Unboxing and assembly Powermatic 14 Inch Bandsaw Dave Stanton easy woodworking

[@blitskrieg2009]

I finally assembled my saw on a snail pace. Wound is much better than months ago. I have not installed the riser block yet as the rafters in my shop is hidden by plywood ceiling. And like I said this saw will be devoted to curve cuts. And I don't have the longer blade for the riser block add on. Your video was very helpful indeed. Thanks very much for documenting the set up. It takes a precious time and equipment and a heart in all of your videos. Until next time!

[@DavidStanton]

+dennis ma . Dennis, that was very kind of you to go into detail saying thanks to me. I hope the saw works as well as mine does!

[@shanehertzog5812]

david is excellent at explaining how to put this powermatic bandsaw together.He has a gift at explaining,i was thinking of buying this brand myself.

[@danielgay7939]

Thank you. I'll be receiving my new saw in April 2021. You explained quite well what i can expect. I'll be saving your video for a tutorial.

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks for the compliment Daniel Gay!

[@twkenney0727]

I just purchased this saw and assembled it today. This video was incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for making it.

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@scottgates601]

Are you in Australia? Where can you purchase this saw?

[@Essdubbya]

I forgot to thank you David for such a great video. It filled in the blanks for me from the out of date instruction manual. I mounted my saw on a mobile base from Carbatec. I was able to bolt the mobile base to the saw base using M12 bolts in the existing bolt holes. Lucky. Because the wheels sit outboard (swivels at the back of the saw) the base seems to be quite stable when the wheels are locked Even though I am short for my weight I find the table height with the wheels reasonably comfortable. It's strange how different machines and benches are comfortable at different heights. I guess it depends on your stance and the work method each demands.

[@DavidStanton]

It will be good to hear back from you after using the saw on the mobile base for a while. Thanks for the compliment!

[@blitskrieg2009]

i still have the PWBS14 in their original boxes and still no time and energy to assemble this little but brute machine because of a recent abdominal surgery. thanks for the time documenting the assembly. it surely will help me in the future.

[@DavidStanton]

+dennis ma Wow Dennis, sorry to hear about the operation! I hope you mend up well and have a great time with your bandsaw.

[@blitskrieg2009]

+David Stanton I have a Rikon 10-325 and set up was easy except that it was heavy. that was in 2012...i purchased the Powermatic late last 2015 and will devote it for curve cuts and got it at an irresistible price...purchase justified..LOL...until that fateful operation...but all the while i was thinking that assembling this bandsaw is no brainer until i saw your video about this and that..i am sure i will take a second peek before i finally assemble it. wound still hurts though but i am good. still need a few months to finally recover the strength of the muscle they cut across on one side of my belly. all the best to your channel David.

[@mikehababo2822]

Thanks for that David, I've been looking at purchasing a 14 inch band saw for some time now. This model from my research seems to be up there with the best of them. That was very informative.

[@DavidStanton]

+Mike Hababo . I am glad that you gathered some useful info from my video.

[@arturdurbanov7426]

Hi David, Thanks for a great video - this is the first machine I ever assembled and it would have been a lot harder without your instructions!

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks for letting me know Artur!

[@Mario753]

Thanks Dave, After lots of mucking around, finally did get the drive belt to stay on. Yep it was all about aligning the pulleys. Don't think to much about the design and the space you can work in, but everything else looks good. Thanks for your advice. Mario

[@DavidStanton]

Glad it all worked out in the end. I think little things like this are beneficial as it forces us to know out machines a bit better.

[@Redhilux1]

Good video David, between your video and the instruction manual I managed to get my Powermatic 14 put together in no time. it was very helpful to watch the video through, then take the Laptop out to shed and watch it a bit at a time as I did each phase. Great bandsaw, and great price with the Carbatec pre-Christmas 20% off sale.

[@DavidStanton]

Happy to have been able to "Be there" with you while you assembled your machine. I have been using mine heaps over the past few days.

[@christschool]

I love my Powermatic table saw. However, for the bandsaw, I bought the Laguna 14/12. I looked at this bandsaw before buying the Laguna, but decided the Laguna fit my needs better and I've been very happy with it. At some point, I want a larger band saw, but will probably either a Mini Max or a Powermatic. I do like the extension table on your Powermatic as well as the blower and kerf plate. Those are nice features.

[@DavidStanton]

+christschool . I am sure the Laguna is a great saw. I know a few people who own it and are impressed by its performance.

[@tagi3d]

I have this saw. It's a beauty. You won't regret it.

[@DavidStanton]

+tagi3d . Thanks for the vote of confidence. I am sure you are correct.

[@kgharris2058]

Just a tip to help keep the washer and lock nut from falling off the bolt when affixing the saw to the base. Stack a few small round magnets on the top of the bolt. There will be just enough magnetism to keep the washer, etc. on the bolt so that you can put the nut on. I also found that a 13mm wrench fit better than the 1/2 inch called for.

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks for the info!

[@nickking8317]

nice saw dave I am looking at one of these and two carbatec 14 inch saws

[@fredreid8265]

Excellent review Dave, very detailed. I enjoy your video's, thankyou for your time

[@DavidStanton]

+Fred Reid . And thanks for leaving a comment Fred, I appreciate the feedback!

[@datadev1]

Nice shop upgraded. Congratulations

[@DavidStanton]

+WoodRodent . Thanks for that.

[@lmallard3788]

Can you install the riser block during the unpacking and putting together stage? My 2x4 truss roof rafters wont support the weight and I dont have a helper

[@DavidStanton]

Yes, an easy way to do it.

[@markvreeken]

Nice looking bit of kit you have there mate. I look forward to seeing some bandsaw projects . Enjoy.

[@DavidStanton]

+Mark Vreeken . I have to re learn from my days as an apprentice.....

[@woodworks3585]

Nice band saw looks great and performs very well. Congrats and I hope you get many happy years with it. Thanks for sharing...

[@DavidStanton]

+WoodCrafts 67 Terry Thomas WoodCrafts . Thanks Terry, I am sure I will when I get the opportunity to actually use it.

[@013rich]

looks like a sweet bit of kit! always enjoy watching your videos, keep 'em coming!!!

[@DavidStanton]

+Rich Drinkwater . Thanks for the support Rich!

[@larrycercone3728]

Thank you Dave, great description. Question, I don't have a beam to hold the top. Do you think the riser block can be installed while the main saw is laying on its side the stand the entire thing up?

[@DavidStanton]

Indeed you can. Pretty easy.

[@larrycercone3728]

Thanks Dave. I have been leaning towards the Powermatic but know my shop limitations. Lay it down put the block in then mess with the little bits. Again, thanks

[@tedleis1016]

@@DavidStanton Hi Dave, Good video. I am picking up a new Powermatic 14 tomorrow from Auburn WA tomorrow. I was also looking at the Laguna but it is $1399 at Rockler here in the US and the Powermatic saves me $500. I watch your live show when I can but have missed the past few. Found this video this morning via a youtube search and knew that you would do a good explanation. I was going to ask about lying it on its side for the riser block instalation as I don't have rafters. Good that someone else asked and you answered.

[@WeDareToPrepare]

For those that ask "why Powermatic?", I say likely because Festool doesn't make one! Ha.. Just kidding. Good video and good build/setup explanation. Have fun with the new toy! I mean tool.

[@DavidStanton]

+WeDareToPrepare . I hope to have a heap of fun with my new toy when I get a chance to use it. Thanks for the compliment.

[@mmanut]

Looks like the new Powermatic 14 comes with Carter alignment bearings. Quality. Nice Job.

[@DavidStanton]

+mmanut .Looks like a nice saw, smooth so far!

[@IzzyRetroRocker]

+David Stanton hi Dave how you going? I love your videos on all your product reviews I have seen so far. I recently bought this saw too, in Janurary this eyar,and whilst it perfoms great and is plenty powerful,unlike yours which I saw in the breif moment you were sawing in the start of the video, it seems to purr beautifully, but mine as soon as I start it up and mroe so when I shut it down and it comes to a stop, there is a constant loud tapping sound somewhere downstairs, and just today I tried something to see what could be making such a noise (and vibration along with it) so I removed the pully belt and started it up just drive the motorand as I anticipated, it ran perfectly, but when I re-attached the belt it did it again,and I can't for the life of me figure out what it could,be I just know it shouldn't be. would you have any theories as to what could be the colpret,or what do you suggest I try and look for to find out? cheers.

[@DavidStanton]

First thing to do is remove the blade to see if it is the bottom wheel. Did you buy new or second hand, Australia or elsewhere? Is the drive pulley connected properly and is there a grub screw that may be loose. Try to narrow it down to one spot. If it is new I fail to see if it would be a bearing. The other thing is to see if the motor pulley is inline with the wheel pulley. This is covered in the manual, how to align correctly. Hope these checks help.

[@IzzyRetroRocker]

G'day Dave,cheers for the quick reply,yes, It is new, from Carbatec actually (Melbourne store) so obviously still under warranty. to know knowladge the pully is connected properly, that is I assume it is as i didn't fiddle with it other than place the belt over the pully, and I made sure as I could to make sure it is alligned. where would this grub scre be located? I am alsot definitely sure it would be soemthing to do with the bottom wheel,and I should point out now that I remember, if I spin the wheel by hand,it makes the slightest sound at some point in the revolution, ofcourse not nearly as loud as when being driven by the motor, but I can tell it's that same sound which when spun by hand sounds like a friction or something of such. I hope the additional info I've given you has given you a bit more insight. thanks again.

[@DavidStanton]

Carbatec are usually very good with warranty. I work part time at the Sydney store and I know we do not hesitate if there is an issue. If it isn't something you can track down fast, give them a call at Melbourne. My saw performs very well, so should yours. Keep in mind that while I work for them there is no kick back to me or any direction from Carbatec regarding my videos...just the way I like it.

[@dmaifred]

Hi there, ive been enjoying mine for a year now. But i recieved it pre built from carbatec (a surprise to me when it arrived =( ). my question is how the heck to properly set up the door clasp screw/knob combo? Are you expected to use an allen key to fully screw in or out everytime? if so whats the knob for?

[@DavidStanton]

Yes, allen key every time. This was a fix because so many people were trying to use the handle as a twist like a door knob when it actually was a push shut into a receiver. Because the part on the handle that went into the receiver on the body inside the cabinet was steel it often was pushed out of position and into the path of the blade and dulling one side. The allen key method is the same as mine and it does what it does well even though it is a slow method.

[@dmaifred]

Thanks for the answer. Mystery finally solved, always confused by the 'pull' written on the knobs. Maybe a couple retro fitted case latches might be the go.

[@drooten]

@@dmaifred I agree. I think for such a 'high end tool' that both the top and bottom door could have been better thought through in terms of closing / opening knob. I ended up Drilling the 'nut' section larger by a fraction so I could perform a push / pull action to open it. However even this is not a pleasant experience.

[@CraigJBrain]

@@dmaifred I purchased the same model and asked Powermatic in the US about some of the changes - the silly hex bolt system is a result of needing to comply with European safety requirements - they had to do it if they wanted to market a similar model overseas and we (purchasers of the Australian model) ended up with the European safety changes. I hate the changes as they are a pain to use.

[@Deafgreekboy]

How is the 6 inch riser doing for you after some time and use? Worth installing, or no?

[@DavidStanton]

It was good while I owned the saw.

[@Essdubbya]

I managed to take a lump out of a finger when adjusting the tension on the motor pulley belt. I found that the easiest method was to place a jack under the motor, loosen all four bolts, jack up to fit belt, use a piece of timber about 600mm long braced against the top of the motor and the top of the doorway (use your knee to apply pressure to this 'lever') and a square set against the motor mounting rail. That leaves both hands free to tighten the motor mounting bolts which are somewhat awkward to get to. It is easier to install the 4" extension block before you fit the table. I have found that the last adjustment after everything else is to level the extension table. It seems to go out of level whenever you pivot the main table. Could be me.

[@DavidStanton]

Yes, the riser block may be easier to fit prior to lifting onto the base. Sorry to hear about catching your finger...didn't have any issues there. My table and extension sit perfectly. Have you had a look at the way yours are mounted? Might be an oversight?

[@tonymoore9889]

sir my question is with the riser in stalled, is the 1 1/2 hp motor not a bit undersized for resawing American timber such as walnut and oak?

[@DavidStanton]

+Tony Moore . Hi Tony. You are probably correct if your need was to resaw a lot of timber that dimension. My main use for this saw is every day work of around 2 inches thick but what a great thing to have if ever I need to resaw the occasional 12 inch log? It would be slower than a 3 horse machine and that is something I am willing to put up with for the versatility of this saw. Thank you for your input!

[@hoohah7716]

how heavy is the top of the saw (the part you supported with a strap), would you guess?

[@DavidStanton]

Not too heavy.

[@Mario753]

Hi Dave, Just got my new PM 14 and started the assembly process. Got hung up on installing the drive belt. Had a mate help me and for the life of me, could not get it to stay on the tracks. Checked that the pulleys lined up. looks OK. What the secret? Do you have a videos on this or some clever technique? Cheers Mario

[@DavidStanton]

Hi Mario. First suggestion is that the belt is on correctly, ie. the ribs are on the inside of the belt, not the outside. Second is to ensure the pulleys are aligned. You can do this by placing a piece of straight timber against the face of the pulley on the motor and see if it is true to the pulley on the lower wheel of the saw. Try this and see if it helps. The doctor will be in again tomorrow, lol.

[@christianodossantosesantos8426]

Thank you for the video. I have a question if you don’t mind. I’m struggling with the motor belt alignment (horizontal misalignment). Alignment and tension at the same time have been extremely frustrating. How did you put your motor in place, please? Thank you

[@DavidStanton]

Interesting point Christiano dos Santos e Santos. Just losen the bolts on the frame support for the motor a 1/4 turn and locate the motor in the correct position and then nip the bolts up again.

[@christianodossantosesantos8426]

@@DavidStanton thank you

[@adrianhanson9584]

Nice one, you will enjoy that I'm sure.

[@DavidStanton]

+Adrian Hanson . I hope so Adrian.

[@chezc.7173]

David, perhaps I missed it but what is the minimum thickness of wood you can cut with riser block installed? Thanks

[@DavidStanton]

There is no minimum thickness with the riser block installed. less than 1mm if you want to.

[@ГеоргийБел-ь6д]

Отличный подробный обзор! Спасибо!

[@garrydye2394]

David....what are your current thoughts on this bandsaw? This video is almost 2.5 years old so was wondering your current thoughts on it? Still loving it? Finding some things you don't love? Would you still recommend? Thanks for your input and great detailed video. I was on the fence but think this just pushed me over the edge toward another powermatic piece of equipment. Thank you.

[@DavidStanton]

Garry, there are now better bandsaws around. I would look at the new carbatec or laguna saws.

[@SuperKwame1]

Thanks I will be able to put my 14 inch Powermatic together after 5years.

[@DavidStanton]

+SuperKwame1 . Wow, that is a long time in the box! I hope it works just as well as it is for me.

[@sciamachystandard3676]

Is this the 3/4 horse ?

[@fredreid8265]

Hi Dave, thankyou for your quality video’s. I was wondering how you have found this saw after having it for a bit now? Do you do much re-sawing with it? Thanks, Fred

[@DavidStanton]

Not really a strong enough motor for resawing. I ripped around 60 metres of 90 x 45 pine with it and while I did it, the saw did bog down a bit here and there. This saw is great for smaller work with the bellows and light being massive assistance! I would recommend a 3 horse machine for resaw work.

[@berthosquire]

Good salesman this bloke.

[@bobbystanley8580]

Great looking saw! It should last you forever!

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks Bobby, solid as a rock!

[@gregimo2877]

Hi David great video and well explained have looked at this machine this week at Carbatec in Auburn do they installations or would you come to Sans Souci and do a install?

[@DavidStanton]

Hi Greg Imo! You are on your own as far as installation is concerned. It is pretty easy.

[@TitusRockjaw]

Could you repeat that confusing bit about the spring loaded bearing flying across the workshop please? Perhaps a demonstration?

[@DavidStanton]

Haha, Not pulling the machine apart to demonstrate, sorry.

[@TitusRockjaw]

***** Be a sport, go on, you know you can do it!!

[@mrk1075]

I’m getting ready to buy the 14 inch Grizzly bandsaw model G0555LX for my new business.

[@86rix]

yayy that means more projects! :) Dave may i ask a question regarding the video with festool domino 700, i cant find that aftermarket 6mm attachment anywhere in Australia?

[@DavidStanton]

+86rix Can't buy in Australia, search for Seneca online.

[@86rix]

+David Stanton thanks!

[@AaronJJacobs]

Hi, thanks for the helpful video. I'm having trouble installing the drive belt to the motor -- when I test it by turning the pulleys, it always walks off the end of the motor pulley. Is this a problem with not enough tension? How do I adjust it? I've tried pulling down as hard as possible on the motor, but it's really hard to get any leverage on it. Any tips?

[@DavidStanton]

Make sure the motor is in the right position laterally. There are adjustment slides to move the motor up, down and front back.

[@AaronJJacobs]

Turns out the problem was that the motor wasn't level back to front, so the belt was walking up hill. Thanks for inspiring me to take a second look!

[@DavidStanton]

Is it going fine now?

[@AaronJJacobs]

Yep, the belt stays on when I rotate manually and when I turn on the motor. When I turn it on there is a horrible metal on metal screeching noise for a brief moment, but I assume that's because I haven't gotten to any of the other adjustments yet; got stuck right at the beginning. I probably should have waited to turn it on. :-/

[@DavidStanton]

The drive pulley and bottom wheel pulley must be in line. The instructions show you how to do this.

[@TuomasL81]

What a beautiful machine! Love your videos :)

[@DavidStanton]

+TuomasL81 . Thank you for the compliment!

[@rustybill8702]

thank you for your reply

[@alzahraniabdulrahman]

I would like to talk about v-belt and alignment issue.. thanks,

[@DavidStanton]

What is the problem?

[@alzahraniabdulrahman]

David Stanton when i rotate the belt by hand it is slip out. I am afraid when i operate the machine it will get wear or tear.

[@DavidStanton]

You must align the top section of the saw with the base cabinet so that the pulleys are in line.

[@MikeKapotsy]

nice saw Dave, mine is great, just unable to add the riser block so I got him a big brother, seen it yet? there's a video about it on my channel

[@DavidStanton]

+Mike Kapotsy . Not yet Mike, will be sure to have a look...

[@tomthumb1671]

Hi Dave and thanks for very informative video, I kick myself as I seen the powermatic bandsaw on sale at carbetec at $1400 or so , but is now $1800 now , so I watched jays Channel comment and want to ask for some advice , I want to buy a 14 inch bandsaw like powrmatic and later put a riser block on , I've looked gumtree etc but they want 3/4 of a new bandsaw at carbetec models , so I like the grizzly model and seen a post of a Aussie in Perth with one but hasn't responded to post asking are they compatible in Australia but found a alternative at Ron Mack bandsaw woodworking looks similar to grizzly can you shed any light on grizzly power to australia capability and have you seen or herd any rests on the 2nd alternative to the powermatic the Ron Mack copy

[@DavidStanton]

Never seen any of the alternatives to the powermatic so can not comment. I notice that all bandsaws are getting more expensive as time goes by. The powermatics in Australia come with the riser block as part of the price.

[@tshev]

Very Nice!

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks!

[@tshev]

@@DavidStanton thank you for a lovely review!

[@regorsnitram7424]

Nice bandsaw! - If you can let us know where it was manufactured I promise to "shout" you a veritable feast of fish and chips!! Subscribed and hooked on the old Aussie with the psychopathically clean workshop!

[@DavidStanton]

Thanks Regor. An American brand owned by the Swiss manufactured in Taiwan. Salt but no mayonnaise on the fish please. Prefer lemon if that can be arranged. Lol.

[@regorsnitram7424]

***** Aah yes, Taiwan, but during its formative years it was better known as "A Isla Formosa" at a time when they were under Portuguese management and which granted India its post colonial independence one long century before the first Brits even ever first made it to Asia. Those Taiwanese certainly learned a thing or two about international trade back then, and they have since put that knowledge to good use. Great products. Now, about that Fish and Chips I owe you, will it be genuine cod fish or will anything do which has gills and a tail and which we yank out of the ocean and call "Codfish"? Bacalhau anyone? I'll let the chef know you're waiting ;) Love the workshop by the way, but do try to leave the odd spec of sawdust here and there.

[@bobmacca7602]

Another great video David, mate where do you find the time for all this, your work shop must be comfortable for night work! One tip that people might find useful is something I always do, its for safety. I learnt this as an apprentice, all the bandsaws in our Pattern shop had this, simply I put a dab of orange or yellow paint on my bandsaw blades so that I am aware when the blade is turning just in case of distractions or for that odd occasion when I may have had to move away from the machine, better than losing fingers.

[@DavidStanton]

Great tip Bob. I will make that a rule at my work shop. Regarding time...I work part time for an Australian machinery retailer to keep food on the table and also to meet like minded bods. As far as these videos are concerned it takes a full 8 hours for me to produce 5 minutes of video from concept through the start of upload. I have spent many hours working on a 25 minute video that will be released today, 12-6-2016. I really should think about getting sponsored! PS, I love working in my workshop at night but my wife would also like to see me now and then.

[@rudyardkipling7181]

Where did you get the riser block David?, Carbatec don't seem to have it.

[@DavidStanton]

It was all part of the bandsaw purchase, that is how carbatec sell it. Did you buy your powermatic bandsaw from Carbatec?

[@rudyardkipling7181]

***** No I am thinking about getting one - I shot them a query about it but haven't heard back from them yet, but now you confirm that I think I will go ahead with the purchase (pity it's not on sale ;-)) While I have you, were there any issues in getting it off the delivery truck? - I believe there are OH&S issues with packages over 50 kg and so you are meant to have a forklift or similar (I don't) - If it comes in several boxes I don't see why it would be a problem.

[@DavidStanton]

I took it home in the back of my little hatch back car. I didn't find it too difficult.

[@rudyardkipling7181]

***** Excellent - just what I wanted to hear - thanks mate.

[@rudyardkipling7181]

Just looking at your video again David - one of the boxes is 80 Kg - I used to be able to lift 100 Kg but that was a long time ago - did you get assistance or have you been eating your spinach? ;-) They want $152 for tailgate shipping - I would rather spend that on blades if I can,

[@johndennismacapagal7949]

Hi David! Please help! For quite sometime since assembly with no woodwork time, i recenty got to do a small low profile wooden stool. You know mortise and tenon joinery. Then i power on my bs and the upper wheel's tires keep on dismantling by itself! Do i need to replace it? The saw only had a few minutes since assembly and im quite frustrated not being able to use it when i need it. Blade tension is just ok. The lower wheel tire is just fine. I Am using a 1/4" blade. Any suggestion? Thanks in advance!

[@DavidStanton]

Replace it John. Also check that the blade is centre of the tyre, not the teeth centre of the tyre.

[@johndennismacapagal7949]

David Stanton yeah im rooting to replace it. At first i tried putting two strips of double sided tape but they could hold enough from the tensioned blade and comes off almost naturally. I see some orange looking urethane tyres being sold and keen on getting them. Powermatic doesnt seem to sell these tyres eh. Okay im going to replace them soon. Maybe i keep the lower wheel tire for awhile till they fail. Haha! One thing more, the height of this bs is a little high for my height. I wished the table height is just like table top height of the TS. Or is there a reason for this! Thanks David!

[@DavidStanton]

The height is to stop you getting a bad back because most uses for the bandsaw are intricate.

[@johndennismacapagal7949]

David Stanton sad to say, i have already injured my neck due to my work...i peep thru the microscope for the last 20 yrs or so and never thought of ergonomics! yes i only discovered that there are really expensive ergonomic microscopes costing about 2000 to 3000 US...and when i have money...its tools that im going to buy first! Hahaha!

[@mrglindsay3]

So! Where is the UNBOXING portion of the video? I guess it was magic it was out already.

[@DavidStanton]

Hi Geo Lin. Did you watch the video? Full unboxing starts at 3 minutes. It is there without any magic, just some patience.

[@alexkelner6407]

Hello David, great video again. I'm trying to choose between Powermatic bandsaw and Laguna 14 twelve. What is your opinion, which one of these two is better value? Kind regards. Alex

[@DavidStanton]

+Alex Kelner . To be honest Alex, I have never used or even seen the Laguna but from all reports it is a very good saw. One of the reasons I went with the powermatic was because of the air pump that blows the dust away from the pencil line I am following. If I am pushing a piece of wood through the saw from maybe 6 feet away that is too far for me to blow the dust away with my mouth. The cast iron spine was another tick for the powermatic as well as 12 inch DEPTH of cut. I hope that helps!

[@steran50]

Thanks for the video and the tips. I've actually been wondering what this bandsaw was like for a while. It actually looks to be a pretty well built bit of gear. David did you buy the riser block of carbatec ? and do you know if carbatec sell the longer blades for using the riser block ?. Thanks and I just subscribed to your channel.

[@DavidStanton]

+Stewart Rankin . Hi Stewart, thanks for subscribing! You may or may not know that I work part time for Carbatec although they have no say or input to my channel. Read the about section on my channel. That said. I buy a fair bit of the gear they sell purely because I am surrounded by it a few days a week. The band saw is a cracker and it is a very good performer. Carbatec sell the saw as a complete unit, riser block, longer blade and extended guards included. I also purchased a 19mm 3 TPI blade for ripping and I was pleasantly surprised. Just ripped a 150 x 19 mm piece of Tassie oak 1.8 metres long into two 150 x 8 mm pieces and it did it with ease. Dust collection is very good.

[@steran50]

+David Stanton HI, Just wanted to say thanks for the reply. That's good news that carbatec sell the saw complete. Now I just gotta start saving some $$$.

[@scottgates601]

Why did Carbatec stop selling Powermatic?

[@arthurcrosby5755]

Hey David, it’s a long time since you did this review but it is still relevant and useful. How are you finding this model after a couple of years experience with it? I was in Carbatec in Adelaide yesterday and was looking at this Powermatic band saw which is currently sale priced at $1439 (reduced from $1799). The model I looked at didn’t have the extension, which when fitted gives a cut height of about a foot as you clearly demonstrated. Next to it was the Carbatec BS-X3452C which is also a 2HP bandsaw with a cutting height capacity of about a foot as standard. This had a slightly larger, and lower, table than the Powermatic and was also reduced in price by a couple of hundred dollars to $1799. My question to you is, based on your experience with your saw and knowledge of the Carbatec models, would you choose the Powermatic or the Carbatec (and save $360 for extra blades and accessories)? Thanks for your great review.

[@DavidStanton]

Hi Arthur. I think I would get the 2 horse Carbatec. The top guide assembly looks to be a better design.

[@arthurcrosby5755]

Thanks for your advice David.

[@ginoasci]

you can throw the bearing guard across the room where you threw your cell phone. it seems like it's always in the way. that's a really nice bandsaw. powermatic really does a nice job. i had grizzly, which is also a nice saw, but it doesn't have the extension table, the quick release is not accessible from the front, and not blow hose. what i do like about the powermatic is that the motor is hidden inside the base.

[@DavidStanton]

Gino. I find that anything that encloses the blade, even if it is a bearing guard, will help with dust extraction. What do you think?

[@ginoasci]

Hi David, That's can be true, although the bearings are on the outside of the bottom wheel enclosure, so it may not make a difference. Give it a try by applying some suction, and see if it makes a difference on and off. What type of dust collection do you have?

[@adammartin9607]

I knew this would be a good episode. Good stuff dave. Watch out for those leeches 😉

[@DavidStanton]

+Adco Martin Glad you enjoyed it!

[@donnydez4431]

Bandsaw box?

[@DavidStanton]

+Donny Dez . That is definitely a possibility!

[@68cristian]

thanks heaps for this Dave. I will be ordering this very bandsaw today from Carbatec - on your advice -(and it is on xmas on special) - so will undoubtedly find that I will be reviewing this video again in detail once it arrives in my workshop !! Christmas pressy for myself ! Cheers for all your vids. p.s. are you sure the riser block comes included in the price? I asked previously and was quoted an extra $170 for the riser block.

[@DavidStanton]

Definitely has the riser block, longer blade, longer post and guards. Tell them I sent you!

[@joschmoyo4532]

Powermatic used to make all their stuff in America and it was good stuff. They used to make an excellent 14" thickness planer. Sadly it's all made in Taiwan now. Never been a big fan of this type of bandsaw myself. You would be hard pressed to rip anything at that full 12" with such a small motor. Not accurately anyway. But for hobby guys it's a serviceable machine. Don't waste your money on carbon blades, get Lennox HHS or better still carbide tipped. Personally I find any bandsaw with a wheel diameter less than 24 " never works very well. The small diameter is hard on the bands, weld and teeth.

[@stevestikihutable]

Tightening the bolts in the base box is a PIA, trying to get the washer, lockwasher and nut up around and on the bottom of the bolt with 2 fingers...the back 2 took an hour. Then...trying to tighten the drive belt, jeez! The motor only slides up or down, 4 bolts, you cant see with your arms and hands in there, you have to lift up the motor, keep it straight and then tighten the nuts, each of these required 2 hands...at the same time. Trying to get the tension correct and the motor level and tighten the nuts, you think you will go outta your mind. If I ever meet one of the so called, engineers that designed it, I'd have a heck of a time not busting his nose! One more thing, who doesn't get the 6" riser, maybe 1 in 50, so just put the flipping thing on at the factory and if that one bloke dosen't want it, he can fight taking it off! Other than that, it's a nice saw.

[@DavidStanton]

Hi Steve. Wow, you seem a bit annoyed with the designers. Not to worry, how is the saw going now?

[@stevestikihutable]

@@DavidStanton it's a lovely machine, takes every thing I throw at it, just a buggar to assemble. I work mostly with Sapele, gates, carriage doors, it cuts it like a dream. Thanks for your video, plenty of miles between us, but I think we'd be mates! If the political scene dosent calm down perhaps I'll swap California for down under.

[@Bubblegoose]

Not a bad way to spend $1,700 :D

[@DavidStanton]

+ollie young . Spend a dollar, save a dollar. I hope to use AND enjoy for a long time.

[@Bubblegoose]

+David Stanton I Just watched this video again, as I just picked up a carbatec 14" bansaw with the 6" riser kit second hand off gumtree yesterday. Doesn't have some of the nicer features of the powermatic, however it's a lot better than my homemade saw from the mid 20th century. Accuracy was not it's strong point.