General Bandsaw 690 Adjustment question

[Carter]

Hi,

I'm tuning up this bandsaw and I'm not sure of the correct way to adjust the side and thrust bearings.

When I look at The Bandsaw Book, it gives adjustment instructions for Cool Blocks and regular guide blocks. It doesn't really mention what do if you have bearings instead of guide blocks.

As others have observed, while General puts out a quality piece of equipment, the owner's manual is very economical with its guidance.

I understand that the upper and lower thrust bearings need to be about

1/64" behind the blade to stop the rearward travel of the blade.

What about the side bearings?

Do I also adjust them to the same distance?

Or do I adjust them do they lightly touch the blade?

When I need to clean the bearings, what should I use? (Greaseless lubricant and old toothbrush?)

Thanks for any help you can offer.

[joey]

I don't have much to answer. It is truly amazing however ... I was just coming home for lunch and thinking of posting as to wether I had missed the part in The Bandsaw Book that talked about bearing guides. I am setting up a new bandsaw and the instructions are ok but I'd like more details on them . I've ordered Lonnie Birds book hoping since its a more recent vintage it may have discussion on bearing guide setup tips Joe

[John]

Most folks recommend that the roller bearings don't quite touch the blade while running. Many folks advocate using a dollar bill to set the spacing to the blade.

Bearings should NOT touch nor rotate when the saw is running, or at worse touch occasionally.

John

[Carter]

Thanks for your suggestions.