Powermatic PM1800 Service manual

Operating Instructions and Parts Manual
18-inch Band Saw
Model PM1800
WALTER MEIER (Manufacturing) Inc.
427 New Sanford Rd.
LaVergne, TN 37086 Part No. M-1791800
Ph.: 800-274-6848 Revision A3 10/09
www.powermatic.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 POWERMATIC
®
tools. For the name of anAuthorized Service Center in your area call1-800-274-6848.
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 powermatic.com.
WARRANTY
POWERMATIC products carry a limitedwarrantywhich varies in duration based upon the product.
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 POWERMATIC warranty lasts for thetime period specified in the product literature of each product.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED?
The Five Year Warranty does not cover products used for commercial, industrial or educational purposes. Products with a Five
Year Warranty 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 call1-800-274-6848.
You must provide proof of initial purchase date and an explanation of the complaint must accompany the merchandise. If our
inspection discloses a defect, wewill 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 usthat 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 handling and shipping costs of the
return.
HOW STATE LAW APPLIES
This warranty gives you specific legalrights; youmay 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 LIMITATIONMAY NOT APPLY TOYOU.
WALTER MEIER (MANUFACTURING) INC., 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 LIMITATIONOR EXCLUSIONMAY 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.

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Table of Contents
Warranty and Service..........................................................................................................................2
Table of Contents ...............................................................................................................................3
Warning .............................................................................................................................................5
Introduction........................................................................................................................................7
Specifications.....................................................................................................................................7
Features and Terminology...................................................................................................................8
Unpacking..........................................................................................................................................9
Installation........................................................................................................................................10
Assembly.........................................................................................................................................10
Rear Rail ......................................................................................................................................10
Front Rail and Guide Tube.............................................................................................................11
Fence Assembly............................................................................................................................11
Resaw Fence................................................................................................................................11
Fence to Table Clearance..............................................................................................................12
Setting Cursor (Zero) Position........................................................................................................12
Setting Table Parallel to Blade .......................................................................................................12
Setting Fence Parallel to Blade ......................................................................................................13
Fence Locking Tightness ...............................................................................................................13
Dust Collection.................................................................................................................................14
Electrical Connections.......................................................................................................................14
Extension Cords............................................................................................................................15
Adjustments .....................................................................................................................................15
Table Tilt.......................................................................................................................................15
90° Table Stop..............................................................................................................................15
Installing/Changing Blades.............................................................................................................16
Blade Tension...............................................................................................................................17
Blade Tracking ..............................................................................................................................18
Upper Blade Guides ......................................................................................................................19
Upper Thrust Bearing ....................................................................................................................20
Lower Blade Guides ......................................................................................................................20
Guide Post....................................................................................................................................21
Guide Post Parallelism...................................................................................................................21
Resaw Pin....................................................................................................................................22
Miter Gauge..................................................................................................................................22
Blade Speed Adjustment................................................................................................................23
Drive Belt Tensionand Replacement..............................................................................................23
Wheel Brush.................................................................................................................................24
Insert Block...................................................................................................................................24
Operating Controls............................................................................................................................24
Safety Key....................................................................................................................................25
Brake Pedal..................................................................................................................................25
Operation.........................................................................................................................................26
General Procedure........................................................................................................................26
Resawing......................................................................................................................................27
Blade Lead ...................................................................................................................................27
Ripping.........................................................................................................................................26
Crosscutting..................................................................................................................................26
Blade Selection ................................................................................................................................29
Width............................................................................................................................................29
Pitch.............................................................................................................................................29
Shape...........................................................................................................................................29
Set...............................................................................................................................................30
Material........................................................................................................................................30
Blade Breakage.............................................................................................................................30
Blade Selection Guide.......................................................................................................................31
Troubleshooting – Operational Problems............................................................................................32
Troubleshooting – Mechanical and Electrical Problems .......................................................................34

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Replacement Parts...........................................................................................................................35
Upper Wheel Assembly – Exploded View........................................................................................36
Upper Wheel Assembly – Parts List................................................................................................37
Lower Wheel and Motor Assembly – Exploded View........................................................................38
Lower Wheel and Motor Assembly – Parts List................................................................................39
Blade Guide Assembly – Exploded View.........................................................................................41
Blade Guide Assembly – Parts List.................................................................................................42
Table and Fence Assembly – Exploded View ..................................................................................44
Table and Fence Assembly – Parts List..........................................................................................45
Electrical Connections – 5HP 1PH 230V ............................................................................................47
Electrical Connections – 5HP 3PH 230V ............................................................................................48
Electrical Connections – 5HP 3PH 460V ............................................................................................49

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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. Secure all loose clothing and confine long hair. Non-slip footwear or anti-skid floor strips
are recommended. Do not wear gloves when operating the machine.
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
contains 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 after maintenance is complete.
16. Make sure the band saw is firmly secured to the floor or bench before use.
17. 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.
18. Provide for adequate space surrounding work area and non-glare, overhead lighting.
19. Keep the floor around the machine clean and free of scrap material, oil and grease.
20. Keep visitors a safe distance from the work area. Keep children away.

6
21. Make your workshop child proof with padlocks, master switches or by removing starter keys.
22. Give your work undivided attention. Looking around, carrying on a conversation and “horse-play” are
careless acts that can result in serious injury.
23. 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.
24. Adjust the upper guides to approximately 3/16” above the workpiece.
25. Make relief cuts when sawing curves.
26. 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 more safely.
27. Use recommended accessories; improper accessories may be hazardous.
28. Maintain tools with care. Keep blades sharp and clean for the best and safest performance. Follow
instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
29. Turn off the machine and disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a brush or compressed air to
remove chips or debris — do not use your hands.
30. Do not stand on the machine. Serious injury could occur if the machine tips over.
31. Never leave the machine running unattended. Turn the power off and do not leave the machine until it
comes to a complete stop.
32. 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 - -

7
Introduction
This manual is provided by Walter Meier (Manufacturing) Inc., covering the safe operation and
maintenance procedures for a Powermatic Model PM1800 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.........................................................................................................................PM1800
Stock Number (5HP 1PH) ........................................................................................................1791800
Stock Number (5HP 3PH) ........................................................................................................1791801
Motor (1PH) ....................................................................................TEFC, 5HP, 1PH, 230V, 60Hz, 21A
Motor (3PH) ...........................................................TEFC, 5HP, 3PH, 230/460V (pre-wired 230V)*, 60Hz
Blade Speeds (SFPM) ................................................................................................... 1800 and 4200
Maximum Cutting Height/Resaw Capacity (in.) ...................................................................................18
Throat Capacity (in.) .........................................................................................................................18
Minimum Blade Width (in.) .............................................................................................................1/16
Maximum Blade Width (in.)............................................................................................................1-1/2
Blade Length (in.) ...........................................................................................................................160
Blade provided (in.)...........................................................................Hook Type, 3/4 W x 0.03 Thk, 4TPI
Resaw Fence (L x H)(in.)........................................................................................................30 x 6-1/2
Resaw Pin (Dia. x H)(in.)..........................................................................................................2 x 6-1/2
Table Dimensions (L x W x Thk)(in.) ..................................................................................... 24 x 24 x 2
Table Thickness (in.)...........................................................................................................................2
Table Tilt (deg.)..............................................................................................................45 right, 15 left
Table Height from Floor @ 90 deg. (in.)........................................................................................37-1/2
Miter Gauge Positive Stops (deg.)...........................................................................................45 and 90
Wheel Diameter (in.)...................................................................................................................18-1/2
Power Transfer.............................................................................................................poly-V belt drive
Switch.............................................................................................magnetic, withpower indicator lamp
Dust Port Diameter (in.).......................................................................................................................4
Dust Collection CFM Required.........................................................................................................400
Overall Dimensions (L x W x H)(in.) ...............................................................................38 x 42 x 81-1/2
Net Weight (lbs.).............................................................................................................................806
Shipping Weight (lbs.).....................................................................................................................902
*NOTE: For 460V operation, magnetic switch (part no. PM2000-293C) must be purchased separately and
installed. A qualified electrician is recommended.
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.

8
Features and Terminology
Figure 1

9
Unpacking
Open shipping container and check for shipping
damage. Report any damage immediately to
your distributor and shipping agent. Do not
discard any shipping material until the Band Saw
is assembled and running properly.
Compare the contents of your container with the
following parts list and photos to make sure all
parts are intact. Missing parts, if any, should be
reported to your distributor. Read the instruction
manual thoroughly for assembly, maintenance
and safety instructions.
Contents of the Shipping Container
1 Band Saw (not shown)
1 Rip Fence Body
1 Extruded Aluminum Resaw Fence
1 Front Rail
1 Rear Rail
1 Guide Tube
1 Resaw Pin with Locking Knob
1 Hardware Package containing:
10 Hex Cap Screws, 5/16”-18 x 3/4” (AA)
10 Lock Washers, 5/16” (BB)
10 Flat Washers, 5/16” (CC)
1 Miter Gauge
1 Owner's Manual (not shown)
1 Warranty Card (not shown)
Figure 2
Read and understand the entire contents of this manual before attempting set-up
or operation! Failure to comply may cause serious injury.

10
Installation
Tools required for assembly and set up:
7/32” hex (Allen) wrench
6mm hex (Allen) wrench
12mm open-end wrench
Square
Hoist or forklift, with straps
Remove all crating and plastic from around the
machine. Remove any screws or straps holding
the band saw to the shipping pallet.
Exercise care when
removing the machine from the shipping
pallet.
Use a hoist or forklift with straps to remove the
machine from the pallet. The straps used should
have a minimum 1,000 lb. lifting capacity. Do
NOT place forks or straps directly beneath the
table or against handles or levers - place the
straps under the top portion of the frame, as
shown in Figure 3.
Move the band saw to its permanent location,
which should be dry and well lit, with enough
space on all sides to handle long stock or
perform routine maintenance on the machine.
Make sure the floor is able to support the weight
of the machine. If desired, the band saw can be
secured to the floor using lag screws (not
provided) through the four holes in the base.
Exposed metal surfaces, such as the table
surface and blade guides, have been given a
protective coating at the factory. This coating
should be removed with a soft cloth moistened
with solvent. Do not get solvents near plastic or
rubber parts; and do not use an abrasive pad as
it may scratch the exposed surfaces.
Assembly
Rear Rail
Refer to Figures 4 and 5.
1. Install the rear rail to the rear edge of the
table, using three 5/16-18 x 3/4 hex cap
screws (AA), three 5/16 lock washers (BB),
and three 5/16 flat washers (CC) as shown.
Hand tighten only.
2. The exact distance from rear rail to table top
is not important, but the rear rail should be
made parallel to the table top. Place a
measuring device, such as a combination
square (Figure 5) at front and back of the
table as shown.
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5

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The measurement should be the same at
both ends of the rear rail. Adjust as needed.
3. Tighten the two screws with a 12mm
wrench.
Front Rail and Guide Tube
Refer to Figure 6.
4. Install the front rail to the front edge of the
table, using two 5/16-18 x 3/4 hex cap
screws (AA), two 5/16 lock washers (BB),
and two 5/16 flat washers (CC), through the
slotted holes in the rail. Place the screws
approximately center of the slots; this can
be adjusted later as needed. Tighten the
two screws with a 12mm wrench.
5. Install the guide tube to the bottom holes in
the front rail, using five 5/16-18 x 3/4 hex
cap screws (AA), five 5/16 lock washers
(BB), and five 5/16 flat washers (CC).
Tighten all five screws in the guide tube with
a 12mm wrench. Do not overtighten.
Fence Assembly
Refer to Figures 7 and 8.
Place the fence body onto the guide tube (as
shown in Figure 8). Raise the fence lever all the
way up to install or remove the fence from the
guide tube. Midway lever position allows the
fence to slide along the guide tube. Lowest lever
position locks the fence in place.
Resaw Fence
Refer to Figures 8 and 9.
Loosen the lock bar using the knobs, until the
lock bar protrudes enough to slide the aluminum
resaw fence on from one end, as shown in
Figure 8. Re-tighten the knobs.
NOTE: The aluminum resaw fence can be
installed in one of two positions; vertically
(resaw position), as shown in Figure 8; or
horizontally as shown in Figure 9. Horizontal
position is useful for smaller workpieces. (The
zero setting of the cursor can not be used with
the horizontal fence position.)
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8 (resaw fence vertical position)
Figure 9 (horizontal fence position)

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Fence to Table Clearance
1. Check the clearance between the table and
the bottom of the fence (Figure 10). The
fence should not rub against the table
surface but be slightly above it. This gap
should be the same at the front of the table
as it is at the back.
2. If the clearance is not the same, use a
combination of the following two
adjustments:
• With a 7/32” hex wrench, rotate the two
nylon adjustment screws (A, Figure 16) the
same amount to raise or lower the fence
body from the guide tube. Clockwise raises
the fence body, counterclockwise lowers.
• And/or....Adjust the back end of the fence
by loosening one hex nut and tightening the
other (A, Figure 11) in order to raise or
lower the sliding pad (B, Figure 11) as
needed. When the fence-to-table gap is
equal, make sure both hex nuts are
tightened against the fence body.
Setting Cursor (Zero) Position
Refer to Figure 12.
The fence must be set so that the cursor reads
zero at the line of the blade. The resaw fence
must be installed on the fence body in vertical
position, and the blade must be installed and
fully tensioned.
1. Slide the fence flush against the flat of the
blade, as shown. (Do not force the fence
into the blade so that the blade bends.)
2. If the cursor is not at zero, loosen the two
screws and slide it as needed. Then re-
tighten the screws.
Setting Table Parallel to Blade
Refer to Figures 13 and 14.
The table has been aligned by the manufacturer
so that the miter slot is parallel to the flat of the
blade; it should not require adjustment.
However, in the future you may wish to confirm
this setting is still accurate. A wide blade is
recommended for the procedure.
1. Disconnect band saw from power source.
2. The blade should be fully tensioned and
properly tracked (see pages 17 and 18).
3. Place a long straightedge flush against the
blade making sure it contacts both front and
back of the blade. (Do not deflect the blade
by pushing into it.) See Figure 13.
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13

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4. Use a
g
au
g
e to carefull
y
measure the
distance from miter slot to straight edge.
Take measurements at both front and back
of table – these should be the same.
5. If the miter slot is not parallel to the blade,
loosen the four hex cap screws that secure
the table to the trunnion (Figure 14 shows
three of them), and shift the table as needed
until the miter slot is parallel to the blade.
6. Tighten the four hex cap screws.
Setting Fence Parallel to Blade
Refer to Figures 15 and 16.
The fence should be parallel to the flat of the
blade for accurate cutting. Since the miter slot
has been set parallel to the blade from the
manufacturer (and confirmed by the user, as
described above), you can use the table miter
slot to set the fence parallelism.
1. Remove the aluminum resaw fence and the
mounting bar from the fence body, and slide
the fence body to the edge of the miter slot,
as shown in Figure 15. The fence should
align with the miter slot along the entire
length of the fence.
2. If adjustment is needed, use one of the back
adjustment screws (B, Figure 16) to turn the
fence in line with the miter slot.
The fence must also be parallel to the blade
vertically. Refer to Figure 17.
3. Make sure the table has beenset 90° to the
blade (see “90° Table Stop”).
4. Mount the resaw fence, and slide the fence
up against the blade; do not push into the
blade. Turn either of the nylon adjustment
screws until fence is parallel to blade along
the vertical length of fence.
Fence Locking Tightness
The tightness of the fence against the guide
tube can be adjusted by rotating the two back
screws (B, Figure 16). Rotate the two screws
equally (clockwise to tighten) with a 5mm hex
wrench.
Because these screws are also used to align the
fence to the blade, after adjusting fence locking
tightness, you should double check fence-to-
blade relationship, as explained under “Setting
Fence Parallel to Blade.”
Figure 14
Figure 15
Figure 16
Figure 17

14
Dust Collection
The use of a dust collection system is strongly
recommended for this band saw. It will help
keep the shop clean, as well as reduce potential
health hazards caused by inhalation of wood
dust. The collector should have a capacity
sufficient for this size machine – 400 CFM is
recommended. Walter Meier has a line of dust
collection systems available; see your dealer or
visit our website listed on the back cover.
Connect the hoses of your dust collection
system to the 4” dust ports at the rear of the
band saw. Secure tightly with hose clamps (not
provided). See Figure 18.
Electrical Connections
Electrical connections must
be made by a qualified electrician in
compliance with all relevant codes. This
machine must be properly grounded to help
prevent electrical shock and possible fatal
injury.
Single Phase Connections
The single phase Band Saw is factory wired for
230 volts. It is not supplied with a plug. You may
either install a UL/CSA-listed plug suitable for
230 volt operation, or “hard-wire” the Band Saw
directly to a service panel.
It is recommended that the single phase Band
Saw be connected to a grounded and dedicated,
minimum 50 amp circuit with a 50 amp circuit
breaker or time delay fuse. Local codes take
precedence over recommendations.
Three Phase Connections
The three phase Band Saw is factory wired for
230 volts. It is not supplied with a plug. You may
either install a UL/CSA-listed plug suitable for
230 volt operation, or “hard-wire” the Band Saw
directly to a service panel.
The three phase Band Saw may be converted to
460V operation. The current contactor must be
replaced with the 460V magnetic contactor (part
no. PM2000-293C, purchased separately). In
addition, re-connect the motor leads according
to the diagrams inside the motor junction box.
(Similar diagrams may be found at the back of
this manual.)
It is recommended that the three phase Band
Saw be connected to a grounded and dedicated,
minimum 30 amp circuit with a 30 amp circuit
breaker or time delay fuse. Local codes take
precedence over recommendations.
Figure 18
If the single phase or three phase Band Saw is
to be “hard-wired” to a service panel, make sure
a disconnect is available for the operator. During
hard-wiring of the machine, make sure the fuses
have been removed or the breakers have been
tripped in the circuit to which the Band Saw will
be connected. Place a warning placard on the
fuse holder or circuit breaker to prevent it being
turned on while the machine is being wired.
Grounding Instructions
This machine must be grounded. 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.
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. Repair or
replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.
Make sure the voltage of your power supply
matches the specifications on the motor plate of
the Band Saw.

15
Extension Cords
The use of extension cords is discouraged; try to
position the machine within reach of the power
source. If an extension cord becomes
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 19 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.
Adjustments
Table Tilt
Refer to Figures 20 and 21.
1. Loosen the lock lever (A).
2. For right tilt (as viewed from front or
operator’s side of the saw), rotate the
handwheel (B) counterclockwise to tilt table
up to 45°.
3. For left tilt (as viewed from front or
operator’s side of the saw), loosen the lock
lever (A) and rotate the handwheel
clockwise a turn or two to release pressure
on the 90° stop bolt (C). Rotate the circular
plate (D) out of the way. Then rotate the
handwheel clockwise to tilt the table to 15°.
The now-exposed hole in the band saw
body allows the stop bolt to descend
through it, to keep intact the setting of the
90° stop.
4. Tighten the lock lever (A, Figure 20) to
secure the setting.
NOTE: The circular plate (D) can be tightened or
loosened as desired by using a 5/32” (4mm) hex
wrench on the screw.
Also, the lever (A, Figure 20) can be pivoted to a
more convenient position. Simply lift straight out
on the lever and rotate it on the pin, then release
the lever making sure it seats itself on the pin.
90° Table Stop
Refer to Figures 20 through 22.
The 90° positive stop ensures that the table will
always be perpendicular to the blade after the
table is returned to horizontal position. Check
and adjust this 90° stop as follows:
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Make sure blade is under full tension.
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 19
Figure 20
Figure 21

16
3. Loosen lever
(
A, Fi
g
ure 20
)
and tilt table
with the handwheel (B), until the stop bolt
(C) rests on the circular plate (D).
4. Make sure the table insert is level with
surface of table by rotating one or more of
its set screws with a 5/164” (2mm) hex
wrench. Then place a square on the table
and against the blade to check that the table
is 90° to the blade. See Figure 22. NOTE:
Do not push square into blade.
5. If table and blade are not square, use a
9/16” (14mm) wrench to loosen the lock nut
(E) then rotate the stop bolt. Turn the stop
bolt as needed until there is no longer light
showing between the square and the blade.
6. Tighten lock nut (E) to secure the table stop
in position.
7. Tighten the lever (B).
8. Check that the scale pointer (F, Figure 20)
is at zero. If necessary, loosen the screw on
the pointer and shift the pointer to zero.
Then re-tighten the screw.
Installing/Changing Blades
Always wear gloves when
handling blades. New blades are usually
packaged in a coiled position; to prevent
injury uncoil them slowly and carefully, while
wearing work gloves and safety glasses.
The PM1800 Band Saw is designed for blades
from 1/16” to 1-1/2” wide. The Band Saw is
provided with a blade of the following
specifications: 0.03” thick, 3/4” wide, 4 TPI.
Refer to Figures 23 and 24.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Remove the table insert (A, Figure 23).
3. Pull out table pin (B) at the end of the slot.
4. Adjust upper and lower blade guides away
from the blade.
5. Move the quick tension lever to “Full
Release (Blade Change)” position.
6. Open upper and lower doors by rotating the
door catches. Open the lower blade guard
and slide out the insert block (Figure 24).
7. Carefully remove the blade from the top
wheel, then from between upper and lower
blade guides and lower wheel. Slide the old
blade out through the slot in the table.
Figure 22
Figure 23
Figure 24

17
8. Guide new blade throu
g
h table slot. Place
blade loosely in the upper and lower blade
guides. Make sure blade teeth point down
toward table, and toward the front of the
saw. (If the teeth will not point down, no
matter how you orient the blade, then the
blade is twisted inside-out. Twist it into
correct position and re-install it.)
9. Position blade at the center of the upper and
lower wheels.
10. Re-install table insert (A) and table pin (B).
11. Before operating the band saw, the new
blade must be tensioned and tracked, in that
order. Find instructions for tensioning and
tracking the blade under “Blade Tension”
and “Blade Tracking.” The blade guides
must also be set properly according to the
instructions on pages 19 and 20.
Blade Tension
Refer to Figure 25.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Back off upper and lower guide bearings to
eliminate any contact with the blade.
3. With the blade centered on the wheels,
move the quick tension lever to “Full
Tension” position, as shown in Figure 25.
NOTE: You will be able to feel the lever fall
into each position.
4. Rotate the tension handwheel (C) until the
scale pointer (D) reaches the appropriate
measurement for the width of the blade.
TIP: Use the band saw’s gauge setting initially.
As you become familiar with the machine and
with the different properties of band saw blades,
you may find it necessary to change the blade
tension from the initial setting. Keep in mind that
not only changes in blade width, but also the
type of material being cut will have an effect on
blade tension. Too little or too much blade
tension can cause blade breakage and/or poor
cutting performance.
Make a note of the specific tension setting for a
particular blade. The tension can then be re-set
quickly when band saw operations are resumed.
IMPORTANT: When the band saw is not being
used, move the quick tension lever to “Partial
Tension-Idle/Tracking” position. This will prolong
the life of the blade and tires, and reduce load
on wheels, bearings and other components.
Figure 25

18
Blade Tracking
Refer to Figure 26.
After being properly tensioned, the blade must
be tracked. “Tracking” refers to the position of
the blade on the wheels while the machine is in
operation. Tracking should be checked
periodically, and is mandatory after every blade
change. Blade tracking is done by hand with the
machine disconnected from power.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. The blade should be correctly tensioned.
3. Make sure the blade guides and other parts
of the machine will not interfere with the
movement of the blade. Lower the guide
post until you can see the blade through the
tracking window.
4. Set the quick tension lever intially to “Partial
Tension-Idle/Tracking” position, as shown in
Figure 26.
5. Open upper door to expose the upper
wheel. Rotate the wheel by hand, and
observe the position of the blade on the
wheel through the tracking window. As you
rotate the wheel, move the lever to “Full
Tension” position. The blade should
continue to ride upon the center of the
wheel (Figure 27).
IMPORTANT: Make tracking adjustments with
knob (F, Figure 26) while the blade is at full
tension. DO NOT use screws (G, Figure 26);
these were used by the manufacturer for wheel
alignment and should NOT be used for tracking.
6. If the blade tends to move toward the edge
of the wheel, loosen locking lever (E, Figure
26) and slightly rotate tracking knob (F) with
your right hand while continuing to rotate the
wheel with your left. Observe the blade
through the tracking window. Rotating the
tracking knob clockwise will cause the blade
to move toward the rear edge of the wheel.
Rotating the tracking knob counterclockwise
will cause the blade to move toward the
front edge of the wheel.
IMPORTANT: This adjustment is sensitive;
perform it in small increments and give the
blade time to react to the changes.
7. When the blade is tracking in the center of
the wheel, re-tighten locking lever (E), and
close upper door.
8. Move tension lever to “Full Tension”
position, and connect the band saw to
power. Turn it on for a brief time to observe
the blade in action through the tracking
window.
Figure 26
Figure 27

19
9. Make further ad
j
ustments as needed, with
the saw disconnected from power.
Upper Blade Guides
The bearing guides should be set so that
contact between blade and guides will occur
only when the blade is under pressure from a
workpiece. To adjust the upper bearing guides
for proper blade control, proceed as follows.
Refer to Figures 28 through 31.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Blade must already be tensioned and
tracking correctly. Place quick tension lever
in “Full Tension” position.
3. Lower the guide post until the upper guide
bearings are a few inches off the table. (The
reason for this will be shown later under
“Guide Post Parallelism.”)
4. Loosen the locking screw (A, Figure 28).
5. Move the entire guide bracket by rotating
the knurled knob (B) until the front of the
guide bearings are about 0.015” (1/64”)
behind the blade’s gullet (curved area at the
base of the tooth). See Figure 30.
6. Tighten the locking screw (A) to secure this
position.
7. Loosen the locking screw (C) for one of the
guide bearings.
8. The guide bearing rotates on an eccentric
shaft. Adjust the guide bearing by rotating
the knurled knob (D) until the guide bearing
is approximately 0.004” from the blade. A
quick way to achieve this spacing is by
placing a single thickness of a crisp dollar
bill (a dollar bill is approximately 0.004”
thick) between blade and guide bearing.
See Figure 31. Adjust the guide bearing
until it just lightly grips the dollar bill.
NOTE: Do not force the guide bearing
against the side of the blade. It should only
make contact with the blade when there is
pressure from the cutting operation.
9. Tighten locking screw (C) and remove dollar
bill.
10. Repeat process for opposite guide bearing.
Figure 28
Figure 29
Figure 30
Figure 31

20
Upper Thrust Bearing
Refer to Figures 29 and 32:
The thrust bearing prevents backward deflection
of the blade during cutting. The thrust bearing
has three options for stabilizing the back of the
blade (see Figure 32). The v-shaped groove is
for small, thin blades, such as scrolling and
contour-cutting blades. The flat bottomed groove
supports thicker blades. And the non-grooved
standard bearing surface at the left is for support
of larger blades.
1. Loosen the socket head cap screw (E,
Figure 29) and push the thrust bearing
bracket laterally to desired position.
2. Re-tighten the socket head cap screw (E).
3. Loosen the locking screw (F) and push the
thrust bearing up to the back of the blade.
4. Adjust the thrust bearing until the space
between the thrust bearing surface (or
groove bottom) and the back edge of the
blade is approximately 0.015” (1/64”). On
the non-grooved surface, a convenient way
to achieve this spacing is by placing a dollar
bill folded twice (four thicknesses of a dollar
bill is approximately 1/64”) between blade
and thrust bearing. If using a groove, set
this distance by eye.
5. Tighten locking screw (F).
6. Make sure all locking screws on the upper
guide bearing assembly are tightened when
adjustments are finished.
Lower Blade Guides
Refer to Figure 33.
1. Disconnect band saw from power source.
2. Open lower door and lower blade guard.
3. Adjust the lower guide bearings and lower
thrust bearing below the table, using the
same procedure and measurements as for
the upper guide bearings and upper thrust
bearing described above.
Movement summary: Loosen locking lever
(G) to move guide bracket using dial (H).
Loosen knob (J) to rotate side bearings,
using (K) and (L). Loosen locking screw (M)
to slide thrust bearing toward blade.
4. Make sure all screws, knobs and lever are
tightened when adjustments are complete.
NOTE: The locking lever (G, Figure 33) can be
re-positioned if needed. Simply pull out on the
lever, rotate it on the hub, and release it. Make
sure it re-seats itself on the hub.
Figure 32
Figure 33