Blade Tracking
Refer to Figure 26.
After being properly tensioned, the blade must be tracked. “Tracking” refers to the position of the blade on the wheels while the machine is in operation. Tracking should be checked periodically, and is mandatory after every blade change. Blade tracking is done by hand with the machine disconnected from power.
1.Disconnect machine from power source.
2.The blade should be correctly tensioned.
3.Make sure the blade guides and other parts of the machine will not interfere with the movement of the blade. Lower the guide post until you can see the blade through the tracking window.
4.Set the quick tension lever intially to “Partial
5.Open upper door to expose the upper wheel. Rotate the wheel by hand, and observe the position of the blade on the wheel through the tracking window. As you rotate the wheel, move the lever to “Full Tension” position. The blade should continue to ride upon the center of the wheel (Figure 27).
IMPORTANT: Make tracking adjustments with knob (F, Figure 26) while the blade is at full tension. DO NOT use screws (G, Figure 26); these were used by the manufacturer for wheel alignment and should NOT be used for tracking.
6.If the blade tends to move toward the edge of the wheel, loosen locking lever (E, Figure 26) and slightly rotate tracking knob (F) with your right hand while continuing to rotate the wheel with your left. Observe the blade through the tracking window. Rotating the tracking knob clockwise will cause the blade to move toward the rear edge of the wheel. Rotating the tracking knob counterclockwise will cause the blade to move toward the front edge of the wheel.
IMPORTANT: This adjustment is sensitive; perform it in small increments and give the blade time to react to the changes.
7.When the blade is tracking in the center of the wheel,
8.Move tension lever to “Full Tension” position, and connect the band saw to power. Turn it on for a brief time to observe the blade in action through the tracking window.
Figure 26
Figure 27
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