12 in Craftsman Band Saw: What to Check Before Buying or Restoring One
You are thinking about buying or restoring a 12-inch Craftsman band saw and you want to know what to check. The Craftsman 12-inch band saw is a mid-size floor-standing band saw sold by Sears. You need to know the specifications, what to look for, and how to restore one.
The Craftsman 12-inch band saw is a mid-size floor-standing band saw sold by Sears under the Craftsman brand. It was manufactured by Emerson Electric for Sears. The 12-inch saw is larger than the 9-inch benchtop models but smaller than the 14-inch floor models.
Model Identification
Common Craftsman 12-Inch Models
| Model Series | Manufacturer | Blade Length | Type | Era |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 113.298xxx | Emerson Electric | 80 inches (verify) | 12-inch floor | 1980s to 2000s |
| 113.24xxxx | Emerson Electric | 80 inches (verify) | 12-inch floor | 1980s to 1990s |
| 22400 | TTI | 93-1/2 inches (verify) | 12/14-inch floor | 2000s+ |
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 to identify the saw size.
- Check the motor label for manufacturer, horsepower, and voltage.
- Look up the model number on Sears Parts Direct or eReplacementParts.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 12-inch floor-standing band saw |
| Throat | 11 to 12 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 6 to 8 inches (verify by model) |
| Blade length | 80 inches (verify by model) |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 1/2 inch |
| Motor | 1 to 1-1/8 HP, 120V |
| Speed | Single speed, ~2500 to 3000 FPM |
| Table | Cast iron, ~14 x 14 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~150 to 200 pounds |
What to Check Before Buying Used
1. Frame
Check the frame for cracks, especially around the wheel mounts and column base. A cracked frame is a serious problem.
2. Wheels
Spin the wheels by hand and listen for bearing noise. Check for cracks, especially on cast iron wheels.
3. Tires
Check the tires for cracking, hardening, or missing pieces. Budget 20 to 35 dollars for urethane replacements if needed.
4. Motor
Plug in the saw and run the motor. Listen for bearing noise. Check for excessive vibration.
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.
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. Sanding Attachment
Some Craftsman 12-inch saws include a sanding attachment. Check if it is included and complete.
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. Cost: 15 to 20 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.
Blade Selection
Blade Length
Verify the blade length by measuring the old blade or checking the manual. Common lengths for Craftsman 12-inch saws are 80 inches and 93-1/2 inches.
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 |
Parts Sourcing
Sears Parts Direct
Website: searspartsdirect.com How to use: Enter the model number to find parts diagrams and order parts.
eReplacementParts
Website: eReplacementParts.com How to use: Enter the model number to find parts diagrams and order parts.
eBay
How to use: Search for the model number or part description. Availability: Good for used and NOS parts.
Amazon
How to use: Search for generic parts (tires, blades, bearings, belts).
Specialty Suppliers
Olson Saw: Blades and Cool Blocks. Carter Products: Guide upgrades. Bandsawparts.com: Tires and parts.
FAQ
Is the Craftsman 12-inch band saw worth buying used?
Yes, if the frame is sound. Emerson Electric (113.xxx) 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 Craftsman 12-inch band saw use?
The blade length varies by model. Common lengths are 80 inches (113.298xxx) and 93-1/2 inches (22400). Measure the old blade or check the manual to verify.
Can I resaw with a Craftsman 12-inch band saw?
Yes. The resaw capacity is 6 to 8 inches. Use a 1/2 inch, 3 TPI hook tooth bi-metal blade for resawing.
References
- Sears Parts Direct. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Parts.” searspartsdirect.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Craftsman 113.298xxx Parts.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Olson Saw. “80-Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “12-Inch Band Saw Setup.” Taunton Press.
- Vintage Machinery. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Reference.” vintagemachinery.org.
