How to Tune Up a Delta Bandsaw

A band saw is a useful workshop tool for cutting a variety of shapes in many different materials, and its vast styles of available blades make it a versatile tool. But like any power tool, it only works effectively when all its parts are in the correct working order. After you’ve used your band saw for an extended period of time, it will need a tuneup. Depending on how often and vigorously you use the band saw, it’s possible it may need regular tuneups.

Screwdriver
Compressed air
Saw blade-tensioning tool
Level
Steel wool
Rust inhibitor spray
Wax

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the band saw.
- 2
  Remove the saw’s cover plates to allow you to fully view the entire blade.
- 3
  Spray the entire saw with compressed air to remove sawdust buildup.
- 4
  Test the tension of the saw blade with a saw blade-tensioning tool. Using the correct blade tension will dramatically increase the life of the blade. When it is too loose or tight, it is prone to perform poorly and break.
- 5
  Adjust the saw blade tracking knobs to ensure the blade is running in the center of the wheels. Over periods of use, the blade may wander to one side of a wheel and be at risk of falling off.
- 6
  Level the band saw’s table by loosening its knobs, placing a level on its surface and locking the table in place once it is square. A saw table that is not level will make straight cuts challenging to execute.
- 7
  Buff any rust marks off the table to restore its shiny finish, then spray it with a rust inhibitor and rub the surface with a rag or towel. After the table is completely dry, add a thin layer of wax to give the table a slick surface. Woodworking supply stores carry a variety of waxes for this task.

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