Delta Band Saw 28 276: Model Identification, Setup, and Common Repairs
You own a Delta 28-276 band saw and you need help with identification, setup, or repairs. The Delta 28-276 is a 14-inch floor-standing woodworking band saw. You need to know the specifications, how to set it up, and how to fix common problems.
The Delta 28-276 is a 14-inch floor-standing woodworking band saw. It is part of the Delta 14-inch band saw family, which includes the 28-400, 28-195, and other models. The 28-276 is designed for serious hobby and light professional use.
Model Identification
Delta 14-Inch Band Saw Family
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28-276 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Common model |
| 28-400 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 1 HP | Newer model |
| 28-195 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Similar to 28-276 |
| 28-340 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 1 HP | Wood/metal combo |
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. A 93-1/2 inch blade indicates a 14-inch saw.
- Check the motor label for horsepower and voltage.
- Look up the model number on the Delta Machinery website.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | 28-276 |
| Type | 14-inch floor-standing woodworking band saw |
| Throat | 13-1/2 to 14 inches |
| Cut capacity | 6 inches (12 inches with riser block) |
| Blade length | 93-1/2 inches (105 inches with riser) |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 3/4 inch |
| Motor | 3/4 HP, 120V |
| Speed | Single or two speed, 2500 to 3000 FPM |
| Table | Cast iron, 15 x 15 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | 200 to 250 pounds |
Cut Capacity
Throat
The throat is 13-1/2 to 14 inches, meaning you can cut stock up to about 13-1/2 inches wide.
Resaw Capacity
The resaw capacity is 6 inches without a riser block. With a riser block, the capacity increases to 12 inches.
Riser block: Available as an accessory. Cost: 50 to 100 dollars.
What It Can Cut
Can cut: Hardwood up to 6 inches thick (12 inches with riser). Softwood of any thickness within capacity. Plywood, MDF, and composite materials. Cannot cut: Metal (speed is too fast). Stock wider than 13-1/2 inches.
Setup
1. Install the Blade
- Open the wheel covers.
- Release blade tension.
- Install the blade with teeth pointing down (toward the table).
- Apply tension to the recommended setting.
- Check tracking.
- Close the wheel covers.
2. Adjust Blade Guides
Upper guides:
- Set the side guides about 1/32 inch from the blade sides.
- Set the thrust bearing about 1/64 inch behind the blade.
- Set the guide post height about 1/4 inch above the workpiece.
Lower guides: Same procedure as upper guides.
3. Align the Table
- Check that the table is 90 degrees to the blade.
- Adjust the trunnion bolts if needed.
- Check the table for flatness.
4. Set Up the Fence
- Install the fence on the table.
- Check that the fence is parallel to the blade.
- Adjust the fence alignment if needed.
Blade Selection
The Delta 28-276 uses a 93-1/2 inch blade (105 inches with a riser block).
Recommended Blades
General woodworking: 3/8 inch, 4 TPI skip tooth, carbon steel. Cost: about 15 dollars. Resawing: 1/2 inch, 3 TPI hook tooth, bi-metal M42. Cost: about 25 dollars. Curve cutting: 1/4 inch, 6 TPI skip tooth, carbon steel. Cost: about 15 dollars. Scroll work: 1/8 inch, 14 TPI, carbon steel. Cost: about 12 dollars.
Cross-Brand Compatibility
The 93-1/2 inch blade is shared with:
- Jet 14-inch saws
- Grizzly 14-inch saws
- Rikon 14-inch saws
- Craftsman 14-inch saws
- Most other 14-inch saws
Common Repairs
Replacing Tires
Tires harden and crack after 5 to 10 years. Replacement: Urethane tires for 14-inch wheels. Soak in hot water before installation. Cost: 20 to 35 dollars per pair.
Upgrading Blade Guides
Cool Blocks: 15 to 20 dollars. Carter bearing guides: 50 to 80 dollars.
Replacing Wheel Bearings
Cost: 15 to 30 dollars per bearing. Read the bearing number on the old bearing.
Replacing the Drive Belt
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars. Measure the old belt.
Motor Repair
- Start capacitor: 10 to 20 dollars (if applicable)
- Motor replacement: 80 to 200 dollars
Switch Replacement
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Restoration Tips
Clean everything. Disassemble the saw, clean all parts, and remove old grease and sawdust.
Replace the tires. New urethane tires make a big difference in blade tracking and cut quality.
Install a good blade. A quality blade from Olson Saw or Timber Wolf in the correct length makes more difference than any other single change.
Align the table. Check that the table is 90 degrees to the blade. Shim the trunnion if needed.
Upgrade blade guides. Cool Blocks or Carter bearing guides improve cut quality.
FAQ
What blade does the Delta 28-276 band saw use?
A 93-1/2 inch blade in widths from 1/8 to 3/4 inch. With a riser block, the blade length is 105 inches. Carbon steel for general work, bi-metal for resawing.
Can I resaw with a Delta 28-276 band saw?
Yes, with a 1/2 inch, 3 TPI hook tooth bi-metal blade. The resaw capacity is 6 inches without a riser block and 12 inches with a riser block.
Where can I find parts for my Delta 28-276 band saw?
Delta Machinery parts department, eReplacementParts, aftermarket suppliers like Olson Saw and Carter Products, and eBay for discontinued parts.
Can I cut metal with my Delta 28-276 band saw?
No, unless it has variable speed that can be reduced to 40 to 500 FPM. Most Delta 28-276 saws run at 2500 to 3000 FPM, which is too fast for metal.
References
- Delta Machinery. “28-276 Owner’s Manual.” Delta Machinery.
- eReplacementParts. “Delta Band Saw Parts.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Olson Saw. “93-1/2 Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Carter Products. “Guide Upgrade Compatibility Chart.” Carter Products.
- Fine Woodworking. “14-Inch Band Saw Setup.” Taunton Press.
