Craftsman Tilt Head Band Saw: Capacity, Controls, and Ownership Notes
You own a Craftsman tilt head band saw and you want to know about its capacity, controls, and ownership. The Craftsman tilt head band saw is a unique band saw that tilts the head instead of the table. You need to know the specifications, how to operate it, and what to expect as an owner.
The Craftsman tilt head band saw is a 12-inch floor-standing band saw with a tilting head mechanism. Instead of tilting the table for bevel cuts, the entire head assembly tilts. This keeps the table level and the workpiece flat, which is an advantage for certain types of cuts.
Model Identification
Craftsman Tilt Head Band Saw Models
| Model Series | Manufacturer | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 113.298xxx | Emerson Electric | 80 inches (verify) | 1 to 1-1/8 HP | Popular |
| 113.248xxx | Emerson Electric | 80 inches (verify) | 1 HP (verify) | Less common |
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 tilt head mechanism on the column.
- 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 tilt head |
| 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 | Fixed (head tilts instead) |
| Head tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~150 to 200 pounds |
Tilt Head Mechanism
How It Works
The tilt head mechanism allows the entire saw head (upper wheel, blade, and guides) to tilt from 0 to 45 degrees. The table remains level and the workpiece stays flat on the table.
Advantages
- The workpiece stays flat on the table, providing better support.
- Better accuracy for bevel cuts on long or wide stock.
- Easier to set up repeated bevel cuts.
- The table does not need to be re-leveled after tilting.
Disadvantages
- The blade and guides move, which can affect tracking.
- The tilt mechanism adds complexity and potential maintenance.
- The head is heavy and may require effort to tilt.
- Less common than table-tilt designs, so parts may be harder to find.
Cut Capacity
Throat
The throat is 11 to 12 inches, meaning you can cut stock up to about 11-1/2 inches wide.
Resaw Capacity
The resaw capacity is 6 to 8 inches, depending on the model.
Bevel Capacity
The tilt head allows bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees without tilting the table.
Operating 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. Head Tilt
Adjusts the angle of the saw head for bevel cuts. Loosen the tilt lock, adjust the angle, and tighten the lock.
5. Guide Post
Adjusts the height of the blade guides.
6. Fence
Adjusts the cutting width for straight cuts.
Common Repairs
1. Blade Replacement
When: Cuts become rough or blade breaks. Cost: 15 to 35 dollars.
2. Tire Replacement
When: Tires are cracked, hardened, or causing tracking problems. Cost: 20 to 35 dollars per pair.
3. Tilt Mechanism Repair
When: Head does not tilt smoothly or does not lock securely. Cost: 30 to 80 dollars.
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 tilt head design is excellent for bevel cuts on long or wide stock. The flat table provides better support than a tilted table.
2. Maintenance
The tilt mechanism requires periodic lubrication and adjustment. Check the tilt lock and pivot points regularly.
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. Tilt mechanism parts may be harder to find.
5. Rarity
The tilt head design is less common than table-tilt designs. This can make the saw more interesting to collectors and restorers.
FAQ
What is a tilt head band saw?
A band saw where the entire head assembly (upper wheel, blade, and guides) tilts from 0 to 45 degrees instead of the table tilting. This keeps the table level and the workpiece flat.
How does the Craftsman tilt head band saw work?
Loosen the tilt lock, tilt the head to the desired angle (0 to 45 degrees), and tighten the lock. The table stays level and the workpiece stays flat. Make the cut as usual.
Where can I find parts for my Craftsman tilt head band saw?
Sears Parts Direct, eReplacementParts, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and common parts are widely available. Tilt mechanism parts may be harder to find.
References
- Sears Parts Direct. “Craftsman 113.298xxx Parts.” searspartsdirect.com.
- eReplacementParts. “Craftsman Tilt Head Band Saw Parts.” eReplacementParts.com.
- Olson Saw. “80-Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “Tilt Head vs Table Tilt Band Saw.” Taunton Press.
- Vintage Machinery. “Craftsman Tilt Head Band Saw Reference.” vintagemachinery.org.
