Grizzly Ultimate Guide to Bandsaw Blade Tracking and Tension for G1012 Users

Models: G1012

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Blade Tracking

There are two ways to track a bandsaw blade: Center Tracking and Coplanar Tracking. Center Tracking is the fastest and easiest, but not the most precise.

Center Tracking:

1.Disconnect the bandsaw from the power source!

2.Adjust the upper and lower guide blocks and support bearings away from the blade. Remove the upper wheel cover.

3.Adjust blade tension to how it will be used during operation.

4.Loosen the tracking control lock nut. Turn the tracking control knob clockwise/counter- clockwise while turning the upper wheel by hand until the blade stays centered on the wheel.

5.Spin the upper wheel by hand at least three times to ensure that the blade stays cen- tered. If the blade does not stay centered, re- adjust as necessary.

6.Tighten the tracking control lock nut and replace the upper wheel cover.

For the best performance from your saw, regular- ly maintain proper tracking of the blade.

For Coplanar Tracking, see the “Wheel Alignment” instructions.

Be careful when turning the band wheels by hand. The aluminum spokes may have sharp edges and the blade teeth may extend beyond the edge of the wheel.

Blade Tension

To adjust the tension:

1.Loosen the upper and lower guide blocks and raise the upper guide block as high as it will go.

3.With moderate tension already on the blade, turn the bandsaw ON.

4.Release the tension one quarter of a turn at a time. Do this very slowly. When you see the bandsaw blade start to flutter, stop decreasing the tension.

5.Now, slowly increase the tension until the blade stops fluttering. Tighten the tension one more quarter of a turn.

6.Look at what the tension gauge reads and use that as a guide for tensioning your blade in the future.

If the tension seems correct, turn the bandsaw OFF and make the other adjustments, and test run. If the blade does not cut properly, the tension may be incorrect. Re-adjust the tension. New blades often stretch with use. However, removing the tension from the blade when not in use will reduce stretching and extend your blade life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

G1012 18" Bandsaw

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Grizzly G1012 instruction manual Blade Tracking, Blade Tension, To adjust the tension