Bandsaw tension gauge

[snojcb]

I'm setting up my first bandsaw and having some troubles tensioning a 1/4" blade. I suspect my tracking problems may be because I'm over tensioning the blade. Or maybe I'm under tensioning it? I have no idea. :-?

I thought I'd see if anyone in the Cary area has a blade tensioning gauge and would be willing to come over and see what tension I have this thing set to. I'm in North Cary near Harrison Ave.

Oh, it's a Grizzly 17" G0513X, if that matters.

Thanks,
J. C.

 

[woodguy1975]

I have a few bandsaws of varying sizes and tension all my blades by deflection. Just pull back the guides and tension the blade until you get about a 1/4" deflection in the middle of the blade with moderate pressure from your finger. As long as the blade doesn't break you can't overtension a blade really in my opinion. If you are having tracking problems it is probably not enough tension. Also you'll want to check your wheel alignment to make sure they are in the same plane.

Good Luck,

John

 

[toolferone]

J.C.

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888-722-7078