thanks to all who offered advice on silencing my 14-inch bandsaw. With your advice and encouragement I eventually eliminated all the possible sources of noise until I pinpointed my least likely culprit: one of the blade guide roller bearings. It seemed to be spinning fine but was in fact intermittently generating that seal bark noise that reverberated through the whole saw. I replaced that bearing and, knock of wood, everything is quiet so far.
I suppose the few days of frustration was worthwhile in that I have gotten a bit more familiar with the tool. I’m OK with wood, but I always had trouble with Erector sets.
thanks again
gaf