How To Install Urethane Band Saw Tires
Posted on: 17 December 2015
If you have a band saw and you plan to place urethane band saw tires over the wheels to replace the rubber ones that came with your machinery, you will enjoy band saw tires that will last for many uses. Many people find that urethane band saw tires are a great alternative to rubber since these tires don't rot, which means you can use the machinery many times without downtime. They will also help keep the saw blade on track, so the blade requires less adjustment. Here are some instructions to follow when installing urethane band saw tires.
Heat Before Stretching
Urethane band saw tires are made to stretch over the perimeter of the wheels on your saw. When you first purchase them, they may be a bit too stiff to apply. To make them stretch, it is best to heat them beforehand. This can be done by placing the band saw tires in a bucket of hot water for several minutes. You can also try heating them with a hairdryer or a heat gun to make the urethane more flexible. Allow the tires to cool, then stretch them a bit by hand before attempting to place them on your band saw.
Remove The Wheels
It is a good idea to remove the wheels from your band saw when placing urethane tires on them. This will give you the leverage needed to stretch the tires into place without injuring yourself on the piece of equipment in the process. Locate your equipment's instruction manual to find out which tools are needed to safely remove the wheels. They may be held into place with a snap ring or hex nut.
Secure The Saw Tire
Since urethane band saw tires are made to fit the exact measurement of the band saw wheel, there is very little play in the tire, making it a little difficult to slide into place, especially if the tire was not heated beforehand. If you secure a portion of the tire onto the edge of the wheel using a C-clamp, it will be easier to pull the remainder around the perimeter. It is also a good idea to have someone hold the wheel for you for added stability.
Slip the end of a thin screwdriver between the wheel edge and the interior of the tire. Use this to help guide the tire into place by dragging it around the perimeter of the wheel. When it is stretched around the wheel, roll it on a tabletop to help secure the tire into place.
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