The previous post prompted my memory on something I wanted to post about this TS. Two things prompted me to buy the saw, a review in " "(I forget which) woodworking mag and the dust port.
Brought my new saw, ran a 2 1/2" hose to the dust port and promptly had as much dust on the floor as I had under my old Tiawaneese knock off. I was/am running a zero clearance insert and could not figure why I wasn't getting the dust collection I bought the saw for.
If you will check, the shroud around the blade leaves a lot of open space around the top - it has to be open to allow you to swing the blade.
Solution: Redesign the shroud to be air tight.
Problem: The solution costs a lot and Ridgid probably would not do the retrofits for free.
Cheap Solution: Get three or four strong magnets (1 x 1 1/2 x 1/4) and a sheet of heavy plastic. Cut the plastic to fit down the outside of the removeable portion of the shroud, holding it in place with the tenons on the bottom. (make sure the plastic does not block the dust port) Attach the plastic to the table with the magnets.
Bingo, no more sawdust and you can still swing the blade over for the miter cuts.
Deb