Delta Band Saw 28 180: What to Check Before Buying or Restoring One
You are thinking about buying or restoring a Delta 28-180 band saw and you want to know what to check. The Delta 28-180 is a 14-inch floor-standing band saw made by Delta Machinery. You need to know the specifications, what to look for, and how to restore it.
The Delta 28-180 is a 14-inch floor-standing band saw made by Delta Machinery. It is part of the Delta 14-inch band saw family, which includes the 28-276, 28-400, 28-195, and 28-340. The 28-180 uses a 93-1/2 inch blade and has a 6-inch resaw capacity.
Model Identification
Delta 14-Inch Band Saw Family
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28-180 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Older model |
| 28-276 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Popular |
| 28-400 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Similar to 28-276 |
| 28-195 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 1 HP | Newer model |
| 28-340 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 1 HP | Similar to 28-195 |
How to Identify Your Model
- Find the model number on the label on the saw frame or column.
- If the label is missing, look for a stamped number on the frame.
- Measure the blade length. A 93-1/2 inch blade indicates a Delta 14-inch saw.
- Check the motor label for horsepower and voltage.
- Contact Delta customer service with the model number.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | 28-180 |
| Type | 14-inch floor-standing band saw |
| Throat | 13-1/2 to 14 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 6 inches (12 inches with riser) |
| 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 speed, ~2500 to 3000 FPM |
| Table | Cast iron, ~15 x 15 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~200 to 250 pounds |
What to Check Before Buying Used
1. Frame
Check the frame for cracks, especially around the wheel mounts and trunnion mounting points. A cracked frame is a serious problem that is difficult to repair.
2. Wheels
Spin the wheels by hand and listen for bearing noise. Check for cracks, especially on cast iron wheels. Check wheel runout with a dial indicator if possible.
3. Tires
Check the tires for cracking, hardening, or missing pieces. If the tires are bad, budget 20 to 35 dollars for urethane replacements.
4. Motor
Plug in the saw and run the motor. Listen for bearing noise. Check that the motor runs smoothly without excessive vibration. Check for smoke or burning smells.
5. Table
Check that the table is flat. Check that the table tilts smoothly from 0 to 45 degrees. Check the trunnions for wear.
6. Blade Guides
Check the blade guides for wear. Metal guide blocks should be flat and smooth. Check the thrust bearing for smooth rotation.
7. Fence and Miter Gauge
Check if the fence and miter gauge are included. If missing, budget 30 to 60 dollars for replacements.
8. Switch and Cord
Check that the switch works correctly. Check the power cord for damage.
9. Guide Post
Check that the guide post moves up and down smoothly. If it sticks, it may need cleaning and lubrication.
10. Accessories
Check for the original blade, fence, miter gauge, manual, and any riser block. Missing accessories reduce the value.
Restoration Tips
1. Replace the Tires
Old tires are likely hardened. Replace with urethane tires. Cost: 20 to 35 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: 15 to 35 dollars.
3. Upgrade Blade Guides
Replace metal guide blocks with Cool Blocks or Carter bearing guides. Cost: 15 to 80 dollars.
4. Replace the Drive Belt
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
5. Replace Wheel Bearings
Cost: 15 to 30 dollars per bearing.
6. Clean and Wax the Table
Remove rust with a random orbit sander. Wax the table with paste wax for smooth material sliding.
7. Check the Motor
Run the motor and listen for bearing noise. If noisy, replace bearings or motor.
8. Add a Riser Block
A riser block increases the resaw capacity from 6 to 12 inches and the blade length from 93-1/2 to 105 inches. Cost: 50 to 100 dollars.
FAQ
Is the Delta 28-180 worth buying used?
Yes, if the frame is sound. The Delta 14-inch saws are well-built and can produce good results with new tires, bearings, and a quality blade. Total restoration cost is typically 50 to 150 dollars.
What blade does the Delta 28-180 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.
Can I resaw with a Delta 28-180?
Yes, with a 1/2 inch, 3 TPI hook tooth bi-metal blade. Resaw capacity is 6 inches without a riser block and 12 inches with a riser block.
References
- Delta Power Equipment. “Delta 14-Inch Band Saw Parts.” deltapower.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Delta 28-180 Parts Diagram.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Olson Saw. “93-1/2 Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “Delta 14-Inch Band Saw Setup.” Taunton Press.
- Vintage Machinery. “Delta 28-180 Reference.” vintagemachinery.org.
