How To Adjust a Sears Bandsaw

Maintaining the proper tension in the blade improves the performance of a Sears band saw. If the tension in the blade is too high, it may snap and injure you. A blade with too much slack wobbles and cannot keep a straight line while cutting. Sears band saws have a locking knob and a sliding tension catch that enable you to make adjustments without reinstalling the blade.

Owner's manual
Gloves
Replacement blade (if needed)

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the band saw before making any adjustments to the blade. Open the band saw cover and locate the tension knob at the rear of the unit. Loosen the knob to release the tension assembly.
- 2
  Hold the tension knob with one hand and the tension catch with your other hand. Raise the tension assembly until you see the slack in the blade disappear. If you are using a quarter-inch blade, continue lifting the assembly another two or three notches. Insert the tension catch into the desired notch. For a 1/8-inch blade, raise the tension assembly only one or two notches, then engage the tension catch. Tighten the tension knob to lock the assembly in place.
- 3
  Turn the wheel by hand to make sure the blade stays in the center of the track as it moves. Replace the band saw cover once you are satisfied with the blade's tension and tracking. Plug the power cord back in and run a final test to make sure the blade stays in place before you use the saw.

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