Band Saw Tire Blues?

[Doug Hobkirk]

I have a 14" Jet band saw but I am a band saw novice. I bought the saw used but it seems to be in good shape - wheels align, guide blocks, decent tension, etc. The saw has worked fine the few times I've experimented with it but now I want to use if for real. And now it shows problems.

When I start the band saw (blade tensioned), the lower tire pulls off the wheel from centrifugal force and walks to the inside or outside (once each - then I stopped). With the tire in place I can force my finger between the wheel and the rubber.

I need a new tire, right? Is there much range on the price or quality of tires? THANX

I am sad to delay my project (Norm's Adirondack chair in white oak) - this will be my first project that is not related to the shop (which finally is mostly together). My welcome to woodworking!

[Bill Huber]

I would say you need new tires.... not question.

I am not sure which to tell you to get but I would think that just about any of the good companies around would have good one.

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?Offerings_ID=5838&TabSelect=Details

[Lee Schierer]

Contact Suffolk Machinery (http://www.suffolkmachinery.com/)and they will be able to help you. Your tire should be much tighter than that. Get urethane tires as replacements as they will hold up better.

[glenn bradley]

As Bill and Lee point out; urethane is the way to go on this. About $25 almost anywhere. I believe the Rockler ones (which are sold elsewhere) have a lifetime warranty on the seam so no worries there.