Grizzly G0817, Owner'S Manual, Page: 30 / 88

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Model G0817 (Mfd. Since 05/16)
A properly tensioned blade is essential for mak-
ing accurate cuts, maximizing blade life, and
making other bandsaw adjustments. However, a
properly tensioned blade will not compensate for
cutting problems caused by excessive feed rate,
hardness variations between workpieces, and
improper blade selection.
Optimal cutting results for any type of workpiece
are achieved through a combination of correct
blade selection, proper blade tension, properly
adjusted blade guides and other bandsaw compo-
nents, and using an appropriate feed rate.
Improper blade tension is unsafe, produces inac-
curate and inconsistent results, and introduces
unnecessary wear on bandsaw components.
Over-tensioning the blade increases the chance
of the blade breaking or wheel misalignment.
Under-tensioned blades wander excessively while
cutting and will not track properly during opera-
tion.
The method used to tension the blade is often
a matter of preference. This manual describes
two methods: the flutter method and the deflec-
tion method. Either method will help you properly
tension the blade. Experience and personal pref-
erence will help you decide which method you
prefer.
Note: Tensioning the blade before the Test Run
was an approximate tension. The following proce-
dures fine-tune the blade tension.
Tensioning Blade
9. Repeat Steps 5–6 to turn machine ON.
10. Allow motor to reach full speed, then step
on foot brake pedal (see Figure 41). Blade
should stop moving and motor should turn
OFF.
Figure 41. Location of foot brake pedal.
Foot Brake
Pedal
— If the blade stops moving and the motor
turns
OFF, the foot brake feature is work-
ing correctly. Congratulations! The Test
Run is complete.
— If the blade does not stop moving, or the
motor does not turn OFF, the foot brake
feature is not working correctly. Turn
machine
OFF, disconnect power imme-
diately, and contact customer service for
assistance.