To obtain efficient operation of any bandsaw machine, it is important to choose the right tire for the right bandsaw. Consideration must also be taken with regard to the material the tire is made of and the size of the bandsaw machine.
The Right Tires
A bandsaw tire is a vital piece of any bandsaw machine. Its purpose is to protect the wheel from making contact with the blade and therefore avoid causing damage to the saw blade.
Tires come in two different varieties depending on the material they’re manufactured from and the size of width of the blade: Rubber or Urethane.
Rubber vs. Urethane Tires
If you want to avoid the messy glue component of rubber tires along with the additional work required to install them, your best option may be to purchase a Urethane tire.
Urethane tires are slightly more expensive than rubber tires, but they are worth it and are often recommended over their rubber counterparts by many bandsaw manufacturers because of their durability. If you want the bandsaw to run at maximum efficiency and achieve better tracking during performance, then choosing Urethane over Rubber tires is recommended and preferred.
Additionally, the Urethane tires won’t become brittle, are easier to install, and can be changed without difficulty when they need replacing.
Uninstalling a rubber tire will require that you make sure all the glue and residue are safely removed from the wheel so that your new tire sits well on the wheel.
After deciding on the type of tire to use, the next step is to measure the wheel on the bandsaw machine. The tire purchased needs to be 2″ smaller than the size of the wheel so that it fits perfectly and is fixed in place, without the risk of it slipping off the wheel.
How To I Replace Used Tires
Tires that are worn will be crumbly and brittle, with cracks at different places on the tire. Pay attention to how the machine operates. If the bandsaw vibrates excessively and impacts precision, it could mean that the tires need replacing.
Consequently, if using an older band saw that vibrates and doesn’t perform smoothly, then tire replacement is a must.
Every bandsaw has different features. Some wheels on bandsaws require installation that is specific to the type of tire used. If replacement of rubber tires is evident, the following needs to occur:
- Remove the tires currently in place
- Clean the rims on the band saw
- Stretch the new tires over the rim
- Glue the tires in place
- Equalize the new tires, then trim and crown them
- Re-balance the wheels
Before installing new bandsaw tires, make sure to properly clean the epoxy off the wheel rim and clean the wheel of any debris. Removal of old glue and debris is effectively accomplished using a stiff wire or steel brush. Do not use any water or cleaning solvents as they can damage the saw.
While removing the old tire and cleaning the wheel of any debris, the new tire should be soaking in hot, soapy water. This will help to make the new tire pliable and easier to install. This tip affords the ability to stretch the new tire over the rim with relative ease before gluing it in place if needed, and then equalizing, trimming, and crowning the new tire.
Once successful wheel cleaning is achieved, it is time to install the new tire.
Don’t forget to re-balance the wheels, especially on bigger band saws and high-speed models.
A rubber bandsaw tire requires glue to keep it in place.
The Urethane tire will generally outlast a rubber tire and it doesn’t require additional glue to stick to the wheel.
Worn tires are just one of the primary reasons for poor saw performance, and proper tire maintenance is recommended.
Take the time to check the bandsaw machine’s tires.
