Craftsman Band Saw 12-Inch Manual: Model Identification, Setup, and Troubleshooting
You own a Craftsman 12-inch band saw and you need help with setup or troubleshooting. Maybe you bought it used and it did not come with a manual. Maybe you have a problem you cannot figure out. You need a guide that covers model identification, setup, and troubleshooting in a manual-style format.
The Craftsman 12-inch band saw has been sold under several model numbers over the years. The most common is the 113 series, made by Emerson Electric. This guide covers model identification, setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance in a format that supplements the original owner’s manual.
Model Identification
Common Models
| Model | Manufacturer | Blade Length | Motor |
|---|---|---|---|
| 113.248510 | Emerson Electric | 80 inches | 1/2 to 1-1/8 HP |
| 113.248512 | Emerson Electric | 80 inches | Similar to 248510 |
| 113.248513 | Emerson Electric | 80 inches | Similar to 248510 |
| 137.216360 | TTI | 80 inches (verify) | Newer model |
How to Identify Your Model
- Find the model number on the label on the saw frame or column.
- If the label is missing, measure the blade length. An 80-inch blade indicates a 12-inch Craftsman.
- Check the motor label for horsepower, voltage, and amperage.
- Look up the model number on Sears Parts Direct.
Setup
Unboxing and Assembly
- Remove all packing material. Remove protective coatings with mineral spirits.
- Assemble the stand. If the saw has a separate stand, assemble it according to the instructions.
- Mount the saw on the stand. Bolt the saw to the stand securely.
- Level the saw. Use shims under the stand feet if needed to level the saw.
Installing the Blade
- Open the wheel covers. Remove the upper and lower wheel covers.
- Release blade tension. Turn the tension knob counterclockwise to release tension.
- Remove the old blade. Slide the old blade off the wheels.
- Install the new blade. Place the new blade on the wheels with teeth pointing down (toward the table).
- Apply tension. Turn the tension knob clockwise to apply tension. For a 3/8 inch blade, tension to about 15,000 PSI.
- Check tracking. Spin the upper wheel by hand and check that the blade tracks centered on the tire. Adjust the tracking knob if needed.
- Close the wheel covers.
Adjusting the Blade Guides
- Set the upper guides. Position the side guides about 1/32 inch from the blade sides. Position the thrust bearing about 1/64 inch behind the blade.
- Set the lower guides. Same procedure as the upper guides.
- Set the guide post height. Position the upper guide post about 1/4 inch above the workpiece.
Aligning the Table
- Check table squareness. Use a combination square to check that the table is 90 degrees to the blade.
- Adjust if needed. Loosen the trunnion bolts, adjust the table, and retighten.
- Check the tilt scale. Verify that the tilt scale reads 0 degrees when the table is square.
Aligning the Fence
- Check fence alignment. Use a straightedge to check that the fence is parallel to the blade.
- Adjust if needed. Loosen the fence mounting bolts, align the fence, and retighten.
Troubleshooting
Problem: Blade Will Not Track
Possible causes:
- Tires are worn, hardened, or cracked
- Blade is installed backwards (teeth pointing up)
- Tracking adjustment is out of range
- Blade is damaged or kinked
Solutions:
- Replace the tires if worn or hardened
- Reinstall the blade with teeth pointing down
- Adjust the tracking knob
- Replace the blade if damaged
Problem: Blade Breaks
Possible causes:
- Blade tension too high
- Blade guides too tight
- Blade is worn or fatigued
- Cutting radius too tight for the blade width
- Blade quality is poor
Solutions:
- Reduce tension to the recommended setting
- Adjust guides to the correct clearance
- Replace the blade
- Use a narrower blade for tight curves
- Use a quality blade from Olson Saw or Timber Wolf
Problem: Poor Cut Quality
Possible causes:
- Dull blade
- Incorrect TPI for the material
- Blade guides too loose
- Feed rate too fast
- Blade tension too low
Solutions:
- Replace the blade
- Choose the correct TPI for the material thickness
- Adjust guides to the correct clearance
- Slow the feed rate
- Increase tension to the recommended setting
Problem: Saw Vibrates
Possible causes:
- Drive belt worn or damaged
- Wheel bearings worn
- Blade unbalanced or damaged
- Saw not level
- Stand not rigid enough
Solutions:
- Replace the drive belt
- Replace the wheel bearings
- Replace the blade
- Level the saw
- Reinforce the stand or add weight to the base
Problem: Motor Hums but Does Not Start
Possible causes:
- Start capacitor failed
- Motor bearings seized
- Switch contacts burned
- Power cord damaged
Solutions:
- Replace the start capacitor (10 to 20 dollars)
- Replace the motor bearings or the motor
- Replace the switch
- Replace the power cord
Problem: Motor Overheats
Possible causes:
- Motor is underpowered for the work
- Feed rate too fast
- Blade is dull
- Motor ventilation blocked
- Motor bearings failing
Solutions:
- Use a sharper blade and slower feed rate
- Slow the feed rate
- Replace the blade
- Clean the motor ventilation openings
- Replace the motor bearings
Problem: Guide Post Sticks
Possible causes:
- Guide post corroded
- Guide post bent
- Guide post locking mechanism too tight
Solutions:
- Clean the guide post with fine sandpaper and lubricate
- Replace the guide post if bent
- Adjust the locking mechanism
Problem: Table Does Not Tilt
Possible causes:
- Trunnion corroded or stuck
- Trunnion lock not releasing
- Trunnion damaged
Solutions:
- Clean and lubricate the trunnion
- Adjust or replace the trunnion lock
- Replace the trunnion if damaged
Maintenance Schedule
Daily:
- Clean sawdust from the table and wheels
- Check blade for wear or damage
- Check blade tension
Weekly:
- Clean the wheel covers inside
- Lubricate the guide post
- Check blade tracking
Monthly:
- Check drive belt tension and condition
- Check all bolts for tightness
- Clean the dust collection port
Annually:
- Replace tires if worn or hardened
- Check wheel bearings for smoothness
- Inspect electrical cord and switch
- Lubricate the trunnion
FAQ
How do I identify my Craftsman 12-inch band saw model?
Find the model number on the label on the saw frame or column. It is usually in the format 113.XXXXXX or 137.XXXXXX. If the label is missing, measure the blade length (80 inches for a 12-inch Craftsman).
What blade does the Craftsman 12-inch band saw use?
An 80-inch blade in widths from 1/8 to 5/8 inch. Available in 3 to 14 TPI. Carbon steel for general work, bi-metal for resawing.
Why does my blade keep breaking?
Common causes are blade tension too high, blade guides too tight, cutting radius too tight for the blade width, or poor blade quality. Reduce tension, adjust guides, use the correct blade width, and use quality blades.
Why does my blade not track?
Common causes are worn or hardened tires, blade installed backwards, tracking adjustment out of range, or a damaged blade. Replace tires, reinstall the blade correctly, adjust tracking, or replace the blade.
Where can I find the manual for my Craftsman 12-inch band saw?
Search for the model number on Sears Parts Direct or eReplacementParts. They often have manuals available for download.
References
- Sears Parts Direct. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Owner’s Manuals.” searspartsdirect.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Craftsman Band Saw Parts and Manuals.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Olson Saw. “Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Carter Products. “Guide Upgrade Compatibility Chart.” Carter Products.
- Fine Woodworking. “Band Saw Setup and Tuning.” Taunton Press.
