How to Change Bandsaw Blades

If you need to change your bandsaw blade, it can be challenging to determine where to start. DoALL's guide will walk you through the removal and installation processes, so you can change your blade efficiently and get back to using your bandsaw. 

Part 1 — Removing the Old Blade

When determining how to change a blade on a bandsaw, you will first need a safe and efficient process for removing the old blade. Removing the blade currently on the saw is the first step in changing bandsaw blades. 

We recommend you wear protective gloves throughout these processes to protect your hands from the blade. 

1. Disconnect the Bandsaw From Its Power Source and Prepare Machine

When conducting maintenance on your bandsaw, the first step is to disconnect it from its power source. This step is essential in ensuring your safety while working with the equipment. You will have more assurance that the machine will remain off, protecting you from injury. 

After disconnecting from the power, you can begin working with the machinery. Start by taking off the cabinet lids so you can access the wheels on the saw's interior and the blade. Before making any changes, make sure to clean out any dust or debris from the wheels, allowing you clean and unrestricted access to the wheels and blade. 

Loosen the tension if you haven't already. You will need to release it to remove the blade. 

Watch this video to learn more: DoALL DS-280M Blade Change

2. Make Changes to the Blade Guards 

Your bandsaw has three blade guards with various functions in helping your saw operate. However, when removing the bandsaw blade, you will need to remove or move these guards so you can access the blade without resistance: 

• Main blade guard: This blade guard helps determine your cut thickness when working, and it has an adjustment knob on the back of the top cabinet. You will need to loosen this blade guard to move the blade, and you can do so by tightening the knob.
• Rear blade guard: The rear guard sits on the bottom wheel and helps protect the operator in case of damages by covering the blade as it moves between the wheels. You will need to remove this guard altogether, which you can accomplish by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place. Afterward, be sure to place them somewhere they will remain safe until time to reinstall them. 
• Under-table blade guard: The last blade guard has a similar function to the previous because it also helps keep the blade in place if it comes off track or breaks. Remove the plastic cover on the saw table with a screwdriver to access the under-table. This guard wraps around the blade, but you can remove it by loosening the screw holding it in place and rotating the guard until it's free of the blade. 

Interacting with the blade guards and making the necessary changes will give you better access to the blade. 

3. Remove the Bandsaw Blade 

Because you are working directly with the blade at this stage, exercise caution. The blade teeth can still be sharp, so be sure to wear gloves or some other protective hand gear. 

Grab a blade section at the top wheel and remove it from the tire. As you do, turn it, so the teeth face away from your body. Repeat the same steps with the bottom wheel and after the blade is entirely free, work it through the slot in the saw table. 

These steps will allow you to remove your blade safely. After it is out, many people coil it tightly to store it efficiently and secure it with a zip tie to keep it in place in your storage.