Band saw tension

[lonepine]

I have a 12" sears band saw, and I have not always released the tension when not in use. I have found that it puts pressure on the bottom shaft and causes the bearings to wear and the shaft too bend.
I have replaced both once,and in the process of doing it again.I bought the saw in the late 70's.
The question is to relaese or not to release the tension?
What do you think?
Thanks Bob

[Plaquerd]

Bob
I'd say release the tension. I've ruined tires and had blades break because of not releasing the tension. It's a pain in the wazoo to unscrew the tension , but worth the time and effort, I finally bought a Carter quick tension release attachment for my saw. (I have a 14" saw) Now it's just a matter of moving the handle to release the tension. What a difference! Well worth the price.

[GrayBeard Phil]

I vote to release tension at end of each day of useage.

No exceptions.

Phil

[Barefoot1]

Here here, Absolutely release the tension at the end of each day of use.

[SNAPPER]

I have a 9" Delta band saw and never used to released the tension until I read a post about it. It does make sense. Never had a problem with bearings.
Dean

[Jediscroller]

I never leave the bandsaw tensioned (or the scrollsaw for that matter). Having a quick release tension lever makes it very easy (my Grizzly came with one).

[Kevin12]

I take the tension off of myself at the end of the day -- only make sense that it'd be good for sharp blades, too.

But seriously, I have always released the tension on my scroll saw when not in use. I need to get into that habit with my new band saw, but the tension release lever is on the back side and I don't always think of it because I don't see it. Just another good habit I need to get into.