Porter Cable Band Saw: What to Check Before Buying or Restoring One
You are thinking about buying or restoring a Porter Cable band saw and you want to know what to check. Porter Cable band saws are portable band saws designed for cutting metal. You need to know the specifications, what to look for, and how to restore one.
Porter Cable band saws are portable band saws made by Porter Cable, a brand owned by Stanley Black and Decker. They are designed for cutting metal pipe, conduit, unistrut, and bar stock. Porter Cable saws are positioned as mid-range tools, between consumer brands like BLACK+DECKER and professional brands like DEWALT.
Model Identification
Porter Cable Band Saw Models
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Cut Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCE4530 | Corded portable | 44-7/8 inches | 4-3/4 x 4-3/4 inches | Deep cut |
| PC1375T | Corded portable | 32-7/8 inches | 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 inches | Compact |
| PCCW201 | 20V cordless compact | 32-7/8 inches | 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 inches | Cordless |
How to Identify Your Model
- Find the model number on the label on the motor housing.
- If the label is missing, check for stamped numbers on the body.
- Check the blade length to help identify the model.
- Contact Porter Cable customer service with any identifying numbers.
Specifications
Porter Cable PCE4530 (Corded Deep Cut)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Corded portable band saw |
| Blade length | 44-7/8 inches |
| Cut capacity | 4-3/4 x 4-3/4 inches |
| Motor | 7 amp, 120V |
| Speed | Single speed (verify) |
| Weight | ~16 to 18 pounds |
| LED light | No (verify) |
Porter Cable PC1375T (Corded Compact)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Corded portable band saw |
| Blade length | 32-7/8 inches |
| Cut capacity | 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 inches |
| Motor | 5 amp, 120V (verify) |
| Speed | Single speed (verify) |
| Weight | ~12 to 14 pounds |
What to Check Before Buying Used
1. Motor
Plug in the saw and run the motor. Listen for bearing noise. Check for excessive vibration or smoke.
2. Blade
Check the blade condition. A replacement blade costs 15 to 25 dollars.
3. Blade Guides
Check the blade guides for wear. Worn guides cause blade wander and poor cut quality.
4. Switch
Check that the switch works correctly. A replacement switch costs 10 to 20 dollars.
5. Shoe
Check that the shoe adjusts smoothly and stays in position.
6. Cord
Check the power cord for damage. A damaged cord is a safety hazard.
7. Blade Guard
Check that the blade guard opens and closes smoothly.
Restoration Tips
1. Install a Quality Blade
A quality bi-metal blade from Milwaukee, LENOX, or Starrett makes a big difference. Cost: 15 to 25 dollars.
2. Replace the Switch
Old switches can be unreliable. Replace with a new switch. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
3. Replace the Blade Guides
If the guides are worn, replace them. Cost: 15 to 30 dollars.
4. Clean and Lubricate
Clean all moving parts and lubricate with light oil.
5. Replace the Power Cord
If the cord is damaged or cracked, replace it. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Blade Selection
Blade Length
- PCE4530: 44-7/8 inches.
- PC1375T: 32-7/8 inches.
- PCCW201: 32-7/8 inches.
Recommended TPI
| TPI | Best For | Material Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 10 TPI | Thick pipe, solid bar | 1/4 to 2 inches |
| 14 TPI | Medium thickness | 1/8 to 1 inch |
| 18 TPI | Thin material, conduit | Under 1/4 inch |
| 10/14 variable pitch | Mixed thicknesses | All |
Cross-Brand Compatibility
44-7/8 inch blades: Compatible with Milwaukee deep cut, DEWALT deep cut, Makita deep cut, and BLACK+DECKER 9411. 32-7/8 inch blades: Compatible with Milwaukee M18 compact (2429-20), DEWALT compact (DCS371, DCS368), Makita BPB180, and Bauer.
Parts Sourcing
Porter Cable Customer Service
Contact Porter Cable customer service with the model number for parts and service.
eReplacementParts
Enter the model number on eReplacementParts.com to find parts diagrams and order parts.
Amazon
Search for the part number or “Porter Cable band saw parts.”
eBay
Search for the model number or part description. Good for used and NOS parts.
Limitations
1. Motor Power
Porter Cable motors are less powerful than professional brands. May struggle with thick or hard material.
2. Build Quality
Mid-range construction. Less durable than professional brands like DEWALT and Milwaukee.
3. Warranty
3-year limited warranty (verify). Better than consumer brands but shorter than Milwaukee’s 5-year warranty.
4. Parts Availability
Parts may be harder to find than for professional brands. Some parts may be discontinued.
FAQ
Are Porter Cable band saws any good?
For occasional use, yes. They are less expensive than professional brands and offer decent performance. For daily or professional use, consider DEWALT or Milwaukee for better build quality and longer warranty.
What blade does the Porter Cable band saw use?
The PCE4530 uses a 44-7/8 inch blade. The PC1375T and PCCW201 use a 32-7/8 inch blade. All use 1/2 inch wide, 0.020 inch thick blades.
Where can I find parts for my Porter Cable band saw?
Porter Cable customer service, eReplacementParts, Amazon, and eBay. Enter the model number to find the correct parts.
References
- Porter Cable. “Band Saw Owner’s Manuals.” portercable.com.
- Stanley Black and Decker. “Product Guide.” stanleyblackanddecker.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Porter Cable Band Saw Parts.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Pro Tool Reviews. “Budget Band Saw Comparison.” ProToolReviews.com.
- LENOX Tools. “Portable Band Saw Blade Specifications.” LENOX Industrial Division.
