Powermatic PM1500 User Manual
Operating Instructions and Parts Manual
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15-inch Woodworking Band Saw
Model PM1500
Powermatic
427 New Sanford Road
LaVergne, Tennessee 37086 Part No. M-1791500
Ph.: 800-274-6848 Revision B 08/2014
www.powermati c.c om Copyright © 2014 Powerm atic
1.0 Warranty and Service
Powermatic warrants every product it sells 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
Powermatic branded website.
• 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. Powermatic woodworking machinery is designed to be used with
Woo d. Us e of th ese ma chines in the pr oces sing o f metal, plast ics, or other materia ls may void the warranty. The
exceptions are acrylics and other natural items that are made specifically for wood turning.
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. Powermatic has 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 the Service
Center Locator on the Powermatic website.
More Informat io n
Powermatic is constantly adding new products. For complete, up-to-date product information, check with your local
distributor or visit the Powermatic website.
How S tat e Law A pplies
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, subject to applicable state law.
Limitations on This Warranty
POWERMATIC LIMITS 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.
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 O R
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
Powermatic sells through distributors only. The specifications listed in Powermatic printed materials and on the official
Powermatic website are given as general information and are not binding. Powermatic reserves 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.
Product Listing with Warranty Period
90 Days – Parts; Consumable items
1 Year – Motors, Machine Accessories
2 Year – Woodworking Machinery used for industrial or commercial purposes
5 Year – Woodworking Machinery
NOTE: Powermatic is a division of JPW Industries, Inc. References in this document to Powermatic also apply to
JPW Industries, Inc., or any of its successors in interest to the Powermatic brand.
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2.0 Table of contents
Section Page
1.0 Warranty and Service ..................................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 Table of contents ............................................................................................................................................ 3
3.0 Safety warnings .............................................................................................................................................. 5
4.0 About this manual .......................................................................................................................................... 6
5.0 Features and Terminology ............................................................................................................................. 7
6.0 Specifications ................................................................................................................................................. 8
6.1 Base Hole Centers (PM1500 Band Saw) ................................................................................................... 9
7.0 Setup and assembly ..................................................................................................................................... 10
7.1 Unpacking ................................................................................................................................................ 10
7.2 Shipping contents ..................................................................................................................................... 10
7.3 Location .................................................................................................................................................... 10
7.4 Dust Collection ......................................................................................................................................... 10
7.5 Electrical Connections .............................................................................................................................. 10
7.6 Grounding Instructions ............................................................................................................................. 10
7.7 Extension Cords ....................................................................................................................................... 11
8.0 Adjustments ................................................................................................................................................. 11
8.1 Fence assembly ....................................................................................................................................... 11
8.2 Fence plate ............................................................................................................................................... 11
8.3 Fence to Table Clearance ........................................................................................................................ 12
8.4 Setting Cursor (Zero) Position .................................................................................................................. 12
8.5 Setting Table Parallel to Blade ................................................................................................................. 12
8.6 Setting Fence Parallel to Blade ................................................................................................................ 13
8.7 Fence Locking Tigh tn ess ......................................................................................................................... 13
8.8 Table Tilt ................................................................................................................................................... 14
8.9 90° Table Stop .......................................................................................................................................... 14
8.10 Installing/Changing Blades ..................................................................................................................... 14
8.11 Blade Tension ........................................................................................................................................ 15
8.12 Blade Tracking ....................................................................................................................................... 16
8.13 Upper Blade Guides ............................................................................................................................... 16
8.14 Upper Thrust Bearing .................................................................................................... ......................... 17
8.15 Lower Blade Guides ............................................................................................................................... 17
8.16 Guide Post .............................................................................................................................................. 18
8.17 Guide Post Parallelism ........................................................................................................................... 18
8.18 Resaw Pin .............................................................................................................................................. 18
8.19 Miter Gauge ............................................................................................................................................ 19
8.20 Drive Belt Replacement and Tensioning ................................................................................................ 19
8.21 Brushes .................................................................................................................................................. 20
9.0 Operating Controls ....................................................................................................................................... 20
9.1 Start/Stop ................................................................................................................................................. 20
9.2 Safety Key ................................................................................................................................................ 21
9.3 Brake Pedal .............................................................................................................................................. 21
10.0 Operation ................................................................................................................................................... 21
10.1 General Procedure ................................................................................................................................. 21
10.2 Ripping ................................................................................................................................................... 22
10.3 Crosscutting ........................................................................................................................................... 22
10.4 Resawing ................................................................................................................................................ 22
10.5 Blade Lead ............................................................................................................................................. 22
11.0 Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................... 23
11.1 Lubrication Points ................................................................................................................................... 23
12.0 Blade Selection .......................................................................................................................................... 24
13.0 Blade Selection Guide ................................................................................................................................ 26
14.0 Troubleshooting the PM1500 Band Saw .................................................................................................... 27
14.1 Operational Problems ............................................................................................................................. 27
14.2 Mechanical and Electrical Problems ...................................................................................................... 29
15.0 Replacement Parts ..................................................................................................................................... 30
15.1.1 Complete Machine with Accessories – Ex ploded View ....................................................................... 31
15.1.2 Complete Machine with Accessories – Parts List ................................................................................ 33
15.2.1 Upper Wheel Sliding Bracket & Tension Mech anism Assembly – Exploded View ........................................... 36
15.2.2 Upper Wheel Sliding Bracket & Tension Mechanism Assembly – Parts List ...................................... 36
3
15.3.1 Upper Wheel Assembly – Exploded View ........................................................................................... 37
15.3.2 Upper Wheel Assembly – Parts List .................................................................................................... 37
15.4.1 Lower Wheel Assembly – Exploded View ........................................................................................... 37
15.4.2 Lower Wheel Assembly – Parts List .................................................................................................... 37
15.5.1 Trunnion Support Bracket Assembly – Exploded View .................................................................... 38
15.5.2 Trunnion Support Bracket Assembly – Parts List ............................................................................. 38
15.6.1 Guide Bar Bracket Assembly – Exploded View ................................................................................... 39
15.6.2 Guide Bar Bracket Assembly – Parts List ........................................................................................... 39
15.7.1 Upper Blade Guide Assembly – Exploded View ................................................................................. 40
15.7.2 Upper Blade Guide Assembly – Parts List .......................................................................................... 40
15.8.1 Lower Blade Guide Assembly – Exploded View ................................................................................. 41
15.8.2 Lower Blade Guide Assembly – Parts List .......................................................................................... 41
15.9.1 Fence Assembly – Exploded View ...................................................................................................... 42
15.9.2 Fence Assembly – Parts List ............................................................................................................... 42
15.10.1 Miter Gauge Assembly – Exploded View .......................................................................................... 44
15.10.2 Miter Gauge Assembly – Parts Lis t ................................................................................................... 44
16.0 Electrical Connections – 3HP 1PH 230V ................................................................................................... 45
4
3.0 Safety warnings
WARNING: For your own safety read instruction
manual before operating Band Saw.
- Wear eye prote cti o n.
- Do not remove jammed cutoff pieces until blade
has stopped.
- Maintain proper adjustment of blade tension,
blade guides, and thrust bearings.
- Adjust upper guide to just clear workpiece.
- Hold workpiece f irmly against table.
1. Read and understand 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 with all of these warnings may cause
serious injury.
3. Replace warning labels if they become
obscur e d or rem ov e d.
4. 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.
5. Do not use this band saw for other than its
intended use. If used for other purposes,
Powermatic disclaims any real or implied
warranty and holds itself harmless from any
injury that may result f rom that use.
6. Always wear approved safety glasses/face
shield while using this machine. (Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant lenses;
they are not safety glasses.)
7. Before operating band saw, remove tie, rings,
watches and other jewelry, and roll sleeves up
past the elbows. Remove all loose clothing and
confin e lo n g hair . N on- sl i p f o otw e ar or a nt i- ski d
floor strips are recommended. Do not wear
gloves.
8. Keep work area clean. Cluttered areas and
benches invite accidents.
9. Use proper extension cord. Make sure your
extension cord is in good condition. When
using an extension cord, be sure to use one
heavy enough to carry the current your product
will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop
in line voltage resulting in loss of power and
over heating. T able 1 shows th e correct size to
use depending on cord length and nameplate
ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier
gage. The smaller the gage number, the
heavier the cord.
10. Secure work. Use clamps or a vise to hold work
when practical. It’s safer than using your hand
and it frees both hands to operate tool.
11. Disconnect tools before servicing; when
changing accessories, such as blade, bits,
cutter s an d the li ke.
12. Direction of feed: Feed work into a blade or
cutter against the direction of rotation of the
blade or cutter only.
13. Adjust upper blade guides to approximately
1/8” ab ov e wor k pi ec e.
14. Make sure blade tension, tracking and blade
guid es are all properly adjusted.
15. Make relief cuts where possible, when cutting
curved stock.
16. When feeding small work pieces into blade,
alway s us e pus h sti ck, fixt ur e, or si mi lar devic e
to ke ep hands at a safe distance.
17. Hold st ock fi rml y an d flat ag ai n st ta ble.
18. Wear ear protectors (plugs or muffs) during
extend e d periods of op er ati o n.
19. 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. Som e exa m ples of these chemicals are:
•
Lead from lead based paint.
•
Crystalline silica from bricks, cement and
other ma s o nry pr od u cts .
•
Arsenic and chromium from chemically
treated lumber.
Your risk of exposure varies, depending on
how oft en yo u do this t ype of w ork. To r educe
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 parti cles.
20. Do not operate this machine while tired or
under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any
medication.
21. Make certain switch is in OFF position before
connecting machine to power supply.
22. Make cer t ai n ma c hin e is pro p erl y gr ou n d ed.
23. Do not back stock out of blade while blade is
running.
24. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Form a
habit of ch ecking to s ee that key s an d a dju sti n g
5
wrenches are removed from the machine
before tur ning it on.
25. Keep safety guards in place at all times when
machine is in use. If removed for maintenance
purposes, use extreme caution and replace the
guards immediately after completion of
maintenance.
26. Check damaged parts. Before further use of
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 it s o per ation. A gu ar d or oth er p art th at is
damaged should be properly repaired or
replaced.
27. Keep floor around machine clean and free of
scrap material, oil and grease.
28. Keep visitors a safe di stance from wor k area.
Keep c hil dr en aw a y.
29. Make your workshop child proof with padlocks,
master switc hes or by removing start er keys.
30. Give your work undivided attention. Looking
aroun d, c arryi n g on a c onv ers atio n an d “ho rs eplay” are careless acts that can result in
serious injury.
31. Maintain a bala nced st ance at all tim es so th at
you do not fal l int o blade or ot her m ovin g part s.
Do not overreach or use excessive force to
perform any machine operation.
32. Use the right tool at the correct speed and feed
rate. Do not forc e a tool or at tachm ent to do a
job for which it was not designed. The right tool
will do the job better and more safely.
33. Use recommended accessories; improper
accessories may be hazardous.
34. Maintain tools with care. Keep blades sharp
and clean for best and safest performance.
Follow instructions for lubricating and changing
accessories.
35. Turn off m achine befor e cle aning. Use a br ush
or com pres sed air to re mov e chi ps or de bris —
not your hands.
36. Do not stand on machine. Serious injury could
occur if machine tips over.
37. Never leave machine running unattended. Turn
power off and do not leave band saw until
blade comes t o a complete stop.
38. Remove loose items and unnecessary work
piec es fr om ar ea b efo r e star ting mac hine.
39. Keep h and s out of li ne of s aw bl ad e.
40. Don’t use in dangerous environment. Do not
expos e machi ne to rai n or use in w et or dam p
locations. Keep work area well lighted.
41. Remove safety key from switch whenever band
saw is turned “OFF”, and keep safety key out of
reac h of unauthorized persons or children.
Familiarize yourself with the following safety notices used in this manual:
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in minor injury and/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 Powermatic covering the safe operation and maintenance procedures for a
Powermatic model PM1500 Band Saw. This manual contains instructions on installation, saf ety precautions,
general operating procedures, maintenance instructions and parts breakdown. Your machine 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.
This manual is not intended to be an exhaustive guide to band saw operational methods, use of j igs or aftermarket accessories, choice of stock, etc. Additional knowledge can be obtained from e xperienced users or
trade articles. Whatever accepted methods are used, always make personal safety a priority.
Retain this manual for future reference. If the machine transfers own ership, the manu al should accompan y it.
Read and understand the entire contents of this manual before attem pting assembly
or operation! Failure to comply may cause serious injury!
6
5.0 Features and Terminology
Figure 1
1. Lifting ring
2. Upper wheel
3. Tire
4. Tracking window
5. Door catch
6. Guide post handwheel
7. Guide post
8. Upper bearing blade guides
9. Table insert
10. Blade and wheel brushes
11. Brake pedal
12. Lower wheel
13. Drive belt and pulley
14. Lower door
15. Guide rail
16. Rip fence
17. Aluminum f ence plat e
18. Magnetic switch with power indicator light
19. Safety key
20. Warning label
21. Blade tension window
22. Blade tension scale
23. Upper door
24. Interlock switch
25. Blade tension lever
26. Tension lever position label
27. Tracking knob
28. Tracking knob lock lever
29. Serial number/machin e identificati on plate
30. Blade tension handwheel
31. Motor lift handle
32. 3 horsepower TEFC motor
33. Dust port
34. Trunnion lock handle
35. Trunnion fine adjust knob
36. Resaw pin
37. Cast iron table
38. Miter slot
39. Guide post locking knob
The specifications in this manual were current at time of publication, but because of our policy of continuous
improvement, Powermatic reserves the right to change specifications at any time and without prior notice,
without incurring obligations.
7
6.0 Specifications
Model number ............................................................................................................................................ PM1500
Stock number ............................................................................................................................................ 1791500
Motor and electricals:
Motor type ....................................................................... totally enclosed fan cooled, induction, capacitor start
Horsepower ................................................................................................................................................ 3 HP
Phase ........................................................................................................................................................ single
Voltage ....................................................................................................................................................... 230V
Cycle .......................................................................................................................................................... 60Hz
Listed FLA (full load amps) .......................................................................................................................... 12A
Starting amps ............................................................................................................................................... 55A
Running amps (no load) .............................................................................................................................. 3.3A
Start capacitor ....................................................................................................................... 200MFD, 250VAC
Run capacitor ............................................................................................................................. 60µF, 300VAC
Power transfer ........................................................................................................... Poly-V 9 groove belt drive
On/off switch ..................................................................... Magnetic, with power indicator lamp and safety key
Motor speed ...................................................................................................................................... 1720 RPM
Blade speed .................................................................................................................................... 3100 SFPM
Power cord length ....................................................................................................................... 6.6 ft. (200cm)
Power plug installed ..................................................................................................................................... yes
Recommended circuit size 1 ......................................................................................................................... 20A
Sound emission...................................................................... 72 dB at 39” (1000mm) from blade, without load
1
subject to local and national electrical codes.
Capacities:
Maximum cutting height/resaw capacity ....................................................................................... 14” (355mm)
Throat capacity........................................................................................................................ 14-1/2” (368mm)
Minimum blade width .................................................................................................................... 1/8” (3.2mm)
Maximum blade width .................................................................................................................... 1” (25.4mm)
Blade length 2 .................................................................................................................. 153 +/-1/2” (3886mm)
Blade provided ................................................................................................. hook type, 3/8” x 0.065” x 6 TPI
Wheel diameter ............................................................................................................................. 15” (381mm)
2
blade length range is 152-1/2” to 153” for band saws with serial no. 12100002 to 12100052.
Miscellaneous:
Fence plate .................................................................................................. 19-3/4”L x 6-1/2”H (502 x 165mm)
Resaw pin .................................................................................................... 1-1/2” dia x 6-1/2”H (38 x 165mm)
Stand footprint ........................................................................................... 17-3/4”L x 25-1/4”W (450 x 641mm)
Overall dimensions, assembled .................................. 30-1/4”L x 34-3/8”W x 80-1/4”H (768 x 873 x 2038mm)
Miter gauge positive stops .................................................................................................................... 45°, 90°
Materials:
Table ........................................................................................................................................ ground cast iron
Trunnion ............................................................................................................................................... cast iron
Enclosed cabinet ........................................................................................................................................ steel
Band wheels......................................................................................................................................... cast iron
Tires .............................................................................................................................................. polyurethane
Blade guides ................................................................................................................................... ball bearing
Resaw fence ....................................................................................................................... extruded aluminum
Handwheels .................................................................................................................. cast iron, chrome finish
Paint finish...................................................................................................................................... powder coat
Table:
Table dimensions ....................................................................... 21-1/2”L x 16”W x 2”Thk (546 x 406 x 51mm)
Table tilt................................................................................................................................... 10° left, 45° right
Table height from floor at 90-degrees ......................................................................................... 40” (1016mm)
Miter T-slot ............................................................................. 7/8”W x 3/8”D; opening 3/4"W (22 x 9.5; 19mm)
Edge bevel .................................................................................................................................................. front
8
Dust coll ection:
Dust port outside diameter .................................................................................................... two at 4” (100mm)
Minimum extraction volume required .................................................................................................. 600 CFM
Weights:
Net weight (fully assembled) ...................................................................................................... 394 lb (179 kg)
Shipping weight .......................................................................................................................... 502 lb (228 kg)
6.1 Base Hole Centers (PM1500 Band Saw)
Figure 2
9
Read and understand all
instructions before attempting assembly or
operation of band saw. Failure to comply may
cause serious injury.
7.0 Setup and assembly
7.1 Unpacking
1. Remove all contents from shipping carton. Do
not discard any shipping material until band
saw is assembled and running satisfactorily.
2. Inspect contents for shipping damage. Report
any damage immediately to your distributor
and shipping agent.
3. Compare contents of shipping carton with the
contents list in this manual. Report shortages,
if any, to your distributor.
Note: Some parts may have come pre-assembled
to the saw.
7.2 Shipping contents
Carton contents (see Figure 3):
1 Band saw (not shown)
1 Fence assembly with aluminum fence plate
1 Miter gauge
1 Resaw pin and handle
1 Owner’s manual (not shown)
1 Warranty card (not shown)
Tools required for set up and assembly:
Hoist or forklift, with straps
Machinist square
Use a hoist or forklift with straps to remove band
saw from pallet. The straps used should have a
minimum 500-lb. lifting capacity. Do NOT place
forks or straps directly beneath table or against
handles or levers – use the lifting eye atop the
band saw.
Move band saw to its permanent location, which
should be dry and well lit, with a level floor and
enough space on all sides to handle long stock or
perform routine maintenance on the machine.
Make sure floor is able to support weight of
machine. If desired, band saw can be secured to
floor using lag screws (not provided) through the
four holes in base. See Figure 2 for hole spacing.
Exposed metal surfaces, such as table surface and
blade guides, have been given a protective coating
at the factory. This coating should be removed with
a soft cloth moistened with solvent. Do not get
solvents near plastic or rubber parts; and do not
use an abrasive pad as it may scratch exposed
surfaces.
The handle on the front handwheel may be in
rever se posit ion for shipping. Reinst all it i n proper
position on the handwheel. Use a wrench on the
flat to tighten it to the handwheel.
7.4 Dust Collection
The use of a dust collection system is strongly
recommended for this band saw. It will help keep
the shop clean, as well as red uce potential health
hazards caused by inhalation of wood dust. The
collector should have a capacity sufficient for this
size machine – 400 CFM is recommended.
Powermatic has a line of dust collection systems
available; see your dealer or visit our website listed
on the cover.
Connect the hoses of your dust collection system
to the saw’s dust ports (4” outside diameter).
Secure tightly with hose clamps (not provided).
Figure 3
7.3 Location
Remove all crating and plastic from around
machine. Remove any screws or straps holding
band saw to shipping pallet.
Exercise care when removing
machine from shipping pallet.
7.5 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 in j ury.
The band saw is factory wired for 230 volts. It is
recommended that the band saw be co nnected to
a grounded and dedicated 20 amp c ircuit wit h a 20
amp circuit breaker or time delay fuse. Local codes
take precedence over recommendations.
7.6 Grounding Instructions
1. All grounded, cord-connected tools:
In the event of a malfunction or breakdown,
grounding provides a path of least resistance for
electric current to reduce t he risk of electr ic shock.
This tool is equipped with an electric cord having
10
an equipment-grounding 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 pl ug 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
cond uctor with insulatio n 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 equipmentgrounding conductor to a live terminal.
Check with a 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. Use only 3-wire
extension cords that have 3-pro ng gro unding pl ugs
and 3 pole receptacles that accept the tool's plug.
Repair or replace damaged or worn cord
immediately.
2. Grounded, cord-connected tools intended for
use on a supply circuit having a nominal rating
between 150 – 250 volts, inclusive:
This tool is intended for use on a circuit that has an
outlet that looks like the one illustrated in Figure 4.
The tool has a grounding plug that looks like the
plug illustrated in Figure 4. Make sure the tool is
connected to an outlet having the same
configuration as the plug. No adapter is available
or should be used with this tool. If the tool must be
reconnected for use on a diff erent type of electric
circuit, the reconnection should be made by
qualified service personnel; and after reconnection,
the tool should comply with all local codes and
ordinances.
Make sure the voltage of your power supply
matches the specifications on the motor plate of
the Band Saw.
on the machine’s motor plate. An undersized cord
will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of
power and overheating.
Use Table 1 as a general guide in choosing the
correct size cord. The smaller the gauge number,
the heavier the cord. If in doubt, use the next
heavier gauge.
Recommended G auges (A WG ) of E x tension Cords
Volts Total length of cord
in feet
120 25 50 100 150
Ampere rating
More
than
0 6
6 10
10 12
12 16
Not more
than
NR: Not Recommended.
240 50 100 200 300
Table 1
Minimum gauge cord
18 16 16 14
18 16 14 12
16 16 14 12
14 12 NR NR
8.0 Adjustments
Tools required for adjustments:
Machinist square
Cross point (Phillips) screwdriver
Hex keys, 4mm/5mm/6mm
13mm wrench
Straight edge and gauge
8.1 Fence assembly
Refer to Figure 5.
Place fence body onto guide tube (as shown in
Figure 9). Raise fence lever all the way up to install
or remove fence from guide rail. Midway lever
position allows fence to slide along guide rail.
Lowest lever position locks fence in place.
Figure 4
7.7 Extension Cords
The use of extension cords is discouraged; try to
position machines within reach of power source. If
an extension cord becomes necessary, make sure
the cord rating is suitable for the amperage listed
Figure 5
8.2 Fence plate
Refer to Figures 6 and 7.
Loosen lock bar (A) using knobs (B). Pull out on
lock b ar unt i l it pr ot rud es e no ug h o n w hic h to s lid e
the aluminum fence plate from one end, as shown
in Figure 6. Retighten knobs.
11
Figure 8
8.4 Setting Cursor (Zero) Position
Figure 6 – vertical position
The aluminum fence plate can be installed in one
of two positions; vertically (resaw position), as
shown in Figure 6; or horizontally as shown in
Figure 7.
Horizontal position is useful for smaller workpieces.
(The zero setting of the cursor cannot be used with
horizontal fence position.)
Figure 7 – horizontal position
8.3 Fence to Table Clearance
1. Check clearance between table and bottom of
fence (Figure 8). The fence plate should not
rub against table surface but be slightly above
it. This gap should be the same at both front
and back of table.
2. If clearance is not equal, use a 5mm hex key
to rotate the two nylon adjustment screws (C,
Figure 6) the same amount to raise or lower
fence body on guide tube. Clockwise raises
fence body, counterclockwise lowers.
Refer to Figure 9.
1. The fence must be set so that cursor reads
zero at line of blade. The fence plate must be
installed on fence body in vertical position, and
blade must be installed and fully tensioned.
2. Slide fence flush against flat of blade, as
shown. (Do not force fence into blade so that
blade deflects.)
3. If cursor is not at zero, loosen two screws (D,
Figure 9) and shift cursor as needed.
Retighten screws.
Figure 9
8.5 Setting Table Parallel to Blade
Refer to Figures 10 and 11.
1. The table has been aligned by the
manufacturer so that the miter slot is parallel to
the blade; it should not require adjustment.
However, in the future you may wish to confirm
the setting is still accurate. A wide blade is
recommended for the procedure.
2. Disconnect band saw from power source.
3. Blade should be fully tensioned (see section
8.11).
4. Place a long straightedge fl ush against blade,
making sure it contacts both front a nd back of
blade. (Do not deflect blade by pushing into it.)
See Figure 10.
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Figure 10
5. 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.
6. If m iter slot is not parallel to blade, loosen four
screws (E, Figure 11) that secure table to
trunnion, and shift table as needed until miter
slot is parallel to blade.
7. Tighten the four scre ws.
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13
The fence must also be vertically parallel to blade.
Refer to Figure 14:
3. Make sure table has been set 90° to blade
(see section 8.9).
4. Slide fence (with aluminum plate securely
fastened) against blade; do not push into
blade. Turn either of the nylon adjustment
screws (C) until fence is parallel to blade along
vertical leng th of fenc e.
8.6 Setting Fence Parallel to Blade
Refer to Figures 12 through 14.
Fence must be parallel to flat of blade f or accurate
cutting. Since miter slot has been set parallel to
blade from the manufacturer (and confirmed by
user, as described in section 8.5), the miter slot
can be used to set fence parallelism.
1. Slide fence to edge of miter slot, as shown in
Figure 12. The fence should align with miter
slot along its entire length.
2. If adjustment is needed, use one of the back
adjustment screws (F, Figure 13) to t urn fence
in line with miter slot (5mm hex key).
Figure 14
8.7 Fence Locking Tightness
The tightness of fence against guide rail tube can
be adjusted by rotating back adjustment screws (F,
Figure 13). Rotate the two screws equally
(clockwise to tighten).
Because these screws are also used to align fence
to blade, after adjusting fence locking tightness,
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you should inspect fence-to-blade relationship, as
explained in section 8.6.
8.8 Table Tilt
Refer to Figure 15.
1. Loosen lock handle (A).
2. For right tilt (as viewed from front or operator’s
side of saw), push on table while rotating knob
(B) clockwise to tilt table up to 45°. Use knob
(B) for fine adjustment.
3. For left tilt (as viewed from front or operator’s
side of saw), loosen lock lever (A) and rotate
knob (B) clockwise a turn or two to release
pressure on the 90° stop bolt (shown in Figure
16). Remove stop bolt, then rotate k nob to tilt
table up to 15°.
4. Tighten lock handle (A) to secure setting.
NOTE: The lock handle (A) can be pivoted to
more convenient posit ions. Simply lift straight
out on handle and rotate it on the pin, then
release handle making sure it seats itself on
the pin.
Figure 16
4. Place a square on table and against blade to
check that table is 90° to blade. See Figure 17.
Do not push square into blade.
Figure 15
8.9 90° Table Stop
Refer to Figures 16 and 17.
The 90° positive stop ensures that table will always
be perpendicular to blade after table is returned to
horizontal position. Check and adj ust this 90° stop
as follows:
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Make sure blade is under full tension.
3. Tilt table until it rests on stop bolt (C).
Figure 17
5. If table and blade are not square, use a 13mm
wrenc h to loo sen lo ck nut (D, F igure 1 6) t hen
rotate stop bolt. Turn stop bolt as needed until
there is no longer light showing between
square and blade.
6. Tighten lock nut (D) to secure table stop in
position.
7. Tighten lock handle (A, Figure 15).
8. Check that scale pointer (E, Figure 15) is at
zero. If necessary, loosen screw on pointer
and shift pointer to zero. Re-tighten screw.
8.10 Installing/Changing Blades
Always 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.
The PM1800 band saw is designed for blades from
1/8” to 1” wide.
Refer to Figure 18.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Remove table insert (F, Figure 18).
3. Pull out table pi n (G).
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4. Adjust upper and lower blade guides away
from blade (see sections 8.13 and 8.15).
Figure 18
5. Move quick tension lever to “Full Release
(Blade Change)” position.
6. Open upper and lower doors by rotating door
catches.
7. Carefully remove blade from top wheel, then
from between upper and lower blade guides
and lower wheel. Slide blade out t hrough slot
in table.
8. 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 twisted inside-out. Twist it
into correct position and re-install it.)
9. Position blade at center of upper and lower
wheels.
10. Reinstall table insert (F) and table pin ( G).
11. 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 8.11 and 8.12. The blade
guides must also be set properly according to
instructions in sections 8.13 through 8.16.
4. Open upper door.
5. Rotate tension handwheel (A, Figure 20) until
scale pointer (B) indicates width of installed
blade.
TIP: Use the band saw’s gauge setting initially.
As yo u becom e fam iliar wit h the m achi ne and
with different properties of band saw blades,
you may find it necessary to change blade
tension from initial setting. Keep in mind that
not only changes in blade width, but also type
of material being cut will have an effect on
blade tension. Too little or too much blade
tension can cause blade breakage a nd/or poor
cutting performance.
Figure 19
8.11 Blade Tension
Refer to Figure 19.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Back off upper and lower guide bearings to
eliminate any contact with blade.
3. With blade centered on wheels, move quick
tension lever to “Full Tension” position, as
shown in Figure 19. NOTE: You should feel
tension lever settle into each of its three
positions.
Figure 20
6. Make a note of the specific tension setting for
a particular blade. Tension can then be re-set
quickly when that blade is reinstalled.
IMPORTANT: When band saw is not being
used, move quick tension lever to “Partial
Tension-Idle/Tracking” position. This will
prolong the life of bla de and tires, and reduce
load on wheels, bearings and other
components.
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