Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw 6538-21-B36B (2010) Shoe Retainer Replacement

Introduction

You can use this guide to replace a damaged or missing shoe retainer on a Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw 6538-21-B36B (2010).

If you are noticing your Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw is making unprecise cuts or is becoming harder to control or stabilize, then you could have a problem with the shoe retainer.

The shoe retainer is an essential mechanism for supporting and guiding the saw blades during operation. The retainer ensures the blade stays in the position you guide the saw to, allowing for a precise and controlled cut. Having a working shoe retainer will decrease the chances of wear and tear from continued unstable use, while also decreasing the risks of kickback.

As always, remember to unplug the saw before any replacements.

What you need

Step 1 Gearcase Insulator

Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw 6538-21-B36B (2010) Shoe Retainer Replacement, Gearcase Insulator: step 1, image 1 of 2

Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw 6538-21-B36B (2010) Shoe Retainer Replacement, Gearcase Insulator: step 1, image 2 of 2

Pull up on the shoe release lever until it's perpendicular to the gearcase insulator.

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Step 2

Pull the shoe assembly out from the saw.

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Step 3

Remove the gearcase insulator by folding over the rubber, dislodging the insulator from the red shift lever, and pulling it off.
Using the screwdriver to help lift the rubber over the lever and folding it over may be helpful.

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Step 4 Shoe Retainer

Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw 6538-21-B36B (2010) Shoe Retainer Replacement, Shoe Retainer: step 4, image 1 of 2

Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw 6538-21-B36B (2010) Shoe Retainer Replacement, Shoe Retainer: step 4, image 2 of 2

Use a Torx T20 screwdriver to remove the two 4.2 mm screws that secure the shoe retainer.
The second screw is on the opposite side.

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Step 5

The shoe pin attaches the retainer to the gearcase and will need to be removed to fully remove the retainer.
Use a flathead screwdriver to push the shoe pin from one side of the gearcase to the other.
Twist the pin with your finger to remove the pin from the saw.