

Bearings

If the control bearing breaks it will not give you a straight cut. To check your control bearing remove the base of the jigsaw. Open up the jigsaw case by removing the screws. Remove any hold down clamps and lift the assembly out of the case. Remove the reciprocating shaft (yoke) from the jigsaw. Inspect the control bearing. If it is broken replace it with a new control bearing. Slide the O ring off of the old control bearing and install it onto the new one. Install the new control bearing. Rein ... Read more

Clamps

A broken blade clamp will not allow the blade to cut straight. To replace the blade clamp remove the blade then remove the screws securing it to the jigsaw and remove the blade clamp. Install the new blade clamp and secure it tight with the screws. Reinstall the blade.

Bases

A base, plate or shoe are all the same, but will have a different name depending on the manufacturer. If the base is warped, or bent, it will not allow the jigsaw to make straight cuts. Examine your base to ensure it is perfect. Most out-of-shape bases will be noticeable. However, if it is slightly warped, or bent, you can place it on a flat surface and make sure that the entire base is in contact with the flat surface. To replace a base, remove the screws securing it to the jigsaw and remove it ... Read more

Support

The blade support supports the blade when cutting wood by not allowing the blade to move back or sideways. The blade support should just be touching the back of the blade. If it is worn, it will allow the blade to move back and side-to-side. To replace a worn blade support, use a punch and hammer to drive the pin out, holding the blade support to the jigsaw. Once the pin is out, remove the blade support. Install the new blade support and reinstall the pin with a hammer and punch.

Rollers

The roller is located inside the blade support and, on some models, you can just replace the roller instead of the entire blade support. To replace a worn roller, use a punch and hammer to remove the pin securing the roller to the blade support. Once out, the roller will be free. Replace with a new roller and reinstall the pin with the punch and hammer.

Accessories

If the blade guides are not adjusted properly, it will not give you a straight cut. Make sure your guides are adjusted properly. Also check them for any signs of damage and replace any that are.