-22-
For Machines Mfd. Since 7/21
South Bend Tools
Model SB1123
P R E P A R A T I O N
Adjustment Overview
Bandsaw wheels are either flat or crowned and
both shapes track differently. This bandsaw has
crowned wheels. As the wheels spin, a properly
tracking blade naturally tracks at the center of
the wheel (see Figure 24).
Blade Centered
on Wheel
Blade
Centered
on Wheel
PROPER TRACKING
Wheel
Figure 24. Blade centered on crown of wheel.
Blade centered on crown of wheel.
Blade tracking is primarily affected by the tilt
of the upper wheel, known as “center tracking.”
However, the alignment of both wheels plays an
important part as well (see Aligning Wheels on
Page 63 for more details).
The wheels on this bandsaw were aligned at the
factory, so center tracking is the only adjustment
that needs to be checked/performed when the
saw is new.
Initial Blade Tracking
"Tracking" refers to how the blade rides on the
bandsaw wheels. Proper tracking is important
for maintaining bandsaw adjustments, achieving
correct blade tension, and cutting accurately.
Improper tracking reduces cutting accuracy,
causes excess vibrations, and places stress on the
blade and other bandsaw components. The shape
of the wheels and the orientation of the wheels in
relation to each other determine how the blade
tracks.
Serious personal injury
can occur if the machine
starts while your hand is
touching the bandsaw wheel
during tracking adjustments.
Disconnect power from the
bandsaw before performing
blade tracking adjustments.
The bandsaw is one of the most versatile
woodworking machines. However, it has multiple
components that must be properly adjusted for
the best cutting results.
For practical and safety reasons, some
adjustments and test operations must be
performed before performing other necessary
adjustments. Below is an overview of all the
adjustments and the order in which they should
be performed:
1.
Initial Blade Tracking
2.
Power Connection
3.
Test Run
4.
Tensioning Blade
5.
Fine-Tune Tracking
6.
Adjusting Blade Support Bearings
7.
Adjusting Blade Guide Bearings
8.
Aligning Table
9.
Aligning Fence
10.
Calibrating Fence Pointer
11.
Aligning Miter Gauge
