Ceramic guide-block systems from Laguna Tools are now sold as retrofit kits that can be used on other brands of bandsaws, including Agazzani, Bridgewood, Felder, Jet, Mini-Max, and most saws that have European-style guides. Kits also are available for most 14-in. Delta-style bandsaws.

With the ceramic blocks installed, a bandsaw can run while the blade is in light but direct contact with the guides, without causing any serious heat buildup. This contact between the blade and guides results in very accurate blade tracking. An added advantage is that the ceramic blocks will prevent pitch from building up on the blade when you’re sawing resinous woods such as pine or cherry. Setting the ceramic thrust bearing is easy: Simply push the guide lightly against the back of the blade and tighten the setscrew.

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