Craftsman Bandsaw Speed Reducer

[Tsquare]

Has anyone used one of these Craftsman Bandsaw Speed reducers - if so, what's your opinion?

I am in the process of restoring a vintage Craftsman Bandsaw and would like to know if it is worth while to retro-fit one of these units.

 

[nine4gmc]

I've heard that the problem with cutting metal is the saws rigidity, slowing it down is easy.

What do you plan on cutting with it I guess is the question?


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[Tsquare]

I've heard that the problem with cutting metal is the saws rigidity, slowing it down is easy.

What do you plan on cutting with it I guess is the question?


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Picked up one of these a few weeks back. Is that what you were asking? Or were you talking blades??

 

[nine4gmc]

I'm asking, do you plan to cut thick metal or thin sheet metal? The saw is not designed for metal cutting so even if you slow it down, it will struggle on thicker metals. Sheet metal cutting will be fine but don't expect too much from it.

I am restoring the same model saw now but for wood cutting only, I have a metal cutting Delta for thin metals and a plasma cutter and cutting wheel grinders for thicker.

 

[Tsquare]

I'm asking, do you plan to cut thick metal or thin sheet metal? The saw is not designed for metal cutting so even if you slow it down, it will struggle on thicker metals. Sheet metal cutting will be fine but don't expect too much from it.

I am restoring the same model saw now but for wood cutting only, I have a metal cutting Delta for thin metals and a plasma cutter and cutting wheel grinders for thicker.

Thanks for clarifying - Didn't have specific plans - The saw will be used for general purposes - wood and metal as needed - I can see cutting aluminum and sheet metal up to 1/8" thick, not much more, I liked the idea of having the two speed option on the saw when needed. I do not have space for two dedicated bandsaws - just one general purpose machine.

I have not read any discussions on the forum talking about this option for Craftsman Bandsaws. Was hoping to get first hand experiences to determine if it was worth the effort to retro fit.

 

[nine4gmc]

Sounds like you would benefit from it. Do you have the speed reducer already? If not, the same thing can be accomplished with a jack shaft and different size pulleys.
The most recent cman band saw I picked up has a jack shaft setup on the stand but I don't plan on using it since it will be used for wood.


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[Tsquare]

Sounds like you would benefit from it. Do you have the speed reducer already? If not, the same thing can be accomplished with a jack shaft and different size pulleys.
The most recent cman band saw I picked up has a jack shaft setup on the stand but I don't plan on using it since it will be used for wood.


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I do have the Bandsaw. It was a throw in - a local company who built prototype dot matrix print heads was moving to a new location and they needed to get rid of some machinery. I picked up a Powermatic 1150 Variable Speed Drill Press (great condition) and the Craftsman Bandsaw with the speed reducer for $75.00.

My plan is to sell the Drill Press and Bandsaw, I am just considering keeping the Bandsaw stand with speed reducer and motor.

 

[nine4gmc]

Awesome score!!


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[Tsquare]

Awesome score!!


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Got lucky, just right place right time - I just want to get the drill press and bandsaw to someone who will get good use out of them.