JET, Wilton and Powermatic warrants every product they sell against manufacturers’ defects. If one of our tools
needs service or repair, please contact Technical Service by calling 1-800-274-6846, 8AM to 5PM CST, Monday
through Friday
Warranty Period
The general warranty lasts for the time period specified in the literature included with your product or on the official
JET, Wilton or Powermatic branded websites.
•JET, Wilton and Powermatic products carry a limited warranty which varies in duration based upon the
product. (See chart below)
• Accessories carry a limited warranty of one year from the date of receipt.
• Consumable items are defined as expendable parts or accessories expected to become inoperable within a
reasonable amount of use and are covered by a 90 day limited warranty against manufacturer’s defects.
Who is Covered
This warranty covers only the initial purchaser of the product from the date of delivery.
What is Co vered
This warranty covers any defects in workmanship or materials subject to the limitations stated below. This warranty
does not cover failures due directly or indirectly to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, normal wear-and-tear,
improper repair, alterations or lack of maintenance.
Warranty Limitations
Woodworking products with a Five Year Warranty that are used for commercial or industrial purposes default to a
Two Year Warranty. Please contact Technical Service at 1-800-274-6846 for further clarification.
How to Get Technical Support
Please contact Technical Service by calling 1-800-274-6846. Please note that you will be asked to provide proof
of initia l p u rch a s e whe n calling. If a product requires further inspection, the Technical Service representative will
explain and assist with any additional action needed. JET, Wilton and Powermatic have Authorized Service Centers
located throughout the United States. For the name of an Authorized Service Center in your area call 1-800-274-6846
or use th e Serv i ce Center L ocator on t he JET, Wilton or Powermatic web site.
More Informa tion
JET, Wilton and Powermatic are consistently adding new products. For complete, up-to-date product information,
check with your local distributor or visit the JET, Wilton or Powermatic website.
How S tate Law A pplies
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, subject to applicable state law.
Limitations on This Warranty
JET, WILTON AND POWERMATIC LIMIT ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES TO THE PERIOD OF THE LIMITED
WARRANTY FOR EACH PRODUCT. EXCEPT AS STATED HEREIN, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXCLUDED. SOME STATES DO NOT
ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT
APPLY TO YOU.
JET, WILTON AND POWERMATIC SHALL IN NO EVENT BE LIABLE FOR DEATH, INJURIES TO PERSONS OR
PROPERTY, OR FOR INCIDENTAL, CONTINGENT, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM
THE USE OF OUR PRODUCTS. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY
TO YOU.
JET, Wilton and Powermatic sell through distributors only. The specifications listed in JET, Wilton and Powermatic
printed materials and on official JET, Wilton and Powermatic-branded websites are given as general information and
are not binding. JET, Wilton and Powermatic reserve the right to effect at any time, without prior notice, those
alterations to parts, fittings, and accessory equipment which they may deem necessary for any reason whatsoever.
®
branded products are not sold in Canada by Walter Meier Manufacturing Americas.
JET
Product Listing with Warranty Period
90 Days – Parts; Consumable items; Light-Duty Air Tools
1 Year – Motors; Machine Accessories; Heavy-Duty Air Tools; Pro-Duty Air Tools
2 Year – Metalworking Machinery; Electric Hoists, Electric Hoist Accessories
5 Year – Woodworking Machinery
Limited Lifetime – Wilton branded products; JET Parallel clamps; Manual Hoists; Manual Hoist Accessories;
Shop Tools; Warehouse & Dock products; Hand Tools
NOTE: JET, Wilton and Powermatic are divisions of Walter Meier Manufacturing Americas. References in this
document to JET, Wilton and/or Powermatic also apply to Walter Meier Manufacturing Americas or any of its
successors in interest to the JET, Wilton and/or Powermatic brands.
2
2.0 Table of contents
Section Page
1.0 Warranty and Service ..................................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 Table of contents ............................................................................................................................................ 3
4.0 About this manual .......................................................................................................................................... 5
8.1 Voltage conversion ..................................................................................................................................... 7
8.2 Three-phase test run .................................................................................................................................. 7
10.4 Top guide adjustment ............................................................................................................................. 10
10.5 Changing saw b lades ............................................................................................................................. 10
10.6 Work lamp bulb ...................................................................................................................................... 10
11.1 Material composition .............................................................................................................................. 10
11.3 Set type .................................................................................................................................................. 11
16.0 Speed and pitch chart ................................................................................................................................ 20
17.0 Typical Band Saw Operations .................................................................................................................... 21
18.0 Replacement Parts ..................................................................................................................................... 21
18.1.1 VBS-1610 Band Saw – Exploded View ............................................................................................... 22
1. Read and understand the entire owner's
manual before attempting assembly or
operation.
2. Read and understand the warnings posted on
the machine and in this manual. Failure to
comply wit h all of these warnings may cause
serious injury.
3. Replace the warning labels if they become
obscured or removed.
4. This band saw is designed and intended for
use by properly trained and experienced
perso nnel on ly. If you are no t fam iliar w ith the
proper and safe operation of a band saw, do
not use until proper training and knowledge
have been obtained.
5. Do not use this band saw for other than its
intended use. If used for other purposes,
Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc., disclaims
any real or implied warranty and holds itself
harmless from any injury that may result from
that use.
6. Always wear approved safety glasses/face
shields while using this band saw. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant lenses;
they are not safety glasses.
7. Before operating this band saw, remove tie,
rings, watches and other jewelry, and roll
sleeves up past the elbows. Remove all loose
clothing and confine long hair. Non-slip
footwear or anti-skid floor strips are
recommended. Do not wear gloves.
8. Wear ear protectors (plugs or muffs) during
extended periods of operation.
9. Some dust created by power sanding, sawing,
grinding, drilling and other construction
activities contain chemicals known to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive
harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
• Lead from lead based paint.
•
Crystalline silica from bricks, cement and
other masonry products.
•
Arsenic and chromium from chemically
treated lumber.
Your risk of exposure varies, depending on
how often you do this type of work. To reduce
your exposure to these chemicals, work in a
well-ventilated area and work with approved
safety equipment, such as face or dust masks
that are specifically designed to filter out
microscopic particles.
10. Do not operate this machine while tired or
under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any
medication.
11. Make certain the switch is in the OFF po sition
before connecting the machine to the power
supply.
12. Make certain the machine is properly
grounded.
13. Make all machine adjustments or maintenance
with the machine unplugged from the power
source.
14. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Form a
habit of checking to see that keys and
adjusting wrenches are removed from the
machine before turning it on.
15. Keep safety guards in place at all times when
the machine is in use. If removed for
maintenance purposes, use extreme caution
and replace the guards immediately after
completion of maintenance.
16. Check damaged parts. Before further use of
the machine, a guard or other part that is
damaged should be carefully checked to
determine that it will operate properly and
perform its intended function. Check for
alignment of moving parts, binding of moving
parts, breakage of parts, mounting and any
other conditions that may affect its operation.
A guard or other part that is damaged should
be properly repaired or replaced.
17. Provide for adequate space surrounding work
area and non-glare, overhead lighting.
18. Keep the floor around the machine clean and
free of scrap material, oil and grease.
19. Keep visitors a safe distance from the work
area. Keep children away.
20. Make your workshop child proof w ith padlocks,
master switches or by removing starter keys.
21. Give your work undivided attention. Looking
around, carrying on a conversation and “horseplay” are careless acts that can result in
serious injury.
22. Maintain a balanced stance at all times so t hat
you do not fall into the blade or other moving
parts. Do not overreach or use excessive force
to perform any machine operation.
23. Use the right tool at the correct speed and
feed rate. Do not force a tool or attachment to
do a job for which it was not designed. The
right tool will do the job better a nd more safely.
4
24. Use recommended accessories; improper
accessories may be hazardous.
25. Maintain tools with care. Keep saw blades
sharp and clean for the best and safest
performance. Follow instructions for lubricating
and changing accessories.
26. Turn off the machine before cleaning. Use a
brush or compressed air to remove chips or
debris — do not use your bare hands.
27. Do not stand on the machine. Serious injury
could occur if the machine tips over.
28. Never leave the machine running unattended.
Turn the power off and do not leave the
machine until it comes to a complete stop.
29. Remove loose items and unnecessary work
pieces from the area before starting the
machine.
30. Keep hands out of the line of saw blade.
31. Always use push sticks when cutting small
material.
Familiarize yourself with the following safety notices used in this manual:
32. Raise or lower blade guide only when machine
has been turned off and blade has stopped
moving.
33. Always wear leather gloves when handling
saw blades. The operator should not wear
gloves when operating the band saw.
34. Do not allow the saw blade to rest against the
workpiece when the saw is not running.
35. The saw must be stopped and the electrical
supply must be cut off before any blade
replacement, drive belt replacement, or any
periodic service or maintenance is performed
on the machine.
36. Remove cut off pieces carefully, keeping
hands away from the blade. The saw must be
stopped and the electrical supply cut off or
machine unplugged before reaching into the
cutting area.
37. Don’t use in dangerous environment. Don’t
use power tools in damp or wet location, or
expose them to rain. Keep work area well
lighted.
This means that if preca utions are not heeded, it m ay result in minor injury a nd/or possible
machine damage.
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in serious injury or possibly even
death.
4.0 About this manual
This manual is provided by Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc. covering the safe operation and maintenance
procedures for a JET Model VBS-1610 Band Saw. This manual contains instructions on installation, safety
precautions, general operating procedures, m aintenance instructio ns and parts breakdown. Your m achine has
been designed and constructed to provide years of trouble-free operation if used in accordance with the
instructions as set forth in this document.
If there are questions or comments, please contact your local supplier or Walter Meier. Walter Meier can also
be reached at our web site: www.waltermeier.com.
Retain this manual for future reference. If the machine transfers ownership, the manual should accompany it.
Read and understand the entire contents of this manual before attem pting assembly
or operation! Failure to comply may cause serious injury!
5
5.0 Specifications
Model number ......................................................................................................................................... VBS-1610
Stock number .............................................................................................................................................. 414485
Low range (SFM) .................................................................................................................................... 82-330
High range (SFM) ................................................................................................................................ 985-3950
Table size .................................................................................................................................................. 22” x 24”
Table height from floor at 90° ............................................................................................................................. 40”
Table tilt:
Front and Back ......................................................................................................................................... 8 deg.
Right ....................................................................................................................................................... 15 deg.
Left ......................................................................................................................................................... 12 deg.
Blade width, maximum ...................................................................................................................................... 5/8”
Floor space r equired ................................................................................................................................. 37” x 28”
Weights:
Net ............................................................................................................................................................. 900 lb
The specifications in this manual were current at time of publication, but because of our policy of continuous
improvement, Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc., reserves the right to change specificat ions at any time and wit hout
prior notice, wit hout incurring obligations.
6
6.0
Uncrating and assembly
8.0 Electrical connections
1. Finish uncrating the band saw. Contact your
distributor if any damage has occurred duri ng
shipping.
2. Remove any preservative with kerosene or
diesel oil. Do not use gasoline, paint thinner,
or any cellulose-based product, as these will
damage painted surfaces.
3. Remove two socket head cap screws from left
side of vertica l column. Attach shear assembly
(A, Figure 1) to column by inserting hex cap
screws.
4. Place rip fence onto table and tighten with
locking kn ob.
All electrical connections
must be done by a qualified electrician. All
adjustments or repairs must be done with
machine disconnected from power source.
Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
The VBS-1610 Band Saw is rated at 230/460V and
comes from the factory prewired 230V.
You may either connect a proper UL-listed plug
suitable for 230 volt operation, or "hard-wire" the
machine directly to your e lectrical panel pro vided
there is a disconnect near the machine for the
operator.
The band saw must be grounded. A qualified
electrician can make the proper electrical
connections and confirm the power on site is
compatible with the saw.
Before connecting to power source, make sure
switch is in off position.
8.1 Voltage conversion
To switch to 460V operation:
1. Switch the incoming leads in the motor
junction box (follow wiring diagram on inside
cover of motor junction box).
Figure 1
7.0 Installation
1. Remove three (3) nuts and washers holding
band saw to shipping crate bottom.
2. Use the lifting ring to lift band saw into its
permanent location. For best performance,
band saw should be bolted to floor after a level
position has been found.
3. Using a square, adjust table 90 degrees to
blade, both front to back and side to side.
Loosen the hex cap screws below the table to
move it and tighten to hold table in place. If
necessary, adjust the pointers to zero should
they read different once table is perpendicular
to blade in both directions.
4. To level the machine, place a machinist's level
on the table and observe in both directions.
5. Use metal shims under the appropriate hold
down screw. Tighten screw and recheck for
level.
6. Adj ust wit h addit iona l shim s, as req uired , unt il
table is level when all mounting screws (or
nuts) are tight.
2. Switch the jumper wires on the circuit board.
Remove control panel from saw body and
change the jumper wires according to the list
in section 19.0, Electrical diagram.
3. If a plug is to be used, install a proper ULlisted plug suitable for 460V operation.
IMPORTANT: Consult the diagrams in section 19.0
for any clarification of these changes on 230V to
460V conversion.
8.2 Three-phase test run
Aft er wiri ng the band sa w, yo u should c heck that
the wires have been connected properly. Connect
machine to power source and turn it on for an
instant to watch direction of blade movement.
If blade runs upward instead of downward,
disconnect machine from power, and switch any
two of the three leads in the motor junction box
(see section 19.0, Electrical diagram).
7
9.0 Controls
Low/High Range Shift Lever (B, Figure 2) – Pull
toward front of machine to shift into low speed
range. Push toward rear of machine to shift into
high speed range. CAUTION: Do not change
speed range while machine is running. Adjust
only when machine is stopped.
Anneal Button (K, Figure 3) – located on blade
welder panel. Press and hold to anneal blade,
release to stop.
Blade Clamp Pressure Knob (L, Figure 3) –
located on blade welder panel. Sets pressure for
different width blades. Turn counterclockwise to
bring blade clamps closer together, clockwise to
separate.
Blade Clamps (M, Figure 3) – located on blade
welder panel. DOWN position allows insertion of
blade into clamp. UP position locks blade.
Figure 2
Variable Speed Handwheel (C, Figure 2) – Turn
clockwise to increase speed and counterclockwise
to decrease speed. CAUTION: Do not turn
handwheel while machine is stopped. Adjust
speed only when machine is running.
Upper Blade Guide Lock Knob (D, Figure 2) –
Turn counterclockwise to loosen and clockwise to
tighten.
Work Lamp Switch (E, Fig ure 2) – on top of lamp
shade; turns lamp on and off.
Main Motor Start S witch (F, Figure 2) – P ress to
start band saw.
Main Motor Stop Switch (G, Figure 2) – Press to
stop band saw.
Shear Lever (H, Figure 2) – UP position allows
insertion of blade end into shear. Pull lever DOWN
to cut blade.
Grinder Toggle S witch (I, Figure 3) – located on
blade welder panel. Flip switch up to start grinder;
flip down to stop grinder.
Weld Button (J, Figure 3) – located on blade
welder panel. Press and hold to start welding.
Shuts off automatically when weld is done.
Release when weld is completed.
Figure 3
Blade Tension Handwheel (N, Figure 4) – located
on underside of upper frame. Turn clockwise to
tension blade; counterclockwise to release tension
on blade.
Blade Tracking Handle (O, Figure 4) – located at
upper rear of saw. Turn clockwise to track blade
toward front of blade wheel. T urn counterclockw ise
to track blade toward rear of blade wheel.
Figure 4
8
Table Tilt Mechanism – located under work table.
To tilt table left or right, loosen two socket head
cap screws (P, Figure 5) at rear of mec hanism. To
level table front to back, loosen four socket head
cap screws (Q, Figure 6) on either side of
mechanism.
Figure 5
2. Apply finger pressure to blade. Travel from
vertical should be approximately 3/8" each
way.
3. To tighten blade, tur n handwheel (C, Figure 7)
clockwise. To loosen blade, turn handwheel
counterclockwise.
4. Use blade tension indicator (D, Figure 8) as
reference only. Blade should be tensioned
using the finger pressure method.
Figure 8
Figure 6
10.0 Adjustments
All adjustments or repairs to
machine must be done with power off and
machine disconnected from power source.
Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
10.1 Blade tensioning
1. Raise upper blade guide by loosening lock
knob (A, Figure 7) and lifting blade guide
handle (B, Figure 7) to its highest position.
10.2 Blade tracking
Blade tracking may be required periodically
depending upon blade size and tension. The blade
must be tensioned as outlined in section 10.1Blade tensioning. Disconnect machine from power
source and open upper blade wheel door. Shift
high-low gear box lever into neutral position. Turn
upper blade wheel by hand while observing blade
position on upper blade wheel. If adjustment is
necessary:
1. Turn blade tracking knob (E, Figure 8)
clockwise to track blade toward front of blade
wheel.
2. Turn tracking knob counterclockwise to track
blade toward rear of blade wheel. Blade
should run next to, but not against, t he whee l
flange.
Note: Upper and lower blade guides should be
moved away and left loose from the blade while
tracking adjustments are being made.
10.3 Blade guide adjustment
Blade guides m ust be proper ly
adjusted or damage may occur to blade and/or
guides.
Figure 7
Guard has been removed to
show detail. Always operate saw with guard in
place and properly adj usted. Failure to comply
may cause serious injury.
9
Blade guide adjustment has been set by the
manufacturer. Should future adjustment be
needed, proceed as follows.
1. Loosen upper blade guide lock knob and raise
guide assembly to half-way between table and
head, then tighten lock knob
2. Loosen two set screws (F, Figure 9) and adjust
guide so that blade guides are in back of saw
teeth. Blade guides must be adjusted far
enough back to clear saw blade even during
cutting operation when the blade is deflected
toward the rear.
3. Tighten the two screws (F, Figure 9).
4. Open upper access door and rotate blade
wheel by hand until weld portion of blade is
between the two fingers.
5. Loosen two socket head cap screws (G,
Figure 9) and adjust each finger toward the
blade. They should not touch t he blade. Adjust
for 0.010” clearance on either side.
6. Retighten the two screws (G, Figure 9) once
proper adjustment has been made. Be sure
that adjustment for air nozzle has not changed
and it directs the flow of air to the cut.
4. Remove blade from both wheels and
maneuver it around blade guard on column
and protective shield on upper blade guide.
Use gloves when handling blades.
5. Install new blade by maneuvering around
blade guard on column and protective shield
on upper blade guide.
6. Place it between the fingers of both blade
guides and onto both wheels. Position next to
both wheel flanges. Make sure teeth point
down toward table. NOTE: If teeth will not
point downward regardless of blade
orientation, the blade is inside-out. Twist blade
outside-in and reinstall.
7. Tension blade by turning tension handwheel.
Rotate wheel by hand and make sure blade is
properly seated in blade guides. Blade guides
will have to be adjusted if the replacement
blade is a different type and width.
8. Turn on saw and check blade tracking. Adjust
tracking i f necessary.
10.6 Work lamp bulb
The work lamp uses a standard medium-base 60
watt bulb (not provided).
Figure 9
7. Adjust lower blade guides in similar manner.
Note: Even properly adjusted blade guides will
show wear after continual use. Readjust as
necessary. If the blade guides become diff icult to
adjust, switch the left and right blade guides.
10.4 Top guide adjustm e n t
Always position top guide to within 1/8” of the top
surface of workpiece. This minimizes exposure of
operator’s hands to the saw blade.
10.5 Changing saw blades
1. Disconnect saw from power source.
2. Move upper blade guide to its highest position
and lock in place.
3. Open both wheel doors. Turn tension
adjustment handwheel counterclockwise to
loosen tension on blade.
11.0 Blade selection
Proper blade selection is just as important to band
saw operation as is blade speed and material feed.
Proper blade selection will impact blade life,
straightness of cut, cut finish, and efficiency of
operation. Excessive blade breakage, stripping of
teeth, and waviness of cut are some of the results
of improper blade selection.
Blades are classified by material composition, tooth
shape, tooth pitch, tooth set, gage of the band
material, and kerf of the set (width of cut).
11.1 Material compositio n
Carbon Steel – low cost, for use with non-ferrous
materials, wood, and plastics.
High Speed Steel – resi sts heat generated by dry
cutting. Used for ferrous metals.
Alloy Steel – tough and wear resistant, cuts faster
with longer blade life. Used on hard materials.
More expensive than carbon or high speed steel.
Carbide Tipped – for cutting unusual materials
such as uranium, titanium, or beryllium.
11.2 Tooth shape
Note: When cutting thin materials, the rule for
blade pitch is to have a minimum of two teeth
engaging the material being cut at all times.
Standard Tooth - generally used to cut ferrous
metals, hard bronze, hard brass, and thin metals.
10
Skip Tooth - have better chip clearance (larger
gullet) and are used on softer, non-ferrous
materials such as aluminum, copper, magnesium,
and soft brass.
Hook Tooth - provides a chip breaker and has less
tendency to gum up in softer materials. Used in the
same materials as skip tooth but can be fed faster
than standard or skip tooth blades.
11.3 Set type
Straight Set – used for free cutting non-ferrous
materials; i.e., aluminum, magnesium, plastics, and
wood.
Wavy Set – used on material s of vary ing thickness
(pipe, tubing, and structural shapes).
Raker Set – used in large cuts on thick p late and
bar stock where finish of cut is not as important as
speed.
11.4 Gage
Gage is the thickness of material from which the
blade is produced. The thicker the material, the
stronger the blade.
11.5 Kerf
Kerf is the width of a cut. Kerf will vary according to
the set of the blade teeth.
11.6 Width
The thinner the blade, the tighter will be the
minimum radius of cut. Always use widest blade
possible for the job.
General rules for blade selection:
•Select coarser pitch blades for thicker or softer
material.
• Select finer p itch b lades f or th inner or ha rder
material.
11.7 Blade breakage
Band sa w blad es are subje ct to hig h stre sses a nd
breakage may sometimes be unavoidable.
However, many factors can be controlled to help
prevent most blade breakage. Here are some
common causes for breakage:
1. Misalignment of blade guides.
2. Feeding workpiece too quickly.
3. Using a wide blade to cut a short radius curve.
4. Excessive tension.
5. Teeth are dull or improperly set.
6. Upper guides are set too high off the
workpiece.
7. Faulty weld on blade.
12.0 Welder operation
Wear eye protection while
operating welder. Use care when handling
blade after welding to avoid burns.
The welding procedure involves the following
steps: Shearing the blade, grinding teeth to allow
for the weld area, the actual welding, inspection of
blade, annealing, grinding and a final inspection of
blade. This procedure can be accomplished using
the shear and welder assemblies on your band
saw. Proceed as follows:
12.1 Shearing
Cut blade to longest length needed for band saw.
Using the shear to cut yo ur b lade will e nsure t hat
cut ends are flat, square and smooth.
1. Pl a c e handl e i n upri ght po s i tio n.
2. Position blade against back of square cutting
guide of shear. See Figure 10. Make sure
blade is held square w ith shear knife, so that
cut will b e square with blade.
• Use fine pitch blades to obtain a smooth finish.
• Use coarse pitch blades to obtain faster cutting
speeds (thick material).
• To pre vent premature blade wear, use fastest
practical speed.
• Adjust feed rate to ensure continuous cutting
action.
•Run the bandsaw with blade centered in upper
and lower guides, and guide fingers adjusted
as close as possible without touching the
blade or weld joint.
Never adjust guide fingers
while blade is running. Failure to comply may
cause serious injury.
Figure 10
3. Posit ion blade so that cut is made at a place
that allows for uniform spacing of teeth. See
Figure 11.
4. Bring handle down firmly to cut blade.
11
IMPORTANT: If a blade has been cut by using
snips, the ends of the blade must be ground
square before welding them together, a s shown in
Figure 12.
Figure 11
clamp. Then position the end of the blade
midway between left and right clamps. Tighten
left clamp.
5. Insert opposite end of blade into right clamp.
Position back edge of blade against back edge
of right clamp. Then butt the end of blade
against the other end of blade (the blade e nds
need to be in contact with each other). Tig hten
right clamp.
6. Set pressure selector switch (counterclockwise
rotation) to the approximate setting required
for the width of the blade being welded.
Keep hands clear of weld area
and clamp jaws during welding.
7. Press a nd hold weld button (Figure 13). When
weld button is pushed, the left clamp moves to
the right to apply pressure to the blade ends.
Simult aneously, sparks will be emitted from the
blade ends as they are being welded. Do not
release weld button until blade joint is “red
hot.”
Figure 12
12.2 Removing Teeth
In fine pitched blades, one or more of the teeth on
each side of the c ut may need to be removed by
grinding so that the weld area of the blade is
uniform and the teeth will be uniformly spaced. See
Figure 11, and refer to section 12.5 Blade grinding.
12.3 Welding
The welder is designed for
intermittent use. Repeated welding within a
short period of time may cause welder to
overheat.
1. Clean welder jaws and lower jaw inserts.
2. Carefully clean ends of blade which will
contact welder jaws. Remove any dirt, oil,
scale and oxide.
Any rust (oxide) on blade in
vicinity of weld must be ground off before
blade can be welded.
Figure 13
8. Release weld button, and wait 3 or 4 seconds
until blade returns to original color. Unclamp
blade.
9. Rotate pressure selector switch back to “0”.
10. Remove blade from clamps, and carefully
inspect it. The spacing of the teeth should be
uniform and the weld should be located in
center of gullet. Misalignm ent is easily noted at
this time from the weld appearance. See
Figure 14 for examples of incorrect welds.
11. If the weld is imperfect, refer to section 15.3 for
possible remedies to any problems. Make
corrections before annealing.
3. Turn pressure knob (Figure 13) to “0” position
(pointed downward). NOTE: There will be
some resistance when turning knob.
4. Insert one end of blade into left clamp. Position
back edge of blade against back edge of lef t
12
Figure 14
12.4 Annealing
The blade must now be annealed, or cooled at a
controlled rate to prevent it becoming too brittle.
excess weld material using the grinder. Ref er
to section 12.5, Blade grinding.
If blade is thicker at the weld
than at the rest of the blade, using the blade
may damage the guides.
The following are variations of the general
procedure, based upon blade type:
12.4.1 Carbon stee l blades
1. Press and jog the annealing switch button until
weld is a "dull cherry" to "cherry red" color.
2. Allow blade to cool slowly by decreasing
jogging frequency.
12.4.2 Carbon stee l hard back blades
1. Heat blade slowly until weld becomes a deep
blue color.
2. Continue to heat by jogging the anneal button
until the width of t he blue color is one- half the
length of the band exposed between the jaws.
3. Do not overheat or the temper of the ba nd will
be damaged. Ca uti o n - Do not hea t be yo nd the "blue" stage. If the band begins to show
any red color, it is too hot. Cool quickly by
releasing the anneal button.
The general procedure follows. Specific procedure
will depend upon blade type, as described in
sections 12.4.1 through 12.4.3.
1. Turn pressure se lector knob all the way to lef t
so clamp jaws are closest to each other.
2. Insert blade into clamps so that weld area is
centered between clamps. Secure blade in
jaws with the clamp handles.
3. Quickly press and release (“jog”) the anneal
button (Figure 13). Repeat jog process until
you see a slightly red glow from weld area.
Do not press and hold the
anneal push button. The weld will be
overheated and will fail due to excessive
heat.
4. Release both blade clamps, allow blade to
cool, then remove blade from clamps.
5. Check weld integrity. Bend blade to form a
radius at point of weld. T he size of the radius
should be approximately the same as radius of
band saw drive wheel. The weld must hold and
not break or crack after forming the radius. If
the weld breaks, cut away welded area and
repeat welding-annealing process.
6. Check to make sure welded section is same
thickness as rest of blade. If not, grind off
Figure 15
12.4.3 Bi-Metal blades
1. Heat blade slowly by jogging the annealing
switch button until weld just begins to emit light
(dull red color). The desired color may not
always be visible in normal room light - always
shade the weld area with your hand.
2. Cool the weld quickly by releasing the
annealing button.
3. Follow this procedure before and after grinding
bimetal blades.
13
12.5 Blade grinding
13.0 Band saw operation
Keep hands away from
rotating grinding wheel. Failure to comply may
cause serious injury. Always heed the indicator
light – when glowing, it warns that t he gr inder
motor is running.
After annealing, the blade must be ground to
remove excess metal or flash from the weld. With
the teeth facing out, grind the weld carefully (Figure
16). Do not hit the teeth, or grind deeper t han the
weld, burn, or overheat the weld area. Be sure to
remove flash from back edge of blade. Any flash or
"stub" teeth which project beyond the normal set or
height of the other teeth must be ground off.
Figure 17 illustrates some unacceptable grindings.
Figure 16
Consult section 9.0 for identification of the controls.
Unlock the control panel using the provided key.
Never operate band saw
without blade and wheel covers in place and
secured.
13.1 Blade break-in p rocedure
New blades are very sharp and therefore have a
tooth geometry that is easily damaged if a careful
break-in procedure is not followed. Consult the
blade manufacturer’s literature for break-in of
specific blades on specific materials. The following
procedure will be adequate, however, for break -in
of JET-supplied blades on lower alloy ferrous
materials.
1. Use a section of round stock.
2. Operate the saw at low speed. Start the cut
with a very light feed rate.
3. W hen the saw has completed about 1/3 of the
cut, increase the feed rate slightly and allow
the saw to complete the cut.
4. Keep the feed rate at the same setting and
begin a second cut on the same or similar
workpiece.
5. W hen the saw has completed about 1/3 of the
cut, increase the feed rate while watching the
chip formation until cutting is at its most
efficient rate (refer to “Evaluating Cutting
Efficiency” below). Allow the saw to com plete
the cut.
Figure 17
12.6 Secondary Annealing
Anneal the weld 2 to 3 times again after grinding.
12.7 Welder Clean-Up
It is important that the welder jaw s be kept clean at
all times. The jaws and inserts must be wiped or
scraped clean after every weld. Doing this will
ensure better welds by:
1. Holding proper alignment.
2. Prevent ing f lash f rom becoming em bedded in
the blade.
3. Preventing shorts or poor electrical contact.
6. The blade is now considered ready for use.
13.2 Setting blade speed
1. Refer to Speed and Pitch chart in section 16.0.
Select speed setting for the material to be cut.
2. While machine is NOT running, move gear
shift lever (B, Figure 2) to required speed
setting (high or low).
Move gear shift lever only
when machine is NOT running, to prevent
damage to gearbox.
The best way to determine whether a blade is
cutting efficiently is to observe the chips formed by
the cutting.
•If chip form ation is powdery, then the feed rate
is too light, or blade is dull.
• If the chips formed are curled, but colored –
blue or straw colored from heat generated
during the cut – then feed rate is excessive.
• If chips are slightly curled and not colored by
heat, then the blade is suf f iciently sharp and is
cutting at its most efficient rate.
14.0 Maintenance
Before doing maintenance on
the machine, disconnect it from the electrical
supply by pulling out the plug or switching off
the main switch. Failure to comply may cause
serious injury.
Use a brush to loosen accumulated chips and
debris. Use a shop vacuum to remove the debris.
Make sure the chip brush on the lower band wheel
is properly adjusted.
If the power cord is worn, c ut, or damaged in any
way, have it replaced immediately.
Wipe off the rubber tires, and clean t he tables af ter
each day’s use.
14.1 Lubrication schedule
•Upper Blade Guide Shaft – lightly grease
weekly. Clean after each day's use.
•Speed Change Handle – grease monthly with
a light film on teeth and threads.
•Variable Pulley - insert a light weight grease
into the grease fitting located on end of pulley
shaft.
•Blade Tension Screw – grease monthly.
15
15.0 Troubleshooti ng
15.1 Operating problems
Table 1
Trouble Probable Cause Remedy
Blade has been improperly welded. Re-weld blade. See section 12.3
Blade not installed properly. Set guide inserts closer, and increase
Saw blade is twisted.
Cuts not straight.
Blade slips off
wheel(s).
Blade quickly becomes
dull.
Blade warps.
Band Saw is noisy, or
vibrates too much.
Blade teeth keep
breaking.
Blade becomes
damaged easily.
Feeding workpiece too forcefully. Decrease feed rate.
Incorrect choice of blade. Use proper width blade for radius or
Blade tooth has improper set. File to proper set or replace blade.
Inadequate blade tension. Increase tension.
Guide post too high. Set guide post closer to workpiece.
Feed rate too strong. Decrease feed rate.
Inadequate blade tension. Increase tension.
Wheels not aligned properly. Contact technical service for adjustment
Blade speed too fast. Use slower speed.
Wrong blade for the job. Use proper blade for workpiece.
Feed rate excessive. Decrease feed rate.
Dull blade. Sharpen or replace blade.
Guide post not fixed properly. Fix guide post in position.
Blade not tensioned enough. Increase tension.
Blade not 90° to table. Adjust table perpendicular to blade.
Band Saw not resting on level surface. Floor must be flat.
Variable speed pulley is damaged. Replace pulley.
Incorrect blade for the job. Select proper blade pitch and style.
Blade is of inferior material. Use better quality blade.
Blade has been over-annealed. Decrease annealing temperature.
Too large a gap between blade guides
and blade.
Blade too wide for short radius cutting. Select narrower blade appropriate to
blade tension.
wavy line cutting.
of wheel alignment.
Adjust proper gap between guides and
blade. See section 10.3
the job.
16
15.2 Mechanical and electrical problems
Table 2
Trouble Probable CauseRemedy
Machine will not
start/restart or
repeatedly trips circuit
breaker or blows
fuses.
Machine will not
start/restart or
repeatedly trips circuit
breaker or blows fuses
(cont.)
Band Saw does not
come up to speed.
No incoming power.
Cord damaged. Replace cord.
Overload automatic reset has not reset.
Band Saw frequently trips.
Building circuit breaker trips or fuse
blows.
Switch or motor failure (how to
distinguish).
Motor overheated.
Motor failure.
Miswiring of the unit.
Switch failure.
Extension cord too light or too long.
Low current. Contact a qualified electrician.
Verify machine is connected to power
source. Make sure START button is
pushed in completely, and STOP button
is disengaged.
When the band saw overloads on the
circuit breaker built into the motor
starter, it may take time for the machine
to cool down before restart. Allow unit to
adequately cool before attempting
restart. If problem persists, check amp
setting on the motor starter.
One cause of overloading trips which
are not e lectr ical in nature is too hea v y
a cut. The solution is to reduce feed
pressure into the blade. If too heavy a
cut is not the problem, then check th e
amp setting on the overload relay.
Match the full load amps on the motor
as noted on the motor plate. If amp
setting is correct then there is probably
a loose electrical lead.
Verify that band saw is on a circuit of
correct size. If circuit size is corre ct,
there is probably a loose electrical lead.
If you have access to a vol tmeter, you
can separate a starter failure from a
motor failure by first, verifying inc oming
voltage at 220+/-10% and second,
checking the voltage between starter
and motor at 220+/-10%. If incoming
voltage is incorrect, you have a power
supply problem. If voltage between
starter and motor is incorrect, you have
a starter problem. If voltage between
starter and motor is correct, you have a
motor problem.
Clean motor of dust or debris to allow
proper air circulation. Allow motor to
cool down before restarting.
If electric motor is suspect, you have
two options: Have a qualified electrician
test the motor for function or remove the
motor and take it to a qualified electric
motor repair shop and have it tested.
Double check to confirm all electrical
connections are correct. Refer to
appropriate wiring diagrams to make
any needed corrections.
If swit ch is susp e c t , you have tw o
options: Have a qualified electrician test
the switch for function, or purchase a
new start switch and establish if that
was the problem on changeout.
Replace with adequate size and length
cord.
17
15.3 Welded blade inspection
Table 3
Trouble Probable Cause Remedy
Weld is misaligned. Dirt or scale on clamp jaws or blade. Always keep jaws clean. Clean blade
before welding.
Blade ends not square. Before welding, grind cut edges of
blade until they are square. Use the
shear on the band saw fo r square cuts.
Blade ends not correctly aligned when
clamped in jaws.
circuit at end of welding operation.
Clamp jaw movement obstructed by
kinked jaw cable or tangled wires.
Incorrect annealing heat. Bring weld up to correct color. See
Scale or oil on weld caused poor
annealing.
Align ends properly before clamping.
Adjust pressu re knob correctly for
particular blade width.
Make corrections as needed.
Cut and re-weld blade ends.
12.4.
12.0.
Replace limit switch.
Bend cable and untangle wires.
section 12.4
Keep clamp jaws and blade clean.
18
15.4 Welder mechanical problems
Table 4
Trouble Probable Cause Remedy
Weld could not be
made. Jaws do not
move.
Weld area melts when
weld switch is pushed.
Blade cannot be tightly
clamped with the
clamp jaws.
Annealing doesn’t
occur when annealing
button is pushed.
Anne aling button will
not return to correct
position after release.
Grinder will not run
when Grinder switch is
pushed.
Wire connection is poor; connecting
point of welding switch is bad.
Transformer burned out. Change transformer, or rewire it.
Blade has oil on it. Wipe off any oil.
Blade ends have rust. Grind off rust.
Welding switch is cutting off late. Screw welding switch connecting nut
Welding press too weak. Rotate pressure selector knob
Jaw movement too slow. Put some oil on rear side of welding
Clamp jaws are out of order, or
decayed.
Lower jaw inserts are out of order. Replace lower jaw inserts.
Annealing switch connection is poor. Replace annealing switch.
Fuse blown. Replace fuse.
Annealing button has dust or debris
around it.
Grinder motor is burnt out. Change grinder motor or rewire it.
Grinder switch is bad. Replace grinder switch.
Change switch, or grind the connecting
port with a file.
tighter.
accordingly.
lever and the two jaws.
Replace clamp jaws.
Remove annealing button housing and
clean out any dust or debris.
19
16.0 Speed and pitch chart
Table 5
20
17.0 Typical Band Saw Operations
18.0 Replacement Parts
Replacement parts are listed on the followi ng pages. To order parts or reach our service departm ent, call 1800-274-6848 Monday through Friday (see our website for business hours, www.jetttools.com). Having the
Model Number and Serial Number of your machine available when you call will allow us to serve you quickly
and accurately.
Figure 18
21
18.1.1 VBS-1610 Band Saw – Exploded View
22
18.1.2 VBS-1610 Band Saw (Welder Assembly) – Exploded View
0790 .......... 0790 .......................... Speed Lever Ring .................................................... ...................................... 1
1010 .......... VBS1610-1020 .......... Work Table .............................................................. ...................................... 1
1020 .......... VBS14-102 ................ Table Support Frame (serial no. previous to 7031713) .................................. 1
.................. VBS14-1021 .............. Table Support Frame (serial no. 7031713 and higher) ................................... 1
1350 .......... 1350 .......................... Blade Guide Post ..................................................... ...................................... 1
1360 .......... 1360 .......................... Guide Post Housing ................................................. ...................................... 1
1361 .......... 1361 .......................... Post Clamp Spring ................................................... ...................................... 1
2000 .......... VBS1610-2000 .......... Main Drive Motor ..................................................... ...................................... 1
2010 .......... VBS1610-2010 .......... Motor Pulley ............................................................. ...................................... 1
* Included in VBS1610-GB Gear Box Assembly Complete
24
Index No Part No Description Si z e Qty
2020 .......... 2020 .......................... Motor Suspension Arm ............................................ ...................................... 2
2030 .......... 2030 .......................... Motor Spring Housing .............................................. ...................................... 1
2040 .......... 2040 .......................... Motor Spring ............................................................ ...................................... 1
2050 .......... 2050 .......................... Motor Spring Support............................................... ...................................... 1
4170 .......... 4170 .......................... Air Nozzle ................................................................ ...................................... 1
4180 .......... 4180 .......................... Air Nozzle Clip ......................................................... ...................................... 1
4190 .......... 4190 .......................... Air Tube ................................................................... ...................................... 1
5000 .......... VBS1610-5000 .......... Main Body ................................................................ ...................................... 1
5100 .......... VBS1610-5100 .......... Rear Door ................................................................ ...................................... 1
5120 .......... VBS1610-5120 .......... Lower Door .............................................................. ...................................... 1
5140 .......... VBS1610-5140 .......... Upper Door .............................................................. ...................................... 1
6220 .......... 6220 .......................... Spring (short) ........................................................... ...................................... 1
6230 .......... 6230 .......................... Spring (lo ng) ............................................................ ...................................... 1
9300 .......... 9300 .......................... Upper Door Hinge .................................................... ...................................... 2
9310 .......... 9310 .......................... Hinge ....................................................................... ...................................... 4
9500 .......... 9500 .......................... Spring Plate ............................................................. ...................................... 4
9590 .......... 9590 .......................... Handle Arm .............................................................. ...................................... 2