BandSaw blade-to-table Square, or no

algale · Post by **algale** » Sat Dec 29, 2012 2:28 pm

Gene Howe wrote:I used washers but you can find "U" shaped shim stock at most auto parts stores. Mine came as a graduated set. I think there are 12 in the set and all together they equal about 3/8". But, they do sell them individually.
I have not noticed any changes in the way it saws and I resaw 5 1/2". If anything, it might be better. It sure is better for thick curves. No more bellies.

Yep. I used a set of these from Harbor Freight to shim my main table.

JPG · Post by **JPG** » Sun Dec 30, 2012 12:49 am

Not sure what the 'factory' reasoning is, but, I believe the blade angle not vertical is caused by the canted/beveled wheel etc.

heathicus · Post by **heathicus** » Sun Dec 30, 2012 1:56 am

My copy of the manual states:

The angle of the table surface to the back of the blade should never need adjustment. The bandsaw is manufactured so that this angle is slightly off from 90°. This helps prevent the machine from bogging down when you first start to cut, especially in thick stock.

It goes on to say that if you don't like that, shim the bolts on the low side of the table.

Maybe the bogging problem is with the original 3/4hp motors?

JPG · Post by **JPG** » Sun Dec 30, 2012 10:26 am

heathicus wrote:My copy of the manual states:

It goes on to say that if you don't like that, shim the bolts on the low side of the table. <<<<<<<<

Maybe the bogging problem is with the original 3/4hp motors?

Thanks you getting me to read that!

FWIW it also goes on to 'recommend' shimming the table. Sorry Heath, I missed that first time through!
Methinks the 'reason' was an after the fact attempt to justify the 'angle'.

If I were a box maker or cutter of oddly shaped thick stuff,I would definitely shim.