How to replace a band saw blade
This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the blade on a band saw. If the saw blade is dull or damaged, it won't cut evenly. Replace a dull or damaged band saw blade with the manufacturer-approved band saw part.
Follow these steps to replace the blade in Craftsman, Ryobi, Tradesman, Wen, Rikon and Powertec band saws.
This video explains how to replace the blade on a band saw.
Instructions
- 01.
Shut off the electricity
Unplug the band saw’s power cord from the wall outlet.
- 02.
Release the blade tension
Open the upper and lower cabinet doors.
Rotate the blade’s quick-release lever to release the blade tension.
PHOTO: Open the cabinet doors.
PHOTO: Release the blade tension.
- 03.
Remove the table leveling screw
Remove the table leveling screw from the front of the table.
PHOTO: Remove the table leveling screw.
- 04.
Remove the blade
Open the blade cover in the upper cabinet.
Pull the blade out of the band saw.
PHOTO: Open the blade cover.
PHOTO: Remove the blade.
- 05.
Install the new blade
Position the new blade with the teeth pointing downward and forward.
Work the new saw blade into the cabinets and over the drive wheels.
Close the blade cover in the upper cabinet.
PHOTO: Close the blade cover.
- 06.
Reinstall the table leveling screw
Reinstall the table leveling screw at the front of the table.
PHOTO: the table leveling screw.
- 07.
Re-tension the blade
Reposition the blade on the upper and lower drive wheels.
Rotate the blade’s quick release lever to apply blade tension.
Close the cabinet doors.
PHOTO: Apply blade tension.
- 08.
Restore power
Plug the band saw into the electrical outlet.
Symptoms for band saws
Choose a symptom to see related band saw repairs.
Main causes: damaged rubber tire, worn wheel bearings, loose blade tension, dull saw blade...
Main causes: dull blade, improper feeding, loose blade tension, not using a work piece guide...
Main causes: dull blade, using the wrong type of blade, feeding work piece to quickly, loose blade tension...
Main causes: broken saw blade, bad drive belt, damaged rubber tire...
Main causes: angle indicator needs adjustment, dull blade...
Main causes: dull blade, using the wrong type of blade, weak drive motor...
Main causes: lack of electrical power, broken power cord, bad on/off switch, faulty drive motor...
Repair guides for band saws
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your band saw.
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How to replace a band saw blade
If the saw blade is dull or damaged and isn't cutting cleanly, replace the blade following these steps....
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If the motor runs but the blade doesn't move, it could be that the drive belt is broken. Here's how to replace it....
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