I have been searching this site for references to steel frame 16 & 18″ bandsaws and have about made up my mind to get the Jet 18″. I’ve noticed that 2 negative subjects keep popping up among owners of this saw: (1) slightly underpowered and (2) lower guide bearings hard to adjust when changing blades.
The power I think I can live with, as it will be a 1/2 HP upgrade from my present bandsaw, and I’m not a production shop and don’t do a whole lot of resawing. But I’m concerned with the possible frustration of fussing with balky blade guide adjusters. Why are they hard to adjust? Is it because of the design, is the lower guide hard to reach with wrenches, is it because the table is low and hard to reach under? Has anyone done any modification (replacing allen screws with thumb screws, etc.) to make it easier? Also has anyone replaced them with another type of more efficient guide?
I’d appreciate any light anyone could shed on this. Thanks. GP
Replies
GP- The lower guide is held in place by two allen head screws. One on either side. The one on the left side (as you stand in front of the saw) is hard to acess. The best mod I can think of for this is to drill a hole in the bandsaw table for access. I have not done this yet because it kills me to drill the table. Been thinking of other ideas. also I don't change blades that often. I am not a big bandsaw user either,but when I need it, I need it. I am very happy with this saw and I think you will be too. I don't compare this saw with more expensive saws, but I think it's a better buy than any 14" saw (imho). I use a Lenox carbide tooth blade on mine and this thing cuts up a storm. Good luck in your decision. -Kris
GP,
I just bought the 16" Jet version in March. It's my first bandsaw and I love it - I use it as much as possible in-lieu of the table saw because it's an inherently safer tool. No kick back to worry about.
anyway...
I change blades quite often because I believe that's one of the biggest advantages of a bandsaw - the wide variety of blades available to suit the need. The lower guides are a hassle to adjust I admit but I don't know if that alone would effect my decision. I use an allen wrench and a pair of pliers to reach screw closet to the blade.
I've cut 10" thick soft maple and butter nut without any problem or bogging down. Use a really aggressive blade - 4 tpi, hook tooth - and that should get you through most work. If you did extensive resawing of thick lumber there might be better choices but probably not in that price range. The MiniMax comes to mind.
The saw runs very smooth and other wise is easy to adjust. I'm very happy with my purchase and can recommend it.
Good luck!
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