WEN Band Saw: What to Check Before Buying or Restoring One
You are thinking about buying or restoring a WEN band saw and you want to know what to check. WEN band saws are budget-friendly band saws designed for hobby use. You need to know the models, specifications, and what to look for before buying or restoring.
WEN Products makes budget-friendly band saws for hobby woodworkers. WEN band saws include 9-inch, 10-inch, and 14-inch models. They are designed for light to medium hobby use and are available online and at some retailers.
Model Identification
Common WEN Band Saw Models
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Motor | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3959T | 9-inch benchtop | 59-1/2 inches | 2.5 amp | ~130 dollars |
| 3962T | 10-inch benchtop | 72 inches (verify) | 3.5 amp | ~230 dollars |
| 3970 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches (verify) | 1 HP (verify) | ~500 dollars |
| 3962 | 10-inch with stand | 72 inches (verify) | 3.5 amp | ~250 dollars |
How to Identify Your Model
- Find the model number on the label on the saw frame.
- If the label is missing, measure the blade length to identify the saw size.
- Check the motor label for amperage and voltage.
- Contact WEN customer service with the model number.
Specifications
WEN 3959T (9-Inch)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 9-inch benchtop band saw |
| Throat | 9 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 3-1/2 inches |
| Blade length | 59-1/2 inches |
| Motor | 2.5 amp, 120V |
| Speed | ~2500 FPM (single speed) |
| Table | ~11-3/4 x 11-3/4 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~40 pounds |
WEN 3962T (10-Inch)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 10-inch benchtop band saw with stand |
| Throat | 10 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 6 inches |
| Blade length | 72 inches (verify) |
| Motor | 3.5 amp, 120V |
| Speed | Two-speed (1520 or 2620 FPM) |
| Table | ~14 x 12-1/2 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~75 pounds |
What to Check Before Buying New
1. Cut Capacity
Throat: 9 inches (3959T) or 10 inches (3962T). Resaw: 3-1/2 inches (3959T) or 6 inches (3962T). Choose based on your needs: A 9-inch saw for light hobby use. A 10-inch saw for more capacity.
2. Motor Power
9-inch: 2.5 amp. Sufficient for light cuts. 10-inch: 3.5 amp. Better for thicker material.
3. Speed
9-inch: Single speed (~2500 FPM). Not adjustable. 10-inch: Two-speed (1520 or 2620 FPM). Some flexibility.
4. Included Accessories
Check what is included: fence, miter gauge, blade, dust port, work light.
5. Warranty
WEN products typically come with a 2-year warranty.
What to Check Before Buying Used
1. Frame and Wheels
Check the frame for cracks. Spin the wheels by hand and listen for bearing noise.
2. Tires
Check the tires for cracking, hardening, or missing pieces.
3. Motor
Plug in the saw and run the motor. Listen for bearing noise. Check for excessive vibration.
4. Table
Check that the table is flat. Check that the table tilts smoothly.
5. Blade Guides
Check the blade guides for wear.
6. Accessories
Check for fence, miter gauge, blade, manual, and dust port.
7. Switch
Check that the switch works correctly.
Restoration Tips
1. Replace the Tires
Old tires are likely hardened. Replace with urethane tires. Cost: 15 to 25 dollars per pair.
2. Install a Quality Blade
A quality blade from Olson Saw or Timber Wolf makes more difference than any other single change. Cost: 10 to 25 dollars.
3. Upgrade Blade Guides
Replace metal guide blocks with Cool Blocks. Cost: 15 to 20 dollars.
4. Replace the Drive Belt
Cost: 8 to 15 dollars.
5. Check the Motor
Run the motor and listen for bearing noise. If noisy, replace bearings or motor.
6. Clean Everything
Disassemble, clean with degreaser, remove rust, and reassemble.
FAQ
Are WEN band saws any good?
For hobby use, yes. They are budget-friendly and offer good value for the price. They are not as heavy or rigid as premium brands like Delta or Jet, but they are suitable for light to medium hobby work.
What blade does a WEN band saw use?
9-inch (3959T): 59-1/2 inch blade. 10-inch (3962T): 72 inch blade (verify). 14-inch: 93-1/2 inch blade (verify). Always check the manual.
Where can I find parts for my WEN band saw?
WEN customer service, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and tires are widely available. Model-specific parts may be harder to find.
References
- WEN Products. “Band Saw Guide.” wenproducts.com.
- Olson Saw. “Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “Budget Band Saw Comparison.” Taunton Press.
- Woodcraft. “WEN Band Saw Review.” Woodcraft Supply.
- Tool Box Buzz. “WEN Band Saw Review.” ToolBoxBuzz.com.
