Operating Instructions and Parts Manual
Metal/Wood Working MWEVS Band Saw
Model VBS-18MWEVS
JET
427 New Sanford Road
LaVergne, Tennessee 37086 Part No. M-414428
Ph.: 800-274-6848 Edition 1 06/2021
www.jettools.com Copyright © 2021 JET
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1.0 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING – To reduce risk of injury:
1. Read and understand entire owner's manual
before attempting assembly or operation.
2. Read and understand the entire owner's
manual before attempting assembly or
operation.
3. Read and understand the warnings posted on
the machine and in this manual. Failure to
comply with all of these warnings may cause
serious injury.
4. Replace the warning labels if they become
obscured or removed.
5. This band saw is designed and intended for use
by properly trained and experienced personnel
only. If you are not familiar with the proper and
safe operation of a band saw, do not use until
proper training and knowledge have been
obtained.
6. Do not use this band saw for other than its
intended use. If used for other purposes, JET
disclaims any real or implied warranty and holds
itself harmless from any injury that may result
from that use.
7. Always wear approved safety glasses/face
shields while using this band saw. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant lenses;
they are not safety glasses.
8. 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.
9. Wear ear protectors (plugs or muffs) during
extended periods of operation.
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 position
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.
heck damaged parts. Before further use of
16. C
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 with 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 that
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 and more safely.
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.
3
29. Remove loose items and unnecessary work
contain chemicals known to the State of
arsenic and chromium from chemically
equipment, such as dust masks that are
particles. For more information go to
pieces from the area before starting the
machine.
30. Keep hands out of the line of saw blade.
31. When feeding small work pieces into blade,
always use push stick, fixture, or similar device
to keep hands at a safe distance.
32. Raise or lower blade guide only when machine
has been turned off and blade has stopped
moving.
33. Adjust upper blade guides to just clear
workpiece (approximately 1/8”).
34. Always wear leather gloves when handling saw
blades. The operator should not wear gloves
when operating the band saw.
35. Maintain proper adjustment of blade tension,
blade guides, and thrust bearings.
36. Make sure blade tension, tracking and blade
guides are all properly adjusted.
37. Make relief cuts where possible, when cutting
curved stock.
38. Hold stock firmly and flat against table.
39. Do not allow the saw blade to rest against the
workpiece when the saw is not running.
40. 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.
41. 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.
Familiarize yourself with the following safety notices used in this manual:
42. 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.
WARNING: This product can expose you to
chemicals including lead which is known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. For more
information go to http://www.p65warnings.ca.
gov.
WARNING: Some dust, fumes and gases
created by power sanding, sawing, grinding,
drilling, welding and other construction activities
California to cause cancer and 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
•
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 wellventilated area and work with approved safety
specifically designed to filter out microscopic
http://www.p65warnings.ca.gov/ and http://www.
p65warnings.ca.gov/wood.
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in minor injury and/or possible
machine damage.
injury.
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in serious, or possibly even fatal,
READ and SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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2.0 Table of contents
Section Page
1.0 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................................... 2
2.0 Table of contents .................................................................................................................................... 4
3.0 About this manual .................................................................................................................................. 6
4.0 Specifications for VBS-18MWEVS ......................................................................................................... 7
4.1 Overall Dimensions ............................................................................................................................ 8
5.0 Setup and Assembly .............................................................................................................................. 9
5.1 Shipping contents ................................................................................................................................... 9
5.2 Tools required for assembly ............................................................................................................... 9
5.3 Unpacking and cleanup ...................................................................................................................... 9
5.4 Assembly ............................................................................................................................................ 9
5.5 Handwheel .......................................................................................................................................... 9
5.6 Installing and aligning table .............................................................................................................. 10
5.7 Installing guide rail ............................................................................................................................ 10
5.8 Fence assembly and alignment ........................................................................................................ 10
5.9 Miter gauge ....................................................................................................................................... 11
6.0 Electrical connections .......................................................................................................................... 11
6.1 GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................................................................... 11
6.2 Single phase connections ................................................................................................................. 11
6.3 Circuit Information ............................................................................................................................ 12
7.0 Adjustments ......................................................................................................................................... 12
7.1 Aluminum resaw fence ..................................................................................................................... 12
7.2 Fence fine adjust .............................................................................................................................. 12
7.3 Table tilt ............................................................................................................................................ 12
7.4 Adjusting 90-degree table stop ......................................................................................................... 13
7.5 Leveling table insert.......................................................................................................................... 13
7.6 Installing/changing blades ................................................................................................................ 13
7.7 Blade tension .................................................................................................................................... 14
7.8 Adjusting blade tension lever ........................................................................................................... 14
7.9 Blade tracking ................................................................................................................................... 15
7.10 Overview – bearing adjustments .................................................................................................... 15
7.11 Upper blade guides ........................................................................................................................ 15
7.12 Upper thrust bearing ....................................................................................................................... 16
7.13 Lower blade guides ........................................................................................................................ 16
7.14 Guide post ...................................................................................................................................... 17
7.15 Guide post parallelism .................................................................................................................... 17
7.16 Brushes .......................................................................................................................................... 17
7.17 Drive Belt Changing, Replacement, and Tensioning ..................................................................... 17
8.0 Operating Controls ............................................................................................................................... 19
8.1 Start/Stop Switch .............................................................................................................................. 19
8.2 Setting Speed Digital Readout ......................................................................................................... 20
8.3 Variable Speed Control Dial ............................................................................................................. 20
9.0 Operation – Non-Metal ......................................................................................................................... 20
9.1 General Procedure ........................................................................................................................... 20
9.2 Ripping ............................................................................................................................................. 21
9.3 Crosscutting ...................................................................................................................................... 21
9.4 Resawing .......................................................................................................................................... 21
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9.5 Blade Lead ....................................................................................................................................... 21
10.0 Operation – Metal ............................................................................................................................... 22
10.1 General Procedure ......................................................................................................................... 22
10.2 Blade break-in procedure ............................................................................................................... 22
10.3 Evaluating cutting efficiency ........................................................................................................... 22
11.0 Blade Selection Guide........................................................................................................................ 22
11.1 Width .............................................................................................................................................. 23
11.2 Pitch ................................................................................................................................................ 23
11.3 Shape ............................................................................................................................................. 23
11.4 Set .................................................................................................................................................. 23
11.5 Material ........................................................................................................................................... 24
11.6 Blade breakage .............................................................................................................................. 24
12.0 Non-Metal Blade Chart....................................................................................................................... 25
13.0 Speed and Pitch Chart – Metal ........................................................................................................... 26
14.0 Typical Band Saw Operations ............................................................................................................. 27
15.0 User-maintenance .............................................................................................................................. 28
15.1 Lubrication points ........................................................................................................................... 28
15.2 Additional servicing ........................................................................................................................ 28
16.0 Troubleshooting VBS-18MWEVS Band Saw ..................................................................................... 29
16.1 Operational problems ..................................................................................................................... 29
16.2 Mechanical and electrical problems ............................................................................................... 31
17.0 Replacement Parts ............................................................................................................................. 32
18.1.1 VBS-18MWEVS MW/WW Band saw Assembly – Exploded View .............................................. 33
18.1.2 VBS-18MWEVS WW/MW Band saw Assembly – Parts List ...................................................... 35
18.2.1 VBS-18MWEVS Trunnion Support Bracket Assembly – Exploded View.................................... 39
18.2.2 VBS-18MWEVS Trunnion Support Bracket Assembly – Parts List ............................................ 40
18.3.1 VBS-18MWEVS Rip Fence Assembly – Exploded View ............................................................ 41
18.3.2 VBS-18MWEVS Fence Assembly – Parts List ............................................................................ 41
18.4.1 VBS-18MWEVS Miter Gauge Assembly – Exploded View ......................................................... 42
18.4.2 VBS-18MWEVS Miter Gauge Assembly – Parts List .................................................................. 42
18.5.1 VBS-18MWEVS Guide Bar Bracket Assembly – Exploded View ............................................... 43
18.5.2 VBS-18MWEVS Guide Bar Bracket Assembly – Parts List ........................................................ 43
18.6.1 VBS-18MWEVS Upper Wheel Assembly – Exploded View ........................................................ 44
18.6.2 VBS-18MWEVS Upper Wheel Assembly – Parts List ................................................................ 44
18.7.1 VBS-18MWEVS Lower Wheel Assembly – Exploded View ........................................................ 45
18.7.2 VBS-18MWEVS Lower Wheel Assembly – Parts List................................................................. 45
18.8.1 VBS-18MWEVS Lower Blade Guide Assembly – Exploded View .............................................. 46
18.8.2 VBS-18MWEVS Lower Blade Guide Assembly – Parts List ....................................................... 46
18.9.1 VBS-18MWEVS Upper Blade Guide Assembly – Exploded View .............................................. 47
18.9.2 VBS-18MWEVS Upper Blade Guide Assembly – Parts List ....................................................... 47
18.10.1 VBS-18MWEVS Speed control & Switch assembly – Exploded View ...................................... 48
18.10.2 VBS-18MWEVS Speed control & Switch assembly – Parts List ............................................... 48
18.11.1 VBS-18MWEVS AC Inverter Assembly – Exploded View ........................................................ 49
18.11.2 VBS-18MWEVS AC Inverter Assembly – Parts List ................................................................. 49
19.0 Electrical connections for VBS-18MWEVS ........................................................................................ 50
20.0 Warranty and service ......................................................................................................................... 51
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3.0 About this manual
This manual is provided by JET, covering the safe operation and maintenance procedures for a JET Model VBS18MWEVS Band Saw.
This manual contains instructions on installation, safety precautions, general operating procedures, maintenance
instructions and parts breakdown. Your machine has been designed and constructed to provide consistent, longterm operation if used in accordance with the instructions as set forth in this document.
This manual is not intended to be an exhaustive guide to band saw operational methods, use of jigs or aftermarket accessories, choice of stock, etc. Additional knowledge can be obtained from experienced users or trade
articles. Whatever accepted methods are used, always make personal safety a priority.
If there are questions or comments, please contact your local supplier or JET. JET can also be reached at our
web site: www.jettools.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 attempting assembly or
operation! Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
The specifications in this manual were current at time of publication, but because of our policy of continuous
improvement, JET reserves the right to change specifications at any time and without prior notice, without incurring
obligations.
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4.0 Specifications for VBS-18MWEVS
Model number ..................................................................... .................................................................. VBS-18MWEVS
Stock number ...................................................................... ................................................................................ 414428
Band saw nominal size ....................................................... ................................................................................... 18 in.
Motor and electricals:
Motor type .............................................................................. totally-enclosed, powered fan-cooled, iron motor housing
Horsepower .............................................................................................................................................................. 2 HP
Phase ....................................................................................................................................................................... three
Voltage .................................................................................................................................................................... 230V
Cycle ....................................................................................................................................................................... 60Hz
Listed FLA (full load amps) ...................................................................................................................................... 6.2A
Running amps (no load) @ low / high speed ............................................................................................. 0.72A / 2.84A
Motor speed .................................................................................................................................................... 1720 RPM
Power transfer ..................................................................................................................................................poly v-belt
On/off switch ...................................................................................................................... push button with paddle stop
Power supply.................................................................................................................................... 230V / single phase
Power cord length ....................................................................................................................................... 6 ft. (183 cm)
Power plug installed ................................................................................................................................................... N/A
Recommended circuit size
Sound emission
Capacities and speeds:
Wheel diameter ................................................................................................................................. 18-1/2 in. (470 mm)
Resaw capacity (cutting height) .............................................................................................................. 16 in. (406 mm)
Throat capacity........................................................................................................................................ 18 in. (457 mm)
Maximum rip left of blade with fence ....................................................................................................... 16 in. (406 mm)
Maximum rip right of blade with fence ................................................................................................. 4-1/2 in. (114 mm)
Blade length ................................................................................................................. 150 in. (min. 149; max. 150.9 in.)
Minimum blade width ................................................................................................................................. 1/8 in. (3 mm)
Maximum blade width ........................................................................................................................... 1-1/4 in. (31 mm)
Blade speed (Variable by inverter):
Wood Working...................................................................................................................................... 540 - 3600 SFPM
Metal Working ........................................................................................................................................ 100 - 650 SFPM
Blade Provided:
Wood Working (installed) .............................. 150” (L) x 3/4” (W) x 0.0256” (Thk.) x 6 TPI / 3810 x 19 x 0.64mm x 6TPI
Metal Working (with shipment) ...................... 150” (L) x 3/4” (W) x 0.0300” (Thk.) x 8 TPI / 3810 x 19 x 0.82mm x 8TPI
Main Materials:
Table ...................................................................................................................................................... ground cast iron
Trunnion ............................................................................................................................................................. cast iron
Frame ....................................................................................................................................................................... steel
Band wheels....................................................................................................................................................... cast iron
Tires ................................................................................................................................................. yellow polyurethane
Blade guides ................................................................................................................................................. ball bearing
Resaw fence ..................................................................................................................................... extruded aluminum
Handwheels ........................................................................................................................................................... plastic
Paint finish ............................................................................................................................................... powder coating
Table, fence, miter gauge:
Table dimensions LxWxThk .......................................................................... 27-1/4 x 20 x 1-5/8 in. (692 x 508 x 41 mm
Table tilt ................................................................................................................................................ Left 5°, Right 45°
Table height from floor ............................................................................................................................ 37 in. (940 mm)
Miter T-slot WxH ................................................................................................. 3/4 in. W x 0.375 in. H (19.1 x 9.5 mm)
Resaw fence size LxWxH ................................................................. 22-1/2 x 1-51/64 x 6-7/64 in. (572 x 46 x 155 mm)
Miter gauge angle ............................................................................................................................... Left 45°, Right 45°
Dimensions:
Footprint (base size), LxWxH .................................................................... 29-1/2 x 21-5/8 x 2 in. (750 x 550 x 50.8 mm)
Overall dimensions, LxWxH ............................................................................... 36 x 34 x 80 in. (914 x 864 x 2032 mm)
Shipping package dimensions ......................................................... 34-39/64 x 26 x 85-7/64 in. (879 x 660 x 2162 mm)
Dust collection:
Dust port outside diameter .................................................................................................................. 4 in. (100 mm) x 2
Minimum extraction volume required ................................................................................................................ 400 CFM
Weights:
Net ......................................................................................................................................................... 498 lbs (219 kg)
Shipping ................................................................................................................................................. 626 lbs (283 kg)
2
.................................................................................. 75 dB at 40” (1000mm) from blade, without load
1
....................................................................................................................................... 20A
8
1
Subject to local/national electrical codes. 2 The specified values are emission levels and are not necessarily to be
seen as safe operating levels. As workplace conditions vary, this information is intended to allow the user to make a
better estimation of the hazards and risks involved only.
4.1 Overall Dimensions
Figure 4-1: base hole centers (millimeters)
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5.0 Setup and Assembly
Read and understand the entire
contents of this manual before attempting
assembly or operation. Failure to comply may
cause serious injury.
5.1 Shipping contents
Refer to Figure 5-1A and 5-1B.
1 Band saw (not shown)
1 Fence body – A
1 Resaw fence – B
1 Table – C
1 Table insert – D
1 Guide rail – E
1 Lifting ring – F
2 Hand wheel with handle – G
1 Miter gauge assembly – H
1 Saw Blade for Metal Working – I
1 Poly-V Belt for Metal working – J
1 Owner’s manual (not shown)
1 Warranty card (not shown)
1 Hardware package containing:
2 Socket hd button screws – HP1
2 Flat washers – HP2
4 Hex cap screws – HP3
4 Lock washers – HP4
4 Flat washers – HP5
1 Table slot handle assembly – HP6
Figure 5-1B: contents
5.2 Tools required for assembly
The tools listed below are not included but are
required for assembly.
1 2.5mm hex key
1 3mm hex key
1 straight edge
1 17mm wrench
1 13mm wrench
5.3 Unpacking and cleanup
Remove crate and packing material from band saw
except for the transport skid on the bottom. Inspect
the machine for damage. Report any damage to
your distributor and shipping agent. Do not discard
packing material until machine is assembled and
running satisfactorily.
Move the saw to its permanent working location.
The site should be dry, well lit, and have enough
room to handle long stock and servicing or
adjustment of the machine from any side.
Install lifting ring atop band saw and use hoist to
move saw off skid. Clean all rust protected surfaces
with a mild solvent or diesel fuel and a soft cloth. Do
not use lacquer thinner, paint thinner, or gasoline,
as these will damage painted surfaces.
Figure 5-1A: contents
5.4 Assembly
Band saw must be
disconnected from power source during
assembly procedures. Failure to comply may
cause serious injury.
5.5 Handwheel
Install handwheel (G, Figure 5-2) onto shaft, and
tighten two set screws with 3mm hex key.
Figure 5-2
10
5.6 Installing and aligning table
Table is heavy. Mounting with
the help of another person is recommended.
Refer to Figures 5-3 through 5-4:
1. Slide table so that saw blade passes through
slot (A).
2. Line up table to trunnions and insert four hex
cap screws with lock washers and flat washers
(Figure 5-4). Hand tighten screws only.
3. Check that table is parallel to blade: Move blade
tension lever to Full Tension position (shown in
Figure 7-9), and place a long straightedge flush
against blade, making sure it contacts both front
and back of blade. See Figure 5-5. (Do not
deflect blade by pushing into it.)
4. Use a gauge to carefully measure distance from
miter slot to straight edge. Take measurements
at both front and back of table – these should
be identical.
5. If miter slot is not parallel to blade, shift table as
needed.
6. Tighten the four screws (Figure 5-4) securely.
7. Install table insert (D, Figure 5-3). (See sect. 7.5
to level insert with table.)
Figure 5-5
5.7 Installing guide rail
Refer to Figure 5-6.
1. Attach guide rail (E) to table by inserting the two
threaded studs into the table edge. Secure with
the included fasteners (see inset). Do not fully
tighten yet until fence adjustments have been
made in the following section.
8. Install slot handle assembly (HP6) and tighten.
Figure 5-3
Figure 5-6
5.8 Fence assembly and alignment
Refer to Figure 5-7.
1. Slide fence body (A, Figure 5-7) onto guide rail
and move fence body to right of blade.
2. Install resaw fence (B) and tighten with two
knobs (A
3. Slide resaw fence against edge of miter slot, as
shown, and tighten handle (A
The fence should align parallel to miter slot
along entire length of fence.
If adjustment is needed:
4. Loosen and rotate hex nuts on guide rail studs
(A
3
miter slot.
5. Tighten nuts on guide rail studs.
).
1
) to lock position.
2
) as needed, until resaw fence is parallel to
Figure 5-4
11
Figure 5-7
5.9 Miter gauge
Refer to Figure 5-8.
1. Slide miter gauge into table slot.
2. Use a square to verify that miter gauge face is
square to blade.
3. If miter gauge is not square to blade, loosen
lock knob (H
setting. Tighten lock knob.
4. If pointer is not at 90 degrees, loosen screw (H
and shift pointer to 90 degrees.
5. Tighten screw.
, Figure 5-8) and adjust to proper
1
2
conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into a matching outlet that is properly
installed and grounded in accordance with all local
codes and ordinances.
Do not modify the plug provided - if it will not fit the
outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a qualified
electrician.
Improper connection of the equipment-grounding
conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. The
conductor with insulation having an outer surface
that is green with or without yellow stripes is the
equipment-grounding conductor. If repair or
replacement of the electric cord or plug is
)
necessary, do not connect the equipment-grounding
conductor to a live terminal.
Before connecting to power source, be sure the
switch is in off position.
Check with qualified electrician
or service personnel if the grounding
instructions are not completely understood, or if
in doubt as to whether the tool is properly
grounded. Failure to comply may cause serious
or fatal injury.
Use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong
grounding plugs and 3-pole receptacles that accept
the tool's plug.
Repair or replace damaged or worn cord
immediately.
Figure 5-8
6.0 Electrical connections
Electrical connections must be
made by a qualified electrician in compliance
with all relevant codes. This machine must be
properly grounded to help prevent electrical
shock and possible fatal injury.
6.1 GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This machine must be grounded. In the event of a
malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a
path of least resistance for electric current to reduce
the risk of electric shock. This tool is equipped with
an electric cord having an equipment-grounding
6.2 Single phase connections
Model VBS-18MWEVS Band Saw is wired from the
factory for 230 Volt, single phase operation.
It is not supplied with a plug. You may either install
a UL/CSA-listed plug suitable for 230 Volt operation,
or “hard-wire” the Band Saw directly to a service
panel.
It is recommended that the single phase Band Saw
be connected to a grounded and dedicated 30-amp
circuit with circuit breaker or time delay fuse marked
“D”. Local codes take precedence over
recommendations.
Figure 6-1
Important: In all cases, make certain the receptacle
in question is properly grounded. If you are not sure,
have a registered electrician check the receptacle.
12
6.3 Circuit Information
Model
Voltage
Recommended
Circuit*
414428, VBS-18MWEVS
230 V
20A
A D G
E
F
7.2 Fence fine adjust
The Band Saw should be connected to a dedicated
circuit with a circuit breaker or time delay fuse rated
“D” with the appropriate amperage rating. See Table
1 for recommended circuit sizes. Local codes take
precedence over recommendations.
* Local codes take precedence over
recommendations.
Table 1
7.0 Adjustments
7.1 Aluminum resaw fence
Refer to Figures 7-1 and 7-2.
Loosen knobs (A) until lock bar protrudes enough on
which to slide the aluminum fence plate from one
end, as shown in Figure 7-1. Retighten knobs.
Refer to Figure 7-3.
1. Loosen fence lock knob (A, Figure 7-3).
2. Loosen knob (B).
3. Slide fence to approximate position, based on
the scale measurement aligning with the right
side of resaw fence.
4. Tighten knob (B).
5. Rotate knurled knob (C) to achieve fine
adjustment.
6. When setting is reached, tighten fence lock
knob (A).
Figure 7-1: vertical position
The aluminum fence plate can be installed in one of
two positions; vertically (resaw position), as shown
in Figure 7-1; or horizontally as shown in Figure 7-
2.
Horizontal position is useful for smaller workpieces.
(Zero setting of cursor cannot be used with
horizontal fence position.)
Figure 7-3
7.3 Table tilt
Refer to Figure 7-4.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Loosen lock handle (D).
3. Tilt table up to 45 degrees to the right (as
viewed from operator side), or up to 5 degrees
to the left.
4. Tighten lock handle.
Note: Table stop bolt (F, Figure 7-4) must be pivoted
out of the way to tilt table to the left.
Figure 7-2: horizontal position
Figure 7-4
13
7.4 Adjusting 90-degree table stop
Before adjusting the 90º table stop, the blade
tension must be properly adjusted (see sect. 7.7)
To adjust 90º table stop:
1. Loosen lock handle (D, Figure 7-4) and use
knob (E) to tilt table until it rests against table
stop bolt (F, not visible). Retighten lock handle.
2. Use a square (Figure 7-5) placed on table and
against blade to verify that table is 90 degrees
to blade.
3. If an adjustment is necessary, loosen lock
handle (D). Tilt table until it is square to blade;
then retighten lock handle.
4. Loosen lock nut (F
stop bolt (F, not visible) until it contacts table.
Tighten lock nut to hold table stop in place.
When tightening the nut hold the table stop bolt
in place with a wrench to prevent movement.
5. If necessary, adjust pointer (G, Figure 7-4) to
zero.
not visible) and turn table
1
4. Move quick tension lever to “Full Release
(Blade Change)” position.
5. Open upper and lower doors by rotating door
knobs.
6. Pivot guidepost cover out of the way (Figure 7-
6).
7. Swing lower guard (H, Figure 7-7) to the left. Tilt
table slightly if more clearance is needed to
swing guard.
8. Remove dust block (J, Figure 7-8).
9. Carefully remove blade from top wheel, then
from between upper and lower blade guides
and lower wheel. Slide blade out through slot in
table.
10. Guide new blade through table slot. Place blade
loosely in upper and lower blade guides. Make
sure blade teeth point down toward table, and
toward front of saw.
(If the teeth will not point down, no matter how
you orient blade, then blade is inside-out. Twist
it into correct position and re-install it.)
Figure 7-5
7.5 Leveling table insert
Remove table insert to expose set screws in the
table ledge. Rotate screws as needed (2mm hex
key) until insert sits flush with table surface.
7.6 Installing/changing blades
Wear gloves when handling
blades. New blades are usually packaged in
coiled position; to prevent injury uncoil them
slowly and carefully while wearing work gloves
and safety glasses.
See sect. 4.0 for specific blade sizes for your model
Band Saw.
Refer to Figures 7-6, 7-7 and 7-8.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Loosen handle and remove it from table (see
HP6, Figure 5-3).
3. Adjust upper and lower blade guides away from
blade (see sections 7.11 through 7.13).
Figure 7-6
Figure 7-7
14
Figure 7-8
J K M
L
Decrease Increase
11. Position blade at center of upper and lower
wheels.
12. Reinstall dust block (J, Figure 7-8) and table
slot handle (HP6, Figure 5-3).
13. Before operating band saw, the new blade must
be tensioned and tracked, in that order. Find
instructions for tensioning and tracking the
blade in sections 7.7 and 7.9.
14. The blade guides must also be set properly
according to instructions in sections 7.11
through 7.13.
Figure 7-9
Figure 7-10
7.7 Blade tension
Blade tension is set with the blade tension
handwheel (L, Figure 7-10) and is performed
following blade replacement and periodically as the
blade stretches from use.
Disconnect machine from
power source before making any adjustments.
Refer to Figures 7-9 and 7-10.
1. Place tension lever (K, Figure 7-9) in Full
Tension position.
2. Set blade tension by rotating handwheel (L)
according to the arrow directions shown in
Figure 7-10, clockwise to tighten,
counterclockwise to loosen.
3. The gauge (M) indicates approximate tension
according to the width of the blade in inches.
Initially, set the blade tension to correspond to
the width of your blade.
As you become familiar with the saw, you may find
it necessary to change the blade tension from the
initial setting.
Keep in mind that too little or too much blade tension
can cause blade breakage and/or poor cutting
performance.
Tip: When the band saw is not being used, place
tension lever to Partial Tension position – this will
prolong the blade’s life.
7.8 Adjusting blade tension lever
The blade tension lever has an adjustment screw or
stop bushing that allows you to adjust how much
tension is released when lever is used.
To adjust tension lever:
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Move lever to Blade Release position and
remove blade.
3. Move tension lever to Full Tension position.
4. Move stop bushing (Figure 7-11) until gap
between stop bushing and wheel shaft hinge is
1/8 to 3/16 in.
Figure 7-11
15
7.9 Blade tracking
O
N
P
R
Refer to Figures 7-12 and 7-13.
After proper tensioning, the blade must be tracked.
“Tracking” refers to position of blade on the wheels
while machine is in operation. Tracking should be
checked periodically and is mandatory after every
blade change. Blade tracking is done by hand with
machine disconnected from power.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Blade must be correctly tensioned (sect. 7.7).
3. Make sure blade guides and other parts of
machine will not interfere with blade movement.
Use handwheel (N) to lower guide post until you
can see blade through tracking window (O,
Figure 7-12).
4. Set blade tension lever initially to Partial
Tension-Idle/Tracking position.
8. Loosen locking handle (P, Figure 7-12) and
slightly rotate tracking knob (R) with your right
hand while continuing to rotate wheel with your
left. Observe blade through tracking window.
Rotating knob clockwise will cause blade to
move toward rear edge of wheel. Rotating knob
counterclockwise will cause blade to move
toward front edge of wheel.
IMPORTANT: This adjustment is sensitive;
perform in small increments and give blade time
to react to changes.
9. When blade is tracking in center of wheel, retighten locking handle (P), and close upper
door.
10. Move tension lever to Full Tension position, and
connect band saw to power. Turn it on for a brief
time to observe blade in action through tracking
window.
11. If further adjustments are needed, disconnect
from power and repeat above procedure.
7.10 Overview – bearing adjustments
Thrust (back support) bearings are located behind
saw blade and provide support to back of blade
when saw is in operation.
Guide bearings are located on either side of saw
blade and provide stability for the blade when saw
is in operation. These bearings rotate on an
eccentric shaft so distance from blade can be
adjusted for optimal performance.
Figure 7-12
5. Open upper door to expose wheel.
6. Rotate wheel by hand, observing position of
blade through tracking window. As you rotate
wheel, move tension lever to Full Tension
position. The blade should continue to ride upon
center of tire (Figure 7-13).
Figure 7-13
7. If blade tends to move toward edge of wheel,
set lever to Partial Tension-Idle/Tracking.
7.11 Upper blade guides
Unplug machine from power
source before making any adjustments! Blade
teeth are sharp – use care when working near
blade. Failure to comply may cause serious
injury.
The bearing guides should be set so that contact
between blade and guides will occur only when
blade is under pressure from a workpiece. To adjust
upper bearing guides for proper blade control,
proceed as follows.
Refer to Figures 7-14 and 7-15.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Blade must already be tensioned and tracking
correctly. Place tension handle in Full Tension
position.
3. Lower guide post until upper guide bearings are
a few inches off table. (The reason for this will
be evident later in sect. 7.15)
4. Loosen lock knob (A, Figure 7-14).
16
Figure 7-14
Figure 7-15
5. Slide entire guide bracket until front of guide
bearings are about 0.015” (1/64”) behind the
blade’s gullet (curved area at base of tooth).
See Figure 7-16.
Figure 7-16
6. Tighten lock knob (A) to secure this position.
7. Loosen lock knob (B) for either of the front guide
bearings.
8. The guide bearing rotates on an eccentric shaft.
Adjust guide bearing by rotating the knurled
knob (C) until guide bearing is approximately
0.004” from blade. A quick way to achieve this
spacing is by placing a single thickness of a
crisp dollar bill (a dollar bill is approximately
0.004” thick) between blade and guide bearing.
Adjust guide bearing until it just lightly grips the
dollar bill.
NOTE: Do not force guide bearing against side
of blade. It should generally only make contact
with blade when there is pressure from the
cutting operation.
9. Tighten lock knob (B).
10. Repeat process for opposite guide bearing.
7.12 Upper thrust bearing
Refer to Figures 7-14 and 7-15.
The thrust bearing prevents backward deflection of
blade during cutting. A groove in the bearing surface
helps stabilize the moving blade.
1. Loosen lock knob (D) and slide thrust bearing
up to back of blade.
2. Adjust thrust bearing until space between
groove bottom and back edge of blade is
approximately 0.015” (1/64”). Tighten lock knob
(D).
3. If lateral adjustment of bearing is needed to
align groove with blade, loosen set screw (E) at
front of bearing assembly, and shift bearing as
needed. Retighten set screw.
4. Make sure all lock knobs on upper guide
bearing assembly are tightened when
adjustments are finished.
7.13 Lower blade guides
Unplug machine from power
source before making any adjustments! Blade
teeth are sharp - use care when working near
saw blade. Failure to comply may cause serious
injury.
Refer to Figures 7-17 and 7-18.
1. Disconnect band saw from power source.
2. Open lower door and swing lower guard out of
the way.
3. Adjust lower guide bearings and lower thrust
bearing below table in similar manner to that of
upper guide and thrust bearings.
4. Movement summary: Loosen lock knob (F) to
move entire guide bearing assembly. Loosen
lock knob (G) and rotate knob (H) to adjust
guide bearing in relation to blade. Thrust
bearing is controlled by locking knob (J) and
lateral adjustment by set screw (K).
5. Make sure all knobs and handles are tightened
after adjustments are complete.
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