The model j is a 12 inch. From what I found the newest it could be is 1937.Don't know which size saw you have, there's at least a 12" and 16" version.
see if this helps - last post on this link
DoAll Vert Bandsaw / Belt Part Number Help
Perhaps somebody with the same saw can help me. The saw is a DoAll 1612 vertical saw. Made in 1971. Serial 287-72330 It looks like an ML only newer. I am looking for the Gates or equivalent part number for the drive belts. I bought the saw missing the belts, so I have no old belts to match up...www.practicalmachinist.com
I downloaded the manual and found three possible part numbers but no sizes.Have you checked at www.vintagemachinery.org?
They have a page devoted to DoAll and list a Model J parts list and manual.
Thanks for the reply. This machine has a variable speed drive which uses 2 different size belts. As you change speed one pulley gets narrower as the other gets wider. In order for this to work properly the belts need to be a specific length. Short of calling doall I have not been able to find this information anywhere.If its just a classic v-belt you need a couple of measurements. Most likely its a "B" section belt with 5/8" width across the top of the trapezoidal cross-section. If you have one already from something else, fit it into a sheave groove to see if it fits.
Then you need a tape measure, measure centerline distance between sheaves. Also measure both sheave ODs.
Your belt will be very close to (OD1 + OD2) / 2 / pi + the centerline distance.
Lets say that measurement is 32", you want to order a B32 belt.
They might have them stocked at an Ace Hardware where if it wasn't quite right then it could be exchanged.
Another tip is to look at the "belt takeup" or the mechanism which tensions the belt. Ideally you want it somewhere in the center when doing the measurements.
Ah. Its a "Reeves Drive" variable pitch sheave. Those roll a little differently. Its unlikely the OEM is going to give you the specs on a new on as nobody would ever buy it from them because of the OEM markup. I have been down this road with Clausing. Once you have a belt in your hands you could probably reverse engineer it.Thanks for the reply. This machine has a variable speed drive which uses 2 different size belts. As you change speed one pulley gets narrower as the other gets wider. In order for this to work properly the belts need to be a specific length. Short of calling doall I have not been able to find this information anywhere.
You are correct. I will try and call doall this week. Thank you for the input.Ah. Its a "Reeves Drive" variable pitch sheave. Those roll a little differently. Its unlikely the OEM is going to give you the specs on a new on as nobody would ever buy it from them because of the OEM markup. I have been down this road with Clausing. Once you have a belt in your hands you could probably reverse engineer it.
I think you are stuck with the OEM for parts assistance from (model + serial number) unless you find someone with identical saw willing to help reverse-engineer the belt. Eventually armed with the specs you can deal with Applied Industrial Technologies or Motion Industries to source the belt. I have dealt with DoAll a couple of times for a couple of parts issues and they seemed pretty helpful and it was easy to reach and speak to a technician who was able to assist. Really the only place you won't be happy is the price but its not a thing you'll likely have to replace more than a couple of times in a lifetime.