So if I’m following this correctly the Carter Bandsaw Guides REPLACE the Cool Blocks? If one were to use the Carters, does one need to cool the blade in another fashion? Gene I like the idea of using a $50, Yup, that’d make me careful.  Gonna go back and watch the growth rings video again. 

15 minutes ago, Artie said:

So if I’m following this correctly the Carter Bandsaw Guides REPLACE the Cool Blocks? If one were to use the Carters, does one need to cool the blade in another fashion? Gene I like the idea of using a $50, Yup, that’d make me careful.  Gonna go back and watch the growth rings video again. 

You're correct. No blocks, cool or otherwise, needed. 

BTW,  it's been a long while since doing any precise work with the BS so, since I need some 3/16 thick shims, I thought it would be best to insure everything was kosher. I started the fence alignment procedure like Doug showed and, with the Carter guides installed, no drift angle fence adjustments were necessary.

Sure looks like it’s one or the other. Think I’ll use what I got and see how the resawing goes with the cool blocks properly adjusted to the 1/2 blade. It’s a little less than $150 for the Carter Guides, sent to the house. If my resawing sucks a little, I’m thinking the planer can fix that  (Another machine to learn  ) I just checked online for the hours of The Woodery. They appear to be a victim of the pandemic. Their last post on FB was Feb 2020. I will have to research lumberyards that will deal with hobbyists, near me. I can use the one Al recommended, but it’s a bit of a ride for me. There’s a plan coming together here now. LOL

@Artie The video John posted is the method I use for aligning the blade to the fence. I never assume the blade is running parallel to the fence because each blade may track differently. I'm not familiar with the SS but also check to be certain the blade is 90 degrees from the table.

Just reading and following along Artie. I don't have a SS, but bandsaws are pretty much the same although appears the SS guide configuration is different than any I have (couple old Craftsman). Not saying the Carter upgrade won't be an improvement, but some high end bandsaws are now using ceramic guides. IDK if such a thing is available for the SS. Something to consider or research.

 

Regardless, watch this video. Best there is for setting up your bandsaw. I've attended Alex's sessions everytime I went to the Woodworking Show in Indy. Besides being extremely knowledgeable he's  just a great guy. Always willing to help after his seminars too.

 

EDIT: DELETED VIDEO REPLACED WITH Hyperlink to video @Artie

IDK what happened. It was there, then disappeared?? Said not found something went wrong??

Try link below.

Alex Snodgrass Drift

Edited January 18, 20224 yr by Grandpadave52

The Carter guides for a SS are great but you will lose about a 1/2" of resaw height. The cool blocks work very well when adjusted properly. The piece of paper trick does work the best. I've done a ton of resawing on the SS bandsaw and by far the best blade I found is a Wood Slicer blade from Highland Hardware. I've never tried a 5/8' blade on a SS. 

Paul

4 hours ago, Artie said:

Think I’ll use what I got and see how the resawing goes with the cool blocks properly adjusted to the 1/2 blade.

 

I got the cool blocks, no complaints from me, resaw and whatever.

Setting the fence for the blade drift is really important Artie. There are several methods that all work fairly well and on YouTube. I highly recommend the Carter drift bars. They make the whole thing quick and simple. 
Paul

@Artie. Another helpful video. James does a really good job IMO explaining why behind what. Also, another option for aligning your fence to the blade to minimize drift.

 

Alignment Gage

 

 

Edited January 18, 20224 yr by Grandpadave52
Tablet still learning to spell

Excellent video, Dave. Thanks!

One major difference between SS bandsaw and others the back side of the blade rides on the backside of the wheel. It does not ride in the center of the wheel. The bearing right beside the tensioner needs the backside of the blade to ride on it no matter the width of the blade. As Doug and Al said find and work with the blade drift.