17
SETTING BLADE TENSION
1.
2.
3.
Loosen the tension on the blade by rotating the
cam level
(A)
clockwise.
SEE FIG.18
.
Set the blade tension by rotating the knob
(B)
Turning the knob clockwise increases the tension
while turning the handwheel counterclockwise
decreases the tension.
As you rotate the knob you will notice a red
marker
(C)
on the inside of the scale. This is to be
used as a guideline for the blade tension depend-
ing on the width of the blade. For example, if you
are using a 1/8” blade, align the red marker inside
the scale with the 1/8” mark on the outside of the
scale.
SEE FIG.19
.
MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE SAW IS DISCON-
NECTED FROM THE POWER SOURCE.
WARNING
!
The blade tension is set by using the blade tension
knob. It
MUST
be set prior to initial operation as it
plays a vital role in setup of other features of the
bandsaw. It should also be checked when the blade
is replaced, and from time to time as the blade will
stretch after prolonged use. Keep in mind that putting
too much or too little tension can cause either blade
breakage (too much pressure) or poor cutting results
(too little pressure).
NOTE:
The scale is only recommended guideline for
tensioning. Always follow the blade manufacturer’s
recommendations for proper blade tension.
NOTE:
When the bandsaw is not in use, it is a good
idea to release the tension on the blade using the
cam lever.
BLADE TRACKING
1.
2.
3.
Open the upper door exposing the top wheel of the
bandsaw.
Rotate the wheel clockwise, by hand, and take note
of the position of the blade on the wheel. The blade
should ride on the center of the wheel.
If the blade does not ride on the center of the wheel,
or starts to move towards the edge of the wheel,
loosen the wingnut
(A)
and turn the tracking adjust-
ment knob
(B)
.
SEE FIG.19
.
4.
5.
Rotate the wheel again. Repeat steps 2 through 4
until the blade rides on the center of the wheel.
Once proper tracking is achieved, close and secure
the upper door and retighten wing nut loosened in
step 3.
MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE SAW IS DISCONNECT-
ED FROM THE POWER SOURCE.
WARNING
!
Blade tracking refers to the way the saw blade rides on
the wheels while the machine is in operation. This adjust-
ment has been set at the factory, but it is a good practice
to check the tracking each time before using the
machine. Tracking should also be checked after a blade
change.
NOTICE:
When using the tracking adjustment knob, do
so in small increments as this is a sensitive adjustment.
FIG.18
FIG.19
C
A
B
A
B
