This guide explains how to safely adjust a bandsaw fence for accurate cuts, starting with aligning it parallel to the miter slot. It covers loosening screws to fine-tune the fence, confirming alignment with test cuts, and troubleshooting blade lead issues by checking blade tension, tracking, guides, and squareness. If needed, the fence angle can be adjusted to match the blade's cut angle, with a reminder to recheck when changing blades.
In this video, we'll guide you through the steps to properly adjust the fence on a bandsaw, stressing the importance of taking safety precautions and checking key alignment factors before making any adjustments.
We've also included the step-by-step instructions below so you can follow along.
Important Safety Precautions:
- Disconnect Power: Always unplug your machine before making any adjustments.
1. Initial Fence Alignment (Parallel to Miter Slot)
- Check Miter Slot: Make sure your table’s miter slot is already adjusted to be parallel with the bandsaw blade. (See our other Grizzly How-To video for details.)
- Install Fence: Mount the fence on the right side of the blade.
- Position Fence: Adjust the fence so it lines up with the edge of the miter slot.
- Lock Fence: Lock the fence in this position.
- Check Alignment: If the fence face is parallel with the miter slot, you’re done with basic alignment.
2. Adjusting the Fence (If Not Parallel)
- Find Adjustment Screws: Locate the cap screws on top of the bandsaw fence. Check your manual for details.
- Loosen Screws: Loosen the screws just enough to move the fence slightly.
- Adjust Fence: Tap the fence gently until it’s parallel with the miter slot. Use your hand or a soft mallet.
- Tighten Screws: Once aligned, tighten the screws to lock the adjustment.
3. Confirm with a Test Cut
- Draw a Line: On a piece of wood, draw a straight pencil line parallel to the edge.
- Make the Cut: Follow the pencil line as you cut.
- Check the Cut: If the cut follows the line, your fence is correctly aligned for straight cuts.
4. Troubleshooting Non-Straight Cuts (Blade Lead)
If the cut isn’t straight and the blade drifts, check these before adjusting the fence:
- Blade Tension: Make sure the blade is tensioned correctly.
- Blade Tracking: Verify the blade runs in the center of the wheels.
- Blade Guides: Set guides about ¼" above the workpiece.
- Table Squareness: Ensure the table is square to the blade.
- Fence Squareness: Check the fence is square to the table.
- Feed Pressure: Avoid pushing too hard when feeding the wood.
5. Fence Adjustment for Blade Lead
If the blade still leads after checks:
- Cut Freehand: Draw a straight line on a board and cut along it freehand for a short distance.
- Stop Mid-Cut: Stop halfway through the cut.
- Mark or Clamp: Mark the board’s angle on the table or clamp the board in place.
- Loosen Fence Bolts: Loosen the bolts holding the fence.
- Adjust Fence Angle: Rotate the fence so its edge matches the angle of your cut.
- Tighten Bolts: Lock the fence in this new position.
Tip: If you change blades later, recheck and readjust the fence angle as needed.
Your fence is now adjusted to compensate for the specific blade's tracking and potential lead. Remember that when changing to a different blade, it is a good idea to recheck your fence angle and readjust it if necessary.