Craftex CX101 User manual

CX101
18” VARIABLE SPEED
WOOD & METAL BAND SAW
User Manual

2
Table of Contents
General Safety Instructions------------------------------------------------------------------ 3
Specific Safety Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------ 4
Features ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 5
Physical Features ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6
Setup---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
Un-packing--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
Proper Grounding ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8
Assembly and Adjustments --------------------------------------------------------------- 9
Blade Tracking ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
Basic Controls ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
Test Run ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 13
Blade Tension ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
Adjusting the Blade Tension ----------------------------------------------------------------- 14
Guide Bearings Adjustment------------------------------------------------------------------ 14
Table Stop Adjustment ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 15
Table Tilt Scale Calibration------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
Table Alignment--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
Guide Post---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
Work-Piece Inspection------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
Work-Piece Inspection (Metal) -------------------------------------------------------------- 18
Blade Selection (Metal)------------------------------------------------------------------------ 18
Cast Iron Wheels-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
Coplanar Adjustment--------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
Operations--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Ripping -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Cross Cutting ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 20
Re-Sawing---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
Cutting Curves----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
Connecting to a Dust Collector-------------------------------------------------------------- 21
Maintenance ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 22
Removing/Installing Blade-------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
Blade & Table Alignments-------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
Tilting the table Backward -------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
Table and Base---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
V-Belts--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
Removing/Replacing the V-Belts ----------------------------------------------------------- 24
Optional Accessories -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
Parts Breakdown and List ------------------------------------------------------------------26-31
Warranty ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 32

3
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Extreme caution should be used when operating all power tools. Know your power
tool, be familiar with its operation, read through the owner’s manual and practice
safe usage procedures at all times.
ALWAYS read and understand the
user manual before operating the
machine.
CONNECT your machine ONLY to the
matched and specific power source.
ALWAYS wear safety glasses
respirators, hearing protection and
safety shoes, when operating your
machine.
DO NOT wear loose clothing or
jewelry when operating your machine.
A SAFE ENVIRONMENT is
important. Keep the area free of dust,
dirt and other debris in the immediate
vicinity of your machine.
BE ALERT! DO NOT use prescription
or other drugs that may affect your
ability or judgment to safely use your
machine.
DISCONNECT the power source when
changing blade and / or making
adjustments.
NEVER leave a tool unattended while
it is in operation.
NEVER reach over the table when the
tool is in operation.
ALWAYS keep blades, knives and bits
sharpened and properly aligned.
ALL OPERATIONS MUST BE
performed with the guards in place to
ensure safety.
ALWAYS use push sticks and feather
boards to safely feed your work
through the machine.
ALWAYS make sure that any tools
used for adjustments are removed
before operating the machine.

4
CX101 is perfect for cutting wood and
various types of metal.
ALWAYS INSPECT the blade for any
cracked or missing teeth before
operating the band saw.
ALWAYS ENSURE that the blade
tension is properly set for the type and
width of blade installed.
NEVER place your fingers or hands in
the line of cut. If you slip, your hands or
fingers may come into contact with the
blade. Always use a push stick when
ripping narrow pieces.
DO NOT back the work-piece away from
the blade while cutting. Always turn off
the machine if you are backing out a cut.
ALL GAURDS must be in place while
operating the band saw to ensure
safety.
ALWAYS FEED the stock smoothly. Do
not force or twist the work-piece while
cutting.
ALWAYS ENSURE that the band saw
blade guard is no more than 1/2” above
the stock.
MAKE SURE before making any
adjustments, the switch is in the “OFF”
position and the cord is un-plugged from
the power source.
NEVER LEAVE the band saw
unattended while it is running.
DO NOT attempt to remove jammed
pieces unless the band saw has come
to a complete stop and the power switch
has been turned to the OFF position.
NEVER TURN ON the band saw if the
blade is in contact with your stock.
ALWAYS ENSURE that the guide
blocks are properly set to prevent blade
wander.
ALWAYS MAKE CERTAIN that the
bearings are properly adjusted to guide
the blade.
MAINTAIN AND SERVICE your band
saw regularly as instructed in the user
manual.
MAKE SURE you have read and
understood all the safety instructions in
the manual and you are familiar with
your band saw, before operating the
CX101. If you fail to do so, serious injury
could occur.
CX101 - 18” Variable Speed Wood & Metal Band Saw
SPECIFIC SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
The safety instructions given above can not be complete because the environment in
every shop is different. Always consider safety first as it applies to your individual
working conditions.

5
MODEL CX101 – 18” VARIABLE SPEED WOOD / METAL BAND SAW
As part of the growing line of Craftex woodworking & metalworking equipment, we are proud to offer the
CX101 - 18” Variable Speed Band Saw. The Craftex name guarantees Craft Excellence. By following
the instructions and procedures laid out in this user manual, you will receive years of excellent service
and satisfaction. The CX101 is a professional tool and like all power tools, proper care and safety
procedures should be adhered to.
Motor....................................................1.5 HP, 220V Single Phase
Switch ..................................................On/Off Paddle
Variable Speed ....................................150 – 3000 FPM
Cast Iron Table Size ............................18” x 24”
Table Tilt..............................................0° to 10° Left and 0° to 45° Right
Wheel...................................................18”
Max Blade Width..................................1/8”
Min Blade Width...................................1-3/4”
Maximum Cutting Height......................12”
Floor to Table Height ...........................37-1/4”
Cutting Capacity/Throat .......................17-1/2”
Dust Collection Ports ...........................2 Ports @ 4”
Blade Length .......................................133”
Bearings...............................................Sealed and Permanently Lubricated
Computer Balanced Cast Iron Wheels........Yes
Co-Planer Adjustment..........................Yes
Powder Coated Paint...........................Yes
Precision Ripping Fence......................Yes
Quick Release Tension Adjustment.....Yes
Overall size..........................................30” x 41” x 74”
Approximate Weight.............................216 Kg
Warranty ..............................................3 Years
CX101 – 18” Variable Speed
Band Saw
FEATURES

6
CX101–18” Variable Speed Wood & Metal Band Saw
Physical Features
Quick Release
Blade Tension
Handle Upper Cabinet
Lock Knob
Blade Guide
Adjustment
Hand Wheel
Blade Guide
Lock Knob
Blade
Guard
Miter
Gauge
Rear
Fence Rail
Front
Fence Rail
Lower Cabinet
Lock Knob
Base
Table
Fence
On/Off
Switch
Powder Coated
Paint
Fence Cam
Lock Handle
Variable
Speed Control
Digital
Display
One Piece
Construction

7
SETUP
Before setting up your machine you need to
read and understand this user manual
completely.
The unpainted surfaces of this band saw
are coated with a rust preventive waxy oil
and you will want to remove this before you
begin assembly. Use a solvent cleaner that
will not damage painted surfaces.
UNPACKING
The machine is properly packaged in a
carton for safe transportation. When
unpacking, carefully inspect the crate and
ensure that nothing has been damaged
during transit. Open the crate and check
that the machine is in good condition.
The hardware (screws, washers & etc)
might be shipped in a plastic bag. After the
machine has been un-packed, check that
all loose parts and hardware are present.
List of Contents
A. Table................................................. 1
B. Table Insert....................................... 1
C. Table Lock Knobs ............................. 2
D. Extension Table ................................ 1
E. Table Pin........................................... 1
F. Allen Keys......................................... 2
G. Wrench.............................................. 1
Figure-1 Inventory
List of Contents
H. Miter Gauge Holder........................... 1
I. Fence Holder .................................... 1
J. Miter Gauge...................................... 1
K. Scale (for the front rail) ..................... 1
L. Fence Assembly ............................... 1
M. Front Rail.......................................... 1
N. Rear Rail........................................... 1
O. Front Rail Brackets ........................... 2
P. Rear Rail Brackets............................ 2
Q. Front Rail Knobs............................... 2
R. Rear Rail Knobs................................ 2
S. Hardware.....................................1 Bag
Figure-2 Inventory
WARNING
CX101 is a heavy machine. Do not over-
exert yourself. Use a fork truck or get the
help of an assistant or a friend.

8
PROPER GROUNDING
Grounding provides a path of least
resistance for electric current to reduce the
risk of electric shock.
CX101 is equipped with a 220 single phase
motor which features a 3-conductor cord
and a 3-prong grounded plug to fit a
grounded type receptacle. Make sure the
cord is plugged into a properly installed and
grounded power outlet.
To prevent electrical hazards, have a
qualified electrician ensure that the line is
properly wired.
This appliance is for use on a normal 220-
volt circuit and is factory-equipped with a
specific electric cord and plug to permit
connection to a proper electric circuit. Make
sure that the appliance is connected to an
outlet having the same configuration as the
plug. If an adaptor plug is used, it must be
attached to the metal screw of the
receptacle.
Figure-3 220-Volts Outlet for CX101
It is strongly recommended not to use
extension cords with your CX101. Always
try to position your machine close to the
power source so that you do not need to
use extension cords.
In case if you really find it necessary to use
an extension cord, make sure the extension
cord does not exceed 50-feet in length and
the cord is 14-gauge to prevent motor
damage.
Your CX101 is equipped with a cord having
3-prongs which fits a 3 prong grounded
receptacle as shown in figure-3. Do not
remove the grounding prong to fit it into a 2-
pronged outlet. Always check with a
qualified electrician if you are in doubt.
WARNING
Improper connection of the equipment-
grounding conductor can result in a risk of
electric shock. Check with a qualified
electrician if you are in doubt as to
whether the outlet is properly grounded.

9
ASSEMBLY
Follow the steps below to assemble your
band saw:
Take the band saw table and put it upside
down on floor and make sure that all the
table bolts shown in the figure are tight.
See figure-4
Figure-4 Table trunion bolts
Now attach the table extension to the table
using washers, nuts and bolts, making sure
that the tables are firmly attached to each
other.
Figure- 5 Installing the extension table
Now turn the table up right, and remove the
table pin from the table slot and the table
insert (if already installed) and move the
table in position around the blade, guiding
through the table slot. See figure-6
Figure-6 Installing the table
Position the table on the base in such a
way that the bolts under the table extend
through the holes on the base. Thread the
two knobs on the bolts (do not tighten). See
figure-7.
Figure-7 Knobs threaded on the bolts
Position the table on the table stop and the
base so that the table is perpendicular to
the blade. See page 15 for details.

10
Figure-8 Table sitting on the table stop
Install the table insert at the center of the
table and the table pin into the table slot as
shown in figure-9.
Figure-9 Installing table insert and table pin
Take the rail bracket (smaller) and attach it
to the table using cap screws provided. See
figure-10
Figure-10 Rear rail brackets attached
Now, attach the rear rail to the brackets
using the knobs provided. See figure-11.
Figure-11 Installing the rear fence rail
Take the rail brackets (larger) for the front
fence rail and attach it to the table using the
cap screws provided.
Place the front fence rail on the brackets
and insert the knobs through the hole on
each bracket and thread the T-nuts onto the
ends of the knobs a couple of turns to
tighten the fence rail in place. See figure-12

11
Figure-12 Front fence rail installed
Now take the fence and pull its handle up.
Place the fence on the front fence rail and
slide it against the blade.
Use a pencil to mark the fence rail where
the fence scale indicator on the right hand
side is pointing (there is a gap just behind
the indicator plate where you can mark the
rail). This mark will indicate where to align
the 0” mark when install the scale.
Now, remove the fence from the rail and
install the adhesive backed scale on the
front fence rail.
Figure-13 Adhesive backed scale attached
to the front rail
Once you have attached the adhesive
backed scale to the rail, place and fence on
the rail and tighten it in place by pushing
down the handle. See figure-14
Figure-14 Fence installed on the rails
Attach the miter gauge holder and the fence
holder to the back of the saw using screws
and washers provided see figure-15
Figure-15 Miter gauge holder and fence
holder installed

12
Blade Tracking
The blade tracking means where the blade
rides on the upper and lower wheels. The
blade should always be centered on both
wheels.
Although the blade tracking of this band
saw is factory set, you should check it again
to make sure that the blade is centered on
the wheels. The misalignment of the blade
can be controlled by adjusting the upper
wheel tilt lock nuts.
Disconnect the machine from power and
open the upper wheel cover. Rotate the
upper wheel by hand slowly and see how
the blade rides on the wheel.
If the blade is not properly aligned and
needs to be adjusted, loosen the lock nuts
shown in figure-16 and turn the knobs.
Figure-16 Knobs and Locks Nuts
Turn the knobs clockwise:
If the blade moves towards the front edge
of the wheel. It makes the top of the wheel
to tilt back and moves the blade towards
the center.
Turn the knobs counter-clockwise:
If the blade moves towards the back edge
of the wheel. It makes the top of the wheel
to tilt to the front and moves the blade
towards the center.
Figure-17 Blade centered on the wheel
When you have adjusted the blade tracking,
retighten the lock nuts.
Figure-18 Lower wheel adjustment sleeves
IMPORTANT
In very rare cases if the blade tracking is
not adjusted by tilting the upper wheel,
then you will have to make minor
adjustments to the angle of tilt of the
lower wheel. Loosen the four hex bolts
and rotate the sleeves to tilt the lower
wheel to get the
p
roper angle of tilt and
tighten the bolts back. Remember, this
adjustment is done only if the blade
tracking is not adjusted by tilting the
u
pp
er whee
l
.

13
Basic Controls
The basic controls of this machine are
shown in the figure below. Use the figure
and read the text to understand what the
basic controls of this band saw are.
Figure-19 Basic controls of CX101
A. The power switch turns the power on/off
to the motor switch.
B. The motor switch start and stops the
motor and only works after the power
switch has been reset and turned on.
C. The blade guide hand wheel raises or
lowers the blade guide assembly on the
table when rotated.
D. The quick release blade tension lever
increase or decreases blade tension
when rotated.
TEST RUN
Once you have assembled your machine
completely, it is then time for a test run to
make sure that the machine works properly
and is ready for operation.
During the test run if there is any unusual
noise coming from the machine or the
machine vibrates strangely, stop the
machine immediately and disconnect from
the power source and investigate if you can
find out the problem with your machine.
Before starting the band saw, make sure
that you have read and understood the
manual and you are familiar with the
functions and safety features on this
machine. Failure to do so may cause
serious personal injury.
READ THE
MANUAL
WARNING
This machine can perform many types of
operations which are beyond the scope
of this manual and are very dangerous if
p
erformed incorrectly. The safety
instructions given in this manual can not
be complete because the environment in
every shop is different. Always consider
safety first as it applies to your individual
working conditions.
IMPORTANT
Make sure you have done the tracking
adjustment and the blade is centered on
the wheels before you start the band saw
for a test run. See page-12 for details on
blade tracking.

14
Blade Tension
A properly tensioned blade is very
important to get the best performance from
any band saw. If the blade is too loose
there is a possibility that the blade will slip
or drift off the line while in operation and it
will be hard to have accuracy in the line of
cut. If the blade is tensioned too tightly, it
will be very difficult to make tighter radius
cuts and there will be a great possibility of
blade breakage.
When using a wider blade for making
straight cuts, for re-sawing or making wide
radius cuts, tighter blade tension is
recommended; while using narrower blades
for cutting shorter stock or making tighter
radius cuts, less blade tension is
recommended.
The information above is just a guideline for
you to understand to set the blade tension
according to the cut. However,
understanding the blade tension adjustment
comes with practice.
Look at the blade tension scale located at
the back of your band saw. The scale
shows the ideal blade tension adjustment
according to the width of the blade.
Figure-20 Quick release blade tension
handle and scale
Adjusting the Blade Tension
To adjust the blade tension, lift the blade
tension handle shown in figure-20 and turn
it. Turning the handle clockwise will tighten
the tension on the blade while turning the
handle counter-clockwise will loosen the
blade tension.
Guide Bearings Adjustment
The guide bearings (beside) and thrust
bearing (behind) the blade, support the
blade to move in a straight line during
cutting operation. Properly adjusted support
bearings play, an important role in getting
accurate cuts.
To adjust the guide bearings, turn the
machine off and disconnect the cord from
the power source.
IMPORTANT
All blades stretch with use, and the scale
at the back of
y
our band saw (shown in
figure-20
)
is just an approximation. So,
do not rely on any adjusted
measurement for a long period of time as
the blades stretch and the tension on the
blade changes.
IMPORTANT
To prolong the life of the blade and
reduce blade stretching, when the
machine is not in use for period of 24
hours or more release the tension on the
blade.

15
Remove the blade guard and use a screw
driver to loosen the screws located on each
of the two guide bearings as shown in
figure-21.
Figure-21 Set Screws
Adjust the bearings so that the space
between the bearing and the blade should
be 0.02” which is thickness of a sheet of
paper. See figure-22
Figure-22 Distance between the guide
bearings and the blade
Now, retighten the set screws to lock the
guide bearings in place.
Loosen the lock levers shown in figure-23
and move the bearing shafts in or out so
that the guide bearings are 1/32” behind the
blade teeth and the thrust bearing, 1/64”.
Once the bearings are at the correct
position behind the blade, tighten the lock
lever to lock the bearings in place. See
figure-23.
Figure-23 Distance of the bearings behind
the blade
Adjust the lower bearings in the same
manner.
Table Stop Adjustment
CX101 features a table stop which allows
the table to easily come to a 90° if the table
is tilted.
To adjust the table stop so that the table
sits at 90°, you should first make sure the
switch is in “OFF” position and the power
cord is unplugged. Loosen the two lock
knobs under the table and loosen the hex
nut which locks the table stop bolt.
Now, place a square on the table as shown
in figure-24 and adjust the table stop so that
the table is at a 90° with the blade.

16
Figure-24 Adjusting the table at 90° to the
table using square
Once the table is at 90° with the blade,
tighten the hex nut and the knobs.
Table Tilt Scale Calibration
To calibrate the table tilt scale:
Make sure the table is at 90° to the blade
and the blade tensioning and tracking is
properly set. (See Page 12 & page 14 for
details)
Disconnect the machine from the power
source and loosen the pointer screw shown
in figure-25. Align the tip of the pointer with
the 0” mark on the tilt scale and tighten the
pointer screw.
Figure-25 Table tilt scale
Table Alignment
To make accurate cuts with your band saw,
the table should be aligned properly with
the blade.
To align the table:
Make sure the blade tension and tracking is
done correctly. Disconnect the machine
from the power source and loosen the two
knobs under the table. Place a straightedge
on the table so that the straightedge
touches the blade and is parallel to it as
shown in figure-26. Make sure the straight-
edge touches only the flat part of the blade,
not the teeth.
Now, use a ruler to measure the distance
between the miter slot and the straight edge
on both sides on the table R & L. See
figure-26
Adjust the table until the distance on both
sides of the table is equal and tighten the
knobs.
Figure-26 Aligning the table with the blade
using a straight-edge

17
Guide Post
The guide post assembly can be moved up
or down above the work-piece. The
movement of the guide post is controlled
with the hand wheel shown in figure-27
Figure-27 Guide post
To make accurate cuts and to reduce the
blade slipping out of position, it is
recommended to keep the guide post no
more than 1” above the work-piece while
cutting operation.
To Adjust the Guide Post Assembly:
Make sure the switch is turned off and the
cord is disconnected from the power
source.
Loosen the guide post lock knob on your
band saw shown in figure-27 and rotate the
hand-wheel to move the guide post
assembly up or down.
When the guide post assembly is about 1”
above the work-piece, lock the guide post in
place using the lock knob.
Work-piece Inspection (Wood)
Before cutting any wood, make sure to
inspect the work-piece for nails, staples,
small pieces of stone or metal and any
other object which is dangerous to come on
contact with the blade.
If the wood contains any of these objects
and it comes in contact with the blade, the
object might fly and hit the operator or
seriously damage the blade. For a safe
cutting method always inspect your work-
piece carefully before cut and wear eye
protection.
Some woods with excessive twisting or
wrapping are un-stable while cutting and
are dangerous to cut because during
operation the work-piece can move un-
expectedly which either damage the blade
or hurt the operator.
If the wood is slightly cupped, make sure
the cupped face of the wood is held against
the fence. If the bowed side of the work-
piece is held against the fence, the work-
piece will move while cutting.
Some stock with large knots can damage
the blade and wet stock will give a poor
result.
WARNING
The information above is just a guideline
for you to understand how to cut a work-
piece with slight cupping. If you are not
sure and do not have any experience in
cutting cupped stock, do not cut it.
Failure to follow these instructions might
bring personal injuries to the operator or
serious damage to the blade.

18
Work-Piece Inspection (Metal)
Before cutting a metal work-piece, inspect it
carefully for any defects in the material.
For thin or small metals, the work-piece
should be clamped between larger pieces
to hold the work-piece tight, when fed
against the blade.
Some small work-pieces will be damaged if
cut on the band saw; instead use; a shear
or nibblers for this work.
Some round work-pieces like cables, chains
etc, which are not stable, if not supported
with a vise, should not be cut using a
vertical band saw.
Some hard metals take a longer time when
cutting. These kinds of metals need a
different type of blade and lubrication while
cutting.
Tanks, cylinders, valves that contain
gasses or liquids can cause fire, explosion
or serious personal injury and damage to
the machine.
Sometimes it is not safe to cut magnesium.
Cutting magnesium with a dull blade can
create enough friction to make the small
magnesium chips produce fire. Avoid
cutting magnesium If possible.
IMPORTANT
Avoid cutting tanks, cylinders and valves
that contain gasses or liquids if possible.
If you find it really necessary to cut these
items, always vent and purge them,
before cutting.

19
Cast Iron Wheels
The CX101 comes with heavy duty cast
iron wheels for added stability and overall
performance.
A coplanar shim adjustment also added for
better alignment of the wheels that allow
the blade to run as straight as possible
ensuring straight and accurate cuts.
This feature will help improve the band saw
performance with the wheels working
together instead of against each other. The
end result will give you less vibration, more
power, accuracy and less wandering. This
will be noticed most when it comes to
resawing and making straight cuts with
blades larger than 1/4”.
Coplanar Adjustment
Figure-28 and Figure-29 show the shim for
adjusting the top wheel. To move the wheel
out remove the nut and shims then remove
the wheel.
Now you can add shims to the back of the
wheels as required. Replace the wheel and
any remaining shims and the nut and
tighten. To move the wheel in, remove the
cast iron wheel as mentioned above and
remove the shims from behind the wheel.
Replace the wheel, shims and nut and
retighten.
Figure-28 Top wheel front shims
Figure-29 Top wheel back shims

20
OPERATIONS
Before operating the band saw make sure
you have performed the following
adjustments:
Blade tension adjustment
Blade tracking adjustment
Guide bearings adjustment
Make sure all the guards are in place
Ripping
Cutting solid wood with the grain cutting
down the length of the work-piece is called
ripping.
Adjust the fence on the rails, according to
the width of the cut on the work-piece and
turn the hand-wheel to set the guide post
assembly 1” above the work-piece.
Now, turn the band saw ON and use a push
stick or the band saw finger protector model
CT165 (See page-24) to push the work-
piece against the blade. See figure-30
Figure-30 Ripping on CX101
Crosscutting
Cutting solid wood across the grain and in
plywood or metal cutting across the width of
the work-piece is called crosscutting.
Mark the work-piece where you want to
start the cut from and make sure the miter
gauge is at 90° position on the miter slot.
Place the work-piece on the table so that
the marked point is aligned with the blade
and hold the work-piece against the miter
gauge.
Turn the band saw ON and feed the work-
piece against the blade. See figure-31
Figure-31 Crosscutting on CX101
WARNING
CX101 produces fine dust particles
during cutting operation which is very
dangerous for health. Always connect
your band saw to a dust collector.
WARNING
Do not use your fingers to feed narrow
work-pieces into the blade. If you slip,
your fingers might come close the blade.
Always use a push stick.