Aligning blade with upper blade holder

[sstalker]

Hi all,

Since this was not obivious to me initially, I thought I might point it out to others that are new. You experienced ones figured this out a long time ago.

When using bottom feed, putting the blade in the upper holder without the blade binding in the feed hole causing the board to jump on startup, just use the project to move the blade directly in front of the holder, slip it in and tighten the clamp.

As I said, to some that is obvious, but it sure sped things up for me.

Steve - Toledo

[Mick Walker]

Steve, when you tension the blade that should move the wood so the blade is straight up and down unless you are holding onto the wood. I assume you release the tension before changing holes. I am a top feeder but it should be the same.

[sstalker]

Mick,

I like to make sure the blade is perpendicular before I tighten the blade holder. That way I know the tension is consistent. If the blade is curved somewhat before I reapply the tension (I know tensioning will move the wood into the proper position), I am afraid that variance would result in inconsistent tensions.

Sorry I did not make myself clearer.

Thanks for the response.

Steve - Toledo

[Mick Walker]

Steve, I don't know what kind of saw you have but the tension on my Delta P-20 stays the same all the time unless I turn the tension knob to change it. My first saw was a bottom feeder. I have been scrolling for 14 years and always make sure I am holding the wood down when I start the saw. I stand while sawing and have a foot switch mounted at knee height on my stand. I just bump it with my knee to turn the saw on or off. That way my hands are always on the wood. Everyone has their own way of doing things and whatever works for you is the best way.
Keep making sawdust.