Band saw tires gone wrong? If you’re reading this, it’s safe to assume you’ve once had to buy fresh tires with a frown on your face.
I’ll leave you to recall that upsetting experience on your own. However, if you want to ensure it never happens again, follow my guide, where I’ll show you how to measure band saw tires accurately and effectively. With my expertise, you’ll navigate this process with ease and confidence.
Step by Step Guide: How To Measure Band Saw Tires
Measuring band saw tires isn’t as hard as you think. It only requires two very critical steps, each of which could immediately decide your fate.
Before we dive in, allow me to remind you gently to double-check your measurements for precision. It’s crucial to ensure accuracy from the start, and with my extensive experience, I can’t stress this step enough!
Step 1: Measure the Wheel Diameter
Use a scale to measure your wheel’s diameter.
Simply begin from one end of the wheelbase and stretch it to the other. Make sure you’re measuring in inches too. This way, you won’t have a hard time with the second step.
Step 2: Subtract 2 Inches
After determining the diameter of your wheelbase, simply subtract 2 inches to find the size of your band saw wheel. Speaking from experience, this step is straightforward. So, if you measure a 20-inch wheelbase, for instance, you’ll be working with an 18-inch tire. Trust me; accuracy here is key!
As long as you got the wheelbase correctly and you can do basic arithmetic, you’ll be fine!
Step by Step Guide: How to Remove Band Saw Tires
If you were looking for a way to measure your band saw tire, then I’m assuming you’re on the track of replacing them.
That said, please allow us to guide you through the process of removing and installing band tires, too!
Step 1: Get a Flathead Screwdriver
From my expertise, a flathead screwdriver is all you’ll need to release the seal and clear any residue from the wheel’s surface. Trust me on this, you won’t need an entire toolbox; just that one tool should do the trick.
Step 2: Place the Screwdriver Between the Tire and the Wheel
Once you’ve placed the screwdriver between the tire and the wheel, start rotating the screwdriver.
This should loosen up the seal and traction between the parts. When that’s secure, tilt the head of the screwdriver towards you, removing a portion of the old tire.
The moment a substantial part of the tire has been freed, you can just pull it out with your hands.
Step 3: Remove the Residue
You’ll want to make certain that no residue is left on the wheel surface; I cannot stress the importance of this enough. This meticulous approach ensures that your new tire will fit correctly, allowing you to avoid any complications during the bandsaw operation. With my extensive experience, I assure you, paying attention to this detail makes a significant difference in the process’s smoothness and efficiency.
You can clean up the residue with your screwdriver and some isopropyl alcohol.
Step by Step Guide: How to Install a Rubber Tire
Once you’ve removed the old tire, it’s time for you to install the new one. You could choose between rubber or urethane tires; for this guide, we’ll only discuss the former.
Step 1: Prepare the Materials
For a smooth installation, it’s always best to have all your equipment available during your setup. You’re going to need some c clamps, a flathead screwdriver, a rubber adhesive, and a small pipe.
Once you’ve had all of these on your hands, you’re ready to begin!
Step 2: Place the Rubber Tire
Place the rubber tire in position, ensuring that you have the correct measurements so that it fits perfectly with the wheelbase.
Step 3: Set the Clamps
Set the clamps tightly on both sides of the wheel, one on each end. Remember to do this step carefully and with extra caution, too. That way, I prevent any unwanted accidents.
Step 4: Adjust the Wheels
Once the clamps are on set, snugly fit the tire in the wheel.
Step 5: Insert Small Pipe
Use your flathead screwdriver to put some space between the tire and the wheel. When a space has been provided, pry a corresponding tire section and insert a small pipe.
Then roll the small pipe around the wheel to reduce tire tension.
Step 6: Adhesive
When the pipe has successfully been placed between the tires and wheels, apply some adhesive and finally set the rubber tire in place.
Conclusion
The wheels and the tires of a bandsaw are common parts which go unnoticed. But they’re crucial to having a well-working bandsaw. That said, it’s very important to make sure your tires are of the right size and are always in great condition.
Frankly speaking, measuring the tires isn’t very difficult, but replacing them may take some practice. Don’t be shy of taking as many attempts as you need because no one gets this correctly at their first try.
While you’re at it, however, always remember that safety comes first. Therefore, always remember to be careful, even if this isn’t the most dangerous process there is.
Looking for a highly versatile bandsaw for your cutting projects? Why not try the best metal cutting bandsaw I reviewed here. Read next!
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
- Amazon Basics 18-inch Push Reel Lawn Mower Review (2023) - December 8, 2023
- American Lawn Mower Company 50514 Review (2023) - December 6, 2023
- EGO LM2150SP Review (2023) — Should You Buy This Self-Propelled Mower? - December 4, 2023
