Delta Band Saw 28 185: Capacity, Controls, and Ownership Notes
You own a Delta 28-185 band saw and you want to know about its capacity, controls, and ownership. The Delta 28-185 is a 14-inch floor-standing band saw made by Delta Machinery. You need to know the specifications, how to operate it, and what to expect as an owner.
The Delta 28-185 is a 14-inch floor-standing band saw made by Delta Machinery. It is part of the popular Delta 14-inch band saw family, which includes the 28-276, 28-400, and 28-340. The 28-185 uses a 93-1/2 inch blade and has a 6-inch resaw capacity.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | 28-185 |
| 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 |
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.
Operating Controls
1. Power Switch
Turns the saw on and off. Usually a toggle switch or push-button.
2. Blade Tension
Adjusts the tension on the blade. Turn the tension knob on the upper wheel hub.
3. Blade Tracking
Adjusts the tracking of the blade on the wheels. Turn the tracking adjustment knob to center the blade on the tire.
4. Table Tilt
Adjusts the table angle for bevel cuts. Loosen the table tilt lock, tilt the table, and tighten the lock.
5. Guide Post
Adjusts the height of the blade guides. Set the guide post about 1/4 inch above the workpiece.
6. Blade Guides
Adjust the side guides and thrust bearing to the correct clearance for the blade.
7. Fence
Adjusts the cutting width for straight cuts. Set the fence to the desired width and lock it in place.
8. Miter Gauge
Used for cutting angles on the table. Insert the miter gauge in the table slot and set the angle.
Blade Selection
The Delta 28-185 uses a 93-1/2 inch blade (105 inches with a riser block).
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 Jet, Grizzly, Rikon, RIDGID, Craftsman, and Central Machinery 14-inch saws.
Common Repairs
1. Blade Replacement
When: Cuts become rough or blade breaks. Cost: 12 to 40 dollars.
2. Tire Replacement
When: Tires are cracked, hardened, or causing tracking problems. Replacement: Urethane tires for 14-inch wheels. Cost: 20 to 35 dollars per pair.
3. Blade Guide Upgrade
When: Guides are worn or you want better cut quality. Upgrade: Cool Blocks from Olson Saw or Carter bearing guides. Cost: 15 to 80 dollars.
4. Drive Belt Replacement
When: Belt is cracked, stretched, or slipping. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
5. Wheel Bearing Replacement
When: Saw makes grinding or rumbling noise. Cost: 15 to 30 dollars per bearing.
6. Switch Replacement
When: Switch does not work reliably. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Ownership Notes
1. Riser Block
A riser block increases the resaw capacity from 6 inches to 12 inches. It is a popular upgrade for the Delta 28-185. Cost: 50 to 100 dollars.
2. Motor
The 3/4 HP motor is adequate for general woodworking but may struggle with thick hardwood resawing. Consider upgrading to a 1 HP motor for heavy resawing.
3. Build Quality
The Delta 28-185 has a cast iron frame and wheels, which provides good stability and vibration damping. The table is cast iron and provides good support for large workpieces.
4. Parts Availability
Parts are widely available from Delta, eReplacementParts, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and tires are easy to find.
5. Resale Value
Delta 14-inch saws hold their value well. A well-maintained 28-185 can sell for 300 to 600 dollars used.
FAQ
What blade does the Delta 28-185 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 the Delta 28-185?
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 Delta 28-185?
Delta Power Equipment, eReplacementParts, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and tires are widely available.
References
- Delta Power Equipment. “Delta 28-185 Parts.” deltapower.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Delta 28-185 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 28-185 Reference.” vintagemachinery.org.
