18 · Saws

Block Saw

Also called Masonry saw · Brick saw · Wet block saw · Table masonry saw

A stand-mounted diamond saw for precise cuts through concrete block, brick, stone and pavers.

Petrol engine

Sizes & models we rent

14" electricIndoor work, no fumes14" petrolFor site work without power
View in the rental catalogue ↗Compare →

Overview

A block saw is a diamond blade mounted on a stand with the material fed into it. That is what makes the cut straight and repeatable, where a hand-held saw depends on the operator holding the line.

We rent two 14 in machines: an electric one for indoor work where fumes are a problem, and a petrol one for site work with no power available.

Concrete block and brick, pavers and patio stones, stone veneer and slabs, and runs of repeat cuts to one size.

Connect the water and check it is flowing before cutting. A wet diamond blade run dry is ruined in seconds, and it is the most expensive mistake anyone makes on this machine. Feed the material slowly and let the blade do the work.

Catalogue specifications

  • RATE INCLUDES THE STAND

Best uses

  • Concrete block and brick
  • Pavers and patio stones
  • Stone veneer and slabs
  • Repeat cuts to the same size

Troubleshooting

Cuts aren't straight

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the cutting cart runs freely on its rails.
  2. Hold the block tight against the back stop.
  3. A dull or warped blade wanders.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
No water to the blade

Checks to try, in order

  1. Fill the water tank.
  2. Switch on the pump.
  3. Clear a blocked water line or nozzle.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Blade slows or stalls in the cut

Checks to try, in order

  1. Feed more slowly.
  2. Check the drive belt for slipping.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Engine won't startShared · Petrol engine

Likely causes

  • Fuel valve or switch off
  • Stale fuel
  • Low oil sensor
  • Choke position
  • Spark plug cap loose

Checks to try, in order

  1. Turn the fuel valve ON and the engine switch to ON.
  2. Cold engine: close the choke. Warm engine: leave the choke open.
  3. Check there is fresh petrol in the tank — stale or water-contaminated fuel is the most common cause.
  4. Check the engine oil. Many engines have a low-oil shutdown that stops them starting when oil is low or the machine is on a slope — top up and set the machine on level ground.
  5. Make sure the spark plug cap is pushed fully onto the plug.
  6. Pull the starter rope with a smooth, firm pull — don't let it snap back.

If the starter rope is locked or unusually hard to pull, stop — don't force it. Tag the unit and return it to the workshop.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Starts, then stalls or runs roughShared · Petrol engine

Likely causes

  • Choke left on
  • Blocked air filter
  • Low fuel
  • Low-oil shutdown

Checks to try, in order

  1. Open the choke gradually once the engine has warmed up.
  2. Check the fuel level and that the fuel cap vent isn't blocked.
  3. Check the air filter — a dusty filter chokes the engine. Tap it out or swap it.
  4. Check the oil level again; the low-oil sensor can cut the engine on uneven ground.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Smell of fuel or a visible leakShared · Petrol engine

Checks to try, in order

  1. Switch the engine off immediately and move away any ignition sources.
  2. Turn the fuel valve OFF.
  3. Check the fuel cap is seated and look for a wet fuel line or carburettor bowl.

Don't run a machine that is leaking fuel. Tag it out and report it.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Safety

  • Keep hands clear of the blade path and use the blade guard.
  • Petrol engine: run outdoors only.

For petrol engine

  • Refuel only with the engine off and cool. No smoking or open flames nearby.
  • Exhaust contains carbon monoxide — never run it indoors, in trenches or in enclosed spaces without ventilation.
  • Wear hearing protection, safety glasses and safety boots.

Videos & links

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