Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Model 113 Parts Guide: A Compatibility Guide for Repairs and Restoration
You have a Craftsman 12-inch band saw with model number 113.248320 or similar. The saw is old but the frame is solid and you want to restore it. You need to find parts: tires, bearings, guides, belts, and switches. You are not sure which parts are compatible and where to buy them. You need a parts guide that covers the common wear items and tells you where to find them.
The Craftsman 12-inch band saw model 113 (113.248320 and variants) was manufactured by Emerson Electric for Sears. It is one of the most common older band saws on the used market. Parts are still available from several sources, though some original parts are discontinued.
Model Identification
The model 113 series includes several variants:
113.248320: The most common 12-inch model. 1 HP motor, 80-inch blade, cast iron table.
113.248321: A variant with a different switch or minor component changes.
113.248510: A variant with a different motor or table design.
Check the model number on the label on the back of the column or on the motor housing. The full model number is needed to find the correct parts.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | 113.248320 and variants |
| Throat capacity | 12 inches |
| Cut capacity | 6 inches |
| Blade length | 80 inches |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 1/2 inch |
| Motor | 1 HP, 120V |
| Table | Cast iron, 14 x 14 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Drive belt | V-belt, specific length |
Common Wear Parts
Tires
The rubber tires on the wheels harden and crack after 5 to 10 years. This is the most common repair needed on an old model 113.
Symptoms: Blade tracking problems, blade coming off the wheels, poor cut quality.
Replacement: Urethane tires are the best replacement. They outlast rubber and do not harden. Available from aftermarket suppliers in the correct diameter for the 12-inch wheels.
Installation: Soak the urethane tires in hot water for 5 minutes to make them pliable. Stretch them over the wheel and press into place. No adhesive needed for most urethane tires.
Cost: 20 to 40 dollars per pair.
Blade Guides
The stock guides on the model 113 are metal blocks. They wear over time and develop grooves where the blade runs.
Symptoms: Blade wandering, poor cut quality, blade damage.
Replacement options:
- Original metal blocks: Available from Sears Parts Direct. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
- Cool Blocks: Composite blocks that run cooler and are gentler on the blade. Cost: 15 to 25 dollars.
- Carter bearing guides: Roller bearings that provide precise, friction-free support. Cost: 80 to 150 dollars. The most impactful upgrade you can make.
Drive Belt
The V-belt connecting the motor to the lower wheel stretches and cracks over time.
Symptoms: Slipping, reduced blade speed, squealing noise.
Replacement: Measure the old belt or look up the part number. Standard V-belts are available from aftermarket suppliers.
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Wheel Bearings
The bearings in the upper and lower wheel assemblies can fail after years of use.
Symptoms: Grinding noise, rough running, wheel wobble.
Replacement: Remove the wheel, press out the old bearings, press in the new bearings. The bearing size is standard and available from any bearing supplier.
To find the correct bearing: Read the bearing number stamped on the side of the old bearing. If the number is unreadable, measure the inner diameter, outer diameter, and width with a caliper.
Cost: 5 to 15 dollars per bearing.
Switch
The power switch can fail after years of use.
Symptoms: Saw does not start, intermittent operation.
Replacement: Look up the part number or find a compatible switch with the same amperage rating. Generic DPST switches work as replacements.
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Motor
The 1 HP motor is generally reliable but can fail after decades of use.
Symptoms: No power, humming but not starting, burning smell.
Diagnosis: If the motor hums but does not start, the start capacitor may be bad. If the motor runs but has no power, the bearings may be worn. If the motor smokes or trips the breaker, the windings are shorted.
Replacement: A standard 56-frame 1 HP motor is a direct replacement. Make sure the rotation direction and voltage match.
Cost: 80 to 150 dollars.
Table Insert
The table insert around the blade can get damaged or lost.
Replacement: Look up the part number or make one from thin plywood or plastic.
Cost: 5 to 15 dollars for original, or make your own.
Fence and Miter Gauge
The stock fence and miter gauge are basic but functional. If lost or damaged, replacements are available.
Aftermarket options: Aftermarket fences from Kreg, Carter, or Incra provide better accuracy than the stock fence.
Cost: Stock fence: 20 to 40 dollars. Aftermarket fence: 100 to 300 dollars.
Parts Sources
Sears Parts Direct
The original source for Craftsman parts. Has exploded diagrams and part numbers for the model 113. Some parts are discontinued, but common wear parts may still be available.
eReplacementParts
A good source for Craftsman parts. Has diagrams and part numbers for most models.
Aftermarket Suppliers
Carter Products: Guide upgrades, stabilizers, and tension gauges. Olson Saw: 80-inch blades in all widths and TPI options. Iturra Design: Bandsaw accessories including springs, blocks, and inserts (may be discontinued). Bearing suppliers: Standard bearings are available from any industrial bearing supplier.
Used Parts
eBay and other used tool parts sources can be good for hard-to-find original parts.
Restoration Checklist
- Replace the tires with urethane
- Replace the drive belt
- Replace the wheel bearings
- Upgrade the blade guides (Cool Blocks or Carter bearings)
- Replace the switch if needed
- Clean and lubricate all moving parts
- Check and align the table
- Install a new blade
- Adjust tension, tracking, and guides
- Test cut and fine-tune
FAQ
Where can I find parts for my Craftsman 12-inch model 113 band saw?
Sears Parts Direct, eReplacementParts, and aftermarket suppliers. Tires, bearings, belts, and blades are widely available. Internal parts may be harder to find.
What size blade does the Craftsman model 113 use?
An 80-inch blade in widths from 1/8 to 1/2 inch. Available from Olson Saw, Timber Wolf, and other manufacturers.
Can I upgrade the blade guides on my model 113?
Yes. Carter Products makes bearing guide kits for the Craftsman 12-inch. Cool Blocks are also available. Both upgrades improve cut quality and blade life.
What is the best restoration upgrade for the model 113?
Replacing the tires with urethane and upgrading the blade guides to Carter bearings. These two upgrades transform the saw’s performance.
Is the model 113 worth restoring?
Yes, if the frame and table are in good condition. The cast iron construction is solid and the 1 HP motor is adequate for most hobby work. With new tires, bearings, and guides, the model 113 can produce good results.
What motor does the model 113 use?
A 1 HP, 120V motor. A standard 56-frame 1 HP motor is a direct replacement if the original motor is bad.
References
- Sears Parts Direct. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Parts Diagram.” Model 113.248320.
- eReplacementParts. “Craftsman 113.248320 Parts Reference.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Carter Products. “Guide Upgrade for Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saws.” Carter Products.
- Olson Saw. “80-Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Old Woodworking Machines. “Craftsman Model 113 Restoration Guide.” OWWM.com.
