Rockwell Delta Band Saw: What to Check Before Buying or Restoring One
You are thinking about buying or restoring a Rockwell Delta band saw and you want to know what to check. Rockwell Delta band saws are older Delta 14-inch band saws made when Rockwell owned Delta. You need to know the specifications, what to look for, and how to restore one.
Rockwell Delta band saws are older Delta 14-inch band saws made when Rockwell International owned Delta Machinery (approximately 1945 to 1984). These saws are well-built with cast iron frames and are good candidates for restoration.
Model Identification
Rockwell Delta 14-Inch Models
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Motor | Era |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28-200 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 1/2 to 3/4 HP | 1970s |
| 28-240 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | 1970s to 1980s |
| 28-250 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | 1970s to 1980s |
| 28-300 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | 1970s to 1980s |
| 28-350 | 14-inch floor | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | 1980s |
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.
- Look for the Rockwell Delta badge on the saw.
- Measure the blade length. A 93-1/2 inch blade indicates a 14-inch saw.
- Contact Delta customer service with the model number.
Dating Your Saw
Methods for Dating
- Badge style: Rockwell Delta badges were used from 1945 to 1984. After 1984, the badges changed to Delta only.
- Model number: Check the model number against Delta production records.
- Motor date code: Rockwell motors have date codes.
- Vintage Machinery: Look up the model number on vintagemachinery.org.
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 (105 inches with riser) |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 3/4 inch |
| Motor | 1/2 to 3/4 HP, 110V |
| 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 column base. Cast iron frames can crack if dropped.
2. Wheels
Spin the wheels by hand and listen for bearing noise. Check for cracks on cast iron wheels.
3. Tires
Check the tires for cracking, hardening, or missing pieces. Budget 20 to 35 dollars for urethane replacements.
4. Motor
Plug in the saw and run the motor. Listen for bearing noise. Old motors may have deteriorated insulation. 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.
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.
8. Switch and Cord
Old switches and cords may not meet modern safety standards. Plan to replace both.
9. Guide Post
Check that the guide post moves up and down smoothly.
10. Rockwell Delta Badge
Check for the original badge. An original badge adds to the collector 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
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. Replace the Switch and Power Cord
Old electrical components are a safety hazard. Cost: 20 to 40 dollars.
7. Clean and Wax the Table
Remove rust with a random orbit sander. Wax the table with paste wax.
8. Check the Motor
Have the motor tested by a qualified electrician or replace it.
9. Paint
Strip and repaint bare metal to prevent rust. Use a machinery enamel.
FAQ
Is a Rockwell Delta band saw worth restoring?
Yes, if the frame is sound. Rockwell Delta saws are well-built with cast iron frames and can produce excellent results with new tires, bearings, and a quality blade. Total restoration cost is typically 100 to 250 dollars.
What blade does the Rockwell Delta 14-inch 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.
Where can I find parts for my Rockwell Delta band saw?
Delta Power Equipment, eReplacementParts, Amazon, eBay, and Vintage Machinery. Blades and tires are widely available (shared with modern Delta 14-inch saws).
References
- Delta Power Equipment. “Delta 14-Inch Band Saw Parts.” deltapower.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Delta 28-200 Parts Diagram.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Vintage Machinery. “Rockwell Delta Band Saw Reference.” vintagemachinery.org.
- Olson Saw. “93-1/2 Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “Delta 14-Inch Band Saw Restoration.” Taunton Press.
