This instructional video focuses on bandsaw tracking and coplanar adjustment.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bandsaw Blade Tracking and Wheel Alignment
Center Tracking Adjustment
- Disconnect the bandsaw from the power source.
- Adjust blade guides: Move the upper and lower blade guides away from the blade to prevent interference.
- Apply blade tension: Disengage the quick-release lever and adjust the tension knob to match the recommended tension for your blade width, then re-engage the quick-release lever.
- Check blade position: Spin the upper wheel slowly by hand three times and observe the blade's position on the wheel crown.
- If the blade rides in the middle of the crown, no adjustment is needed.
- If the blade doesn't ride in the center, proceed to the next step.
- Adjust blade tracking: Unlock the blade tracking adjustment knob and slowly spin the upper wheel. Use the knob to center the blade on the wheel crown.
- Lock the adjustment: Once the blade consistently rides in the center, lock the blade tracking adjustment knob.
- Adjust blade guides: Refer to your manual for specific instructions on setting blade guide clearance.
Wheel Alignment
Tools Needed:
- Straightedge (longer than the distance between wheels)
- Fine ruler
- Hex wrenches
- Wrench or socket for removing the wheel (if needed)
- Shimming washers (if needed)
- Disconnect the bandsaw from the power source.
- Remove blade and table: Open the upper and lower front covers, remove the blade, remove the table, then reinstall the blade and tension it properly.
- Check coplanarity: Place the straightedge across both wheels. It should touch both rims of both wheels. Move the straightedge slightly to check for consistency.
- If the straightedge touches both rims evenly, no adjustment is needed.
- If the straightedge doesn't touch both rims evenly, proceed to the next steps.
- Adjust vertical alignment: Use the blade tracking adjustment knob to adjust the vertical position of the upper wheel so the straightedge touches both rims.
- Adjust lateral alignment:
- Remove the blade and upper wheel.
- Adjust the set screws on the upper wheel shaft in small increments to align the wheel laterally.
- Reinstall the upper wheel and blade.
- Check alignment and repeat adjustments as needed.
- Adjust coplanarity:
- Measure the distance between the straightedge and the rear wheel.
- Remove the rear wheel and add the appropriate number of shimming washers to the shaft.
- Reinstall the wheel and tighten the shaft nut.
- Reinstall the blade and check alignment.
- Test and finish:
- Reinstall the table, close the covers, and test run the bandsaw.
- Adjust blade guides as needed.
Note: Making small adjustments is crucial as it can significantly impact wheel alignment and blade tracking.
Remember to consult your bandsaw's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
We trust you will find this video to be beneficial. Please feel free to reach out to us HERE if you have any questions on how to do bandsaw tracking or coplanar setup.