I've come across a bandsaw tension gauge made by Iturra Design at an estate sale. I believe a couple of people on the forum have one of these. Would anyone have a manual/instructions that they could copy or scan and send to me? I get the basic idea of how this works, but I need some more detail on how to set it up. Also I believe the manual has recommendations for desired tension of various blades. I'm not finding anything with my internet search, although I did find Iturra Design's phone number.
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Manual for Iturra Design Bandsaw Tension Gauge?
- Thread starter Mark Jundanian
- Start date
Might call and ask. I bought my Starrett tension gauge from Mr Iturra and our club just got a Lennox. I might check the two manuals when I get time - overloaded for the near future. Instructions might also be in the Iturra Design book, can’t remember.
I think they all work the same way - two finger clamps, one fixed, one on a pivoting lever driving a dial indicator to measure blade stretch as it’s tensioned. The scale on the dial is marked for tension instead of distance to eliminate having to do the math. If you can’t find the manual Sir Google will provide help if you ask “how to use a bandsaw tension gauge”
While you're waiting for the manual, try this tool-free technique for tensioning the blade: use your index finger to deflect the at a spot a few inches below where it meets the wheel on the left side. A 1/4" deflection works for most blades. We use that test on all our bandsaws (Powermatic 15", 20", Rikon 20") except the 36" Northfield, which is tensioned to 1" on the machine's gauge no matter what size blade is installed.
@Mark Jundanian, I have a 2022 Iturra catalog with me. I think what you seek may be in it. The catalog is copywritten, so I won't post it here, but I'll snap pics of two of the dozen pages (8.5x11) and send them to you in a private message.
The other 10 pages are a master class of bandsaw blade tensioning, and those don't include the pages where he lists upgrade tensioning parts for 14" Delta and Jet bandsaws. Wow!
Otherwise, try calling Louis Iturra directly at 904-642-2802. He sells this 258-page "catalog" (more like a textbook that sells stuff) for $10 or so, worth the purchase price. Lots of the theory info could apply to any bandsaw, but the market he mainly serves is the 14" saws.
He's been doing this a long time, I wonder how much linger he'll go? I should stock up on Delta replacement parts while I can.
The other 10 pages are a master class of bandsaw blade tensioning, and those don't include the pages where he lists upgrade tensioning parts for 14" Delta and Jet bandsaws. Wow!
Otherwise, try calling Louis Iturra directly at 904-642-2802. He sells this 258-page "catalog" (more like a textbook that sells stuff) for $10 or so, worth the purchase price. Lots of the theory info could apply to any bandsaw, but the market he mainly serves is the 14" saws.
He's been doing this a long time, I wonder how much linger he'll go? I should stock up on Delta replacement parts while I can.