MAKITA L 1016L LOCKED IN BEVEL POSITION - Makita Saws

Did you check to see if the saw has a locking nut on the front of the bevel gauge handle? Its possible you just locked it into position and forgot to unlock.

To adjust the bevel, (blade angle), loosen the black lever at the back of the unit, tilt the blade housing using the handle (this may require a fair bit of force) until the arrow on the scale is at 45 degrees then tighten the black lever.

http://www.makita.com/en-us/Modules/Tools/ToolSupport.aspx?ID=469

Here is a link for your parts diagram and owners manual.

I hope this helps!

just found the problem, if you haven't fixed it yet let me know. There is no good way to reinstall the spring but I have done it numerous times and can talk you thru it, but you will need a press of some sort.

You can get it at Makita.com, type in yr modal number in the search bar, download a parts breakdown or a manual, if not u can order a new sticker from makita.

The only obvious problem is that a saw purchased in USA will have a 110 volt motor. Mains voltage in Australia is 220, so you would need to purchase a transformer in Australia to step the voltage down to 110.

does the guard move freely, when pulling down on the handle? or does it **** and seem to hang up. There is no adjustment on the guard that I am aware of but if you are still having problems you can call Makita Tech Support at 1-800-4625482. You will need the model number when talking to them.

It looks like that handle should be able to pull straight off the end of the shaft once you remove the screw. See this exploded parts view: http://www.makita.com/en-us/Assets/images/Products/_PartsBreakdowns/PB_2703.pdf

My experience with them is that people tend to get frustrated and abandon the lock lever and just run the saw "loose". Scary as it sounds, I've seen it on more than one site.

Anyway, I don't have a fix for you if you can't get the handle off to re-position it.
Makita does have a tech support line if you want to give it a try. Otherwise, you may have to shell out a few bucks to one of their service centers. We used to have a great one in Albuquerque, but it's now defunct. People don't seem to repair tools like they used to...
Locate Nearest Service Center online
or Free technical support center (1-800-4MAKITA)
Monday – Friday 7:00am – 7:00pm EST
Good luck, and best wishes...

Yes go to Makitausa.com and type in your model number and you can download an owners manual for the tool. Let me know if you need any more help

Dual-bevel capability allows angled cuts in either direction without flipping the workpiece