How to Change Ryobi Planer Blades

1. Unplug the planer---a basic safety rule for hand tools, particularly one with a blade.

2. Turn the planer upside down and try to secure it; use a vise if necessary.

3. Loosen the three screws that secure the blade. (Your planer should have come with a wrench to do this; check the box.) Just loosen the screws---don't remove them.

4. Look at the direction of cut and make a mental note. Then observe and replicate the tapering of the blades. Place the tapered edge of the new blade on the same side as the screw heads; the flat edge faces the cutter block.

5. Push the blade out of the blade holder with a flat-head screwdriver---it should go to the right.

6. Remove the old blade. If necessary, tap the blade with a block of wood to loosen it.

7. Slide the new blade, then orient and center it using the screwdriver. Retighten the three screws.

8. Repeat with the second blade.