Skil 3386 Assembly instructions

Operating/Safety Instructions
IMPORTANT:
Read Before Using
3386

2.
General Safety Rules
Work Area
KEEP CHILDRE AWAY
Do not let visitors contact tool or extension cord. All
visitors should be kept safe distance from work area.
KEEP WORK AREAS CLEA
Cluttered areas and benches invite accidents.
MAKE WORKSHOP KID-PROOF
With padlocks, master switches, or by removing
starter keys.
AVOID DA GEROUS E VIRO ME TS
Don’t use power tools in damp or wet locations. Keep
work area well lit. Do not expose power tools to rain.
Do not use the tool in the presence of flammable
liquids or gases.
Personal Safety
K OW YOUR POWER TOOL
Read and understand the owner’s manual and labels
affixed to the tool. earn its application and
limitations as well as the specific potential hazards
peculiar to this tool.
DO ’T OVERREACH
Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
STAY ALERT
Watch what you are doing. Use common sense. Do
not operate tool when you are tired. Do not operate
while under medication or while using alcohol or
other drugs.
WEAR PROPER APPAREL
Do not wear lose clothing, gloves, neckties, rings,
bracelets, or other jewelry which may get caught in
moving parts. Nonslip footwear is recommended.
Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
ALWAYS USE SAFETY GLASSES
Also use face or dust mask if cutting operation is dusty,
and ear plugs during extended periods of operation.
Everyday eyeglasses have only impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
GUARD AGAI ST ELECTRIC SHOCK
Prevent body contact with grounded surfaces. For
example: pipes, radiators, ranges, refrigerator
enclosures.
DISCO ECT TOOLS FROM POWER SOURCE
When not in use, before servicing, when changing
blades, bits, cutters, etc.
KEEP GUARDS I PLACE
In working order, and in proper adjustment and
alignment.
REMOVE ADJUSTI G KEYS A D WRE CHES
When not in use, before servicing, when changing
blades, bits, cutters, etc.
REDUCE THE RISK OF U I TE TIO AL STARTI G
Make sure the switch is in the “OFF” position before
plugging in tool.
GROU D ALL TOOLS
This tool is equipped with an approved 3-conductor
cord and a 3 prong grounding type plug to fit the
proper grounding type receptacle. The green
conductor in the cord is the grounding wire. Never
connect the green wire to a live terminal.
EVER STA D O TOOL OR ITS STA D
Serious injury could occur if the tool is tipped or if the
cutting tool is accidentally contacted. Do not store
materials on or near the tool such that it is necessary
to stand on the tool or its stand to reach them.
CHECK DAMAGED PARTS
Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part
that is damaged should be carefully checked to
ensure that it will operate properly and perform its
intended function. Check for alignment of moving
parts, mounting, and any other conditions that may
affect its operation. A guard or other part that is
damaged should be properly replaced.
All repairs, electrical or mechanical,
should be attempted only by trained
repairmen. Contact the nearest Skil Factory Service
Center, Authorized Service Station or other
competent repair service.
Use only Skil replacement parts; any
others may create a hazard.
The use of any other accessories not
specified in the current Skil catalog,
may create a hazard.
“SAVE THESE I STRUCTIO S”
“READ A INSTRUCTIONS” Failure to follow the safety rules listed below and other basic safety
precautions may result in serious personal injury.
WARNING
!
WARNING
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WARNING
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WARNING
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Additional Safety Rules
Tool Use
DO ’T FORCE TOOL
It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which
it was designed.
USE THE RIGHT TOOL
Don’t force a small tool or attachment to do the job of
a heavy duty tool. Don’t used tool for purpose not
intended—for example, don’t use a circular saw for
cutting tree limbs or logs.
SECURE WORK
Use clamps or a vise to hold work. It’s safer than
using your hand and it frees both hands to operate
the tool.
EVER LEAVE TOOL RU I G U ATTE DED
Turn power off. Don’t leave tool until it comes to a
complete stop.
Tool Care
DO OT ALTER OR MISUSE TOOL
These tools are precision built. Any alteration or
modification not specified is misuse and may result in
dangerous conditions.
AVOID GASEOUS AREAS
Do not operate electric tools in a gaseous or
explosive atmosphere. Motors in these tools normally
spark, and may result in a dangerous condition.
MAI TAI TOOLS WITH CARE
Keep tools sharp and clean for best and safest
performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and
changing accessories. Inspect tool cords periodically
and if damaged, have repaired by authorized service
facility. Inspect extension cords periodically and
replace if damaged. Keep handles dry, clean and
free from oil and grease.
Before connecting the tool to a power source
(receptacle, outlet, etc.), be sure voltage supplied is
the same as that specified on the nameplate of the
tool. A power source with a voltage greater than that
specified for the tool can result in serious injury to the
user, as well as damage to the tool. If in doubt, DO
NOT P UG IN THE TOO . Using a power source with
a voltage less than the nameplate rating is harmful to
the motor .
THI K SAFETY
SAFETY IS A COMBINATION OF
OPERATOR COM MON SENSE AND A ERTNESS AT
A TIMES WHEN THE BAND SAW IS BEING USED.
Do not allow familiarity (gained from frequent use of your
band saw) to be come commonplace. Always remember
that a care less fraction of a second is sufficient to inflict
severe injury.
The operation of any power tool can
result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety goggles that
comply with ANSI Z87.1 (shown on
Package) before commencing power tool operation.
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:
• ead from lead-based paints,
• Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other
masonry products, and
• Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated
lumber.
Your risk from these exposures 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 those dust masks that are specially designed to filter
out microscopic particles.
WARNING
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WARNING
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4.
Specific Safety Rules for Band Saws
1. To avoid injury from unexpected movement, make
sure the saw is on a firm, level surface, properly
secured to prevent rocking. Make sure there is
adequate space for operations. Bolt the saw to a
support surface to prevent slipping or sliding
during operation.
2. Turn off and unplug the saw before moving it.
3. Use the correct size and style of blade.
4. Make sure the blade teeth point down and toward
the table.
5. Blade guide, supports, bearings, and blade
tension must be properly adjusted to avoid
accidental blade contact and to minimize blade
breakage. To maximize blade support, always
adjust the upper blade guide and blade guard so
that it barely clears the workpiece.
6. The table tilt lock handle should be tight.
7. Use extra caution with very large, very small, or
awkward workpieces.
8. Use extra supports to prevent workpieces from
sliding off the table top.
9. Workpieces should be secured so they don’t twist,
rock, or slip while being cut.
10. Plan intricate or small work carefully to avoid
pinching the blade. Avoid awkward operations
and hand positions to prevent accidental contact
with the blade.
11. Small pieces should be secured with clamps or
fixtures. Do not hold small pieces with your hand
because your fingers might go under the blade
guard.
12. Support round work properly (use a V block or
press it against the miter gauge) to prevent it from
rolling and the blade from biting.
13. Cut only one workpiece at a time. Make sure the
table is clear of everything except the workpiece
and its guides before you turn the saw on.
14. Always watch the saw run before each use. If
there is excessive vibration, saw blade stuttering,
or unusual noise, stop immediately. Turn the saw
off. Unplug it immediately. Do not start the saw
again until the problem has been located and
corrected.
15. To free any jammed material, turn the switch off.
Remove the switch key and unplug the saw.
Wait for all moving parts to stop before removing
the jammed material.
16. Do not leave the work area until all moving parts
have stopped. Shut off the power to master
switches. Remove the switch key from the band
saw and store it in a safe place, away from
children. Childproof the workshop!
17. Maintain proper adjustment of blade tension,
blade alignment, blade guides and thrust
bearings.
18. Adjust upper guide to 1/8” above workpiece
before cutting.
19. Hold workpiece firmly against table.
20. Use recommended blade and speed for
workpiece material.
21. Before, starting, be certain the motor, table,
attachments and adjustment knobs are secured.
22. Do not operate with wheel cover door open.
23. Unplug saw before making blade changes,
adjustments or repairs.
24. Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.

5.
Motor Specifications and Electrical Requirements
General Specifications
Voltage Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120 V, 60 Hz
Amperage Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.5 A
No oad Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . .No2800 min (SFPM)
Throat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9" (22.9 cm)
Blade ength . .59 1/4” (150.5 cm) - 59 1/2” (151 cm)
Blade Width . . . . . . . .1/8” (0.32 cm) - 3/8” (0.95 cm)
Cutting Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 1/2" (8.9 cm)
Table size . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 3/4 x 12" (30 x 30.5 cm)
Motor Specifications
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.
This Band Saw is designed to use a 1720 RPM motor. It
is wired for operation on 110-120 volts, 60 Hz. alternating
current. Before connecting the motor cord to power
source, make certain the switch is in the “OFF” position
and be sure the electric current is of the same
characteristics as stamped on the band saw nameplate.
Connection To A Power Source
This machine must be grounded while in use to protect
the operator from electric shock.
Plug power cord into a 110-120V properly grounded type
outlet protected by a 15-amp dual element time delay fuse
or circuit breaker.
Not all outlets are properly grounded. If you are not sure
that your outlet, as pictured in Fig. A, is properly
grounded; have it checked by a qualified electrician.
To avoid electric shock, do not touch
the metal prongs on the plug when
installing or removing the plug to or from the outlet.
Failure to properly ground this power
tool can cause electrocution or
serious shock, particularly when used near metal
plumbing or other metal objects. If shocked, your
reaction could cause your hands to hit the tool.
If power cord is worn, cut or damaged
in any way, have it replaced
immediately to avoid shock or fire hazard.
Your unit is for use on 120 volts; it has a plug that looks
like the one in Figure A.
This power tool is equipped with a 3-conductor cord and
grounding type plug, approved by Underwriters
aboratories and the Canadian Standards Association.
The ground con ductor has a green jacket and is
attached to the tool housing at one end and to the
ground prong in the attachment plug at the other end.
If the outlet you are planning to use for this power tool is
of the two-prong type, DO NOT REMOVE OR A TER
THE GROUNDING PRONG IN ANY MAN NER. Have a
qualified electrician replace the TWO-prong outlet with a
properly grounded THREE-prong outlet.
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-
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.
Always use proper extension cord. The use of any
extension cord will cause some loss of pow er. To keep
this to a minimum and to prevent overheating and motor
burn-out, use the table below to determine the minimum
wire size (A.W.G.) extension cord. Use only 3-wire
extension cords which have 3-prong grounding type
plugs and 3-pole receptacles which accept the tool’s
plug. Make sure your extension cord is in good
condition.
Extension Cord ength Wire Size A.W.G.
0-25 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
26-50 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
51-100 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
DANGER
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DANGER
!
WARNING
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FIG. A
“SAVE THESE I STRUCTIO S”

6.
Table of Contents
Page
General Safety Rules .................................................. 2
Additional Safety Rules........................................... 3–4
Motor Specifications and Electrical Requirements..... 5
Unpacking and Checking Contents............................. 7
Table of oose Parts ................................................... 7
Page
Getting To Know Your Band Saw........................... 8–9
Assembly and Adjustments .................................9-15
Basic Band Saw Operation................................16-18
Maintaining Your Band Saw....................................19
Troubleshooting......................................................56

7.
Unpacking and Checking Contents
To reduce the risk of injury, never
connect plug to power source outlet
until all assembly steps are complete and until you
have read and understood the entire owner’s
manual.
Model 3386 Motorized Band Saw is shipped complete
in one box.
1.Unpacking and Checking Contents, separate all parts
from packing materials. Check each one with the
“Table of oose Parts” to make sure all items are
accounted for before discarding any packing material.
If any parts are missing, do not at -
tempt to assemble the band saw, plug
in power cord or turn the switch on until the
missing parts are obtained and are installed
correctly.
2.Remove the protective oil that is applied to table. Use
any ordinary household type grease and spot
remover.
To avoid fire or toxic reaction, never
use gasoline, naptha or similar highly
volatile solvents.
3.Apply a coat of paste wax to the table to prevent rust.
Wipe all parts thoroughly with a clean dry cloth.
Table of Loose Parts
ITEM DESCRIPTIO QTY.
A Band Saw 1
B Table 1
C Fence 1
D Miter gauge assembly 1
E 3 mm allen wrench 1
F Table bolt, washer, lock washer 4
G Operating Guide 1
Tools eeded
An adjustable wrench, combination square, and a
phillips screwdriver will be needed for assembly and
adjustments.
A
B
F
C
D
E
WARNING
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WARNING
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WARNING
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G

1Blade tension knob
2Blade guard
3ED work light
4Blade
5Table support assembly
6ower blade guide
7Drive belt
8ower wheel
9Door
10 Wheel brush
11 Upper wheel
12 Blade tracking lock nut
13 Blade tracking knob
14 Motor assembly
15 Base
16 Dust port
17 Table tilt adjustment lock knob
18 Table tilt adjustment knob
19 Table
20 Upper blade guide
21 Upper blade guide lock knob
22 Upper blade guide adjustment knob
23 Upper viewing port
24 Upper door knob
25 ower door knob
26 ON/OFF switch with safety key
8.
Getting To Know Your Band Saw
9
1
2
11
3
4
10
5
6
8
7
1
1
23
24
25
19
15
26
21
22
20
19
16
17
18
15
14
13
12

9.
Assembly & Adjustments
Before assembling the band saw, turn
off the saw, remove the safety key and
unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
The power cord must remain unplugged whenever
you are working on the saw.
Install the table (Figs. 1–3)
1. oosen the locking knob (1) and rotate the blade
guard knob (2) to raise the upper blade guard (3) to
the highest position.
2. Remove table connector (5).
3. Place the table on the table support by sliding the slot
(6) in the table over the blade (4), taking care not to
damage the blade.
4. Align the four holes on the bottom of the table over
the four holes in the table support (7).
5. Place a washer and locking washer on each bolt (8)
and secure the bolt through the table support and into
the table.
6.Tighten all four bolts to make sure the table is
fastened securely.
7. Replace table connector (5).
ote: The table must be properly adjusted before
operating the saw. See Table tilt adjustment (page 10).
FIG. 1
FIG. 2
FIG. 3
3
2
6
5
1
4
7
8
WARNING
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10.
Assembly & Adjustments
Install the fence (Fig. 4)
1.Raise the clamp (1) on the fence assembly to the up
position.
2.Place the fence on the table so that the clamp is at the
front of the table.
3. ower the fence clamp to lock the fence in position on
the table.
To move the fence, raise the clamp and slide the fence
to the desired location. ower the clamp to lock the fence
in position.
Mount the band saw to a work
surface (Fig. 5)
Secure the saw to a suitable work surface by inserting
the appropriate mounting hardware through the four pre-
drilled holes (2) in the base of the saw.
Adjustments
Before adjusting the band saw, turn
off the saw, remove the safety key,
and unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
The power cord must remain unplugged whenever
you are working on the saw.
Table tilt adjustment (Fig. 6)
The table tilts from 0° to 45° to the right.
1.Turn the table tilt lock knob (3) counterclockwise.
2.Turn the table tilt adjustment knob (4) until the pointer
is at the desired angle on the table tilt gauge (5).
3.Tighten the table lock knob (3) clockwise to secure the
table.
Connect to a dust collection
system (Fig. 7)
A 1-1/2" (3.8 cm) dust port (6) is located on the motor
side of the band saw. This port can be connected to a
dust collection system directly by connecting the pickup
end of the dust collection hose to the dust port.
FIG. 4
1
FIG. 5
2
2
FIG. 6
FIG. 7
45
3
6
WARNING
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11.
Assembly & Adjustments
Squaring the Sawtable to the Blade
(Fig. 9 & 10)
1. Raise and lock the blade guide assembly (1) to its
highest position.
2. Place a small combination square (2) on the saw
table beside the blade and check squareness of
the saw table to the blade.
If an adjustment is needed:
3. oosen table tilt adjustment lock knob (5).
4. Using a 3 mm hex key (3), adjust zero stop set
screw (4) until table is square to blade when set
screw makes contact with housing.
5. Tighten table tilt adjustment lock knob (5).
6. Adjust scale indicator (6) by loosening screw with
a phillips screwdriver, align scale indicator to zero,
then retighten screw.
Fence Adjustment (Fig. 8)
The fence is pre-set at the factory, but it may need
adjustment over time.
To increase the holding force of the fence to the table,
turn the nut (1) on the back of the fence clockwise.
To reduce the holding force of the fence, turn the nut
counterclockwise.
When properly adjusted, the fence should hold firmly
to the table and the fence lever should pivot down
(lock) with reasonable force. Be sure not to over
tighten nut, as that may damage the fence lever and
reduce the holding force.
1
23
4
5
6
FIG. 9
FIG. 8
FIG. 10
1

12.
Assembly and adjustments
Blade tension adjustment (Fig. 11)
A change in blade width or type of material being cut will
affect the blade tension. If the blade tension is too loose,
it will be difficult to cut a straight line. If the blade is too
tight, the blade may break or come off the wheel.
1. Turn the blade tension knob (1) clockwise, to raise
the upper blade wheel (2) and increase the tension
on the blade. The blade should be tight on the wheel,
but do not overtighten the blade.
2. Turn the blade tension knob (1) counter-clockwise to
lower the upper blade wheel (2) and reduce the
tension on the blade.
Blade tracking adjustment (Fig. 11 & 12)
ote: The band saw blade tracking is pre-set at the
factory. Check for proper blade tension before making
any blade tracking adjustments.
Rotate the upper blade wheel (2) clockwise and check
the position of the blade on the wheel. The blade should
remain in the center of the wheel.
If an adjustment is needed:
1.Using a wrench, loosen the blade tracking lock
nut (3).
2. If the blade moves toward the front edge of the
wheel: turn the blade tracking knob (4) slightly
clockwise. At the same time, turn the upper wheel (2)
until the blade is centered.
If the blade moves toward the back edge of the
wheel: turn the blade tracking knob (4) slightly
counter-clockwise. At the same time, turn the upper
wheel (2) until the blade is centered.
3. Tighten the blade tracking lock nut (3) when you are
finished making adjustments.
4. Check the position of the blade on the lower wheel. If
the tracking is off, continue adjusting the blade until it
sits properly on both wheels. If blade does not sit
properly on wheels, return to blade tension
adjustment.
Blade guide adjustment
The upper and lower blade guides and support bearings
(located above and below the table) keep the blade
moving in a straight line during operation. These guides
must be checked and adjusted before each use, after
changing the blade, and after blade tension and tracking
adjustment.
ote: Make sure the blade tension and tracking are
properly adjusted before adjusting the upper and lower
blade guides.
FIG. 11 1
FIG. 12
3
4
2

13.
Assembly and adjustments
Adjust the upper blade guide (Fig. 13–14)
1. Make sure the upper blade guide assembly (1) is at
right-angles to the blade (2).
If not: loosen the screw (3) and rotate the assembly
until it is perpendicular to the blade, then re-tighten
the screw (3).
2. oosen the support bearing screw (4) and move the
support bearing (5) forward or backward until the
bearing is 1/32" (0.8 mm) behind the blade. Tighten
the screw (4).
3. oosen the left and right blade guide screws (6) and
move the guides (7) as close to the blade as possible
without pinching it. Using a feeler gauge (not
provided), make sure the space between each guide
and the blade measures 0.02" (0.5 mm). Tighten the
screws (6).
Adjust the lower blade guides (Fig. 15)
It is possible to adjust lower blade guide with table
attached, however user may find it easier to do so with
table removed.
1. oosen the lower support bearing screw (8). Move
the support bearing (9) forward or backward until the
bearing is 1/32" (0.8 mm) behind the blade (2).
2. oosen the lower blade guide screws (10) and move
the left and right blade guides (11) as close to the
blades as possible without pinching it. Using a feeler
gauge (not provided), make sure the space between
each guide and the blade measures 0.02" (0.5 mm).
Tighten both screws (10).
3.Reattach table (if removed), taking care not to bump
the table against the blade.
Set blade guide assembly height (Fig. 16)
The blade guide assembly should be set approximately
1/8" (3.2 mm) above the workpiece.
1. oosen the blade guide lock knob (1).
2. Rotate the blade guide adjustment knob (2) to lower
the blade guide assembly (3).
3. Tighten the blade guide lock knob (1).
FIG. 14
6
6
7
7
FIG. 15
8
2
FIG. 16
9
1
10
11
11
2
3
FIG. 13
3
2
1
5
2
4

14.
Assembly and adjustments
Replace the blade (Fig. 17)
Blade teeth are sharp. Use care when
handling a band saw blade.
It is possible to replace the blade with the table in place,
however user may find it easier to do so with table
removed.
1. Remove the fence from the table.
2. Rotate both the upper and lower door knobs (1)
clockwise to open the wheel cover door.
3. Open the blade guard (2).
4. Rotate the blade tension knob (3) counter-clockwise
to lower the upper wheel and reduce tension on the
blade.
5. Remove the old blade (4). Slide the blade out and
away from the upper and lower blade guides (5) (and
through the slot in the table if you did not remove it).
6. Put the new blade in position around the upper and
lower wheels and between the upper and lower blade
guides (5).
ote: The teeth of the blade should be facing
downward and facing the front of the tool.
7. Center the blade on the upper and lower wheels.
Turn the upper wheel slowly to check the position of
the blade.
8.Move the blade tension knob (3) clockwise to
increase the tension on the blade.
9. Make sure the blade is still centered on the upper and
lower wheels and that it moves freely through the
blade guides.
10.The blade must be adjusted properly before
operating the saw:
a. See Blade tension adjustment (page 12).
b. See Blade tracking adjustment (page 12).
c. See Blade guide adjustment (page 13).
11. Close blade guard (2).
12. Close wheel cover door by rotating both the upper
and lower door knobs (1) counter-clockwise.
13. Reattach table (if removed).
FIG. 17
3
4
5
WARNING
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1
1
2

15.
Assembly and adjustments
Miter gauge adjustment (Fig. 18)
Place the miter gauge in the groove on the table. The
miter gauge can be adjusted 0° to 60° right and left to
maintain an accurate angle on your workpiece. To
adjust the angle on the miter gauge:
1. Turn the miter gauge knob (1) counterclockwise to
loosen.
2. Rotate the base of the gauge to align the pointer (2)
with the desired angle.
3. Tighten the miter gauge knob (1).
Wheel brush adjustment (Fig. 19)
The wheel brush is located against the lower blade
wheel and helps keep the blade clean of sawdust and
wood chips.
If an adjustment is needed:
1. oosen the screw (3) that secures the wheel
brush (4).
2. Position the wheel brush against the wheel.
3. Tighten the screw.
Drive belt adjustment (Fig. 19 & 20)
Check the deflection of the drive belt (5) in the center
between the two pulleys on the opposite side from the
belt tension wheel. The belt should deflect 1/4" (6 mm)
deflection when pressing on the drive belt in the center
between the two pulleys.
1. oosen, but do not remove, the two bolts (6) that hold
the motor assembly to the housing.
2.To reduce the tension on the belt: pull the motor
assembly (7) up (counterclockwise).
To increase tension on the belt: push the motor
assembly down (clockwise).
3. Tighten the two bolts that hold the motor to the
housing.
FIG. 18
FIG. 20
2
1
FIG. 19
4
5
6
6
7
3

16.
O /OFF switch (Fig. 21)
1. To turn the saw ON, move the switch (1) to the up
(ON) position.
2. To turn the saw OFF, move the switch to the down
(OFF) position.
3. To lock the switch in the OFF position:
a. Wait until the band saw has come to a complete stop.
b. Remove the safety key (2) from the switch housing.
Store the safety key in a safe place.
4. To unlock the switch and turn the saw ON, insert the
safety key into the switch, and move the switch to the
ON position.
LED work lamp (Fig. 22)
The ED work lamp (3) has an adjustable gooseneck
for precision control when aiming the light.
FIG. 21
2
1
FIG. 22
3
Operation

General cutting
Use scrap lumber to check the
settings and to get the feel of
operating the band saw before attempting regular
work.
• Do not turn the power on before all adjustments have
been made. Check to make sure the upper guide is in
place. Always keep the upper blade guide close to
your work, approximately 1/8" (3.2 mm) above the
workpiece.
• Do not force the workpiece against the blade. ight
contact permits easier cutting and prevents unwanted
friction and heating of the blade.
• Sharp saw blades need little pressure for cutting.
Steadily move the workpiece against the blade without
forcing it.
Use the band saw for straight line operations such as
cross-cutting, ripping, miter cutting, beveling, compound
cutting, and resawing.
To avoid twisting the blade, do not turn sharp corners;
instead, saw around corners.
A band saw is basically a “curve-cutting” saw. It is not
capable of doing intricate inside cutting as can be done
with a scroll saw.
Do not use this band saw to cut
ferrous metals.
When backing out the workpiece, the blade may bind in
the kerf (cut). This is usually caused by sawdust
clogging the kerf or when the blade comes out of the
guides. If this happens:
• Place the switch in the OFF position. Wait until the
saw has come to a complete stop, then remove the
switch key from the switch assembly. Store key in a
safe place.
• Unplug the saw from the power source.
• Wedge the kerf open with a flat screwdriver or
wooden wedge.
• Open front cover and turn the upper wheel by hand
while backing out the workpiece.
17.
Operation
Cutting curves
When cutting curves, carefully turn the workpiece so the
blade follows without twisting. If the curve
is so sharp that you repeatedly back up and cut new
kerf, use a narrower blade, or a blade with more set
(teeth further apart). When a blade has more set, the
workpiece turns easier but the cut is rougher.
When changing a cut, do not withdraw the workpiece
from the blade. The blade may get drawn off the
wheels. To change a cut, turn the workpiece and saw
out through the scrap material area.
When cutting long curves, make relief cuts as you go
along.
Circle cutting (Fig. 23)
1. Adjust the upper blade guard to 1/8" (3.2 mm) above
the workpiece.
2. Use both hands while feeding the work into the blade.
Hold the workpiece firmly against the table.
Use gentle pressure. Do not force the work, allow the
blade to cut.
3. The smallest diameter circle that can be cut is
determined by the width of the blade. For example, a
1/4" (6.4 mm) wide blade will cut a minimum diameter of
approximately 1 1/2" (38.1 mm).
76.2
FIG. 23
WARNING
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WARNING
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Minimum Circle Diameter Minimum Radius Blade Width
11/2” (12.7 mm) 1/4” (6.4 mm) 1/8” (3 mm)
21” (25.4 mm) 1/2” (12.7 mm) 3/16” (4.7 mm)
31-1/2” (38.1 mm) 3/4” (19.05 mm) 1/4” (6.4 mm)
43” (76.2 mm) 1-1/2” (38.1 mm) 3/8” (9.5 mm)

18.
Operation (continued)
Blade teeth are sharp. Use care when
handling a band saw blade.
For longest wear and best cutting results, use the
correct blade thickness, width, and temper for the type
of material you will cut.
When sawing small curves and delicate work, use
narrow blades. Otherwise, use the widest blade
possible. For cutting wood and similar materials with this
band saw, purchase blades in widths up to 3/8" (9.5
mm), and a length of 59 1/4” or 59 1/2" (150.5 or 151
mm).
Do not cut ferrous metals with this band saw.
Common causes of blade breakage:
• Poor guide alignment and adjustment.
• Forcing or twisting a wide blade around a short
radius.
• Feeding too fast.
• Dull teeth or not enough set.
• Too much blade tension.
• Setting top guide assembly too high above the
workpiece.
• umpy or improperly finished braze or weld on the
blade.
• Continuous running of blade when not cutting.
Blade selection
Operation Recommended Blade Width
sretemilliMsehcnI 5.9,4.68/3,4/1gnittuCssorC 5.9,4.68/3,4/1gnittuCretiM 5.9,4.68/3,4/1gnileveB 5.9,4.68/3,4/1gnittuCdnuopmoC 32.giFeeS32.giFeeSgnittuCelcriC 4.6,2.34/1,8/1gnittuCevruC
WARNING
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Maintenance
To reduce the risk of injury, turn
power switch “OFF” and remove
plug from the power source outlet before
maintaining or lubricating your band saw.
GE ERAL
Frequently blow out any dust that may accumulate
inside of the housing and motor.
Clean off pitch which accumulates on the table, blade
guides, and bearings.
Remove pitch and dust from the upper and lower
wheels using a stiff brush. Do not use solvents.
An occasional coat of paste wax on the work table
will allow the wood being cut to glide smoothly across
the work surface.
Certain cleaning agents and
solvents damage plastic parts.
Including: gasoline, carbon tetrachloride, chlorinated
cleaning solvents, ammonia and household
detergents that contain ammonia. Avoiding use of
these and other types of cleaning agents minimizes
the probability of damage.
To avoid shock or fire hazard, if the power cord is worn,
cut or damaged in any way, have it replaced
immediately.
All repairs, electrical or mechanical,
should be attempted only by trained
repairmen. Contact the nearest Skil Factory Service
Center, Authorized Skil Service Station or other com -
petent repair service. Use only Skil replacement parts;
any other may create a hazard.
Use only recommended accessories. Follow
instructions that accompany accessories. Use of
improper accessories may cause hazards.
19.
Maintaining Your Band Saw
WARNING
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CAUTION
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WARNING
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