Looking over an old powermatic 143?

[FishingMan]

Looking over an old powermatic 143 bandsaw ?

Im going to be looking at an old powermatic 143 bandsaw. Any tips. Do they have any weak spots? Can i lay it down in the bed of my truck without hurting it? Im using it to cut metal.

 

[Voi]

Check the trunnions under the table.

Loosen the blade & spin the wheels. Look for wobble, wheels not being coplanar. Take a straight edge to check this. If there is an issue see if it's cutting okay.

Does the seller have a metal cutting blade installed? Ask if you can bring some stock & cut it.

 

[FishingMan]

What happens to the trunnions? Do they crack, or wear out? Im new to band saws. Ive used them. But never had to make a call on a good or bad one.Thanks for the info

 

[Voi]

What happens to the trunnions? Do they crack, or wear out? Im new to band saws. Ive used them. But never had to make a call on a good or bad one.Thanks for the info

Cracking is the biggest issue.

I'd check YouTube for videos on how to inspect bandsaw wheels & trunnions.

 

[FishingMan]

Thanks to the Garagejournal and youtube. I know alot more about band saws. Would it make sense to remove the table for transport ?

 

[454ragtop]

Yes, always a good idea to remove a bandsaw table to transport.

 

[FishingMan]

Thanks for the info guys. I went and got the saw today. It spent most of its life cutting thin aluminum. It was made in the early 80s. Guide bearings are fairly new . Trunnions in good shape as is the table. Came with a few extra blades. I need to put a goose neck light on it and vacuum it out. Its a well made heavy beast. Im glad i found it.

 

[cbacres]

It's a great saw, I bought one four yeas ago. The gear box makes nice for the lower speeds.

Good luck and enjoy.

 

[Warrenator]

One thing I've noticed on mine is the gearbox switch between high and low takes a little effort, gotta spin the pulleys a bit until it snaps in. Apparently this is normal, so don't worry. I love mine.