Ryobi 9 Band Saw BS900: What to Check Before Buying or Restoring One
You are thinking about buying or restoring a Ryobi BS900 band saw and you want to know what to check. The Ryobi BS900 is a 9-inch benchtop band saw designed for hobby woodworking. You need to know the specifications, what to look for, and how to restore one.
The Ryobi BS900 is a 9-inch benchtop band saw made by Ryobi. It is designed for light hobby woodworking and small projects. The BS900 is one of the most popular budget band saws on the market, known for its affordable price and decent performance for light use.
Model Identification
Ryobi BS900
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | BS900 |
| Type | 9-inch benchtop band saw |
| Throat | 8-1/2 to 9 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 3-1/2 inches (verify) |
| Blade length | 59-1/2 inches |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 3/8 inch |
| Motor | 2.5 amp, 120V |
| Speed | Single speed, ~2500 FPM (verify) |
| Table | Aluminum, ~11 x 11 inches (verify) |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~35 to 40 pounds |
Related Models
| Model | Type | Blade Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| BS900 | 9-inch benchtop | 59-1/2 inches | Original |
| BS901 | 9-inch benchtop | 59-1/2 inches | Similar to BS900 |
| BS902 | 9-inch benchtop | 59-1/2 inches | Similar to BS900 |
| BS903 | 9-inch benchtop | 59-1/2 inches | Similar to BS900 |
How to Identify Your Model
- Find the model number on the label on the saw frame.
- If the label is missing, check for stamped numbers on the frame.
- Measure the blade length. A 59-1/2 inch blade indicates a BS900 series saw.
- Contact Ryobi customer service with any identifying numbers.
What to Check Before Buying Used
1. Frame
Check the frame for cracks or damage. The aluminum frame can crack if dropped.
2. Wheels
Spin the wheels by hand and listen for bearing noise. Check for cracks or damage.
3. Tires
Check the tires for cracking, hardening, or missing pieces. Budget 15 to 25 dollars for urethane replacements.
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.
6. Blade Guides
Check the blade guides for wear. Worn guides cause blade wander and poor cut quality.
7. Fence and Miter Gauge
Check if the fence and miter gauge are included. If missing, budget 15 to 30 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. Blade Tension
Check that the blade tension mechanism works correctly. The tension knob should turn smoothly.
Restoration Tips
1. Replace the Tires
Old tires are likely hardened. Replace with urethane tires. Cost: 15 to 25 dollars per pair.
2. Install a Quality Blade
A quality blade from Olson Saw or Timber Wolf makes a big difference. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
3. Replace the Drive Belt
Cost: 8 to 15 dollars.
4. Replace Wheel Bearings
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars per bearing.
5. Clean and Wax the Table
Remove any rust or corrosion with a random orbit sander. Wax the table with paste wax for smooth material sliding.
6. Check the Motor
Run the motor and listen for bearing noise. If noisy, replace bearings or motor.
7. Replace the Switch
Old switches can be unreliable. Replace with a new switch. Cost: 8 to 15 dollars.
Blade Selection
The Ryobi BS900 uses a 59-1/2 inch blade.
Recommended Blades
| Application | Width | TPI | Material | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General woodworking | 1/4 inch | 6 TPI | Carbon steel | 10 to 15 dollars |
| Curve cutting | 1/4 inch | 6 TPI | Carbon steel | 10 to 15 dollars |
| Scroll work | 1/8 inch | 14 TPI | Carbon steel | 8 to 12 dollars |
| Thin stock | 3/8 inch | 8 TPI | Carbon steel | 12 to 18 dollars |
Cross-Brand Compatibility
The 59-1/2 inch blade is shared with WEN 3959, Skil 3104 and 3105, and some Craftsman 9-inch benchtop saws.
Parts Sourcing
Ryobi Customer Service
Contact: Ryobi customer service or ryobitools.com with the model number. Availability: Some common parts. Contact customer service for availability.
Amazon
How to order: Search for “Ryobi BS900 parts” or generic parts (tires, blades, bearings, belts). Availability: Good for blades, tires, and generic parts.
eBay
How to order: Search for “Ryobi BS900 parts.” Availability: Good for used and NOS parts.
Specialty Suppliers
Olson Saw: Blades. Bandsawparts.com: Tires and parts.
Home Depot
How to order: Visit Home Depot or homedepot.com. Availability: Ryobi is a Home Depot brand. Some parts may be available.
Limitations
1. Motor Power
The 2.5 amp motor is adequate for light hobby work but will struggle with thick or hard material.
2. Build Quality
Budget construction with an aluminum frame and table. Less rigid than cast iron saws, which can cause more vibration.
3. Capacity
The 8-1/2 to 9 inch throat and 3-1/2 inch resaw capacity limit the size of stock you can cut.
4. Single Speed
The single speed limits the range of materials you can cut effectively.
FAQ
Is the Ryobi BS900 worth buying?
For light hobby use, yes. It is one of the most affordable band saws on the market. For serious woodworking, consider a 14-inch floor-standing saw with a larger motor and more capacity.
What blade does the Ryobi BS900 use?
A 59-1/2 inch blade in widths from 1/8 to 3/8 inch. Available from Olson Saw, Timber Wolf, and other manufacturers.
Where can I find parts for my Ryobi BS900?
Ryobi customer service, Home Depot, Amazon, eBay, and specialty suppliers like Olson Saw and Bandsawparts.com. Blades are widely available.
References
- Ryobi. “BS900 Owner’s Manual.” ryobitools.com.
- Home Depot. “Ryobi BS900.” homedepot.com.
- Olson Saw. “59-1/2 Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Bandsawparts.com. “9-Inch Band Saw Parts.” bandsawparts.com.
- Fine Woodworking. “9-Inch Band Saw Guide.” Taunton Press.
