177.7 Blade tensionBlade tension is set with the blade tensionhandwheel (L, Figure 7-10) and is performedfollowing blade replacement and periodically as theblade stretches from use.Disconnect machine frompower source before making any adjustments.Refer to Figures 7-9 and 7-10.1. Place tension lever (K, Figure 7-9) in FullTension position.2. Set blade tension by rotating handwheel (L)according to the arrow directions shown inFigure 7-10, clockwise to tighten,counterclockwise to loosen.3. The gauge (M) indicates approximate tensionaccording to the width of the blade in inches.Initially, set the blade tension to correspond tothe width of your blade.As you become familiar with the saw, you may findit necessary to change the blade tension from theinitial setting.Keep in mind that too little or too much blade tensioncan cause blade breakage and/or poor cuttingperformance.Tip: When the band saw is not being used, placetension lever to Partial Tension position – this willprolong the blade’s life.Figure 7-9Figure 7-107.8 Adjusting blade tension leverThe blade tension lever has an adjustment screw orstop bushing that allows you to adjust how muchtension is released when lever is used.To adjust tension lever:1. Disconnect machine from power source.2. Move lever to Blade Release position andremove blade.3. Move tension lever to Full Tension position.4. Models JWBS-15 and JWBS-18: Turn adjust-ment screw (Figure 7-11) until gap betweenscrew and wheel shaft hinge is 1/8 to 3/16 in.Model JWBS-20: Move stop bushing (Figure 7-12) until gap between stop bushing and wheelshaft hinge is 1/8 to 3/16 in.Figure 7-11Figure 7-127.9 Blade trackingRefer to Figures 7-13 and 7-14.After proper tensioning, the blade must be tracked.“Tracking” refers to position of blade on the wheelswhile machine is in operation. Tracking should bechecked periodically, and is mandatory after everyblade change. Blade tracking is done by hand withmachine disconnected from power.1. Disconnect machine from power source.2. Blade must be correctly tensioned (sect. 7.7).