Jet 5×6 Bandsaw pulley tensioning spring

Dan — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 04:02:02 +0000

Yesterday I mad the first modification to my saw. I didn’t like the door hinge method of tensioning the pulley belt. Don’t get me wrong, the stock method is fine, but I don’t want to get a wrench out every time I want to change speeds.

I learned about this mod on the home shop machinist forum. It’s really simple and requires no unalterable modifications to the saw. All you need is a length of angle iron a spring and an eye bolt.

Jet 5×6 Bandsaw Review

Dan — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 05:13:57 +0000

After using a hacksaw to cut of a length of 1.5” diameter 4140, I decided it was time to get a bandsaw. OK I didn’t really decide, my aching arm told me it was time. I spent about a week doing my typical re-search to see what brand and model was best. I eventually settle on the Jet 5×6, because I could pick it up at my local Menards. I was a little wary of the Jet, because the display model looked like crap, but several people had good things to say about it. On black Friday I bit the bullet, and through down the cash.

When I finally got it home & assembled, I was presently surprised, because the fit and finish on my saw was an order of magnitude better than the display model at Menards. The gear box contained no casting sand, and I couldn’t find any rough or sharp casting seams. Most importantly the motor was a 1/2 horsepower UL rated unit. The motor on the display model looked liked it was assembled by monkeys. Next time I’m in Menards I need to stop and tell the manager that he should replace the display model, as I’m sure it’s costing him sales.

Below are some close up shots.

Dan's Hobbies » Jet

Jet 5×6 Bandsaw pulley tensioning spring

Jet 5×6 Bandsaw Review