I've been a member here for several years but I think this is my first post. I have an opportunity to pick up a Ryobi BS901 for practically nothing. It's mounted on a pretty nice stand and I need the stand, which is the only reason I'm even considering going to look at it. I've always gotten by ok with my jigsaw but it might be nice to have a bandsaw to cut out templates and long curves on 1" boards. I realize that these are cheap little saws and very limited in what they can do, which also perfectly describes me and my budget!
The saw doesn't have a blade on it and the seller knows nothing about it other than the motor runs. The tires and drive belt are easy enough to check but Is checking the thrust bearings as simple as making sure they turn smoothly by hand?? Are there other things I need to be aware of? Thanks in advance!