cheapo table saw question

[overland]

I have a cheap 8" Craftsman table saw that can be stored away and is useful for small jobs (though barely). I want to rip some cedar to make a canoe paddle. One operation involves making a 45-degree lengthwise cut. But when I crank the blade to 45 degrees, I can't draw it down completely below the top. This is a problem not only for the operation but it means I can't cut a zero-clearance insert to use with the blade set at 45 degrees.  What should I do? Can I put a smaller blade on the saw? The current one, I think, is 7 1/4". Any advice is appreciated.

[museumguy]

Yes, you can put a 7 1/4" sawblade on the saw and make a zero insert. If I were you, I would keep the 7 1/4" blade on the saw and use it to cut the strips you need if you can get the depth of cut that you need.

[ez-duzit]

A (especially) cheap saw doesn't need a zero clearance insert for 45 degree cuts.

[JerGar]

Just curios,
cutting bird's mouth for a hollow shaft?

[overland]

Yes! That's exactly what I'm using it for--making a hollow-shaft paddle. Have you done it? Any advice?

[Mike L B]

Use a core box bit on your router table.