Scored a used RIDGID BS14002 Bandsaw locally for $50 bucks. I know its not the greatest band saw, but I figured at that price it will do for now, and when I can afford a 17" I will keep the Ridgid dedicated for small blade applications.
I want to tune this saw up and upgrade it to make it the best performer I can.
Saw came with a Kreg Fence and Resaw attachment, already added plywood to the base (but not the top, motor and saw are still mounted directly to the sheet metal), and Previous owner also installed a V-Belt.
Upper pot-metal guide is cracked, and is the main reason I got it so cheap. I will go ahead and replace this with Carter guides.
I've seen posts where people relocated the motor to underneath the saw, can someone detail the proper way to do so?
My plans for upgrading the saw are as follows:
1. Carter Guides
2. Urethane Tires
3. Grizzly Riser Block
4. Shop-Built Enclosed Wooden Base, w/motor relocated underneath the saw inside of base.
5. 4 Inch dust port added to lower door. Will Use a 4"/2.5" Wye to split up to the stock vacuum dust port on the saw.
I know a lot of these fixes and upgrades were detailed on the old Ridgid forums, but that forum unfortunately appears to be no-longer.
Anything I'm missing or should consider doing to the saw while I'm refurbishing it? And if anyone has any links or details/tips/tricks for these saws it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!