Problem with Black & Decker jigsaw

[rck]

I recently purchased a Black and Decker variable speed Model JS200, Type 3 saw. During the first use, the blade holder assembly loosened and flew off. It was outside and lost forever. I called Black and Decker and they said Part #581098-02 blade holder assembly is the same for Type 2 and Type 3. I purchased the part and it doesn't fit. Black and Decker doesn't have a clue that it isn't the same part for a Type 2 and a Type 3. They told me to bring the saw to their nearest service center in Nashville, 105 miles from here. It would seem they could check the part on one of their saws but they don't seem to have any interest in doing so. Maybe they are only an importer without any real facilities in this country? I dunno. Is anyone familiar with this saw and if so, where can I get the proper part for it? I hate to throw away a new saw, but it may be my only choice. They said I couldn't return it if it's over 30 days and I missed that by a couple of weeks.

Bob

[Edwin Pawlowski]

You can send it UPS or USPS for a few bucks. Cheaper than a 200 mile drive. If it came apart due to a defect, it should be covered under warrantee.

Sad, but many companies seem to go that way. They have dummies int he customer service department.l You can try calling agin and maybe get a better skilled person.

It may be a good choice. B & D tools are pretty cheap these day. They are still coasting on the great reputation they had for quality tools many years ago. If you want a really good saw, Bosch, Milwaukee and a couple of others are far superior, but far more costly. Figure $125 to $175.

[rck]

Thanks for the suggestion. I phoned the service center in Nashville. They told me that in spite of the six weeks since purchase, it's obvious my problem occurred within the 30 days. So they said to ship it back to them and they'll send me a new saw. Seems crazy to replace the saw because the blade holder isn't available, but at least this solves the problem for now. But, if I need a new blade holder later on, I have to realize the saw is extinct because replacement parts are not available for their new line.

Bob

[Jim Yanik]

"rck" wrote in news:iGqqc.321$ [e-mail]:

Well,all they do is exchange the saw,and the broken one goes back to the factory for refurbishing and will be re-sold.Better for you,and someone else gets a chance to buy a reconditioned jigsaw. (although a waste of money,you can buy a better one from Harbor Freight,comparable to a Bosch 1581 for $70,$60 when on sale.One with a roller blade guide,variable speed,4-position orbital,and air blower to clear the cut line ahead of the blade.)