Recently picked this band saw up. It is 50 plus years old but it is built like a tank with American steel.
anyway all is going great but I can’t seem to get the bottom thrust bearing adjusted. I’ve got it tapped out as far away from the blade as it will go, but the blade barely touching the thrust bearing. The top bearing I have plenty more adjustment room.
Due to this I have to run the saw blade with the blade starting halfway on the pulley tire. This puts the teeth right at the front of the pulley width.
any ideas ?
Replies
That's a tough read... can you attach photos? Also, please delete the duplicate post.
First photo has the bottom thrust bearing screwed in as far as it will go. I can only come towards the blade.
The second shows how much more adjustment I have in the top bearing.
Barry Go Vols
Can you move the carriage back that holds the bottom guides and bearing. It could be pushed way forward or set that way on purpose by a previous owner for reasons unknown. I would search for a schematic, you might even find it. In dealing with old machinery sometimes its worth it to disassemble and shine stuff up, relube, adjust etc. especially if they have been sitting for a long time.
Where does the blade land on the upper tire? It is not uncommon for the top & bottom tracking positions to be different. The lower wheel provides power and the upper controls tracking. If the upper bearing can reach the blade spin it up and see how it goes.
I agree with pantalones that it seems there should be another "layer" of adjustment down below.
It sounds like you're having some trouble adjusting the bottom thrust bearing on your band saw. Here are a few suggestions that may help:
Check for any debris or dirt: Make sure there isn't any buildup or debris affecting the movement of the thrust bearing. Clean the area around the bearing and ensure it moves freely.
Lubrication: Apply some lubricating oil or grease to the thrust bearing and its surrounding components. This can help reduce friction and improve the adjustment.
Verify the bearing position: Double-check that the bottom thrust bearing is installed correctly and in the right position. Ensure it is properly aligned with the blade path.
Inspect the bearing for damage: Examine the thrust bearing for any signs of wear or damage. If the bearing appears worn or is not functioning properly, it may need to be replaced.
Seek expert advice: Consider consulting an experienced professional or contacting the manufacturer of your band saw for guidance. They may have specific instructions or troubleshooting tips for adjusting the thrust bearing on your particular model.
Remember to exercise caution when working with power tools and always follow proper safety procedures.
Are you sure that the upper and lower wheel are aligned (front faces are in the same plane)? If the wheels are in different planes or not parallel the tracking will be different on the top and bottom wheels.
It seems to be the adjustment screw that threads into the bearing shaft.
I took the bottom bearing shaft assembly off and tried it on the top screw and it worked fine.
I have to knock group and out later today to take this apart to see what’s going on.
Thanks all !!
Barry
Check the alignment of the blade guides. The blade guides should be parallel to each other and to the blade. If they are not aligned properly, the blade will not track properly and the bottom thrust bearing will not be able to keep the blade in place.
Check the tension of the blade. The blade should be tight enough to prevent it from sagging, but not so tight that it is difficult to turn. If the blade is too tight, it will put pressure on the bottom thrust bearing and prevent it from adjusting properly.
Check the condition of the bottom thrust bearing at https://en.tradebearings.com/clist_164.html. The bearing may be worn out or damaged, which would prevent it from adjusting properly. If the bearing is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
If you have checked all of the above and the bottom thrust bearing is still not adjusting properly, you may need to adjust the position of the bearing. This can be done by loosening the set screws that hold the bearing in place and then moving the bearing to a new position.
Here are some additional tips for adjusting the bottom thrust bearing on your bandsaw:
Be sure to wear safety glasses when adjusting the bottom thrust bearing.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the set screws that hold the bearing in place.
Do not overtighten the set screws, as this could damage the bearing.
Once you have adjusted the bottom thrust bearing, be sure to test the blade to make sure that it is tracking properly.
I hope this helps!