Craftsman 137218073 table saw Parts

On a Craftsman table saw, the most reliable way to date it is by using the serial number and the manufacturer code on the saw’s ID label; for model 137.218073, we recommend confirming the serial format and label location in the Craftsman 137218073 operator’s manual.

Where to find the date information

Look for the ID label (data plate) on the saw body, typically:

• On the rear of the saw cabinet or base
• Near the motor housing area
• On the leg set or stand assembly
• Near the switch box area

How to interpret the serial number (what usually works)

Craftsman table saw serial formats vary by manufacturer and era. A common pattern is that the first two digits of the serial number indicate the year, but you should confirm the format on your specific label before relying on it.

• If the serial begins with two digits that look like a year (example: 09xxxxxx), that often indicates 2009
• Some labels include a date code separate from the serial number
• The model number (137.218073) identifies the design family, not the build date

Quick checks to avoid a wrong “year”

Use these checks before you finalize the date:

• Make sure you are reading the serial number, not the model number
• If the “year” would be in the future or unrealistic, look for a different date code on the label
• If the label includes a manufacturer prefix or letters, the year may not be the first two characters

Serial number vs. model number (what each tells you)

Item	What it identifies	What it does not identify
Model number 137218073	Saw design and parts compatibility	Exact build month/year
Serial number	Production run and often the build date	Parts list by itself

Why it matters

Dating your Craftsman table saw helps us match the correct parts list, confirm motor and switch variations, and avoid ordering the wrong items when you service wear components like carbon brushes, power cord, or the switch assembly.

Last updated: February 2026

To change the blade on your Craftsman table saw model 137218073, unplug the saw, remove the table insert and blade guard, then loosen the arbor nut with the supplied blade wrenches and swap in the new blade with the teeth facing the correct direction. Use the steps in the 137218073 owner's manual for the exact guard and insert removal details.

Safety first (do this every time)

• Turn the switch OFF and remove the switch key
• Unplug the power cord from the outlet
• Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling the blade
• Keep the blade at maximum height only while you are working, then lower it when finished
• Reinstall the blade guard, riving knife, anti-kickback pawls, and table insert before cutting

Blade change steps (typical for this Craftsman design)

1. Remove the table insert, then raise the blade to maximum height using the elevation handwheel.
2. Remove the blade guard and anti-kickback pawls assembly.
3. Use the two blade wrenches stored on the saw (the manual shows the storage location) to hold the arbor and loosen the arbor nut.
4. Remove the arbor nut and outer washer/flange, then slide the old blade off the arbor.
5. Install the new blade on the arbor.
6. Reinstall the washer/flange and arbor nut; tighten securely (snug plus a firm wrench pull).
7. Reinstall the guard assembly and table insert; verify the blade spins freely by hand before plugging in.

Quick checks before your first cut

• Blade is seated flat on the arbor (no wobble)
• Guard and riving knife are aligned and not rubbing the blade
• Table insert sits flush with the table

Check	What you want	If not
Blade direction	Teeth point toward the front at the top of the blade	Flip the blade around
Free spin	No contact with insert/guard	Re-seat insert, recheck guard/riving knife
Cut quality	Smooth, square cut	Clean/replace blade; check alignment

Why it matters

A correctly installed blade and properly reinstalled safety assemblies reduce binding and kickback risk, and they help your Craftsman 137218073 make cleaner, more accurate rip cuts and crosscuts.

For more detail and photos, use our guide: how to replace a table saw blade.

Last updated: February 2026

If you’re getting rid of a Craftsman table saw model 137218073, the safest approach is to remove the blade, secure or remove the switch key, and then choose a disposal path that keeps the saw out of the trash stream when possible (donation, resale, or recycling).

Best options (in order)

• Give it away or sell it locally: Many DIYers want a starter saw for parts or light use.
• Donate (if it runs and has basic guards): Consider community workshops, schools, or maker spaces.
• Recycle as e-waste/scrap: Most of the saw is metal; the motor and corded components often qualify for e-waste handling.
• Municipal bulky-item pickup: Use this when donation or recycling is not available.
• Parts salvage: Keep accessories (rip fence, miter gauge, blade guard) together so the next owner can use it safely.

Make it safe before you move or hand it off

We recommend doing these steps based on the safety and maintenance guidance in the Craftsman 137218073 owner’s manual.

• Turn the switch OFF and unplug the saw.
• Remove the switch key (prevents accidental starting).
• Remove the blade and store it separately.
• Remove loose accessories (rip fence, miter gauge, guard assembly) and bag the hardware.
• Vacuum or clean out sawdust buildup (helps reduce mess and fire risk during transport).

Quick decision guide

Your saw’s condition	Best choice	Why
Runs, cuts straight, has guard parts	Donate or sell	Highest reuse value
Runs but needs tune-up	Give away with disclosure	Someone may repair it
Won’t start, trips breaker, or smokes	Recycle/e-waste	Safer than resale
Missing key safety parts	Recycle or parts-only giveaway	Reduces injury risk

Why it matters

Table saws are heavy, have sharp components, and can start unexpectedly if the switch is bumped. Disabling the saw (unplugging and removing the switch key) and removing the blade helps protect you during loading and protects the next owner during setup.

If you want to include a helpful note for the next owner, point them to how to use a table saw safely and how to replace a table saw blade.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes, a 10-inch table saw like the Craftsman 137218073 can cut a 4x4 in a single pass when the blade is set to full height; most 10-inch saws reach about 3-1/2 inches of max cut depth, which matches a standard 4x4’s actual thickness.

What to check before you cut

• Confirm the blade is a 10-inch blade and is sharp and clean.
• Set blade height so the gullets clear the top of the wood (typically about 1/4 inch above the workpiece).
• Use the riving knife and blade guard for through cuts.
• Use a push stick or push block to keep hands away from the blade.
• Support the 4x4 so it stays flat to the table and tight to the fence.

Safety and setup notes for the 137218073

Your saw is designed to be used with a matched blade and riving knife setup; the manual notes a 10-inch blade and specifies that the blade kerf must be wider than the riving knife thickness. For normal through cuts, keep the guard and anti-kickback parts installed; remove them only for specific non-through operations.

Cut type	Can you use blade guard and anti-kickback?	Typical example
Through cut	Yes (recommended)	Cutting a 4x4 to length
Non-through cut	No (removed for this operation)	Grooves, rabbets

Why it matters

A 4x4 is thick enough to load the motor and increase binding risk if the blade is dull or the fence is out of alignment. Using the riving knife, proper blade height, and push tools helps reduce kickback and improves cut quality.

Helpful DIY guidance

• Use our how to replace a table saw blade steps if the blade is worn or damaged.
• If the cut is not square, follow table saw bad angle cuts to check alignment.

For model-specific operating and safety details, follow the Craftsman 137218073 owner’s manual.

Last updated: February 2026

Pricing for a Craftsman 10-inch “professional” table saw varies widely by condition, included accessories (stand, rip fence, blade guard), and whether it’s new or used. For the Craftsman model 137.218073, we recommend using the exact model number to compare current listings and to confirm you’re pricing the same saw configuration shown in the Craftsman 137218073 operator’s manual.

What to check before comparing prices

• Exact model number: 137.218073 (often written as 137.218073 on the nameplate)
• Included safety parts: blade guard assembly and riving knife (commonly removed or missing)
• Stand and mobility parts: leg set, wheels, locking handles
• Cutting features: Laser Trac guide (battery-powered laser line) and working switch box
• Blade setup: this saw uses a 10-inch blade; blade kerf must match the riving knife requirements

Typical price ranges (what we see most often)

These ranges help you sanity-check a listing; local demand and condition can move the number.

Condition / package	Typical range	Notes
Used, tool only	$75 to $150	Often missing guard/riving knife or needs alignment
Used, complete with stand and guards	$150 to $300	Best value if all safety parts are included
Refurbished or “like new”	$250 to $450	Price depends heavily on accessories and warranty

Why it matters

Two “Craftsman 10-inch table saw” listings can be completely different tools. Matching the 137218073 model and verifying key assemblies (blade guard, riving knife, rip fence) prevents overpaying for a saw that needs immediate parts or safety fixes.

Quick spec clues that help confirm you’re pricing the right saw

From the manual for model 137.218073:

• Supplied blade: 10-inch diameter
• Blade body thickness: 0.07 in.; kerf: 0.10 in.
• Riving knife thickness: 0.09 in.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes. Craftsman table saws are a solid choice for most DIYers and hobby woodworkers because they deliver reliable basic ripping and crosscutting at a reasonable price; with the Craftsman 137218073 specifically, following the setup, adjustment, and safety steps in the Craftsman 137218073 operator’s manual is what makes it cut accurately and run safely.

What “good” means for the Craftsman 137218073

A table saw is only as good as its alignment, blade condition, and how it’s used. This model is designed for wood and wood-like products, and it’s built around standard table saw safety systems (blade guard, riving knife, anti-kickback pawls) that should be used for through-cuts.

Where it performs well

• Accurate basic cuts after proper assembly and blade adjustment
• Portable, space-friendly footprint with a leg set
• Good capability for common DIY tasks (ripping, crosscutting, sheet goods breakdown)

Where owners often need extra attention

• Fence and miter gauge alignment (critical for straight, repeatable cuts)
• Dust management (vacuuming the dust port and clearing interior sawdust)
• Blade selection and blade changes for cleaner cuts

Quick checklist to get “good results” from your saw

• Mount the saw securely on its stand or a bench so it cannot shift during a cut.
• Use the blade guard, riving knife, and anti-kickback pawls for through-sawing.
• Never cut freehand; guide the work with the rip fence or miter gauge.
• Use a push stick or push block for narrow rips.
• Keep the interior clear of sawdust; connect a shop vacuum to the dust port.

Common upgrades vs. simple tune-up (what to do first)

Goal	Do this first	When to consider upgrades
Straighter rips	Align fence and blade; verify blade is sharp	Add outfeed support for long stock
Cleaner cuts	Install a quality blade matched to material	Add better dust collection setup
Safer handling	Use guard, riving knife, push stick	Add featherboards for control

For step-by-step blade service, use our how to replace a table saw blade guide.

Why it matters

Most “bad saw” complaints come from misalignment, a dull blade, or unsafe technique that causes burning, wandering cuts, or kickback. A properly adjusted Craftsman 137218073 with the correct blade and safe feed control produces dependable results.

Last updated: February 2026