Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Sander: Capacity, Controls, and Ownership Notes
You own a Craftsman 12-inch band saw sander and you want to know about its capacity, controls, and ownership. The Craftsman 12-inch band saw sander is a band saw with a built-in sanding attachment. You need to know the specifications, how to operate it, and what to expect as an owner.
The Craftsman 12-inch band saw sander is a 12-inch floor-standing band saw with a built-in sanding attachment. The sanding attachment uses a sanding belt that runs on the band saw wheels. It was sold by Sears under the Craftsman brand and manufactured by Emerson Electric.
Model Identification
Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Sander Models
| Model Series | Manufacturer | Blade Length | Sanding Belt | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 113.298xxx | Emerson Electric | 80 inches (verify) | 80 inches (verify) | Popular combo |
| 113.24xxxx | Emerson Electric | 80 inches (verify) | 80 inches (verify) | Similar |
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.
- Check for the sanding attachment on the side of the saw.
- Measure the blade length to help identify the model.
- Look up the model number on Sears Parts Direct or eReplacementParts.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 12-inch floor-standing band saw with sanding attachment |
| Throat | 11 to 12 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 6 to 8 inches (verify) |
| Blade length | 80 inches (verify) |
| 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 |
| Sanding belt | 80 inches (verify), 1 inch wide |
| Sanding area | ~8 x 8 inches (verify) |
| Weight | ~150 to 200 pounds |
Sanding Capacity
Sanding Belt
The sanding attachment uses a sanding belt that runs on the band saw wheels. The belt is typically 80 inches long (verify) and 1 inch wide.
Sanding Area
The sanding area is a flat plate on the side of the saw where the sanding belt runs. The area is approximately 8 x 8 inches (verify).
What It Can Sand
Can sand: Wood, metal, plastic, and composite materials. Flat edges, curves, and contoured shapes. Cannot sand: Very large flat surfaces (use a belt sander instead). Very fine work (use a spindle sander instead).
Operating Controls
Band Saw Controls
1. Power Switch
Turns the saw on and off.
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.
4. Table Tilt
Adjusts the table angle for bevel cuts.
5. Guide Post
Adjusts the height of the blade guides.
6. Fence
Adjusts the cutting width for straight cuts.
Sanding Controls
1. Sanding Belt Tension
The sanding belt uses the same tension as the blade. Adjust the tension when switching between sawing and sanding.
2. Sanding Table
The sanding table is a flat plate on the side of the saw. It may tilt for angle sanding.
3. Sanding Belt Tracking
Adjust the tracking of the sanding belt on the wheels, similar to blade tracking.
Switching Between Sawing and Sanding
To Switch from Sawing to Sanding
- Turn off the saw and unplug it.
- Remove the blade.
- Install the sanding belt.
- Adjust the tension.
- Check the tracking.
- Close the wheel covers.
- Plug in the saw.
To Switch from Sanding to Sawing
- Turn off the saw and unplug it.
- Remove the sanding belt.
- Install the blade.
- Adjust the tension.
- Check the tracking.
- Close the wheel covers.
- Plug in the saw.
Sanding Belt Selection
Grit Selection
| Grit | Best For |
|---|---|
| 40 to 60 grit | Rough sanding, removing material quickly |
| 80 to 120 grit | General sanding, smoothing surfaces |
| 150 to 220 grit | Fine sanding, finishing |
Belt Material
Aluminum oxide: Good for wood and metal. Most common. Silicon carbide: Good for metal and plastic. Sharper but wears faster. Zirconia: Good for heavy material removal. Longer life.
Common Repairs
1. Blade Replacement
When: Cuts become rough or blade breaks. Cost: 15 to 35 dollars.
2. Sanding Belt Replacement
When: Sanding belt is worn or torn. Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
3. Tire Replacement
When: Tires are cracked, hardened, or causing tracking problems. Cost: 20 to 35 dollars per pair.
4. Drive Belt Replacement
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
5. Wheel Bearing Replacement
Cost: 15 to 30 dollars per bearing.
6. Switch Replacement
Cost: 10 to 20 dollars.
Ownership Notes
1. Versatility
The combo design offers both sawing and sanding in one tool. This saves space and money compared to buying separate tools.
2. Inconvenience
Switching between sawing and sanding requires removing and installing blades and belts. This takes several minutes and may be inconvenient if you switch frequently.
3. Build Quality
Emerson Electric (113.xxx) saws are well-built with cast iron frames and can produce good results with new tires, bearings, and quality blades.
4. Parts Availability
Parts are available from Sears Parts Direct, eReplacementParts, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and common parts are widely available.
FAQ
What is a band saw sander?
A band saw with a built-in sanding attachment. The sanding belt runs on the band saw wheels, allowing you to use the saw as a belt sander.
How do I switch between sawing and sanding?
Turn off and unplug the saw, remove the blade, install the sanding belt, adjust tension and tracking, and close the wheel covers. The process takes several minutes.
What sanding belt does the Craftsman 12-inch band saw sander use?
An 80-inch sanding belt (verify), 1 inch wide. Measure the old belt or check the manual to verify.
References
- Sears Parts Direct. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Sander 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.
