Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Jan 12, 2009 06:19pm | #1

   The centering isn't that important, I usually center the whole blade, teeth included, but either method will work.

   When does the blade wander, during set up or when you are actually sawing?

   John White

1. 
   imbuia | Jan 15, 2009 05:35am | #2

   Hi John,

   It wanders while resawing. I have been careful in setting up the Carter guides bearings, used a new blade both 1/2"and 3/4", various tensioning levels and feed rates. This is a new saw with only an hour of use.  Regular sawing of 4/4 and 8/4 is no problem but anything over 3" it walks. Do you now live in Rochester? Do you repair or align equipment?

   I live just down the road from you in Woodstock.

    Regards,

   Jim

1. 
   JohnWW | Jan 15, 2009 06:38pm | #3

   Jim,I do go out to service woodworking machinery around the state. You can call me at my office, 767-9700, or try to reach me at home, 767-3105.In the meantime what brand of blades are you using and how many teeth per inch?John W.

1. 
   imbuia | Jan 28, 2009 04:35am | #4

   Hi John,

   I think I made some significant headway in solving the wandering blade problem with my Powermatic saw.  I was using a 1/2" 4tpi blade that I purchased from Woodcraft. I don't know the manufacturer. I decided to start from scratch and realign everything again. I also switched blades to a 3/4" 3 TPI blade that I purchased from Western Tool when I initially purchased the saw. The saw came with the Carter type dual bearings, upper and lower.  When I removed the table to inspect the lower bearings I noticed the rear single bearing ( the one behind the blade) was badly scored from the blade rubbing on it. The reason was that the two bolts holding the bearing carrier were loose and allowed it to misallign. Also the carrier slotted holes would not allow the 3/4" blade to be centered on the wheels and the rear bearing would not turn because it was intefering with the carrier.  I had to elongate the holes approximately 3/32" to allowing for proper adjustment. Once I did this everything aligned properly, the blade runs true to the table and there is no drift. Have you ever run into this problem? I will need to purchase a new bearing because it shows signs of overheating and roughness.  It appears that quality control leaves a little bit to be desired.  Comments?

1. 
   JohnWW | Jan 31, 2009 03:42am | #5

   Glad you found a solution. In my experience it is much easier to fit a 1/2" blade onto a 14" saw, they track better and the guides aren't being pushed to their limits, or beyond as was the case with your saw. Ball bearings are standard sized, designated by a four digit number on the bearing, so you don't have to pay what is probably an inflated price to get the bearing from the manufacturer. The bearing should be double sealed, a standard type, to keep dirt out of it.It does seem that quality control was lax, it might be worth calling Powermatic, maybe they'll send you a replacement bearing for free.John White

2. 
   imbuia | Feb 03, 2009 06:26am | #6

   Hi John,

   Many thanks for your reply.  I think I will let Powermatic know of my problem.  One of these days I will call you to set up a time to have you align my Makita miter saw which has been out of whack for some time. I took it to Tool barn and they worked on it but it still isn't right.  May just run it up to you and enjoy a lunch ay Hunt's cafe. I used to own property in Rochester. One building was the old brick school house on Park Street.  That would make a great building for a workshop. I understand it has been turned into a residence.  Will give you a buzz when I'm ready. Many thanks for your input on Knots. I really enjoy it.

   Jim Pierce  Woodstock

    

    

    

3. 
   JohnWW | Feb 04, 2009 04:35am | #7

   Jim,Rochester hasn't changed much, and the changes have been for the better. I know the brick building you are talking about, I also thought it would make a great shop. Hope to meet you someday.John W.