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A band saw is a common sight in wood shops. They have many uses, from cutting curves in pieces too small to cut with a saber saw, to resawing large pieces of lumber. However, their different uses require different blades. |
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Step 1 Unplug the band saw. Always unplug power tools before performing any maintenance. Step 2 Open the wheel housings. These are the guards that cover the wheels which the blade rides on. Usually this is as simple as opening the top and bottom doors. Step 3 Remove the throat plate. This is the plate on the saw table that surrounds the blade. Step 4 Loosen the tension wheel. This is usually the top wheel, as the bottom wheel is connected to the motor. Step 5 Remove the old blade. Carefully slide the blade off the two wheels and out of any bearings that guide it. Fold the blade and store it for later use. Step 6 Put on the new blade. Position it around the wheels and through any bearings or guides. Step 7 Tighten the tension wheel. Proper blade tension is critical. Most saws have a tension guide. Adjust the tension until the indicator lines up with the size blade you are installing. Step 8 Adjust guides and bearings. All band saws have guides that keep the blade from deflecting too much while in use. While running, but not cutting, these guides should not be touching the blade. If they are, heat could build up and damage the blade or saw. Also, take this time to lubricate any bearings. Step 9 Spin the saw by hand (using the wheel) to make sure the blade will stay on the wheels once it is running. Look for anyplace the blade is rubbing, and adjust accordingly. Step 10 Replace the throat plate and close the wheel housings. |
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