Makita 2708 Table Saw - How does the switch work?

[StillKeen]

I was given a used Makita 2708 table saw like the one pictured.

It needs some work, but as they're listed for $200+ on eBay, I figure it's worthwhile investing some time and money into it, and upgrading from my cheap Craftsman (like the one pictured below).

Now I know I need to get a new cord guard, which is $7 on eBay. I'll then shorten the cord 6 inches and remove a break in the insulation.

The on/off switch though. It doesn't appear to work, but I don't understand how it's meant to work. There's this gold piston part that is open out one side, and then you can push that from outside the saw? Is that some sort of reset or something? The top picture of someone else's saw seems to show that there might be something needed there to make it work?

A new switch is $55 + postage etc, which is way more than I'm prepared to spend on a saw with a welded up table and rusted fence etc. Anyone know either 1) where I can get a generic switch that'll work? or 2) how this is meant to work?

I enjoy getting old things going again, but I often spend more than they're worth to get them fixed. If it's going to be $70 in parts and still only be a $100 tablesaw (due to condition and previously repaired table), then I'd probably just stick to my craftsman.

Thanks

 

[StillKeen]

Okay, so I found out that there is a 'key' that activates this gold part (should have read the manual earlier).

Question: Are these generic, so I can just buy a ''Makita key'' or are there many options here? There's just a round hole in the side of the saw and then a rout part that's actuated.

 

[dutchgray]

My dad had one of those for about 20 years, it was eventually stolen from a job, but he didn't really mind as it was pretty tired, it was however a really decent saw and far nicer to use than their current one.
His had a switch failure fairly early in its life. He replaced it with a pretty standard no volt release machinery switch fixed over the hole for the old one and just wired it it, it worked well.

 

[duneslider]

I have had several of those saws and it is just a plunger on the side. You push it in and while holding it you push the on button. It is just "safety" device to keep a little kid from turning it on. I know we had one break at one time and we used a piece of wood shaved down to push in the hole.

 

[StillKeen]

I've ordered one. Seems very odd that it's a separate little plastic bit and no label etc. oh well, should be running next week.

The saw I've been given belonged to a contractor who had to give it up due to health issues ten years ago. It's sat under a tarp for the past five or ten years, so is quite weathered. I'll replace more parts once it's running and if they're not $55 for a switch!

Thanks.

 

[jakemac]

I just shoved a plastic pin from an interior car panel in mine and left it there.

 

[StillKeen]

Finally got the new cord, crimps and spare plastic safety buttons. All installed and works fine.

 

[RivennHewn]

The fences on those are somewhat less than wonderful, and the lack of zero clearance plate kinda ***** sometimes.

Other than that, I'd take on of the older Makitas over any of the offerings available today.

The last one I had made is twenty some years of daily use.

Wish I had fixed it again, instead of buying the newer DeWalt version.

I rigged a small vise grip to the threaded rod that runs thru the fence, making it a quick release.

Install a thin kerf Matsushita blade on it, and it's a great saw.