how do you clean the inside of this thing? sawdust is packed everywhere under the table and in the mechanism

Diagnosis

Sawdust accumulation in the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Table Saw (2736-20) is primarily caused by "back-drafting," where fine particulate matter—especially resinous pine or abrasive MDF dust—bypasses the primary dust port and settles in the lower chassis. Because the saw uses a compact, high-torque motor and a specific beveling gear assembly, the tight tolerances make it a magnet for debris. When dust packs into the bevel adjustment gears and the lift mechanism, it creates a "gritty" feel during calibration and can lead to premature wear on the cast aluminum components. The most critical accumulation zones are the bevel tilt mechanism, the underside of the table where the blade guard mounts, and the recessed areas around the motor housing. You can confirm a critical buildup if the saw no longer locks perfectly at 0 or 45 degrees, or if you notice a high-pitched whining sound during operation, which often indicates dust is interfering with the blade's rotational clearance or the belt tensioner.

How to Fix It

To thoroughly clean the interior without damaging the precision alignments, follow this specific sequence:

1. Power Down: Remove the M18 battery and disconnect any external power sources. Never use compressed air while the battery is installed, as it can push metallic debris into the motor windings.
2. Clear the Deck: Remove the blade guard and the riving knife assembly. Unscrew the throat plate (insert plate) to gain access to the "well" directly beneath the blade.
3. Access the Bevel Gear: Tilt the saw to a full 45-degree angle. This shifts the internal carriage and exposes the bevel adjustment screw and the gear teeth that are usually hidden when the saw is at 0 degrees.
4. Mechanical Extraction: Use a 1-inch stiff-bristled nylon brush or a dedicated detailing brush to scrub the gear teeth and the beveling arm. Avoid using metal scrapers, as scratching the cast surfaces can lead to inaccurate angle settings.
5. Vacuuming: Use a shop vacuum with a narrow crevice tool. Insert the nozzle directly into the bevel mechanism and the motor vents. Vacuum the area around the blade arbor and the lower belt housing.
6. Deep Clean: For packed-on resin (common with pine), use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber cloth to wipe the guide rails. Do not spray liquids directly into the motor or electronic speed controllers.
7. Reassembly: Return the saw to 0 degrees, verify the squareness with a machinist square, and reinstall the throat plate and guard.

If That Didn't Work

• Compressed Air Purge: If dust is packed in the motor vents where a vacuum cannot reach, use a can of compressed air. Use short, 1-second bursts from a distance of 6 inches. Do not blow air directly into the switch assembly, as this can push dust into the electrical contacts and cause intermittent power failure.
• Lubrication Reset: If the bevel adjustment remains gritty after cleaning, apply a tiny amount of dry PTFE lubricant (dry lube) to the bevel gear. Avoid using WD-40 or wet grease, as these act as "dust magnets" and will cause the sawdust to clump into a thick paste that jams the mechanism.
• Throat Plate Swap: If the buildup is primarily around the blade exit, check for warped throat plates. A gap between the plate and the table allows sawdust to be sucked downward into the mechanism rather than outward through the dust port.
• Full Chassis Blowout: Flip the saw onto its back (carefully) and remove the lower plastic battery tray/cover if accessible. This allows you to clear the "dead zone" where the heaviest sawdust typically settles.

Heads Up

• Avoid Wet Cleaning: Never use water or damp rags inside the chassis; the M18 FUEL electronics are sensitive to moisture and corrosion.
• Check the Dust Boot: Inspect the rubber seals around the dust port. If they are torn or improperly seated, the internal chassis will fill with dust significantly faster.
• Maintenance Cycle: If you are cutting MDF or pressure-treated lumber, perform a "blow-out" of the bevel mechanism every 4 hours of active use to prevent permanent gear scoring.
• Blade Tension: After a deep clean, always verify the blade is tightened to the correct torque to ensure the vibration hasn't shifted during the cleaning process.