Woodstock ST1000 owner manual Test Run, Tensioning Blade, To tension the bandsaw blade

Test Run

Once the assembly is complete and you have read through Safety section, test run the machine before continuing with the setup.

If, during the test run, you cannot easily locate the source of an unusual noise or vibration, stop using the machine immediately, then contact our Technical Support for further assistance.

Wear safety glasses during the entire test run process. Failure to comply may result in serious personal injury.

To test run the machine:

1.Make sure that you have performed the Blade Tracking instructions.

2.Make sure that the blade guides are moved away from the blade and that the blade is not touching the table or table insert.

3.Plug the machine into the power source.

4.Turn the bandsaw ON to allow it to reach full speed, then turn the bandsaw OFF.

—The bandsaw should run smoothly with little or no vibration or rubbing noises. Disconnect power to troubleshoot any problems before continuing.

5.Remove the switch safety key.

6.Try to turn the bandsaw ON with the key removed.

—If the bandsaw starts with the key removed, disconnect power immediately and call Technical Support.

—If the bandsaw does not start with the key removed then it is operatig properly.

Tensioning Blade

A properly tensioned blade is essential for making accurate cuts and is a prerequisite before making many bandsaw adjustments.

To tension the bandsaw blade:

1.Make sure you have performed the Test Run instructions on this page and that the blade is tracking properly.

2.Raise the upper blade guide assembly as high as it will go, and adjust the upper and lower guide blocks as far away from the blade as pos- sible.

Note: This procedure will not work if the guide blocks have any contact with the blade.

3.Adjust the blade tension knob until it matches the blade size on the bandsaw.

Note: This scale can only be considered as a gen- eral guide, follow these steps to accurately set the blade tension.

4.Turn the bandsaw ON.

5.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.

6.Now, slowly increase the tension until the blade stops fluttering, then tighten the tension anoth- er quarter turn.

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

Note: Always detension the blade after use to increase blade life and reduce strain on the bandsaw components.

NOTICE

After blade tension and tracking are set cor- rectly, properly adjust the upper and lower sup- port bearings and guide-block assemblies into position before cutting operations.

ST1000 14" Bandsaw -17-