upgrade my old Rockwell 14 inch bandsaw
swifty6
| Posted in Power Tools and Machinery on
I have a 20 year old Rockwell 14 inch bandsaw with a 6 inch riser block and a 1 hp motor. It is well adjusted, rips without drift. Problem is its underpowered for serious resawing and table is a bit small. I have taken some lesions this year from master craftsmen using old classic cast iron direct drive machines that run quietly and pass the nickel balanced on edge test. I will be facing space problems in the future so this bandsaw will likely serve to do all my ripping cuts. So the old time monster is too big. I am looking at about 18 inch quality machine about 3 hp 220 or 110 volt.What is your experience
Replies
Have you considered simply upgrading the motor on your present saw? You seem to like the present saw and have it tuned up nicely.
That would be pretty inexpensive to do, especially if you could find a used motor. All your current blades would still fit, and if you need to, you could build extensions onto the table to help support the work better..
Zolton
I'd agree with Zolton , if
I'd agree with Zolton , if the capacity is o.k. with your saw you could get a stronger motor and build an auxillary table that will provide the support you need .Perhaps an extension flap on each end with a hinging support for small spaces.
regards , dusty
The band saw does not have an effective dust collection, the table is too small, and the vibration from having a pulley system causes excessive vibration. If you have ever used one of the classic band saws with direct drive and cast iron well balanced wheels ,you would see the difference. The top quality bandsaws have two dust collection ports and do a good job of preventing the excessive dust. the problem is the ones I have my eye on cost $4,000.
I to have an old Rockwell/ 1980 or there abouts, many years ago I bought a 2 hp moter and installed it. Since then I have replaced 2 belts. But it cuts well and I figure 2 belts over many years isnt bad. I have jimmied 2 4" flex hoses held with magnets under and over for dust collection. I have sawn 10 x 3/16 veneer many times, no problem. Always have a new blade on hand. But as you say 3hp 18 inch sounds really nice.
Reguards Sidecutter
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