Laguna Tools MBAND18BX2203 User manual

BANDSAW OWNER'S MANUAL
Part No.
MBAND18BX2203
LT18BX Bandsaw 220V 3HP 16" Resaw
Revision 3, 2/10/2022
© 2022, Laguna Tools, Inc. LAGUNA® and the LAGUNA Logo®
are the registered trademarks of Laguna Tools, Inc. All rights reserved.

2
Laguna 18bx Bandsaw
Model
mband18bx2203
Motor
3 HP, 230V
Blade Length
Min: 143-3/4” Max: 145-1/2”
Serial No.
Table of contents.
Page number
Safety Rules
3
Warranty
9
Specification sheet
10
Noise emission
11
Receiving your machine
11
Introduction to Bandsaws
12
What you will receive with your Bandsaw
13
Parts of the Bandsaw
15
Where to locate your machine
19
Unpacking your machine
19
Assembly and setup
20
Fitting the throat plate and fence stop
25
Maintenance
48
Troubleshooting
53
Electrical drawing
55
Exploded view drawings/parts
56

3
Laguna Tools MBAND18BX2203 Bandsaw User Manual
Safety Rules

4

5
Table A
Ampere Rating
Volts
Total length of cord in feet
120
25
50
100
150
240
50
100
200
300
More Than
Not More Than
Minimum gage for cord
0
6
18
16
16
14
6
10
18
16
14
12
10
12
16
16
14
12
12
16
14
12
Not Recommended
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
1. All grounded, cord-connected tools:
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 an equipment-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 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong grounding plugs and 3 pole
receptacles that accept the tool's plug.
Repair or replace damaged or worn cord immediately.
2. Grounded, cord-connected tools intended for use on a supply circuit having a nominal
rating of 150–250 volts, inclusive:
This tool is intended for use on a circuit that has an outlet that looks like the one illustrated
in Sketch D. The tool has a grounding plug that looks like the plug illustrated in Sketch D.
Make sure the tool is connected to an outlet having the same configuration as the plug.
No adapter is available or should be used with this tool. If the tool must be reconnected for
use on a different type of electric circuit, qualified service personnel should make the

6
reconnection; and after reconnection, the tool should comply with all local codes and
ordinances.
Locking the bandsaw.
It is strongly recommended that the bandsaw is never be left unattended in the unlocked
condition.

7
To lock the machine it is recommended that a cover (not supplied) is made to lock the
control panel. We have supplied two concepts for locking the panel (see below). The cover
can be made from wood or plastic.
First, push down the emergency stop. Then lock the cover together by putting padlocks [not
included] on the two handles on the control panel. To safeguard your machine from
unauthorized operation and accidental starting by young children, the use of padlocks is
strongly recommended
Wooden safety cover
Padlock
Emergency stop switch
Plastic
safety cover
Padlock

8
Limited Warranty
New machines and accessories sold by Laguna Tools carry a one-year warranty
effective from the date of shipping. Machines sold through dealers must be registered
with Laguna Tools within 30 days of purchase to be covered by this warranty. Laguna
Tools guarantees all new machines and accessories sold to be free of manufacturers’
defective workmanship, parts, and materials. We will repair or replace, without charge,
any parts determined by Laguna Tools, Inc. to be a manufacturer’s defect. We require
that the defective item/part be returned to Laguna Tools with the complaint. Any
machines returned to Laguna Tools must be returned with packaging in the same way
it was received. If a part or blade is being returned it must have adequate packaging to
ensure no damage is received during shipping. In the event the item/part is determined
to be damaged due to lack of maintenance, cleaning or misuse/abuse, the customer will
be responsible for the cost to replace the item/part, plus all related shipping charges.
This limited warranty does not apply to natural disasters, acts of terrorism, normal wear
and tear, product failure due to lack of maintenance or cleaning, damage caused by
accident, neglect, lack of or inadequate dust collection, misuse/abuse or damage
caused where repair or alterations have been made or attempted by others.
Laguna Tools, Inc. is not responsible for additional tools or modifications sold or
performed (other than from/by Laguna Tools, Inc.) on any Laguna Tools, Inc. machine.
Warranty maybe voided upon the addition of such described tools and/or modifications,
determined on a case-by-case basis.
Software purchased through Laguna Tools Inc. is not covered under this warranty and
all technical support must be managed through the software provider. Software is non-
refundable.
Normal user alignment, adjustment, tuning, and machine settings are not covered by
this warranty. It isthe responsibility ofthe user tounderstand basic machinery operation,
settings, and procedures and to properly maintain the equipment in accordance with the
standards provided by the manufacturer.
Parts, under warranty, are shipped at Laguna Tools, Inc.’s cost either by common
carrier, FEDEX ground service or a similar method. Technical support to install
replacement parts is primarily provided by phone, fax, e-mail, or Laguna Tools Customer
Support Website. The labor required to install replacement parts is the responsibility of
the user.
Laguna Tools is not responsible for damage or loss caused by a freight company or
other circumstances not in our control. All claims for loss or damaged goods must be
notified to Laguna Tools within twenty-four hours of delivery. Please contact our
Customer Service Department for more information.

Only new machines sold to the original owner are covered by this warranty.
For warranty repair information, call 1-800-332-4094.
Specification.
MBAND18BX2203
Motor voltage/hp
230V / 3 HP
Breaker
15 amp
Throat
18 7/32" (463mm)
Table cast iron
20" x 26" (508mm x 660mm)
Table tilt
- 6 degrees + 45 degrees
Miter slot
3/8" x 3/4" (9.525mm x 19.05mm)
Table height
38" (965mm)
Fly wheel
Cast iron
Resaw capacity
16" (406.4mm)
Minimum blade length
143-3/4” (3,651mm)
Maximum blade length
145-1/2” (3,695mm)
Maximum blade width
1-1/4" (31.75mm)
Minimum blade width
1/8" (3mm)
Guides
Laguna ceramic
Height
77 3/4" (1,975mm)
Machine dimensions (W x D)
Base footprint
36 3/16" x 29 7/8" (919mm x 759mm)
27" x 19 2/3" (688mmx500mm)
Machine dimensions with
mobility kit (W x D)
Base footprint with mobility
kit
43" x 31 3/8" (1093mm x 797mm)
37 3/8" x 24 11/32" (949mm x 618mm)
Weight gross
440 lbs. (200 kg)
Weight net
410 lbs. (186 kg)
Package size (W x D x H)
81 1/2" x 33 7/8" x 24 1/4" (2070mm
x 860mm x 615mm)
Mobility kit
Optional

10
Industrial work-light
Optional
Fence Face Dimensions
7 1/4" x 2 2 3/4"

11
Noise Emission.
Notes concerning noise emission
Potential hearing loss depends on both noise level and exposure time, so the need for
supplementary precautions cannot be precisely determined. In addition to noise level and
exposure time, other factors affecting potential hearing loss include characteristics of the
working environment. (For example, adjacent machines can affect the total level of ambient
noise.) It is also possible that legal noise exposure limits will vary from country to country.”
Receiving your machine.
It is probable that a third party will deliver your machine. Before you unpack your new
machine, you will need to first inspect the packing, invoice and shipping documents supplied
by the driver.
Ensure that there is no visible damage to the packing or the machine. You need to do this
prior to the driver leaving. All damage must be noted on the delivery documents and signed
by you and the delivery driver. You must then report the damage to the seller within 24
hours.

12
Introduction to Bandsaws.
This bandsaw is designed to give you years of safe service. Read this owner’s manual in its
entirety before assembly or use.
The bandsaw is generally defined as a saw blade in the form of an endless steel band that
rotates around two or more wheels. This blade is a continuous metal band with teeth on one
side. As the wheels rotate, so does the band, which creates the continuous sawing action.
Because the direction of the blade is always downward toward the table, there is little danger
(except for special cuts) that the wood will be thrown back at the operator, which is called a
kickback. "There is always danger of kickback when a circular saw is being used". For safety
reasons many woodworkers prefer the bandsaw especially when cutting small pieces. The
unique feature of the bandsaw is that the work piece can be rotated around the blade
creating a curve. It is the tool most often used when curves must be cut in wood. Because the

13
bandsaw blade is thin, it can cut thick stock with a minimum of horsepower. For this reason,
the bandsaw is often used when valuable pieces of wood are made into a thin piece of
veneer.
What you will receive with your Bandsaw.
Fence

14
Fence parts
Fence guide bar Fence stop

15
Parts of the Bandsaw.
Note: The mobility kit and light are optional.
4 2 1 9 5 8 16 6 12 13
Table ratchet handles & washers
Rubber feet and fixings
Table
Fence guide bar attachment parts
T bar

16
8 7 9 10 17 14 18 11 15 3
The bandsaw does not have many parts. The major parts are discussed in this manual. If
you are not familiar with the bandsaw, take the time to read this section and become familiar
with the machine.
23

17
1. Tension indicator / window.
Tension indicators are designed to indicate the compression of
a spring. As a rule, the greater the spring compression, the
greater the tension on the blade. The tension scale does not
register until the blade is relatively taut and is located on the
inside of the body of the bandsaw. The tension scale is a
general reference and not a rule. The tension indicator is visible
with the upper door closed by looking through the tension
indicator window.
2. Switch.
To start the machine press the "I" button on the start stop
switch. To shut off the machine press the "O" on the start stop
switch. When the safety switch is pressed it stops the power to
the motor. To reset it, twist and it will pop out and allow power
to be supplied to the motor.
3. Motor.
The bandsaw is supplied with a 3 hp, 220V motor. It drives the
lower flywheel through a drive belt.
4. Frame.
Emergency stop button
Start / Stop buttons
The frame of the bandsaw is a U-shaped frame, which houses all the parts of the machine.
This is the heart of the bandsaw and must be very rigid, as it takes the strain of the blade
being tensioned.
5. Blade tension handle.
The blade tension handle moves the blade tension and tilt assembly vertically. The vertical
action compresses a spring that ensures that the blade tension is constant and will not
change dramatically as the blade length increases due to the heat generated by the cutting
action.
6. Blade tracking window.
There is a blade tracking window on the side of the frame that allows the edge of the upper
flywheel to be viewed. This allows the tracking of the blade to be achieved with the door
closed.
7. Cast iron table.
The table supports the work piece and can tilt (-6 degrees to +45 degrees) to produce cuts at
various angles. It has a groove to the right-hand side of the blade, which is used to guide the
miter gauge. In the center there is a table insert which the blade passes through. Should the
blade wander off center, this table insert will protect the blade from damage, as it is soft and
should not damage the blade. The table also supports the adjustable fence, which is used for
parallel cuts. There is a nut and bolt that joins both sides of the table and stops the table from
warping. The nut and bolt must always be fitted in the table and only removed when remove

18
or fitting a blade.
8. Blade guide adjustment hand wheel.
The upper blade guides are attached to the blade guide shaft. The shaft is vertically
adjustable with a hand wheel. The guides should be adjusted so the guides are just above the
wood being cut. This gives the blade maximum stability and is also the safest way to operate
the bandsaw.
9. Blade guides.
There are two sets of blade guides, one above and one below the table. The function of the
guides is to give the blade stability and ensure that the blade movement left/right,
forward/back is kept to a minimum. The guides above the table are fitted to a shaft that has
vertical adjustment. The upper guides are adjustable so that the guides are held just above
the job being cut. This gives the blade the maximum amount of stability and keeps the
amount of blade that is exposed to a minimum. The guides have ceramic inserts that can be
adjusted for almost zero clearance.
10. Rip fence assembly.
The rip fence assembly consists of a guide rail, cast knuckle, fence attachment casting, rule,
and a high-low fence. The guide rail is attached to the table side. It guides the fence
assembly across the table. The cast knuckle slides on the guide rail and is lockable in any
position to suit the width of cut. The fence attachment casting is attached to the cast knuckle
with three screws that when loosened allow the fence to be adjusted for drift. The fence is
attached to the fence attachment casting with two studded knobs that allow the fence to be
adjusted laterally across the table to suit the job being cut. The fence can be fitted in the low
position or the vertical (7 1/4 " height) position.
There is a rule that is fitted to the side of the table and can be used as a quick guide on the
distance that the fence is from the blade.
The Fence Stop can be used for non through cuts and can be set on any length of the fence
with the quick release handle.”
Note. The rule will have to be adjusted each time the fence is adjusted for drift, as this will
change the distance the fence is from the blade.
11. Dust ports 4".
The bandsaw produces a lot of sawdust, so extraction is very important. This is achieved by
connecting a 4" dust extraction hoses with a minimum capacity of 1,000 CFM to the two dust
ports located at the back of the machine. The stronger the suction from the dust collector, the
better for you and the machine.
12. Quick-release blade tension lever.
There is a quick-release tension lever at the back of the bandsaw. The lever is a convenient
way of quickly releasing the tension on the blade and speeds up blade change dramatically.

19
13. Blade-tracking knob.
The blade-tracking knob is located at the back of the bandsaw and is used to adjust the blade
tracking. The knob must be locked once the adjustment is completed.
14. Optional mobility kit. Swivel wheel assembly
The optional mobility kit is fitted to the base of the
bandsaw and consists of two fixed wheels at the
front of the bandsaw and a swivel wheel at the back
of the band saw. The swivel wheel is activated and
deactivated with a foot lever. With the swivel wheel
deactivated, the bandsaw sits on two rubber feet.
15. Optional light.
The optional light is fitted with four screws through
pre-drilled holes at the top of the bandsaw. The
bandsaw is provided with a 220V socket that the
light can be connected to.
16. Blade guide shaft lock knob.
The upper blade guide is fixed to the blade guide
Rubber feet
shaft, which is vertically adjustable. Once the guides have been adjusted vertically,
the shaft is locked in position with the lock knob.
17. Flywheel.
The blade is suspended over two wheels that are covered with rubber called a "tire". The tire
cushions the blade and protects the teeth from meeting the metal of the flywheel. The lower
wheel is the drive wheel and is attached to the motor with a rubber drive belt. The lower
flywheel powers the blade and pulls the blade down through the work piece. The top wheel
has two functions. One function is to balance or track the blade on the wheels, and the
second one is to tension the blade. Both functions are adjustable.

20
18. Brake.
The bandsaw is provided with a brake that is operated by
applying the foot pedal. When the foot pedal is applied,
the power is removed from the motor and the flywheel is
slowed by the disc brake.
19. Guards.
When running, the blade can be very dangerous, and the
amount of blade that is exposed must be kept to a
minimum. The machine is supplied with several guards,
all of which MUST be installed and used while the
machine is running. There is a guard that is attached to
the lower door and is adjustable vertically
once the door is closed. There is a guard on the guide
Disc brake on flywheel vertical adjustment shaft.
20. Blade tilt and tension mechanism.
The upper wheel is attached to the tilt and tension mechanism. This mechanism adjusts the
wheel so that the bandsaw blade can be adjusted for blade tracking. This is achieved by a
screwed handle at the back of the machine that pushes on the mechanism and adjusts the
axis of the wheel so that it runs true with the lower wheel. The second function is to tension
the blade, which is achieved by adjusting the upper flywheel vertically. A handle is located
below upper flywheel and, when rotated, will move the wheel up or down. The machine has a
quick-acting blade release mechanism that is located at the back of the machine and will
remove the tension from the blade to speed the removal and fitting of blades. The
mechanism has a spring, which helps to keep the tension constant as the blade expands and
contracts with the heat generated by the cutting action.
21. Electrical connection.
The bandsaw is provided with a cable and a 220v plug.
22. Identification.
There is a plate at the back of the machine listing
all the manufacturing data, including the serial
number, model, and blade length.
23. Magnetic Blade Tension Gauge
Indicates blade type (Width) when installing and
applying correct tension during blade installation
(See Page 38 for Instructions).
Laguna 18bx Bandsaw
Model
mband18bx2203
Motor
3 HP, 230V
Blade Length
Min: 143-3/4” Max: 145-1/2”
Serial No.
Where to locate your Bandsaw.