Bandsaw Tensioning Screw - stripped socket

jarrett · Post by **jarrett** » Sun Nov 16, 2014 9:48 am

The tensioning screw on my bandsaw is stripped in the hex socket, so I now need to use a pair of pliers to tension and detension the blade. Anyone else have this problem?

Is there a better replacement for it? Since it uses left-hand screws, finding a compatible replacement isn't easy. What I'd really like is to glue in a permanent hand dial of some sort so I don't have to use the hex tool all the time.

Thanks--

JPG · Post by **JPG** » Sun Nov 16, 2014 11:29 am

Tried a new allen wrench?

Takes more than a left handed screw. Shaped end(s).

How did the soclet get stripped?

reible · Post by **reible** » Sun Nov 16, 2014 12:04 pm

I hope it is something like the end of the 5/32" Allen wrench being worn, the is a cheap and easy fix.

The replacement screw for my version is # 502703 Left-hand special screw, cost $16.01 plus shipping and possible tax.... However bad that sounds it would be the right way to go.

Other options would be to have an Allen wrench welded to the screw, perhaps short enough to work but not be a hanger.... You would need to cut the cover to fit but that is not going to be a show stopper.

Let us know how it goes and what you end up doing. I have not experienced this nor have I heard of this happening so I would say it is a rare failure.

Ed

jarrett · Post by **jarrett** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 10:07 am

Sorry for the delay in replying, my account was not letting me log in.

It is definitely the screw that is stripped, not the allen wrench. I'm not sure how it got stripped; I have an older model so perhaps the metal was not as good back then?

Yes, I have been thinking about finding someone to just weld on an allen wrench or some thing I can attach a handle to. I don't want to spend $16+ for another screw if I'll just end up with the same problem.

Are there any third-party replacement parts to make tensioning easier? Other bandsaw styles have aftermarket cranks and quick release type things--anyone find anything compatible?

dusty · Post by **dusty** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 10:22 am

reible wrote:I hope it is something like the end of the 5/32" Allen wrench being worn, the is a cheap and easy fix.

The replacement screw for my version is # 502703 Left-hand special screw, cost $16.01 plus shipping and possible tax.... However bad that sounds it would be the right way to go.

Other options would be to have an Allen wrench welded to the screw, perhaps short enough to work but not be a hanger.... You would need to cut the cover to fit but that is not going to be a show stopper.

Let us know how it goes and what you end up doing. I have not experienced this nor have I heard of this happening so I would say it is a rare failure.

Ed

WOW, a really special screw. It has doubled in price over the last few years. Left-Hand Special Screw, #502703, is listed in the old online catalog for half that price ($8.01). Shopsmith parts are following closely the gold market.

wa2crk · Post by **wa2crk** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 11:59 am

Cut about 1" off of a 5/32 allen wrench and use JB weld to hold it in the old hex socket. Extend the hole in the cover into a slot to make the cover easier to remove. Then use a 5/32 socket for the adjustment
Bill V

ChrisNeilan · Post by **ChrisNeilan** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 1:38 pm

Unless you have those materials on hand, between paying for the gas to go get them, and the frustration from the repair failing (it will eventually), just buy the correct part! I'm frugal (really cheap), but I have my limits! (Supposed to be a smiley face here!)

JPG · Post by **JPG** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 3:26 pm

ChrisNeilan wrote:Unless you have those materials on hand, between paying for th, gas to go get them, and the frustration from the repair failing (it will eventually), just but the correct part! I'm frugal (really cheap), but I have my limits! (Supposed to be a smiley face here!) :):):):)

Will 5 do?:D

ChrisNeilan · Post by **ChrisNeilan** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 5:27 pm

JPG wrote:Will 5 do?:D

Thank you... Couldn't edit my post on the IPhone! Well, I was busy with jury duty anyway!:eek: