Porter Cable 14 Band Saw: Capacity, Controls, and Ownership Notes
You own a Porter Cable 14-inch band saw and you want to know about its capacity, controls, and maintenance. Porter Cable 14-inch band saws are floor-standing band saws designed for serious hobby and light professional use. You need to know the specifications, what it can do, and what to watch for as an owner.
Porter Cable 14-inch band saws are floor-standing band saws. Porter Cable is a brand owned by Stanley Black and Decker. The 14-inch band saw is designed for serious hobby and light professional woodworking use.
Model Identification
Porter Cable 14-Inch Models
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCB480B | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches (verify) | 3/4 HP | Common |
| PCB480C | 14-inch floor (updated) | 93-1/2 inches (verify) | 3/4 HP | Updated |
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.
- Contact Porter Cable customer service with the model number.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| 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 (verify) (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 |
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.
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.
Controls
Power Switch
Standard toggle switch.
Blade Tension
Tension is adjusted by turning the tension knob on the upper wheel hub.
Tracking
Tracking is adjusted by tilting the upper wheel.
Blade Guides
Upper guides: Adjustable side guides and thrust bearing. Lower guides: Same procedure as upper guides. Guide material: Metal blocks (stock). Can be upgraded to Cool Blocks.
Table Tilt
The table tilts from 0 to 45 degrees.
Fence
Some Porter Cable 14-inch saws include a fence. Check if yours has one.
Blade Selection
The Porter Cable 14-inch band saw uses a 93-1/2 inch blade (verify by model).
Recommended Blades
| Application | Width | TPI | Material | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General woodworking | 3/8 inch | 4 TPI | Carbon steel | 15 to 20 dollars |
| Resawing | 1/2 inch | 3 TPI | Bi-metal M42 | 25 to 35 dollars |
| Curve cutting | 1/4 inch | 6 TPI | Carbon steel | 12 to 18 dollars |
| Scroll work | 1/8 inch | 14 TPI | Carbon steel | 10 to 15 dollars |
Cross-Brand Compatibility
The 93-1/2 inch blade is shared with Delta, Jet, Grizzly, Rikon, RIDGID, and Craftsman 14-inch saws.
Common Repairs
Replacing Tires
Replacement: Urethane tires for 14-inch wheels. 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.
Replacing the Drive Belt
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Motor Repair
- Motor replacement: 150 to 300 dollars.
Ownership Notes
What to Check Before Buying Used
- Frame and wheels for cracks.
- Tires for cracking and hardening.
- Motor for smooth running.
- Table for flatness.
- Fence and miter gauge inclusion.
- Blade guides for wear.
- Switch and cord condition.
Maintenance Schedule
Daily: Clean sawdust from table and wheels. Check blade. Weekly: Clean wheel covers. Lubricate guide post. Monthly: Check drive belt tension. Check bolts. Annually: Replace tires if worn. Check bearings. Inspect cord and switch.
Upgrades
- Install a quality blade from Olson Saw or Timber Wolf.
- Upgrade to urethane tires.
- Upgrade blade guides to Cool Blocks or Carter bearing guides.
- Add dust collection.
- Add a riser block for 12-inch resaw capacity.
FAQ
What blade does the Porter Cable 14-inch band saw use?
A 93-1/2 inch blade in widths from 1/8 to 3/4 inch (verify by model). With a riser block, the blade length is 105 inches.
Can I resaw with a Porter Cable 14-inch band saw?
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.
Where can I find parts for my Porter Cable 14-inch band saw?
Porter Cable customer service, eReplacementParts, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and tires are widely available (shared with other 14-inch saws). Model-specific parts may be harder to find.
References
- Porter Cable. “14-Inch Band Saw Owner’s Manual.” Porter Cable Tools.
- eReplacementParts. “Porter Cable Band Saw Parts.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Olson Saw. “93-1/2 Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “14-Inch Band Saw Comparison.” Taunton Press.
- Woodcraft. “14-Inch Band Saw Buyer’s Guide.” Woodcraft Supply.
