Replies

1. 
   PeteBradley | Apr 03, 2007 06:58pm | #1

   Three wheel saws are rough on bands because the blade passes around wheels with a very small radius. Some mfgrs specifically state that their bands are not recommended for 3-wheel saws. You could try backing off the tension some as long as the band doesn't flutter.

   Pete

2. 
   mrfu | Apr 03, 2007 07:06pm | #2

   Some companies make a special blade just for 3 wheeled bandsaws. I believe the reason was that the blades need to be more flexible since the radious of the wheels is fairly small. I would do some research on the web trying to find someone who makes these blades. I would grab a copy of FWW and go to the web sites of the people advertising band saw blades.
   Tom

3. 
   forestgirl | Apr 03, 2007 11:28pm | #3

   Try using a 3/8" blade instead.  3-wheel saws, as mentioned, are murder on blades.  What brand blade are you using?

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 
   

1. 
   dbcagle | Apr 03, 2007 11:35pm | #4

   both blades were Timberwolves. Supposedly one of the best blades. I had not thought about the small wheels flexing the blades too much. I am a great woodworker! I still have 10 fingers. Oops! Nine.

1. 
   forestgirl | Apr 04, 2007 12:41am | #5

   If you're using Timber Wolf blades, you need to be sure they are the PC series, and not the AS.  Most likely, you do have the correct blade, but just to clarify.  I would strongly suggest you call them and explain what saw you're using, and what you're trying to saw, ask their advice on which blade will survive the best.  1-800-234-7297

   Interesting info in their literature "Two wheel machines, smaller than 14" wheels, using 1/8" to 3/4" blades will encounter 20% to 50% less blade life.  You will encounter decreased blade life with any three wheel band saw even if the wheels are larger than 14"."

   Two things that might help improve life.  Lube the blade (PAM non-stick cooking spray, wiped on with a rag as you turn the wheel by hand - machine unplugged of course) and releasing the tension when you're done for the day.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 

   Edited 4/3/2007 5:48 pm by forestgirl

2. 
   PeteBradley | Apr 04, 2007 02:49am | #6

   They are good bands. However, Suffolk Machinery specifically does not warrantee them when used on 3-wheel saws.Pete

4. 
   morganhelshoj | Dec 07, 2012 10:44am | #7

   Too Thick

   Try using a thinner backing blade like a .023" that is what i find works best on my three wheel saw.

   I buy my blades from http://www.abetterblade.com and non have broken on me