Tensioning Blade
A properly tensioned blade is essential for mak- ing accurate cuts and is a prerequisite for making many bandsaw adjustments. The blade tension is adjusted by rotating the blade tension lever.
To tension the bandsaw blade:
1.Make sure you have performed the Test Run instructions on the previous page and you are certain that the blade is tracking properly.
2.With the blade tension lever in the down (engaged) position, adjust the blade tension until the mark on the blade tension scale matches the size of blade installed on the bandsaw.
Note: Because each blade is different and all blades stretch, this scale can only be consid- ered as a general guide.
3.Turn the bandsaw ON.
4.Release the tension one quarter of a turn at a time. When the bandsaw blade starts to flut- ter, stop decreasing the tension.
5.Now, slowly increase the tension until the blade stops fluttering, then tighten the tension one more quarter of a turn.
6.Turn the bandsaw OFF and read the tension gauge. Use the reading as a guide when ten- sioning that blade in the future.
Note: Do not rely on this measurement for long periods of time because the blade will stretch with use.
NOTICE
To reduce blade stretching, remove the ten- sion from the blade when not in use.
NOTICE
After blade tension and tracking are set cor- rectly, properly adjust the upper/lower sup- port bearings and
G0621 Wood/Metal Bandsaw
Adjusting Support
Bearings
The support bearings are positioned behind the blade to support it during cutting operations. Proper adjustment of the support bearings is an important part of making accurate cuts and also keeps the blade teeth from hitting the blade guides during cuts.
To adjust the support bearings:
1.Make sure that the blade is tracking properly and that it is correctly tensioned.
2.DISCONNECT BANDSAW FROM POWER!
3.Familiarize yourself with the support bearing controls shown in Figure 20.
| Lock Bolt | |
Support | Thumbscrew | |
Bearing | ||
|