Woodstock W1713 - Manual (Page 19)

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W1713 Owner's Manual (Mfg. Since 6/03)
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Adjusting Blade Tension
Having proper blade tension is critical to safe cutting
operations that produce good results. Blades that are
tensioned correctly will also last longer and are less likely
to break during the cutting operation. However, finding
the correct amount of tension for each type of blade is
matter of trial-and-error and experience.
If the blade is tensioned too tight, the blade could break
and cause serious personal injury from flying debris. If the
blade is tensioned too loose, the blade will likely fall off
during the cutting operation and cause injury hazards.
Get into the habit of plucking the saw blade like a guitar
string before every use. With time and experience, you
will recognize the distinct sound that indicates the proper
amount of blade tension.
Turn the blade tension knob shown in Figure 13 clockwise
to increase the blade tension, and counterclockwise to
decrease it.
Figure 13. Blade tension knob.
Blade Tension Knob
Blade Information
Important issues regarding blade performance:
• Typically, a scroll saw blade will stay sharp from 1 ⁄
2
to 2 hours of use, depending on how the blade is
used and the type of material being cut.
• Best cutting results will be achieved when cutting
workpieces less than 1" thick.
• When cutting workpieces thicker than 1", move the
workpiece through the blade very slowly.
• Blades will dull quickly when cutting plywood,
hardwoods, and laminates.
• Exerting excessive side pressure on the blade greatly
increases the chance of blade breakage.