Poor Old Bandsaw

A heart-warming tale of loss and redemption.
I hardly regard myself as an expert on any tool of any sort, shape or colour but I was fairly sure I knew my way round my de Walt 3501 bandsaw which I have been using almost daily for nearly thirty years. But when it started to vibrate and cut rather badly I was at a loss. I tried resetting the guide and changing the blade. Nothing. And even my usual bandsaw fix-it trick of increasing the blade tension, which normally does the trick, didn't help.
It occurred to me that the only thing left was replacement of the tyres. Unfortunately I was fairly well convinced that this was not possible with my saw and that night I had very bad dreams of parting with a large sum of money and scrapping away a faithful old friend.
Mercifully I was wrong about the tyres and managed to find replacements, and changing them was no significant trouble. It has improved the performance a good bit but I still have a lot of trouble with saw marks, at any feed rate.
If you have any advice about eliminating or at least minimising saw marks I'd be mighty pleased to hear from you in the comments. In the meantime thanks so much for watching, I genuinely appreciate it.
I afraid I can't remember where I downloaded the music. Sorry.

hello Mark, I watch bandsaw videos these days. When I saw you on calls, I wanted to watch it right away. This is a good brand. It's old but has good technology. My band saw has old pulley tires. I have to change them. You have successfully done a pulley tire change. for many years does not become obsolete anymore. (2019-2022 and I think it's still solid) All the best.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Thanks Mehmet! Tyres usually last a very long time but new tyres will definitely improve the saw's performance when necessary. Thanks again mate.

@@MarkMcCluney Yes you are right. I need to change it as soon as possible. Cheers Mark

[@JIMMIX7]

Awww thank you Mark, that was many many years ago the singing. I bought my bandsaw years ago and it was in a right state, at the time I couldn't find any information about it at all .. Now watching your vid and downloading the manual I can understand it more. The plate for the guide rod was put in the wrong way, so I have just corrected that, the blade used to move back and forth sometimes jamming in the guides. I have it all back in bits again and I am starting from scratch, I may have to order the Blue Max tires which I found thanks to you. I'm not sure if its worth the expence though. I will give it one more go and see how it goes. Thanks again for the video and your kind words..

[@MarkMcCluney]

You're welcome James. Are you in Northern Ireland?

[@JIMMIX7]

@@MarkMcCluney No Northumberland. . I'm still clarting with this band saw now and I just cant get the blade to stay in the middle of the tires. Sick of it now !

[@MarkMcCluney]

@@JIMMIX7 Hang in there James. It sounds as if your top wheel is not correctly tilted. If your 3501 is identical to mine there is an orange knob high on the back surface of the saw. Without the saw running adjust the knob so that the top wheel is co-planar with the bottom wheel. Turn the top wheel by hand to allow the blade to settle where it wants to. Careful not to cut your hand of course! Also try to ensure that your blade is at the appropriate tension - it's not absolutely critical but it has to be in the ballpark or the blade will skid around. You'll have to experiment but you should get there. Give yourself a wee break from it but don't give up on it; perseverance pays and it's an excellent tools once you get it set up. My email address is [e-mail] Keep me posted. We'll get there mate.

[@NomadMakes]

Great that you got her up and running again. Although, after 30 years, you can kind of say that she has served her time... Great vid. Keep it up. Cheers from Norway.

[@MarkMcCluney]

A Nomads Projects Yes mate! As we say here 'it doesn't owe me anything.' My Dad maintained big workshop tools for his living for quite a while and still feels anything can be made to run perfectly with enough effort - the secret is knowing when you've put enough effort in. Law of Diminishing Returns and all that... Anyway I'm so glad you looked in and enjoyed this. All you guys really keep me rolling along!

[@LIS_Project]

Thanks for the interesting video🙏! Now we know how to install rings on the band saw wheels. Also, while watching this video, we managed to dance💃🕺. Very funny and cheerful music🎵. Waiting for your new videos🎬. Good luck!

[@MarkMcCluney]

IVSkorohodov Thank you so much! I wish I was there for dancing too! Thanks for looking in, I always appreciate it.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Incidentally the tyres are called Blue Max and came from Bandsaw Tire Warehouse, Kenilworth, New Jersey, USA. I'd highly recommend them but be sure to shop around; your requirements might different from mine. Thanks for watching.

[@user-xt3qo5ou3k]

Hi Mark, I have the same bandsaw, DW3501, with broken tyres. I want to replace them with Blue Max tires from the Bandsaw Tire Warehouse. They have so many to choose from on their website. Do you know which one to order for the DW3501?

[@peter.hickman5012]

Hi Mark great video by the way. I've recently acquired the same saw and love it unfortunately as is the way with machines of this age there was no manual and some parts need replacing, I have new tires but the drive belt badly needs renewing but so far no luck finding one or how to remove the old one any help would be most appreciated

[@MarkMcCluney]

Hello Peter, thanks for dropping in and subbing, it's greatly appreciated. As you'll see if you watch a few more of my vids I eventually sold my DeWalt 3501 and upgraded to a Record bandsaw - it came brand new and had its own problems! I don't really think you'll need a handbook - it's all fairly straightforward - but if you do you might try getting in touch with Huw at Wooden It Be Nice, who has exactly this model and his is still going strong, he may well still have his manual. As for changing the drive belt: firstly, are you quite sure you need to change it? You know that the belt tension can be changed by altering the angle of the motor? As I remember it there's a wee knob at back of the machine for this purpose. It's ostensibly a speed control but once I'd decided on the speed I liked it was never touched again! Secondly I'd have to admit that I never did change the drive belt but that was because it never gave any trouble and certainly showed no signs of wear. I'd urge you to examine the belt carefully before trying to dismantle the machine. Thirdly, you might have trouble getting a genuine DeWalt belt but don't despair! I think a belt from a local engineering supplier will be just as good and probably cheaper. I get belts for my sander from an online supplier (I'll try to find the name of the company for you) and not only at they cheaper but they last far longer too. The existing belt may well have a code number on it; that's your starting point. As for getting it off and replacing it; I can't quite remember the position of the belt with respect to the driven wheel but I think it might have to be removed (don't take my word for it - examine it carefully and decide for yourself.) If it does you may need a hub puller to get it off. Do you have a motor mechanic pal? They might have a small puller you could borrow. Be aware that this might mean changing the bearing too. So you see, it's well worth checking that belt and the tension very thoroughly before diving into changing it. Best of luck with it mate - when you get it going well you've got a superb tool there. Cheers mate and thanks again.

[@LonghornWorkshop]

Yeah don't get rid of it mate, old is gold and good quality. So er indoors was looking at you while you were struggling with the tyres...lol...no tea for her. Seriously nice tips, I will need to do the same soon.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Lucas Wood & Art Actually mate The Nice Lady from the Hardware Store is a great inspiration and help whenever she appears. You'll notice also that she was wearing her wellies, i.e. gardening, thus leaving me to engage in important research. Since she'd been weeding all morning it only seemed fair that I made the tea. I know what you mean about old gear often being better build quality but y'know I just bought what I could afford back then. If I had the shekels now I'd be tempted into a 15" Jet or similar. All academic. Thanks for looking in mate - looking forward to seeing you make some sawdust soon.

[@TheWoodYogi]

I watched this the other day Mark and forgot to comment as I had relatives visiting and forgot due to distraction 😁 Forgot what I originally wanted to say now. Blessings as always 😊 ॐ

[@TheWoodYogi]

I remembered 😊 It was to ask how many tpi the blade had and could it influence the marks. I need to buy a new blade or two and I want to try something thinner myself with more teeth for a finer cut. i also need a thicker blade with few teeth just to re-saw all these Spruce tops that have been drying and get it done before winter 😊 ॐ

[@MarkMcCluney]

The Wood Yogi That's a good question Chris, I'll have to check the spec of the blade. Sadly though it's unlikely that that's what the 'trouble' is - I always use the same type of blade and it's only lately that the cutting quality has been disappointing. It's not impossible that it's just a bad blade, of course. I've been caught like that before. Incidentally you and your ability to levitate concrete lintels came up in conversation the other evening - my Dad says he has a few jobs for you! All my love and the greatest of God's blessings on you all there, relations and all.

[@andershuuskoCiS]

Great video man. Im gettiing an used DW876 today from 2001. Isnt the saw marks just from the teeth of the saw pointing outwards a bit? //Anders from Sweden

[@MarkMcCluney]

Thanks Anders. Best of luck with your new bandsaw - will you post a little video of the new arrival? I'm sure you know this already but the outward 'spread' of the blade teeth is called the 'kerf' and determines the width of the cut. The slicing action of each individual tooth should erase any mark made by the previous one. On a very old blade the teeth are so imperfect or clogged with resin that each tooth makes a new scratch! A nice new clean and sharp blade should leave a much cleaner cut. There will still be saw marks but greatly reduced from the blunt blade. I hope that's helpful. Thanks for looking mate, I really appreciate it.

[@ClintRoseCarving]

I'm all for spending as little as possible and also repairing stuff, great video Mark. Y'know what I really love the look of that saw too, just the colour and design appeals to me for some reason.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Timber Anew Hey Clint, I know what you mean about the bandsaw's shape, it's hardly a design classic but it always appealed to me. I could do with you around here at the moment: I'm making some instruments for Gerrit and it's not going well. I need someone who knows what he's doing. Do you think you could throw yourself over here for a week or so? Cheers mate.

[@ClintRoseCarving]

@@MarkMcCluney I'll try and find someone who knows what they're doing and throw them over haha. I'm sure you'll do very well as always!

[@MarkMcCluney]

Timber Anew Oh Clint, I need a shoulder to cry on. I set aside three days to get this little thing done. A month later it's still a disaster. I mean, I know we all get a stinker of a job from time to time but this thing just will not co-operate. Kath says 'bin it and start again' and last night I decided she was right. It's annoying to have wasted all that time. And video footage! Have you anything in the pipeline mate? I really need some relaxing Timber Andrew - I guess I'll plunder your back catalogue right now. Cheers.

Very enjoyable video Mark and the music fits well :)

[@MarkMcCluney]

Stephan Pöhnlein Thank you Stephan! Yes, there has been some very silly dancing to this music around here. How are your music lessons going?

[@user-xt3qo5ou3k]

Hi Mark, I have the same bandsaw, DW3501, with broken tyres. I want to replace them with Blue Max tires from the Bandsaw Tire Warehouse. They have so many to choose from on their website. Do you know which one to order for the DW3501?

[@MarkMcCluney]

Hi J.J. thanks for looking in. I'm afraid I can't remember how I ordered the tyres for the De Walt and I have since replaced it with a Record - you can see the day I got the new saw if you have a look through the videos on my channel. I guess at the time I must have done one or the other of these - measure (or look up online) the diameter of the wheels on the 3501 and order from Bandsaw Tire Warehouse accordingly. Failing that you could always contact BTW directly and ask for their advice on what tyre to order for the 3501. I can certainly recommend them (or him; it might a one man band) as they helped me get the right product. Sorry I can't be more helpful than that but I hope the video gives you some pointers and ideas on how to change the tyres. It takes a little bit of doing but it's well worth the effort, it's a terrific little tool and served me brilliantly for many, many years. Thanks again and I hope you will take a look at some of my other vids, I think they'll make you smile.

[@user-xt3qo5ou3k]

@@MarkMcCluney Hi Mark, I succesfully replaced the bandsaw tires. The DW3501 is working perfectly again. Thank you for your initiative to place a video about this specific topic.

[@ScrapwoodCity]

I hope I won't have to do that soon enough to my bandsaw! Cool video Mark!

[@MarkMcCluney]

Scrap wood City Thank you so much mate. No - your bandsaw will be okay because you very clearly look after your tools. I treat mine badly because I'm The World Champion of Laziness! Thanks for always looking in Dimitris, it really keeps me going.

[@JIMMIX7]

Hi Mark, and great video. Have you still got the old bandsaw ? I have the DW 3401 almost the same machine and I have a few issues with it. Maybe you could help me out if you still have yours ??

[@MarkMcCluney]

Thanks so much for looking in James, and for subbing; I really appreciate it. Sorry to have to tell you that I sold my deWalt and upgraded to a Record (I have a wee vid about its arrival called A Feast of Classical Literature). Having said that I'm still keen to try to help - what's the problem with yours. Incidentally I listened to a few of your songs - you have a super singing voice!

[@hansmatzweissefeder]

herrlich mein junger freund - dewalt ist dewalt - ich liebe die ganze dewalt gruppe - jetzt ist die säge wieder für die nächsten 40 jahre top - grüße vom festland 🤘😎👍💚🍺🖖☕

[@MarkMcCluney]

Hans Matz Weisse Feder Thank you Hans! I hope I will be able to use it for another 40 years! Love and blessings my friend!

[@stephenmccluney4910]

All that bazuki music had me thinking about cheese emporiums

[@MarkMcCluney]

Stephen McCluney I thought that was mandolin but now that you mention it... Sorry but your contribution got left on the cutting room floor.

[@DANYMITERESTORATION]

Mark - how is that bandsaw now? I agree that keeping the old tool alive is best - quality of old tools is better than anything produced today.

[@stevefromlondon9175]

Hi Mark Thank you for making this video it was a great help as I have the same machine and it needs new tyres same as you can you remember where you got the tyres from Regards Steve UK London

[@MarkMcCluney]

Hello Steve and thanks for looking in. I sourced my tyres from Bandsaw Tire Warehouse, Kenilworth NJ, USA. They sell the Blue Max tyres I used on my DeWalt 3501 and I found them very quick and reasonable for postage to Northern Ireland. I'd certainly recommend them but be sure to shop around before you order. Thanks again mate and I hope you'll take a look at some of my other vids, I think they'll make you smile.

[@stevefromlondon9175]

@@MarkMcCluney Hi Mark many thanks for your help & fast reply have a good day sir

[@TheGrantAlexander]

I also had to put new tires on my vintage bandsaw (1946 14" Delta) and it was even easier than what you went through! (i also went with urethane) that being said, I am also getting the bandsaw marks you showed. I have brand new blades, and no other experience, so I thought that is just what bandsaws did! The one thing I know I need to replace is the tension spring. Mine is completely shot and no longer springy. What about yours?

[@MarkMcCluney]

The Grant Alexander Yes I must say those Blue Max tyres were a good investment; the hardest part was finding them! There's such a bewildering range of products on eBay and such that it's easy to get confused. I was also convinced that the tyres could not be replaced because how the originals were 'riveted' on. And I don't like removing components by cutting them to bits! The cut quality used to be a lot finer - hardly planed-quality, but a lot less work to sand out the saw marks. My current hope is that the old tyres/experiments with set up slightly damaged the new blade I fitted and this is the culprit. I usually get the best part of a year out of a blade so I'm loath to just change it for the sake of curiosity. I guess I could do an update next year... Love to Mrs. Pyro and The Grantlet.

[@TheGrantAlexander]

@@MarkMcCluney hahahah thanks for the nicknames!

[@neilboulton7361]

Great watch, iv just bought one an need new tyres could you forward info on where you bought your tyres please it wood(excuse the pun) be very helpful

[@MarkMcCluney]

Hi Neil, thanks for looking in and I'm certainly glad you found it helpful. The tyres I used are called Blue Max and I sourced them from a company called Bandsaw Tire Warehouse, Kenilworth, New Jersey USA. I have a feeling it may be a one-man-band or very small concern and he/they might even make the Blue Max tyres there. Even including the p&p here to Northern Ireland they were still the cheapest. Some vids made installing the tyres look murderously difficult but my best advice is use the hot water trick and you'll pop them on in no time. Cheers mate and thanks again.

[@neilboulton7361]

@@MarkMcCluney thank you very much for info it's much appreciated 💜

[@PatrickDustman]

Your videos are unique. I really like that stuff. SurvivalAustria

[@MarkMcCluney]

SurvivalAustria Vielen Dank! I really appreciate you looking in. I hope you'll look at a few of my other 'unique' vids, I think they will make you smile! Thanks again.

[@NotonlyWood]

Awesome! I love that you repaired it! Because you wouldn't be any happier with a new saw, all that modern day stuff isn't the same quality unfortunately 😕 mine is really old too and it just needs some new Blades at the moment. Other than that it runs great😍

[@MarkMcCluney]

Not only Wood Thank you so much for looking in. I do like my old saw but a fancy new one would be perfectly welcome! Unfortunately there's the problem of poverty to be surmounted. But, as my Dad likes to say, the hungry eye sees far. Or in other words, it's amazing what you can manage when you've got no choice! Thanks again mate.

[@neilboulton7361]

@@MarkMcCluney I didn't realize dewalt was that old, nothing is built to last anymore, I buy old carpentry tools like chisels,planes,spoke shaves because they are blue steel which is better silver steel stuff

[@bespokebrisley3423]

really great vid with good information

[@MarkMcCluney]

bespoke brisley Thank you mate, that's very kind.

[@bespokebrisley3423]

@@MarkMcCluney no problems , happy to support you

[@MakeThings]

Man that first tire really fought you. I’m glad to see you were able to save the saw! 30 years...wow! Always a pleasure Mark, thanks.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Make Things Actually Rob fitting the tyres was a lot easier than I expected. I saw some lad from NJ I think who wrestled the same kind of tyre on and even at high-speed it took ages! He chased that thing round and round and had maybe a dozen clamps on there! And then said 'as you can see they're pretty easy to put on'! He was a very patient and tenacious guy, he got me prepared for a big punch up but they just popped right on. The secret is the hot water, that temporary softening makes a huge difference. The saw still doesn't cut as neatly as it used to but I've still got a few tricks up my sleeve. Watch this space... Anyway thanks for looking in Rob, I can't express how much I appreciate it.

[@MakeThings]

Mark McCluney your videos are about as down to earth and full of good, beautiful fun, I hope I never miss one. And it appears I have...you made one with your strummer that I keep somehow forgetting to watch. Thank you for capturing your greatness Mark, really.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Make Things I don't know what to say Rob. I honestly feel humbled by the compliments I am regularly paid. So long as I give folks a few giggles at my workshop antics I'll keep on making KZbin vids. How you doing mate? Bearing up okay, after losing your Grandad, I mean?

[@StuffUCanMake]

This time, the lighting in your shop is so good. Did you also do an upgrade on them? For me this was a good tricks and tips video!

[@MarkMcCluney]

StuffUCanMake Thank you mate! I'm so glad you enjoyed it. Actually this vid was made over the course of several months and at different times of the day. I haven't changed the lighting in my workshop but I'm aware that the video pictures taken in my little back room are not the easiest to see. Ironically this seems to be because there's a large window in there - no matter where I position the camera (my phone actually) it always exposes according to the outside light and not on what I'm doing. It's quite a problem as I really enjoy working in there but I'm trying to think of a (cheap) solution. Incidentally I'm hoping to afford a new camera and microphone set up next year - do you have any suggestions?

[@StuffUCanMake]

@@MarkMcCluney I thought I was the only one using a phone camera. I am relieved to know that there are other offenders out there like me!! However, I do have a Canon SX620HS which I reserve for taking project pictures. It is a great camera and you can also operate it remotely using your phone. I highly recommend it in terms of price and picture/video quality. The reason I don't use it in the workshop is dust! I can't afford to damage the lens of this good camera. The phone I am using to shoot my videos is a ruggedized phone which is dust proof, water proof and drop proof up to a meter. It has an IP-68 rating for harsh environments. It's an Energizer HardCase brand phone with an 8MP camera (the new ones have 16MP and up). This phone is real monster.

[@MarkMcCluney]

StuffUCanMake When I started making KZbin vids I asked my brother's advice as he has a good bit of experience of cameras and I value his opinion on any subject. When he said he used his phone to record his workshop antics that was good enough for me - I went to get a smartphone the next day! I've always found it very convenient but recording sound is a problem. Yeah, perhaps I'll save my money and invest in some lights;-) Cheers mate!

[@StuffUCanMake]

@@MarkMcCluney Mark, call me Jabulani.

[@MarkMcCluney]

StuffUCanMake Jabulani, I should be very glad to call an artist by his first name. Thank you for this.

[@MoscaWoodworking]

in my opinion you fixed the problem, Mark.t the blade is no longer "dancing", it's stable maybe sawmarks are because of the blade itself?

[@MarkMcCluney]

Mosca Woodworking Alberto! I think you have it right mate - I'm hoping the saw marks are the blade's fault. It could be it got damaged before I replaced the tyres or perhaps it was a bad blade to start with. I like to get as much 'life' from a blade as I can so I won't replace it for a while. I'll do a follow-up vid when I do. Thanks for looking in mate - I'm looking forward to your new vids! Love to the Camera Lady!

[@scrimperuk]

Makes sense to keep that band-saw going Mark, it's going to be far better quality than a similar one you buy new today. I don't think the saw marks are unusual for a band-saw, mines the same and I always assumed it was normal. I have a British made Startrite 401 band-saw still going as good as new after 37 years. That looked hard work getting those tyres on.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Thanks for looking in John, I appreciate it! Actually getting the tyres on was a lot easier than I expected - a good dunk in hot water is the secret - and I can recommend those Blue Max tyres, they're good value. I don't expect anything I cut on the bandsaw to be perfect but it's not nearly as good as it used to be, it could just be that blade. I intend to change it very soon so I might do a wee return video. Thanks again mate!

[@scrimperuk]

A good blade does make a real difference Mark, I bought a pack of 10 blades at a very low sale price from Toolstation, I found that they were pretty poor quality but did not want to waste them but thankfully have just used the last one a bought some better ones, they are far superior.

[@MarkMcCluney]

@@scrimperuk Ha! My Dad bought hacksaw blades at the pound shop about twenty years ago and he has never been allowed to forget it! He's a scrimper too but sometimes he's just plain cheap!

[@PianoHeal]

interesting channel ☘️☺️❤️🎹🙏

[@MarkMcCluney]

Piano Heal Thank you so much! I hope you will have a look at some of my other vids, I think they will make you smile. Thanks again!

[@Bramsshed1913]

Hi Mark , interesting video mate and I am really surprised that you managed to get new tyres for it after all those years! I did wonder at the end if maybe the bearings need changing and it might be worth you while doing that sometime Mark. It is always worth trying to fix something before throwing it out ...you're probably like me you want your moneys worth out of some thing that you have bought :) Cheers, Bram

[@MarkMcCluney]

Bram the Wadesmill woodturner Absolutely mate! I have cheapskate written directly into my DNA, and my Dad still thinks I'm a reckless spendthrift! Bearings were my first though too but actually they seem surprisingly quiet. I've still got at least three wheels on my wagon... Cheers mate, I really appreciate you looking in.

[@jst1261]

Super! thx!

[@MarkMcCluney]

Thanks for looking in, I really appreciate it. I hope you'll have a look at some of my other vids, I think they'll make you smile. Thanks again.

[@markjarman7819]

I just bought a old elu bandsaw on ebay I pick it up at the weekend. Close to the same as your dewalt.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Hi Mark, I just stumbled on your comment about my old DW bandsaw. How is your Elu performing for you? You might have seen that in the meantime I decided to buy a new bandsaw. I still have the DW but I'm hoping to pass it on to someone else soon. The new saw is a lot tougher but I miss the character of the DW, and it punches well above its weight. Thanks for looking in mate, I hope you'll have a look at some of my other vids, I think they'll give you a few giggles. Stay healthy!

[@markjarman7819]

@@MarkMcCluney hi mark. I don’t get much use from it to be honest but when I do it cuts real good and true. Yes the old machines do have something about them for sure. What have you now? The same to you😊😊

[@markjarman7819]

@@MarkMcCluneyfunny enough after spending some time in storage the 30 plus year bandsaw is back in my workshop and still running sweet. Mind the tires are needing replacing and that bought me back here😊

[@severinneukom]

Hast du den link gesehen?:)

[@MarkMcCluney]

Severin Neukom I've seen it now mate, great job! I'll be doing a bit of banjo pickin' tomorrow...

[@steffanapbreian6024]

Well I never did. By Finnbars' beard have am old Dewalt 3501 with all the very same problems and I can't get the parts.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Persevere with it mate but I'm sorry to say I think you'll be out of luck Steffan. After a while I took the genuinely difficult decision (I'm sentimental about my oldest tools) and bought a replacement bandsaw. You can see it in one of my later vids. It's a very good job but it doesn't have the character of the DW 3501. I hope you'll take a look at some of my other vids, I think they'll make you smile. In the meantime, who's this beardy Finbar guy?

[@severinneukom]

Hey Mark! Really cool video as always! I would like to work with you!☺️ tomorrow i can go to a banjo workshop with jens krüger😅 i can‘t believe it.. im really nervös..

[@MarkMcCluney]

Severin Neukom Hey Banjo Man! Don't be nervous, Jens is lovely! He will encourage you to play more and more. If you are talking to him tell him Mark from Northern Ireland still remembers him with great affection (if he doesn't remember my name tell him The Man Who Cried, perhaps that will remind him.) You will have a wonderful time!

[@severinneukom]

Thank you for your encouraging words! Ok!

[@MarkMcCluney]

Severin Neukom How did the Kruger workshop go? Did you take any video footage? Talking of super banjo teachers - if you look at this vid at 3:37 you will see an American car number plate just behind me. That was sent to me by Jim Pankey!

[@severinneukom]

Sorry could not really talk to jens, unfortunately i have no film material.. you know jim so pretty well.. you can learn a lot from a jens.. of course also from a jim. But jens speaks swiss german.. i do not know if ill do more videos.. i think im still not well enough..

[@MarkMcCluney]

Severin Neukom I think the Krügers are still living in the USA, and they speak American English as well! You definitely inspired me to play banjo again and I watched one of Jens' Homespun DVDs on Sunday evening, playing along. Thanks mate, I owe you!

[@baconsoda]

Stops video - I am immediately astonished that anyone can put their hand on parts that small after almost 30 years. Those end up in the Derrymacash Triangle here. Resumes video - I really enjoyed that because I love to see something faithful saved from the skip. Have you discovered Tuffsaws for bandsaw blades yet? Highly recommended my me and loads of woodworkers on UKWorkshop dot co dot uk (youtube hates links outside. It is a one-man outfit who does a huge selection of blades for everything. If it's not on the shelf he will make it for you. Best Wishes, Brendan.

[@MarkMcCluney]

baconsoda I hadn't heard of that crew Brendan but I will look for them. How's everything? Mrs. Bacon out of the pokey?

[@baconsoda]

Yep Mark, she got out on good behaviour. She is doing great thanks and better every day. Very tired but that's to be expected because her body is working so hard healing. I will pass on your kind good wishes, thank you.

[@IrishChippy]

Nice one Mark. Should last another 30 years. I shipped my father's SIP over here a few years ago. I put a blade from tuffsaws.co.uk in it and it is like brand new. Do not need tyres yet, but if I do, I will look up your blue max

[@MarkMcCluney]

Irish Chippy Yes mate, I should have included some contact details but I've lost them already! I'll take a better look this evening. Incidentally you're the second person to recommend tuffsaws - I'll definitely have to look into this supplier. Thanks mate, love to the family.

[@thedjkay]

Glue rubber on it

[@MarkMcCluney]

Thanks for looking in.

[@-Benedict]

Hmm. Bearings? Just a guess, I'm no mechanic.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Benedict Builds Well, it's a good guess and my brother's first guess too, but we did check them and they're kinda' better than can be expected for something that's been so poorly maintained the last few decades. All this seemed to come on very suddenly without anything going 'boinnnnnggg' or 'ge-squackkk'. If there had been something that very obviously failed this would be much easier to solve. Oh well, all part of the fun...

[@-Benedict]

I suppose there's a chance that the new noise isn't actually a problem, in that it's just a different tone from the blade tracking onto fresh, thicker tyres rather than worn and thin ones. Either way mate, you're braver than I - I likely would have bitten the bullet and replaced a power tool that's nearly as old as I am.

[@-Benedict]

Oh, and "ge-squackkk" could very well be the greatest echomimetic word I've ever heard.

[@MarkMcCluney]

Benedict Builds eka-ma-what-now? I'll ask the Nice Lady when she gets in from the Hardware Store - she reads books n' stuff...

[@MarkMcCluney]

Benedict Builds That sounds reasonable - it's just different-sounding. The problem with replacement is the lack of shekels mate - roughly two thousand of them for something I'd regard as a suitable alternative. Them days is long gone... Incidentally, the Nice Lady, my orthography consultant, informs me that it should be spelled "g'skwaaak". Sorry for any confusion this may have caused.