Jet VBS-18MW Service manual

Operating Instructions and Parts Manual
18-inch Metal/Wood Cutting Band Saw
Model VBS-18MW
WALTER MEIER (Manufacturing), Inc.
427 New Sanford Road
LaVergne, TN 37086-4184, USA Part No. M-414418
Ph.: 800-274-6848 Revision B 10/09
www.waltermeier.com Copyright © 2009 Walter Meier (Manufacturing), Inc.

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Warranty and Service
Walter Meier (Manufacturing), Inc., warrants every product it sells. If one of our tools needs service or repair, one of
our Authorized Service Centers located throughout the United States can give you quick service. In most cases, any
of these Walter Meier Authorized Service Centers can authorize warranty repair, assist you in obtaining parts, or
perform routine maintenance and major repair on your JET
® tools. For the name of an Authorized Service Center in
your area call 1-800-274-6848.
MORE INFORMATION
Walter Meier is consistently adding new products to the line. For complete, up-to-date product information, check with
your local Walter Meier distributor, or visit jettools.com.
WARRANTY
JET products carry a limited warranty which varies in duration based upon the product (MW = Metalworking, WW =
Woodworking).
WHAT IS COVERED?
This warranty covers any defects in workmanship or materials subject to the exceptions stated below. Cutting tools,
abrasives and other consumables are excluded from warranty coverage.
WHO IS COVERED?
This warranty covers only the initial purchaser of the product.
WHAT IS THE PERIOD OF COVERAGE?
The general JET warranty lasts for the time period specified in the product literature of each product.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED?
Five Year Warranties do not cover woodworking (WW) products used for commercial, industrial or educational
purposes. Woodworking products with Five Year Warranties that are used for commercial, industrial or education
purposes revert to a One Year Warranty. This warranty does not cover defects due directly or indirectly to misuse,
abuse, negligence or accidents, normal wear-and-tear, improper repair or alterations, or lack of maintenance.
HOW TO GET SERVICE
The product or part must be returned for examination, postage prepaid, to a location designated by us. For the name
of the location nearest you, please call 1-800-274-6848.
You must provide proof of initial purchase date and an explanation of the complaint must accompany the
merchandise. If our inspection discloses a defect, we will repair or replace the product, or refund the purchase price,
at our option. We will return the repaired product or replacement at our expense unless it is determined by us that
there is no defect, or that the defect resulted from causes not within the scope of our warranty in which case we will,
at your direction, dispose of or return the product. In the event you choose to have the product returned, you will be
responsible for the shipping and handling costs of the return.
HOW STATE LAW APPLIES
This warranty gives you specific legal rights; you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
LIMITATIONS ON THIS WARRANTY
WALTER MEIER (MANUFACTURING), INC., LIMITS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES TO THE PERIOD OF THE
LIMITED WARRANTY FOR EACH PRODUCT. EXCEPT AS STATED HEREIN, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS ARE EXCLUDED. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW
LONG THE IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
WALTER MEIER SHALL IN NO EVENT BE LIABLE FOR DEATH, INJURIES TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY, OR
FOR INCIDENTAL, CONTINGENT, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE OF
OUR PRODUCTS. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
Walter Meier sells through distributors only. The specifications in Walter Meier catalogs are given as general
information and are not binding. Members of Walter Meier reserve the right to effect at any time, without prior notice,
those alterations to parts, fittings, and accessory equipment which they may deem necessary for any reason
whatsoever. JET
® branded products are not sold in Canada by Walter Meier.

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Table of Contents
Warranty and Service..........................................................................................................................2
Table of Contents ...............................................................................................................................3
Warning .............................................................................................................................................4
Introduction........................................................................................................................................6
Specifications.....................................................................................................................................6
Grounding Instructions........................................................................................................................6
115 Volt Operation ..........................................................................................................................7
230 Volt Operation ..........................................................................................................................7
Extension cords...............................................................................................................................7
Unpacking..........................................................................................................................................8
Contents of Shipping Container........................................................................................................8
Assembly...........................................................................................................................................9
Handwheel......................................................................................................................................9
Mounting the Table..........................................................................................................................9
Rail Assembly.................................................................................................................................9
Chip Tray......................................................................................................................................10
Dust Collection..............................................................................................................................10
Fence Assembly and Adjustment....................................................................................................10
Resaw Guide ................................................................................................................................12
Miter Gauge..................................................................................................................................12
Adjustments .....................................................................................................................................12
Adjusting 90 Degree Table Stop.....................................................................................................13
Speed Adjustments .......................................................................................................................13
Installing/Changing Blades.............................................................................................................14
Blade Tension...............................................................................................................................15
Blade Tracking ..............................................................................................................................15
Overview – Bearing Adjustments....................................................................................................16
Upper Bearing Adjustments ...........................................................................................................16
Lower Bearing Adjustments ...........................................................................................................17
Blade Lead ...................................................................................................................................18
Replacing the V-Belt......................................................................................................................19
Belt Tension..................................................................................................................................19
Pulley Alignment ...........................................................................................................................20
Electrical Connections.......................................................................................................................20
Operation.........................................................................................................................................21
General Procedure........................................................................................................................21
Ripping.........................................................................................................................................21
Crosscutting..................................................................................................................................21
Resawing......................................................................................................................................22
Saw Blade Selection......................................................................................................................22
Blade Breakage.............................................................................................................................23
Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................23
Replacing Tires.............................................................................................................................24
Periodic Maintenance........................................................................................................................24
Blade Selection Guide.......................................................................................................................25
Blade Speed per Materials Chart .......................................................................................................26
Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................27
Replacement Parts...........................................................................................................................29
Upper Wheel Assembly .................................................................................................................30
Parts List: Upper Wheel Assembly..................................................................................................31
Lower Wheel and Motor Assembly .................................................................................................32
Parts List: Lower Wheel and Motor Assembly..................................................................................33
Blade Guide Assembly...................................................................................................................35
Parts List: Blade Guide Assembly...................................................................................................36
Table and Fence Assembly............................................................................................................38
Parts List: Table and Fence Assembly............................................................................................39
Electrical Connections.......................................................................................................................40

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Warning
1. Read and understand the entire owner's manual before attempting assembly or operation.
2. Read and understand the warnings posted on the machine and in this manual. Failure to comply with
all of these warnings may cause serious injury.
3. Replace the warning labels if they become obscured or removed.
4. This band saw is designed and intended for use by properly trained and experienced personnel only.
If you are not familiar with the proper and safe operation of a band saw, do not use until proper
training and knowledge have been obtained.
5. Do not use this band saw for other than its intended use. If used for other purposes, Walter Meier
(Manufacturing), Inc., disclaims any real or implied warranty and holds itself harmless from any injury
that may result from that use.
6. Always wear approved safety glasses/face shields while using this band saw. Everyday eyeglasses
only have impact resistant lenses; they are not safety glasses.
7. Before operating this band saw, remove tie, rings, watches and other jewelry, and roll sleeves up past
the elbows. Remove all loose clothing and confine long hair. Non-slip footwear or anti-skid floor strips
are recommended. Do not wear gloves.
8. Wear ear protectors (plugs or muffs) during extended periods of operation.
9. Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling and other construction activities
contain chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:
•Lead from lead based paint.
•Crystalline silica from bricks, cement and other masonry products.
•Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.
Your risk of exposure varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your
exposure to these chemicals, work in a well-ventilated area and work with approved safety
equipment, such as face or dust masks that are specifically designed to filter out microscopic
particles.
10. Do not operate this machine while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any medication.
11. Make certain the switch is in the OFF position before connecting the machine to the power supply.
12. Make certain the machine is properly grounded.
13. Make all machine adjustments or maintenance with the machine unplugged from the power source.
14. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Form a habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting
wrenches are removed from the machine before turning it on.
15. Keep safety guards in place at all times when the machine is in use. If removed for maintenance
purposes, use extreme caution and replace the guards immediately.
16. Check damaged parts. Before further use of the machine, a guard or other part that is damaged
should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended
function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting
and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should
be properly repaired or replaced.
17. Provide for adequate space surrounding work area and non-glare, overhead lighting.
18. Keep the floor around the machine clean and free of scrap material, oil and grease.
19. Keep visitors a safe distance from the work area. Keep children away.

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20. Make your workshop child proof with padlocks, master switches or by removing starter keys.
21. Give your work undivided attention. Looking around, carrying on a conversation and “horse-play” are
careless acts that can result in serious injury.
22. Maintain a balanced stance at all times so that you do not fall or lean against the blade or other
moving parts. Do not overreach or use excessive force to perform any machine operation.
23. Use the right tool at the correct speed and feed rate. Do not force a tool or attachment to do a job for
which it was not designed. The right tool will do the job better and safer.
24. Use recommended accessories; improper accessories may be hazardous.
25. Maintain tools with care. Keep blades sharp and clean for the best and safest performance. Follow
instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
26. Turn off the machine before cleaning. Use a brush or compressed air to remove chips, shavings or
debris — do not use your hands.
27. Do not stand on the machine. Serious injury could occur if the machine tips over.
28. Never leave the machine running unattended. Turn the power off and do not leave the machine until it
comes to a complete stop.
29. Remove loose items and unnecessary work pieces from the area before starting the machine.
Familiarize yourself with the following safety notices used in this manual:
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in minor injury and/or
possible machine damage.
This means that if precautions are not heeded, it may result in serious injury or
possibly even death.
- - SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - -

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Introduction
This manual is provided by Walter Meier (Manufacturing), Inc., covering the safe operation and
maintenance procedures for a JET Model VBS-18MW Band Saw. This manual contains instructions on
installation, safety precautions, general operating procedures, maintenance instructions and parts
breakdown. This machine has been designed and constructed to provide years of trouble free operation if
used in accordance with instructions set forth in this manual. If there are any questions or comments,
please contact either your local supplier or Walter Meier. Walter Meier can also be reached at our web
site: www.waltermeier.com.
Specifications
Model Number....................................................................................................................VBS-18MW
Stock Number .......................................................................................................................... 414418
Cutting Capacity (height) (in.)............................................................................................................12
Cutting Capacity (width) (in.)........................................................................................................18-3/8
Maximum Rip Left of Blade w/Fence (in.) .....................................................................................16-1/2
Blade Length (in.) ...........................................................................................................................137
Blade Speeds (SFPM):
High Gear.............................................................................................................1000, 1800, 3200
Low Gear.....................................................................................................................80, 150, 265
Minimum Blade Width (in.) ...............................................................................................................1/8
Maximum Blade Width – Wood (in.) ...............................................................................................1-1/2
Maximum Blade Width – Metal (in.)......................................................................................................1
Table Size (in.)..........................................................................................................................19 x 19
Front of Table to Center of Blade (in.) ................................................................................................10
Table Tilt (deg.).................................................................................................................45°R to 10°L
Table Height from Floor (in.)........................................................................................................37-1/2
Wheel Diameter (in.)...................................................................................................................18-5/8
Dust Port Diameter (in.)...................................................................................................................... 4
Overall Dimensions (HxWxD) (in.)....................................................................................... 74 x 42 x 38
Motor....................................................................................1-3/4 HP, 1Ph, 115/230V (pre-wired 115V)
Net Weight – approximate (lbs.).......................................................................................................456
The above specifications were current at the time this manual was published, but because of our policy of
continuous improvement, Walter Meier reserves the right to change specifications at any time and without
prior notice, without incurring obligations.
Grounding Instructions
Electrical connections must
be made by a qualified electrician in
compliance with all relevant codes. The
machine must be properly grounded to help
prevent electrical shock and possible fatal
injury.
In the event of a malfunction or breakdown,
grounding provides a path of least resistance for
electric current to reduce the risk of electric
shock. This tool is equipped with an electric cord
having anequipment-grounding conductor and a
grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into a
matching outlet that is properly installed and
grounded in accordance with all local codes and
ordinances.
Do not modify the plug provided. If it will not fit
the outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a
qualified electrician.
Improper connection of the equipment-
grounding conductor can result in a risk of
electric shock. The conductor, with insulation
having an outer surface that is green with or
without yellow stripes, is the equipment-
grounding conductor. If repair or replacement of
the electric cord or plug is necessary, do not
connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a
live terminal.
Check with a qualified electrician or service
personnel if the grounding instructions are not
completely understood, or if in doubt as to
whether the tool is properly grounded. Use only
three wire extension cords that have three-prong
grounding plugs and three-pole receptacles that
accept the tool’s plug.

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115 Volt Operation
The VBS-18MW band saw is wired from the
factory for 115 volt operation. The power cord
has a plug that looks like A, Figure 1, and is
used in an outlet that looks like B, Figure 1. A
temporary adapter with a grounding ear secured
with a screw (C, Figure 1) may be used to
connect this plug to a two-pole receptacle if a
properly grounded outlet is not available. The
temporary adapter should only be used until a
properly grounded outlet can be installed by a
qualified electrician. This adapter is not
applicable in Canada. The green colored
grounding ear, lug, or tsab, extending from the
adapter, must be connected to a permanent
ground such as a properly grounded outlet box,
as shown in C, Figure 1.
Figure 1
It is recommended that the Band Saw when
operated at 115 volts, be connected to a
dedicated, minimum 30 amp circuit with a 30
amp circuit breaker or time delay fuse. Local
codes take precedence over recommenda-
tions.
230 Volt Operation
If 230V, single phase operation is desired, the
following instructions must be followed:
1. Disconnect machine from the power source.
2. This band saw is supplied with four motor
leads that are connected for 115V operation.
For 230V operation, re-connect the leads as
shown in the diagram inside the motor
junction box. The diagram is replicated on
page 40 of this manual.
3. The 115V attachment plug supplied with the
band saw must be replaced with a UL/CSA
listed plug suitable for 230V operation,
similar to that shown in Figure 2. Contact
your local Authorized JET Service Center or
qualified electrician for proper procedures to
install the plug. The band saw must comply
with all local and national codes after the
230V plug is installed.
4. The band saw with a 230V plug should only
be connected to an outlet having the same
configuration (Figure 2). No adapter is
available or should be used with the 230V
plug.
Figure 2
It is recommended that the Band Saw when
operated at 230 volts, be connected to a
dedicated, minimum 15 amp circuit with a 15
amp circuit breaker or time delay fuse. Local
codes take precedence over recommend-
dations.
Important: In all cases (115 or 230 volts), make
certain the receptacle in question is properly
grounded. If you are not sure, have a registered
electrician check the receptacle.
Extension cords
The use of an extension cord is not
recommended for this band saw; try to position
the machine within reach of the power supply. If
an extension cord is necessary, make sure the
cord rating is suitable for the amperage listed on
the machine’s motor plate. An undersize cord
will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss
of power and overheating.
Use the chart in Figure 3 as a general guide in
choosing the correct size cord. If in doubt, use
the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge
number, the heavier the cord.
Recommended Gauges (AWG) of Extension Cords
Amps
Extension Cord Length *
25
feet 50 feet 75 feet 100 feet 150 feet 200 feet
< 5 16 16 16 14 12 12
5 to 8 16 16 14 12 10 NR
8 to 12 14 14 12 10 NR NR
12 to 15 12 12 10 10 NR NR
15 to 20 10 10 10 NR NR NR
21 to 30 10 NR NR NR NR NR
*based on limiting the line voltage drop to 5V at 150% of the
rated amperes.
NR: Not Recommended. Figure 3

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Unpacking
Contents of Shipping Container
1 Band Saw
1 Table
1 Fence and Rail Assembly
1 Resaw Guide and Knob
1 Miter Gauge
1 Upper Chip Tray
1 Owner’s Manual
1 Warranty Card
1 Accessory Package Contains:
Hardware Bag
2 Knobs
1 Handle
1 10/12mm Wrench
2 Screws, 1/4-20x1/4” (Upper Chip Tray)
Fence Hardware Bag
4 Socket Head Cap Screws, 5/16x3/4”
4 Flat Washers, 5/16”
4 Lock Washers, 5/16”
Rail Hardware Bag
9 Hex Cap Screws, 1/4-20 x 5/8”
9 Flat Washers, 1/4”
9 Lock Washers, 1/4”
1. Remove the crate and packing material from
the band saw except for the transport skid on
the bottom.
2. Move the saw to its permanent working
location. The site should be dry, well lit, and
have enough room to handle long stock and
the service or adjustment of the machine from
any side.
3. Move the band saw off the skid.
4. Clean all rust protected surfaces with a mild
solvent or kerosene and a soft cloth. Do not
use lacquer thinner, paint thinner, or gasoline.
These will damage painted surfaces.
5. For greater stability, the band saw can be
secured to the floor with lag screws (not
provided) through the four holes in the base.
Tools Required for Assembly & Adjustments
1 10mm Open End Wrench (provided)
2 14mm Open End Wrenches (not provided)
1 Cross Point Screw Driver (not provided)
1 Combination Square (not provided)
1 6mm hex wrench (not provided)

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Assembly
Handwheel
Attach the handle (A, Fig. 4) to the handwheel
(B, Fig. 4).
Mounting the Table
Important: The table is heavy. The assistance of a
second person is strongly recommended.
Referring to Figures 5 and 6:
1. Remove the table insert (A) and tapered
pin (B).
2. Slide the table so the saw blade (D) passes
through the slot where the tapered pin (B) was
located.
3. Rotate the table 90 degrees so that the miter
slot (C) is parallel to the blade (D) and to the
right of the blade when facing the band saw as
viewed in Figure 6.
4. Line up the table (H) to the trunnions so that
the bolts (F) feed through the support brackets
(E). Secure the table with two lock knobs (G).
Reinstall the table insert (A) and tapered
pin (B).
Rail Assembly
Referring to Figure 7:
1. Attach the front rail (J) to the cast iron table
with two 1/4” x 5/8” hex cap screws, two 1/4”
lock washers, and two 1/4” flat washers. The
screws should be in approximately the center
of the slot. Hand-tightenonly at this time.
2. Attach the rear rail (K) to the table with two 1/4”
x 5/8” hex cap screws, two 1/4” lock washers,
and two 1/4” flat washers. Screws should be in
approximately the center of the slot. Hand-
tighten only at this time.
3. Push the front and rear rails up as far as they
will go.
4. Using a 10mm wrench, tighten the four hex cap
screws holding the front and rear rails to the
table. Do not over-tighten the screws.
5. Attach the guide tube (L) to the front rail with
five 1/4” x 5/8” hex cap screws, five 1/4” lock
washers, and five 1/4” flat washers. Screws
should be in approximately the center of the
slot.
Only hand-tighten the guide tube at this time.
You will be instructed to secure it later in the
Fence Assembly and Adjustment section.
Figure 4
Figure 5
Figure 6
Figure 7

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Chip Tray
Referring to Figure 8:
Insert two 1/4” x 1/4” pan head screws through the
holes in the rear rail and into the table edge,
leaving the screw heads protruding slightly. Mount
the chip tray onto the screws as shown.
Dust Collection
If cutting wood on the band saw, attach the hose of
a proper dust collection system to the 4” port at the
rear of the band saw. NOTE: Dryer vent hose is not
acceptable for this purpose.
If using the bandsaw for metal
working, DO NOT connect a dust collection
system designed for wood dust. Hot metal
shavings can pose a fire risk.
Fence Assembly and Adjustment
Assembling the Fence to Fence Body
Referring to Figure 9:
1. Attach the fence (A) to the fence body (B) with
four 5/16” x 3/4” socket head cap screws (C),
four 5/16” lock washers (D), and four 5/16” flat
washers (E). Hand-tighten only at this time.
Assembling the Rear Hook
Referring to Figure 10:
2. Thread a 1/4"-20 hex nut (B) onto the pad’s
threaded stud (A) and insert through the
fence (C) so the threaded stud is now inside
the fence.
3. Place the rear hook (D) on the threaded stud.
Finish the assembly by placing a 1/4" flat
washer (E), 1/4" lock washer (F) and 1/4" hex
nut (G) on the threaded stud, and finger
tighten.
Note: Adjust for a gap of approximately 1/8"
between the pad (A) and hook (D) and as
shown in the inset.
4. Tighten the assembly using two 10mm
wrenches.
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10