Wood Bandsaw Conversion

some time ago I was gifted an older Ridgid wood bandsaw. I dont do much wood work but could really use a metal bandsaw.
the project sat on the back burner, looking it over figuring out the best way to go about it. finally ordered some parts while away on a trip and when I cam back was ready to finish it.





being cast it was a little tricky to weld. one thing i need to change is make the adjustment longer which will allow for different size wheels. and a better way to lock in that adjustment once made.
Right now final is about 150 RPM which cuts thin stuff great and with the right blade cuts aluminum as well.
overall i dont know if wood band saws make the best metal bandsaws but the price was right.

 

yeah i think mine sat for at least 2 years it uses a 93.5" blade. i rescued pulleys that friends where going to throw away, did have to buy the shaft, pillow blocks, key, and two pulleys (~$75 when you count the v belts as well, not counting blades). I did look into VFDs briefly but that proved to expensive and complicated for me.

EDIT:
I do need to make a cover for the pulleys as well, thats the next project for this project

 

Looks good and very useful.
Just re-worked a Porter Cable 14" wood band saw. Been thinking of making a metal bandsaw next. Got a couple of the metal cutting bandsaws, might just make a stand for one with a foot pedal, but a larger one would be really useful. One of those back burner projects for sure.
Nice job on that build.

Dave

 

Finding a cheap working treadmill it the way to go. My brother has used the variable speed motors from two treadmills to power other machines. -Donny