General 90-270HD, 90-270 User Manual
Heavy-duty one-piece frame, designed for
added stability, requires no further
assembly.
Precision-balanced, rubber laminated,
cast-iron wheels, mounted on two
heavy-duty ball bearings.
Large, ribbed cast-iron table with heavyduty one-piece trunnion for 0 - 45° tilting,
for bevel cuts.
Convenient blade tension adjustment
hand wheel.
A tension scale allows the operator to
adjust the tension for different blade
widths.
Foot brake for quick blade stoppage after
machine shut-off.
4” dust collection port for easy hookup to
a dust collector.
Powerful totally enclosed fan cooled
(T.E.F.C.) industrial motor.
Magnetic safety switch with emergency
stop button for added safety.
Tri-Axis bearing guides.
WHEEL SIZE
18” (450 MM)
WHEEL SPEED
980 RPM - #90-270
1010 RPM - #90-270 HD
WIDTH OF WHEEL
1 1⁄8” (28.5 MM)
MIN/MAX BLADE WIDTH
1⁄4” TO 1” (6.3 TO 25.4 MM)
BLADE LENGTH
153” (3886 MM) - #90-270
168 1⁄2” (4280 MM) - #90-270 HD
BLADE SPEED
4460 FPM (1338 MPM) - #90-270
4700 FPM (1410 MPM) - #90-270 HD
MAXIMUM DEPTH OF CUT
12” (305 MM) - #90-270
18” (457 MM) - #90-270 HD
MAXIMUM WIDTH OF CUT
17 1⁄4” (438 MM)
TABLE SIZE
24” X 19 1⁄2” (610 X 500 MM)
TABLE TILT
0° TO 45° (OUT)
TABLE HEIGHT
35 1⁄2” (902 MM)
MOTOR
- #90-270
M1 - 3 HP, 220 V, 1 PH, 19 A
M2 - 3 HP, 220/440 V, 3 PH, 8/4.6 A
M3 - 3 HP, 600 V, 3 PH, 2.9 A
MOTOR
- #90-270HD
M1 - 5 HP, 220 V, 1 PH, 23 A
M2 - 5 HP, 220/440 V, 3 PH, 13.3/7.6 A
M3 - 5 HP, 600 V, 3 PH, 4.8 A
WEIGHT
616 LBS (280 KG) - #90-270
710 LBS (323 KG) - #90-270 HD
REVISION 1 - FEB 04/08
© COPYRIGHT GENERAL INTERNATIONAL 02/2008
GENERAL® INTERNATIONAL
8360 Champ-d’Eau, Montreal (Quebec) Canada H1P 1Y3
Telephone (514) 326-1161 • Fax (514) 326-5555
www.general.ca
THANK YOU for choosing this General® International model 90-270 or 90-270HD
18”Wood Cutting Bandsaw. This machine has been carefully tested and inspected before shipment and if properly used and maintained, will provide you with years of reliable service. To
ensure optimum performance and trouble-free operation, and to get the most from your
investment, please take the time to read this manual before assembling, installing and operating the unit.
The manual’s purpose is to familiarize you with the safe operation, basic function, and features
of this wood cutting bandsaw as well as the set-up, maintenance and identification of its parts
and components. This manual is not intended as a substitute for formal woodworking instruction, nor to offer the user instruction in the craft of woodworking. If you are not sure about the
safety of performing a certain operation or procedure, do not proceed until you can confirm,
from knowledgeable and qualified sources, that it is safe to do so.
Once you’ve read through these instructions, keep this manual handy for future reference.
GENERAL ® INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY
All component parts of General® International machinery are carefully tested and inspected during all stages of
production, and each machine is thoroughly inspected upon completion of assembly. Because of our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, General® International agrees to repair or replace, within a period of 24
months from date of purchase, any genuine part or parts which, upon examination, prove to be defective in workmanship or material. In order to obtain this warranty, all defective parts must be returned freight pre-paid to
General® International Mfg. Co., Ltd. Repairs attempted without our written authorization will void this warranty.
Disclaimer: The information and specifications in this manual pertain to
the unit as it was supplied from the factory at the time of printing.
Because we are committed to making constant improvements,
General® International reserves the right to make changes to components, par ts or features of this unit as deemed necessary, without prior
notice and without obligation to install any such changes on previously
delivered units. Reasonable care is taken at the factory to ensure that
the specifications and information in this manual corresponds with that
of the unit with which it was supplied. However, special orders and “after
factory” modifications may render some or all information in this manual inapplicable to your machine. Further, as several generations of this
bandsaw and several versions of this manual may be in circulation,
if you own an earlier or later version of this unit, this manual may not
depict your machine exactly. If you have any doubts or questions
contact your retailer or our support line with the model and serial
number of your unit for clarification.
Rules for Safe Operation
To help ensure safe operation, please take a moment to learn the machine’s applications and limita-
ions, as well as potential hazards. General® International disclaims any real or implied warranty and
t
hold itself harmless for any injury that may result from the improper use of it’s equipment.
1. Do not operate the bandsaw when tired, distracted
or under the effects of drugs, alcohol or any medication that impairs reflexes or alertness.
2. The working area should be well lit, clean and free
f debris.
o
3. Keep children and visitors at a safe distance when
the sander is in operation; do not permit them to
operate the sander.
4. Childproof and tamper proof your shop and all
machinery with locks, master electrical switches
and switch keys, to prevent unauthorized or unsupervised use.
5. Stay alert! Give your work your undivided attention.
Even a momentary distraction can lead to serious
injury.
6. Fine particulate dust is a carcinogen that can be
hazardous to health. Work in a well-ventilated area
and whenever possible use a dust collector. Wear
face, eye, ear, respiratory and body protection
devices.
7. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, bracelets,
necklaces or other jewelry while the bandsaw is in
operation.
15. Use suitable work piece support if the work piece
does not have a flat surface.
16. Hold material firmly against the table.
7. Do not work on long stock without adequate sup-
1
port on the out feed end of the table.
18. If using a power feeder, stop the feeder before stopping the bandsaw.
19. Do not push or force stock into the blade. The bandsaw will perform better and more safely when working at the rate for which it was designed.
20. Avoid working from awkward or off balance positions. Do not overreach and keep both feet on floor.
21. Keep guards in place and in working order. If a
guard must be removed for maintenance or cleaning be sure it is properly re-attached before using
the tool again.
22. Never leave the machine unattended while it is running or with the power on.
23. Use of parts and accessories NOT recommended
by
General® International may result in equip-
ment malfunction or risk of injury.
8. Be sure that adjusting wrenches, tools, drinks and
other clutter are removed from the machine and/or
the table surface before operating.
9. Keep hands well away from the blade and all moving parts. Use a brush, not hands, to clear
away chips and dust.
10. Adjust and position upper and lower blade guides
before starting to cut. Upper blade guide should be
adjusted to approximately 1/8” above the material
to be cut.
11. Adjust blade tension and tracking before starting to
cut.
12. Saw teeth must point down toward the table.
13. Be sure that the blade has gained full operating
speed before starting to cut.
14. Always use a clean, properly sharpened blade.
Dirty or dull blades are unsafe and can lead to
accidents.
24. Never stand on machinery. Serious injury could result if the tool is tipped over or if the cutting tool is
unintentionally contacted.
25. Always disconnect the machine from the power
source before servicing or changing accessories
such as blades, or before performing any maintenance or cleaning, or if the machine will be left unattended.
26. Make sure that the switch is in the “OFF” position
before plugging in the power cord.
27. Make sure the tool is properly grounded. If equipped with a 3 - prong plug it should be used with a
three-pole receptacle.Never remove the third prong.
28. Do not use this bandsaw for other than its intended
use. If used for other purposes,
General® Interna-
tional disclaims any real implied warranty and
holds itself harmless for any injury, which may result
from that use.
EELLEECCTTRRIICCAALL RREEQQUUII RREE MMEENNTTSS
NOTE: VOLTAGE REQUIREMENTS AND AMPERAGE DRAW FOR M2 & M3 3-PHASE MOTORS MAY NOT BE FULLY
DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL. FOR COMPLETE ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS REFER TO THE MOTOR I.D. NAME PLATE ON
THE MACHINE. IF IN DOUBT CONSULT A LICENSED QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN BEFORE PROCEEDING.
Before connecting the machine to the power source, verify that the voltage of your power supply corresponds with
the voltage specified on the I.D. nameplate located on the back of the machine. A power source with greater voltage than needed can result in serious injury to the user as well as damage to the machine. If in doubt, contact a
qualified electrician before connecting to the power source.
This tool is for indoor use only. Do not expose to rain or use in wet or damp locations.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Both a manual circuit breaker (or similar device) as well as an electrical plug are recommended and should be installed by a qualified
electrician. Use locally approved wire that includes a separate
grounding wire , and a 3 prong grounding type plug with a matching receptacle . (Fig. 1)
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
In the event of an electrical malfunction or short circuit, grounding
reduces the risk of electric shock to the operator. The motor of the “M1”
model of this machine is wired for 220V single phase operation. As with
many stationary industrial type machines, because each installation
situation is unique, this bandsaw is supplied without a power cord or
plug. The installation of an appropriate power cord and plug must be
performed by a qualified electrician. The machine must be connected
to an electrical source using a power cord that has a grounding wire, which must also be properly connected to
the grounding prong on the plug. The outlet must be properly installed and grounded and all electrical connections must be made in accordance with all local codes and regulations.
Fig. 1
CIRCUIT CAPACITY
Make sure that the wires in your circuit are capable of handling the amperage draw from your machine, as well as
any other machines that could be operating on the same circuit. If you are unsure, consult a qualified electrician.
If the circuit breaker trips or the fuse blows regularly, your machine may be operating on a circuit that is close to its
amperage draw capacity. However, if an unusual amperage draw does not exist and a power failure still occurs,
contact a qualified technician or our service department.
EXTENSION CORDS
The use of an extension cord is not generally recommended for 220V equipment. If you find it necessary, use only
3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong grounding plug and a matching 3-pole receptacle that accepts the
tool’s plug. Repair or replace a damaged extension cord or plug immediately.
If you find it necessary to use an extension cord with your machine make sure the cord rating is suitable for the
amperage listed on the motor I.D. plate. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of
power and overheating. The accompanying chart shows the correct size extension cord to be used based on cord
length and motor I.D. plate amp rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the number, the heavier
the gauge.
TABLE - MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD
VOLTS
110 V
220 V
25 ft.
50 ft.
18
18
16
14
TOTAL LENGTH OF CORD IN FEET
50 ft.
100 ft.
AWG
16
16
16
12
100 ft.
200 ft.
16
14
14
-
150 ft.
300 ft.
14
12
12
-
4
AMPERE
RATING
MORE
THAN
0
6
10
12
NOT
MORE
THAN
6
10
12
16
18” WOOD CUTTING BANDSAW
90-270 or 90-270HD
IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN PARTS AND COMPONENTS
FRONT VIEW
REAR VIEW
UPPER WHEEL
TENSION ADJUSTMENT HAND WHEEL
FENCE
LOWER WHEEL
UPPER BLADE GUIDES AND SUPPORT
BEARING ASSEMBLY
BLADE GUARD
DUST CHUTE
FOOT BRAKE PEDAL
ON/OFF SWITCH
BLADE TENSION INDICATOR
BLADE GUARD LOCK KNOB
BLADE GUARD ADJUSTMENT
HAND WHEEL
TRACKING ADJUSTMENT KNOB
SWITCH BOX
MOTOR
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION BOX
TABLE TILT ANGLE INDICATOR
5
UNPACKING
Carefully unpack and remove the unit and its components from its shipping container and check for missing or
damaged items as per the list of contents below.
NOTE: Please report any damaged or missing items to your GENERAL® INTERNATIONAL distributor immediately.
IST OF CONTENTS
L
nce the parts have been removed from the packa-
O
ing, you should have the following items:
QTY
18” WOOD CUTTING BANDSAW 1
TABLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
EYEBOLT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
19/21 MM COMBINATION WRENCH . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
DUST PORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
RIP FENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SET UP
• Three extra people for help with lifting machine (or
hoist or forklift with chains)
• 14 mm open end wrench
• 12 mm open end wrench
• Feeler gauge set
• Combination square
• Flat head Screwdriver
• Phillips Screwdriver
3
LIFTING AND HANDLING THE MACHINE
These models 90-270 and 90-270HD 18” wood cutting bandsaws are very heavy. Do not over-exert. The help of at
least three assistants, a hoist or forklift with chains will be needed for the following step.
To limit the risk of serious injury or damage to the machine, any equipment used to lift this machine (hoist or forklift) should have a rated capacity in excess of 616 lbs (280 kg) for model 90-270 and of 671 lbs (305 kg) for model
90-270HD.
To limit the potential for damage in transport, this bandsaw is shipped from the factory in the horizontal position.
Because of its great weight a minimum of 3 extra people will be required to assist with lifting and setting the
machine upright. That being said, to limit the risk of serious injury or damage to the machine, ideally, a hoist should
be used. A hoisting eyebolt is provided for that purpose. Install the eyebolt on top of the bandsaw as instructed in
section “ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS” on page 8.
6
PLACEMENT WITHIN THE SHOP / ESTABLISHING A SAFETY ZONE
2
7
”
27”
1
5
”
15”
7
5
”
75”
2
5
”
25”
3
3
”33”
2
7
”
2
0
”
8
2
”
2
7
”
3
4
”
2
7
”
27”
2
0
”
20”
8
2
”
82”
2
7
”
27”
3
4
”
34”
PLACEMENT WITHIN THE SHOP
Model #90-270HDModel #90-270
This machine should be installed and operated only on
a solid, flat and stable floor that is able to support the
weight of the bandsaw 616 lbs (280 kg) for model 90-
70 and of 671 lbs (305 kg) for model 90-270HD and the
2
operator. Using the dimensions shown in Fig. 2 & 2.1 as
a guideline, plan for placement within your shop that
will allow the operator to work unencumbered and
unobstructed by foot traffic (either passing shop visitors
or other shop workers) or other tools or machinery.
ESTABLISHING A SAFETY ZONE
For shops with frequent visitors or multiple operators, it is
advisable to establish a Safety Zone around shop
Fig. 2
machinery. A clearly defined “no-go” zone on the floor
around each machine can help avoid accidents that could cause injury to either the operator or the shop visitor.
It is advisable to take a few moments to either paint (using non-slip paint) or using tape, define on the floor the limits or perimeter of each machines safety zone. Take steps to ensure that all operators and shop visitors are aware
that these areas are off limits whenever a machine is running for everyone but the individual operating the unit.
Fig. 2.1
CLEAN UP
The protective coating on the saw table prevents rust
from forming during shipping and storage. Remove it
by rubbing with a rag dipped in kerosene, mineral spirits or paint thinner. (Dispose of potentially flammable
solvent-soaked rags according to manufacturer’s safety recommendations.)
A putty knife, held flat to avoid scratching the surface,
may also be used to scrape off the coating followed
by clean-up with solvent. Avoid rubbing the saw’s
painted surfaces, as many solvent-based products will
remove paint.
To prevent rust, apply a light coating of paste wax or use
regular applications of any after-market surface protectant or rust inhibitor such as General International “Top
Saver” item #GC-010.
Tip: With a screw driver, push a solvent-saturated rag into the T-slot to remove the grease.
7
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
For your convenience this bandsaw is shipped from the factory partially assembled and requires only minimal
assembly and set up before being put into service.
Serious personal injury could occur if you connect the machine to the power source before you have completed
the installation and assembly steps. DO NOT connect the machine to the power source until instructed to do so.
INSTALLING THE HOISTING EYEBOLT
1. Turn the knob clockwise to unlock the upper wheel
door, then open the door.
Put the nut back and tighten firmly, using the supplied 19 mm wrench, then close and lock the upper wheel door.
3.
2. Remove the nut from the provided hoisting eye-
bolt and insert the eyebolt in the hole located on
top of the bandsaw.
PREPARING TABLE INSTALLATION
1
. Remove the table tilt trunnion bolt and flat wash-
er , located on the trunnion support bracket
and set it aside.
8
2. Remove the table aligning pin from the table
slot on the front of the table.
Note: The table aligning pin should be easily removable with fingers only. If it is jammed, use pliers to remove it from the table slot.
INSTALLING THE TABLE
This bandsaw table is heavy. Do not over-exert. The help of an assistant will be needed for the following step.
90° CW
Note: Make sure that both table tilt trunnion grooves
align in the trunnion bracket .
1. Guide the gap between the rail and the edge of
the table over the saw blade then rotate 90°
clockwise so the slot is parallel to the blade, and
guide the table so the blade is at the end of the
slot .
3. Re-install the table aligning pin in the hole on
the front of the table.
INSTALLING THE DUST PORT
The dust port has a 4" opening
let on the right side of the band saw as follows:
to accommodate connection to a dust collector (not included). Install the dust out-
2. Put the flat washer down on the table tilt trunnion
then slip the table tilt trunnion bolt through the hole in
the trunnion bracket and tighten with the 19/21 mm
combination wrench provided.
1. Unscrew both wing nuts then remove the yellow
blade guard . Set it aside, along with the two
wing nuts and two flat washers.
Remove the four screws already mounted on
2.
the side panel.
9
osition the dust port on the side panel, its open
P
3.
end facing downward , and attach it using the
four screws. Then, put the blade guard back in
place .
REPOSITIONNING THE FOOT BRAKE
To limit the potential for damage in transport, this
bandsaw is shipped from the factory with the the foot
brake pedal tilted up . To be operational, the pedal
must be tilted down as follows:
1. Loosen the bolt that attaches the foot brake pedal to the mounting bracket using a 14 mm open
end wrench .
2. Swivel the foot brake pedal manually .
3. Tighten the bolt to lock the foot brake pedal in
position.
BASIC FUNCTIONS OF THE UNIT
This 18" wood cutting bandsaw is supplied with a 1/2" wide general purpose blade and is designed to accommodate blade widths from 1/4" to 1". Ideal blade length for the model 90-270 is 153" (3886 mm) and ideal blade length
for the 90-270HD is 168 1/2" (4280 mm).
Note: Generally speaking, because the upper wheel height is somewhat adjustable (to allow for blade tensioning), a blade
length variation of plus or minus 1/2" from the “ideal blade length” can be accommodated on both models.
Maximum inboard width of cut (space between t h e
blade and the body of the saw ) is 17 1/4 " for both
models.
For cutting thicker stock or for resawing, the maximum
depth of cut (or max. workpiece height ) is 12 " for
the 90-270 and 18" for the 90-270HD.
A sturdy, cast iron, adjustable rip fence is supplied
to serve as a straightedge to guide the workpiece for
longer rip cuts. The fence can easily be removed and
set aside when not required, for example when making curved cuts.
10
BASIC ADJUSTMENTS AND CONTROLS
CONNECTING TO A POWER SOURCE
SWITCH
OFF
Once the installation of a power cord and plug has
been completed, plug the power cord into an appropriate outlet. (Fig. 3) (Refer back to the section entitled
“ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS” on page 4, and make
sure all requirements and grounding instructions are
followed).
Contact a qualified electrician for the installation of a power plug and cord for connecting the bandsaw to a power source.
To avoid risk of shock or fire do not operate the unit with a damaged power cord or plug. Replace damaged cord or plug immediately.
To avoid unexpected or unintentional start-up, make sure that the power switch on the bandsaw is in the
OFF position before connecting to a power source.
MAGNETIC SWITCH
Make sure the switch is in the “OFF” position (red button has been pressed) before plugging in the power cord.
Fig. 3
This bandsaw is equipped with a MAGNETIC SWITCH,
, located at the front, on the frame of the machine.
This magnetic switch is designed to protect the unit
and the user from power surges, power outages and
unwanted or unintentional start-up.
The switch assembly is equipped with a GREEN “START”
button, , and a RED spring loaded “STOP” button, .
Once the RED “STOP” button has been pressed, the
machine can only be started by turning the inner part
of the button to the right to release the stop button.
FOOT BRAKE
The Foot brake is not designed as an emergency device. Always push on the “STOP” (RED) button to turn off the
motor before applying the foot brake.
This bandsaw is equipped with a FOOT BRAKE located
at the bottom of the machine . This device allows
for immediate immobilization of the blade once the
machine have been turned off (red button has
been pressed ).
11
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