2ND Hand Band Saw: Model Identification, Setup, and Common Repairs
You are shopping for a used band saw and you want to know what to look for. A second-hand band saw can be a great value if you know how to evaluate it. But buying a worn-out saw can cost more in repairs than a new one. You need to know how to identify the model, what to inspect, what repairs are common, and whether the saw is worth restoring.
A second-hand band saw can be a woodworking saw, a metal cutting saw, or a portable saw. Each type has different things to check. This guide covers the general process of evaluating, buying, and restoring a used band saw.
Types of Used Band Saws
Woodworking Band Saws
Vertical saws designed for cutting wood. Common brands include Delta, Jet, Grizzly, Craftsman, and RIDGID.
Sizes: 9-inch (benchtop), 10-inch (benchtop), 12-inch (benchtop or floor), 14-inch (floor standing), 16 to 20-inch (floor standing).
Horizontal Metal Cutting Saws
Horizontal saws designed for cutting metal bar stock and pipe. Common brands include Jet, Baileigh, Harbor Freight, and Ellis.
Sizes: 4x6, 5x6, 7x12 (cut capacity in inches).
Portable Band Saws
Handheld saws for on-site metal cutting. Common brands include Milwaukee, DEWALT, Makita, and RIDGID.
Model Identification
How to Identify a Used Saw
- Find the model number. Look for a label or plate on the saw frame, column, or motor. This is the most reliable way to identify the saw.
- If the label is missing, measure the blade length. Remove the old blade and measure it. The blade length identifies the saw size.
- Measure the throat. The distance from the blade to the frame identifies the saw size (9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 inch).
- Check the motor. Read the motor label for horsepower, voltage, and amperage.
- Look up the model number. Search the model number on the manufacturer’s website, Sears Parts Direct, or eReplacementParts.
Common Blade Lengths
| Saw Size | Common Blade Lengths |
|---|---|
| 9-inch | 59-1/2 inches |
| 10-inch | 62, 70-1/2 inches |
| 12-inch | 80 inches (verify) |
| 14-inch | 93-1/2, 105 inches (with riser) |
| 16-inch | 124 inches |
| 18-inch | 137 inches |
| 20-inch | 144 inches |
What to Inspect Before Buying
1. Frame and Wheels
Check the frame for cracks, especially around the wheel housings and the column. Check the wheels for cracks, chips, and wobble. Spin both wheels by hand and feel for bearing roughness.
Red flags: Cracks in the frame, cracked or chipped wheels, wobbly wheels, rough bearings.
2. Tires
Check the rubber tires on both wheels. The tires should be smooth and flexible. If they are cracked, hardened, or have flat spots, they need replacement.
Cost to replace: 15 to 35 dollars per pair.
3. Blade Guides
Check the blade guides for wear. Metal blocks should not be deeply grooved. Roller bearings should spin freely without play.
Cost to replace: 15 to 60 dollars depending on the upgrade.
4. Table
Check the table for flatness. A cast iron table should be flat and smooth. Check that the table tilts smoothly from 0 to 45 degrees.
Red flags: Warped or cracked table, table that does not tilt, trunnion damage.
5. Motor
Run the motor if possible. Listen for bearing noise, humming, or smoking. Check that the motor starts promptly and runs smoothly.
Red flags: Motor that hums but does not start, bearing noise, smoking, burnt smell.
6. Fence and Miter Gauge
Check if the fence and miter gauge are included. These are often missing on used saws.
Cost to replace: 20 to 80 dollars for aftermarket alternatives.
7. Blade Tension and Tracking
Check that the tension mechanism works. Check that the tracking adjustment can center the blade on the tire.
Red flags: Tension knob stripped, tracking adjustment not working.
8. Drive Belt
Check the drive belt for cracks and stretching. A cracked or stretched belt needs replacement.
Cost to replace: 10 to 30 dollars.
9. Switch and Electrical
Check that the switch works properly. Look at the power cord for damage. Check for any exposed wiring.
Red flags: Switch does not work, damaged cord, exposed wiring.
10. Overall Condition
Look for signs of heavy use, abuse, or neglect. Surface rust is normal and cleanable. Deep rust, pitting, or bent components are more serious.
Common Repairs
Replacing the Tires
The most common repair. Rubber tires harden and crack after 5 to 10 years.
Replacement: Urethane tires in the correct wheel diameter. Soak in hot water before installation. Cost: 15 to 35 dollars per pair.
Upgrading the Blade Guides
The stock metal guide blocks can be upgraded to Cool Blocks (15 to 20 dollars) or Carter bearing guides (50 to 80 dollars).
Replacing the Drive Belt
Cost: 10 to 30 dollars.
Motor Repair
- Start capacitor: 10 to 20 dollars
- Motor bearings: 15 to 30 dollars
- Motor replacement: 80 to 200 dollars
Switch Replacement
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Table Trunnion Repair
Clean and lubricate the trunnion. If worn, replace it. Cost: 20 to 40 dollars.
Guide Post Repair
Clean and lubricate the guide post. If corroded, use fine sandpaper. If bent, replace it. Cost: 15 to 30 dollars.
Setup After Restoration
Install a new blade. Choose the right blade for your work. A 3/8 inch, 4 TPI skip tooth carbon steel blade is the best all-purpose choice for woodworking.
Set the tracking. Adjust the tracking knob until the blade runs centered on the tire.
Adjust the blade guides. Set the side guides about 1/32 inch from the blade sides. Set the thrust bearing about 1/64 inch behind the blade.
Check the table. The table should be 90 degrees to the blade. Shim the trunnion if needed.
Align the fence. Align the fence parallel to the blade using a straightedge.
Test cut. Make a test cut on scrap wood. The cut should be straight and clean.
Is a Used Band Saw Worth Buying?
Yes if:
- The frame and wheels are sound
- The motor runs smoothly
- The price is 40 to 60 percent of new
- You are willing to do basic repairs
No if:
- The frame is cracked
- The wheels are damaged
- The motor is burnt out and replacement is expensive
- The total repair cost exceeds the price of a new saw
Typical restoration cost: 50 to 150 dollars for tires, blade, guides, belt, and switch.
FAQ
What should I check before buying a used band saw?
Check the frame for cracks, the wheels for wobble, the tires for wear, the motor for smooth running, the table for flatness, and the blade tension and tracking mechanisms. Factor in the cost of any needed repairs.
How do I identify a used band saw without a model number?
Measure the blade length and throat capacity. The blade length identifies the saw size. Look up the measurements on the manufacturer’s website or parts sites.
How much does it cost to restore a used band saw?
Typically 50 to 150 dollars for tires, blade, guides, belt, and switch. If the motor needs replacement, add 80 to 200 dollars.
Is a used band saw worth buying?
If the frame and wheels are sound and the motor runs, yes. A used saw with new tires, a good blade, and properly adjusted guides can produce acceptable results at a fraction of the cost of new.
What is the most common repair needed on a used band saw?
Replacing the tires. Rubber tires harden and crack after 5 to 10 years. Urethane replacement tires cost 15 to 35 dollars per pair.
References
- Fine Woodworking. “Buying and Restoring a Used Band Saw.” Taunton Press.
- Popular Woodworking. “Used Band Saw Buyer’s Guide.” Popular Woodworking Magazine.
- Carter Products. “Guide Upgrade Compatibility Chart.” Carter Products.
- Olson Saw. “Band Saw Blade and Accessory Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Practical Machinist. “Used Band Saw Evaluation Tips.” practicalmachinist.com.
