WMH Tool Group JET JWBS-18X Service manual

Operating Instructions and Parts Manual
18” Band Saw
Model JWBS-18X
WMH TOOL GROUP
2420 Vantage Drive
Elgin, Illinois 60123 Part No. M-710750
Ph.: 800-274-6848 Revision A 3/04
www.wmhtoolgroup.com Copyright © WMH Tool Group

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This manual has been prepared for the owner and operators of a JET JWBS-18X Band Saw. Its purpose,
aside from machine operation, is to promote safety using accepted operating and maintenance
procedures. To obtain maximum life and efficiency from your band saw and to aid in using it safely,
please read this manual thoroughly and follow the instructions carefully.
Warranty and Service
WMH Tool Group warrants every product it sells. If one of our tools needs service or repair, one of our
Authorized Repair Stations located throughout the United States can provide quick service or information.
In most cases, a WMH Tool Group Repair Station can assist in authorizing repair work, obtaining parts, or
perform routine or major maintenance repair on your JET product.
For the name of an Authorized Repair Station in your area, please call 1-800-274-6848, or visit our web
site at www.wmhtoolgroup.com
More Information
Remember, WMH Tool Group is consistently adding new products to the line. For complete, up-to-date
product information, check with your local WMH Tool Group distributor, or visit our web site at
www.wmhtoolgroup.com
WMH Tool Group Warranty
WMH Tool Group makes every effort to assure that its products meet high quality and durability standards
and warrants to the original retail consumer/purchaser of our products that each product be free from
defects in materials and workmanship as follows: 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON ALL PRODUCTS
UNLESS SPECIFIED OTHERWISE. This Warranty does not apply to defects due directly or indirectly to
misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, normal wear-and-tear, repair or alterations outside our facilities,
or to a lack of maintenance.
WMH TOOL GROUP LIMITS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES TO THE PERIOD SPECIFIED ABOVE,
BEGINNING FROM THE DATE THE PRODUCT WAS PURCHASED AT RETAIL. EXCEPT AS STATED
HEREIN, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS ARE EXCLUDED.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG THE IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS,
SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IN NO EVENT SHALL WMH TOOL GROUP
BE LIABLE FOR DEATH, INJURIES TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY, OR FOR INCIDENTAL,
CONTINGENT, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE OF OUR
PRODUCTS. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY
TO YOU.
To take advantage of this warranty, the product or part must be returned for examination, postage
prepaid, to an Authorized Repair Station designated by our office. Proof of purchase date and an
explanation of the complaint must accompany the merchandise. If our inspection discloses a defect, we
will either repair or replace the product at our discretion, or refund the purchase price if we cannot readily
and quickly provide a repair or replacement. We will return the repaired product or replacement at WMH
Tool Group’s expense, but if it is determined there is no defect, or that the defect resulted from causes
not within the scope of WMH Tool Group’s warranty, then the user must bear the cost of storing and
returning the product. This warranty gives you specific legal rights; you may also have other rights, which
vary from state to state.
WMH Tool Group sells through distributors only. Members of the WMH Tool Group reserve the right to
effect at any time, without prior notice, 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
Warning...................................................................................................................................................4
Introduction..............................................................................................................................................6
Specifications..........................................................................................................................................6
Grounding Instructions.............................................................................................................................7
115 Volt Operation ...............................................................................................................................7
230 Volt Operation ...............................................................................................................................8
Unpacking ...............................................................................................................................................9
Contents of Shipping Container............................................................................................................9
Assembly and Setup..............................................................................................................................10
Upper Bearing Guide Adjustment .......................................................................................................10
Lower Bearing Guide Adjustment.......................................................................................................11
Mounting the Table.............................................................................................................................11
Adjusting 90 Degree Table Stop.........................................................................................................12
Rail Assembly....................................................................................................................................12
Fence Assembly and Adjustment........................................................................................................13
Resaw Guide .....................................................................................................................................14
Miter Gauge.......................................................................................................................................14
Height Scale Adjustment....................................................................................................................14
Changing Blades................................................................................................................................15
Adjusting Blade Tension.....................................................................................................................16
Adjusting Blade Tracking....................................................................................................................16
Replacing V-Belt ................................................................................................................................17
Adjusting Belt Tension........................................................................................................................17
Electrical Connections ...........................................................................................................................18
Operation...............................................................................................................................................18
Saw Blade Selection ..........................................................................................................................18
Blade Breakage..................................................................................................................................20
Making Cuts.......................................................................................................................................20
Maintenance..........................................................................................................................................20
Blade Selection Guide ...........................................................................................................................21
Optional Accessories: Band Saw Blades................................................................................................23
Replacement Parts................................................................................................................................23
Parts List: Upper Wheel Assembly......................................................................................................24
Upper Wheel Assembly......................................................................................................................25
Parts List: Lower Wheel and Motor Assembly.....................................................................................26
Lower Wheel and Motor Assembly .....................................................................................................27
Parts List: Blade Guide Assembly.......................................................................................................28
Blade Guide Assembly.......................................................................................................................29
Parts List: Table and Fence Assembly................................................................................................30
Table and Fence Assembly................................................................................................................31
Electrical Connections ...........................................................................................................................32

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

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

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Introduction
This manual is provided by Jet covering the safe operation and maintenance procedures for a Model
JWBS-18X 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 WMH
Tool Group. WMH Tool Group can also be reached at our web site: www.wmhtoolgroup.com.
Specifications
Model Number..........................................................................................................................JWBS-18X
Stock Number................................................................................................................................ 710750
Cutting Capacity (height) (in.).................................................................................................................12
Cutting Capacity (width) (in.)............................................................................................................18-3/8
Maximum Rip Left of Blade w/Fence (in.).........................................................................................16-1/2
Maximum Rip Right of Blade w/Fence (in.).........................................................................................7-5/8
Blade Length (in.)................................................................................................................................137
Blade Speed (SFPM).........................................................................................................................3000
Minimum Blade Width (in.)....................................................................................................................1/8
Maximum Blade Width (in.)................................................................................................................1-1/2
Table Size (in.) ............................................................................................................................19” x 19”
Table Tilt (degrees)................................................................................................................45°R to 10°L
Table Height from Floor (in.)............................................................................................................37-1/2
Wheel Diameter (in.)........................................................................................................................18-5/8
Dust Chute Diameter (in.) ........................................................................................................................4
Overall Dimensions (HxWxD) (in.)...........................................................................................71 x 39 x 31
Motor..........................................................................................1.75 HP, 1Ph, 115/230V (prewired 115V)
Net Weight (approx.) (lbs.)...................................................................................................................346
Shipping Weight (approx.) (lbs.)...........................................................................................................407
The above specifications were current at the time this manual was published, but because of our policy of
continuous improvement, WMH Tool Group reserves the right to change specifications at any time and
without prior notice, without incurring obligations.

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Grounding Instructions
This machine must be grounded while in use to protect the operator from electric
shock.
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 three wire extension cords
that have three-prong grounding plugs and three-pole receptacles that accept the tool’s plug.
Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.
115 Volt Operation
As received from the factory, your bandsaw is ready to run at 115 volt operation. This bandsaw, when
wired for 115 volts, is intended for use on a circuit that has an outlet and a plug that looks the one
illustrated in Figure A. A temporary adapter, which looks like the adapter as illustrated in Figure B, may be
used to connect this plug to a two-pole receptacle, as shown in Figure B if a properly grounded outlet is
not available. The temporary adapter should only be used until a properly grounded outlet can be
installed by a qualified electrician. This adapter is not applicable in Canada. The green colored rigid
ear, lug, or tab, extending from the adapter, must be connected to a permanent ground such as a
properly grounded outlet box, as shown in Figure B.

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230 Volt Operation
If 230V, single phase operation is desired, the following instructions must be followed:
1. Disconnect the machine from the power source.
2. This bandsaw is supplied with four motor leads that are connected for 115V operation, as shown in
Figure A. Reconnect these four motor leads for 230V operation, as shown in Figure B.
3. The 115V attachment plug supplied with the bandsaw must be replaced with a UL/CSA listed plug
suitable for 230V operation. Contact your local Authorized JET Service Center or qualified electrician
for proper procedures to install the plug. The bandsaw must comply with all local and national codes
after the 230V plug is installed.
4. The bandsaw with a 230V plug should only be connected to an outlet having the same configuration.
No adapter is available or should be used with the 230V plug.
Important: In all cases (115 or 230 volts), make certain the receptacle in question is properly
grounded. If you are not sure, have a registered electrician check the receptacle.

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Unpacking
Contents of Shipping Container
1 Bandsaw
1 Table
1 Fence and Rail Assembly
1 Resaw Guide and Knob
1 Miter Gauge
1 Owner’s Manual
1 Warranty Card
1 Accessory Package Contains:
Hardware Bag
2 Knobs
1 Hex Wrench
1 Handle
1 10/12mm Wrench
Fence Hardware Bag
4 Hex Cap Screws
4 Flat Washers
4 Lock Washers
Rail Hardware Bag
9 Hex Cap Screws
9 Flat Washers
9 Lock Washers
1. Remove the crate and packing material from
the bandsaw except for the transport skid on
the bottom.
2. Move the saw to its permanent working
location. The site should be dry, well lit, and
have enough room to handle long stock and
the service and/or adjustment of the
machine from any side.
3. Move the bandsaw off the skid.
4. Clean all rust protected surfaces with a mild
solvent or diesel fuel and a soft cloth. Do
not use lacquer thinner, paint thinner, or
gasoline. These will damage painted
surfaces.
Tools Included for Assembly
1. 10/12mm Open End Wrench
1. Hex Wrench
Tools Required for Assembly & Adjustments
2. 14mm Open End Wrench
1. Cross Point Screw Driver
1. Combination Square

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Assembly and Setup
1. Attach the handle (A, Figure 1) to the
handwheel (B, Figure 1).
2. Turn blade tension handwheel (C, Figure 1)
counterclockwise to tension blade and
clockwise to loosen the tension. A gauge
on the upper wheel slide bracket (D, Figure
1) indicates the approximate tension
according to the width of the blade. The
JWBS-18X comes with a 3/4” blade so the
tension should be set at 3/4”.
Note: It is easier to adjust the bearing guides
before mounting the table.
Upper Bearing Guide Adjustment
Disconnect machine from
power source (unplug) before making any
adjustments! Blade teeth are sharp - use
care when working near the saw blade.
Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
1. Blade tension must be properly adjusted
prior to bearing guide setup. See “Adjusting
Blade Tension” on page 16.
2. Adjust the back-up bearing (E, Figure 2) so
that it is 0.003” away from the back of the
blade, about the thickness of a piece of
paper. To make this adjustment loosen
thumb screw (F, Figure 2) and slide the
b
earing and bearing post into position.
Tighten thumb screw.
3. Loosen the socket head cap screw (G,
Figure 3) and slide the bearing assembly
until the bearing guides rest just behind the
gullet of the blade teeth. You may need to
readjust the back-up bearing (E, Figure 2).
4. Loosen the wing nut (H, Figure 3) and turn
the adjusting screw (I, Figure 3) clockwise or
counterclockwise until the bearing is 0.003”
away from the side of the blade, about the
thickness of a piece of paper. Tighten wing
nut (H, Figure 3).
5. Adjust the opposite side bearing.
6. Check to make sure the adjustments have
not changed and the bearing guides do not
pinch the blade.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

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Lower Bearing Guide Adjustment
Disconnect machine from
power source (unplug) before making any
adjustments! Blade teeth are sharp - use
care when working near the saw blade.
Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
1. Blade tension must be properly adjusted
prior to bearing guide setup. See “Adjusting
Blade Tension” on page 16.
2. Adjust the back-up bearing (A, Figure 4) so
that it is 0.003” away from the back of the
blade, about the thickness of a piece of
paper. To make this adjustment loosen
thumb screw (B, Figure 4) and slide the
b
earing and bearing post into position.
Tighten thumb screw (B, Figure 4).
3. Loosen the two socket head cap screws (C,
Figure 4) and slide the bearing assembly
until the bearing guides rest just behind the
gullet of the blade teeth. You may need to
readjust the back-up bearing. Tighten
socket head cap screws.
4. Loosen the thumb screw (D, Figure 4) and
turn adjusting screw (E, Figure 4) clockwise
or counter-clockwise until the bearing is
0.003” away from the side of the blade,
about the thickness of a piece of paper.
5. Adjust the opposite side bearing.
6. Tighten thumb screw (D, Figure 4). Check
to make sure the adjustments have not
changed and the bearing guides do not
pinch the blade.
Mounting the Table
1. With help from another person mount the
table. Remove the table insert (F, Figure 5)
and table pin (G, Figure 5).
2. Slide saw blade through slot in table where
the table pin was located. Rotate the table
90 degrees so that the miter slot is parallel
to the blade, and to the right of the blade
when facing the bandsaw.
3. Line up the trunnions so that the bolts feed
t
hrough the trunnion support bracket.
Secure the table with two lock knobs (H,
Figure 6). Reinstall the table insert and
table pin.
Figure 4
Figure 5
Figure 6

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Adjusting 90 Degree Table Stop
1. Blade tension must be properly adjusted
prior to adjusting 90 degree stop, see
“Adjusting Blade Tension” on page 16.
2. Loosen lock knobs (A, Figure 7) and tilt
table until it rests against table stop bolt (B,
Figure 7). Tighten knobs.
3. Use a square (E, Figure 8) placed on the
table and against the blade to see if the
table is 90 degrees to the blade.
4. If an adjustment is necessary, loosen the
lock knobs. Tilt the table until it is square to
the blade, and tighten the lock knobs.
5. Loosen lock nut (C, Figure 7) and turn table
stop bolt (B, Figure 7) until it contacts the
table. Tighten the nut (C, Figure 7) to hold
table stop in place. When tightening the nut
hold the table stop bolt in place with a
wrench to prevent movement.
6. If necessary, adjust pointer (D, Figure 7) to
zero.
Rail Assembly
1. Attach the front rail (F, Figure 9) to the cast
iron table with two 1/4” x 5/8” hex cap
screws, two 1/4” lock washers, and two 1/4”
flat washers. Screws should be in
approximately the center of the slot. Hand
tighten only at this time.
2. Attach the rear rail (G, Figure 9) to the table
with two 1/4” x 5/8” hex cap screws, two 1/4”
lock washers, and two 1/4” flat washers.
Screws should be in approximately the
center of the slot. Hand tighten only at this
time.
3. Push the front, and rear rails up as far as
they will go.
4. Tighten the four hex cap screws holding the
front, and rear rails to the table. Do not over
tighten the screws.
5. Attach the guide tube (H, Figure 9) to the
front rail with five 1/4” x 5/8” hex cap screws,
five 1/4” lock washers, and five 1/4” flat
washers. Screws should be in
approximately the center of the slot.
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9

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Fence Assembly and Adjustment
1. Attach the fence (A, Figure 10) to the fence
body (B, Figure 10) with four 5/16” x 3/4”
hex cap screws, four 5/16” lock washers,
and four 5/16” flat washers.
2. Thread a hex nut (D, Figure 11) onto the
pad’s threaded stud (E, Figure 11) and
insert through the fence and rear hook (F,
Figure 11). Secure in place using a hex nut,
lock washer and flat washer (G, Figure 11).
3. Note: The hook should be adjusted so that
it overlaps the rear rail by approximately
1/8”.
4.
P
lace fence assembly onto the guide tube.
The rear hook should engage the rear rail.
5. Check the clearance between the table and
the fence. The gap should be the same at
the front of the table as it is at the rear. If
the gap width is different, adjust the foot at
the rear of the fence until the gap width is
the same. See Figure 12.
Note: You can also adjust the front rail or rear
rail up or down to achieve the proper clearance.
6. With a square, verify the fence face is
perpendicular to the table top. If it is not the
front rail will need to be adjusted parallel to
the table top. This can be accomplished by
measuring from the top of the table to the
top of the front rail. The measurement
should be the same at both ends of the
table.
7. Move the fence assembly so that it aligns
parallel to the blade, and lock the fence by
pushing the lock handle down, Figure 10.
8. Loosen the four hex cap bolts that hold the
fence to the fence body, and align the fence
to the blade. Tighten the four hex cap
screws.
9. Check to see that the pointer (C, Figure 10)
is aligned with the zero marking on the
guide rail. If adjustment is necessary loosen
the screw that holds the pointer in place and
line up to the zero mark. Tighten the screw.
Note: If you cannot get the pointer lined up with
the zero mark you can slide the guide tube and
front rail left or right to achieve the proper
setting.
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12

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Resaw Guide
For resawing attach the post (A, Figure 13) to
fence with the lock knob (B, Figure 13). There is
a slotted hole in the fence that will
accommodate the resaw kit. Position the post
so that it is centered with the front edge of the
blade. The resaw guide will give you a taller,
single point contact surface during resawing.
Miter Gauge
1. Place the miter gauge in the table slot.
2. With a square verify the miter gauge face is
square to the blade.
3. If the miter gauge is not square to the blade
loosen the lock knob (C, Figure 13) and
adjust to the proper setting. Tighten the
lock knob.
4. If the pointer is not at 90 degrees, loosen
the screw (D, Figure 13) holding the pointer
and move the pointer to 90 degrees.
Tilting the Table
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Loosen the lock knobs (E, Figure 14).
3. Tilt table up to 45 degrees to the right, or up
to 10 degrees to the left.
4. Tighten the lock knobs.
Note: Table stop bolt (F, Figure 14) must be
removed to tilt table to the left.
Height Scale Adjustment
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. The upper bearing guide should be set
about 1/8” above the material to be cut.
3. Measure from the table top to the bottom of
the bearing guides, Figure 15.
4. Set the indicator to this measurement on the
height scale. Grasp the end of the indicator
(G, Figure 15) between your finger, and
thumb. Move the indicator into position.
Figure 13
Figure 14
Figure 15

15
Changing Blades
Disconnect machine from
power source. Blade teeth are sharp, use
care when handling the blade. Failure to
comply may cause serious injury.
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Remove the table insert (A, Figure 16), and
table pin (B, Figure 16).
3. Lower the upper blade guide assembly
about half way by loosening the lock knob
(F, Figure 17) and turning the hand wheel
(G, Figure 17).
4. Loosen socket head cap screw (C, Figure
16) and slide the bearing assembly back as
far as it will go.
5. Open both wheel covers (D, Figure 16).
6. Loosen blade tension by turning blade
tension handwheel (E, Figure 17) clockwise
until it stops.
Note: You may want to wear leather work gloves
while removing and handling the blade.
7. Carefully remove blade from upper and
lower wheels. Remove the blade from
b
etween upper and lower bearing guides.
Turn blade and direct through slot in table.
8. Make sure blade teeth point down toward
table and guide the new blade through table
slot. Place blade in upper and lower
bearing guides.
9. Place blade in the middle of the upper and
lower wheels.
10. Tension and track blade before operating
saw. Find instructions for tensioning and
tracking the blade on the next page under
"Adjusting Blade Tension" and "Adjusting
Blade Tracking".
11. Replace table insert and table pin.
Figure 16
Figure 17

16
Adjusting Blade Tension
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Turn blade tension handwheel (A, Figure
18) counterclockwise to tension blade, and
clockwise to loosen the tension. A gauge
on the upper wheel slide bracket (B, Figure
18) indicates the approximate tension
according to the width of the blade. The
JWBS-18 comes with a 3/4” blade so the
tension should be set at 3/4” when using
this blade.
3. As you become familiar with the saw, you
may find it necessary to change the blade
tension from the initial setting. Changes in
blade width, and the type of material being
cut will have an effect on blade tension.
4. Keep in mind that too little, or too much
blade tension can cause blade breakage
and/or poor cutting performance.
Adjusting Blade Tracking
Disconnect machine from
power source. Never adjust blade tracking
with the machine running. Failure to comply
may cause serious injury.
Note: Blade tracking has been adjusted at the
factory. If, however, it is determined that blade
tracking needs adjustment:
1. Blade must be properly tensioned before
adjusting blade tracking. Make sure upper
and lower bearing guides do not interfere
with the blade while adjusting the tracking.
2. Open the upper wheel door. Rotate the
wheel forward, and observe the position of
the blade on the wheel. The blade should
rest in approximately the center of the
wheel.
3. If adjustment is necessary, loosen the wing
nut (C, Figure 18) at the top rear of the saw.
4. Adjust tracking by turning the knob (D,
Figure 18) in 1/4 turn increments. Rotate
the wheel forward, and observe the position
of the blade on the wheel. Rotating knob
(D, Figure 18) counterclockwise should
move the blade towards the front of the
wheel. Rotating the knob clockwise should
move the blade towards the back of the
wheel.
5. Continue with adjustments until the blade is
tracking properly.
6. Tighten the wing nut (C, Figure 18).
Figure 18

17
Replacing V-Belt
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Release blade tension by turning blade
tension handwheel clockwise.
3. Release belt tension by loosening the two
hex cap screws (A, Figure 19, the pivot bolt
is not shown in the photo). Raise the motor
and place a block of wood under the motor
to take the tension off the belt.
4. Open the lower wheel door and remove hex
nut, and washer (B, Figure 20).
5. Remove the wheel (C, Figure 21). If the
lower wheel does not come off easily you
may need to use a pulley puller to remove
the lower wheel.
6. Remove the old belt (D, Figure 21) and
install the new belt.
7. Reinstall the lower wheel and tighten the
hex nut.
8. Remove the wood block or support from
b
elow the motor and adjust the belt tension.
See “Adjusting the Belt Tension.”
9. Set the blade tension. See “Adjusting Blade
Tension” on the previous page.
10. Check the blade tracking. See “Adjusting
Blade Tracking” on the previous page.
Adjusting Belt Tension
The belt comes adjusted from the factory. If
future adjustment is needed:
1. Disconnect machine from power source.
2. Set the belt tension by lightly pressing down
on the motor and tightening the hex cap
screw (A, Figure 19, the pivot bolt is not
shown in the photo).
Note: The weight of the motor should put
enough tension on the belt. You just want to
push down lightly to take up any slack.
Figure 19
Figure 20
Figure 21

18
Electrical Connections
All electrical connections
m
ust be done by a qualified electrician.
Failure to comply may result in loss of
property and/or serious injury.
JWBS-18X is rated at 1.75 HP, 1Ph, 115/230V,
prewired 115V.
The bandsaw comes with a 115V plug (A, Fig.
22). If you switch to 230V a plug needs to be
purchased for the bandsaw that matches the
230V outlet you intend to use.
Confirm power at the site is the same as the
s
aw before making any electrical connections.
Review the wiring diagram on page 28.
Review “Grounding Instructions” on page 7,
“115 Volt Operation” also on page 7 and “230
Volt Operation” on page 8.
Operation
Saw Blade Selection
Using the proper blade for the job will increase
the operating efficiency of your band saw, help
reduce necessary saw maintenance, and
improve your productivity. Thus, it is important to
follow certain guidelines when selecting a saw
blade.
Here are factors to consider when selecting a
blade:
1. The type of material you will be cutting.
2. The thickness of the workpiece or part.
3. The features of the workpiece or part, such
as bends or curves with small radii.
These factors are important because they
involve basic concepts of saw blade design.
There are five (5) blade features that are
normally changed to meet certain kinds of
sawing requirements. They are:
1. width
2. pitch (number of teeth per inch),
3. tooth form (or shape),
4. the "set" of the teeth
5. the blade material itself.
Figure 22

19
Width
Band saw blades come in different standard
widths, measured from the back of the blade to
the tip of the tooth. Generally, wider blades are
used for ripping or making straight cuts;
narrower blades are often used when the part
being cut has curves with small radii. (When
cutting straight lines with a narrow blade, the
blade may have a tendency to wander, causing
"blade lead".)
Pitch
Pitch is measured in "teeth per inch" (TPI).
Figure 23 shows blades with different pitches. A
fine pitch (more teeth per inch) will cut slower
but smoother. A coarse pitch (fewer teeth per
inch) will cut rougher but faster. As a rule of
thumb, the thicker the workpiece, the coarser
will be the blade pitch. If you have to cut a hard
or very brittle material, you will probably want to
use a blade with a finer pitch in order to get
good clean cuts.
General rule: Use a blade that will have no
fewer than 6 and no more than 12 teeth in the
workpiece at any given time.
Shape
Figure 24 shows common types of tooth shape.
Tooth shape has an effect on cutting rate, and
with few exceptions, the Skip and Hook types
are used to obtain higher feed rates when
cutting thick workpieces. Variable-tooth blades
are also available, which combine features of
the other styles.
Set
The term "set" refers to the way in which the
saw teeth are bent or positioned. Set patterns
are usually selected depending on the type of
material that needs to be cut. Three common set
patterns are shown in Fig. 25.
Generally, the Raker set is used for cutting
metal workpieces; the Wave set, when the
thickness of the workpiece changes, such as
cutting hollow tubing or structurals. The Straight
set is most often preferred when cutting wood or
plastics.
Material
Band saw blades can be made from different
types of materials. Some of the most common
include spring steel, carbon steel, carbon steel
equipped with a high speed or welded edge (bi-
metal), or carbide tips. A special type of saw
blade is made from "high speed steel"; these
should not be used on band saws with low rates
of speed.
Figure 23
Figure 24
Figure 25

20
Because of the importance of blade selection, it
is recommended that you use the blade
selection guide on page 21.
When cutting, do not
overfeed the blade; overfeeding will reduce
blade life, and may cause the blade to break.
Blade Breakage
Band saw blades are subject to high stresses
and breakage may sometimes be unavoidable.
However, many factors can be controlled to help
prevent most blade breakage. Here are some
common causes for breakage:
1. Misalignment of the blade guides
2. Feeding work too fast
3. Using a wide blade to cut a short radius
curve
4. Excessive tension
5. Teeth are dull or improperly set
6. Upper guides are set too high off the
workpiece
7. Faulty weld on blade
Making Cuts
1. Make sure blade is adjusted correctly for
tension and tracking.
2. Adjust blade guard so that it is just above
the workpiece (about 3/16"), allowing
minimum exposure to the blade.
3. Move the fence into position.
4. Feed the stock slowly, with the straightest
edge against the fence. DO NOT FORCE
the workpiece into the blade.
Whenever possible, use a
push stick, hold-down, power feeder, jig, or
similar device while feeding stock to prevent
your hands getting too close to the blade.
NOTE: When cutting long stock, the operator
should use roller stands, support tables, or an
assistant to help stabilize the workpiece.
Maintenance
Before any intervention on
the machine, disconnect it from the electrical
supply by pulling out the plug. Failure to
comply may cause serious injury.
Keep bearing guides clean and free of build-up.
Check that the cleaning brush over the band
wheel is working properly, and remove any
deposits from the band wheels to avoid vibration
and blade breakage.
The table surface should be kept clean and free
of rust for best results. Some users prefer a
paste wax coating. Another option is talcum
powder applied with a blackboard eraser rubbed
in vigorously once a week; this will fill casting
pores and form a moisture barrier. This method
provides a table top that is slick and allows rust
rings to be easily wiped from the surface.
Important also is the fact that talcum powder will
not stain wood or mar finishes as wax pickup
does.
Do not let saw dust build up in the upper and
lower wheel housings. Vacuum out frequently.
Connect the bandsaw to a JET dust collection
system.
Clean and grease the raising/lowering rack for
the upper bearing guides if it becomes difficult to
raise or lower.
Clean and oil the tensioning mechanism if it
becomes difficult to adjust.
Vacuum out the motor fan cover.