Product Overview
The General International 90-040 M1 is a robust 12-inch woodcutting band saw designed for precision and durability in woodworking applications. Featuring a 2/3HP motor, this saw is equipped with a sturdy welded steel frame, precision-balanced wheels with replaceable tires, and an easy-to-assemble open base steel stand. It offers two cutting speeds for optimal results in various wood types and includes a deluxe dual-position rip fence system and a miter gauge for versatile cutting operations. Safety features include a lock-out switch to prevent unauthorized use.
Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when operating power tools. Read and understand all instructions before use. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask. Avoid loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair that could get caught in moving parts.
- Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean, well-lit, and free of clutter. Ensure adequate space around the saw for safe operation. Do not operate in damp or wet locations.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the saw is properly grounded. Do not operate with damaged cords or plugs. Disconnect power before making adjustments, changing blades, or performing maintenance.
- Blade Safety: Ensure the blade is properly tensioned and the blade guides are correctly adjusted. Never attempt to clear sawdust or adjust the blade while the saw is running.
- Material Handling: Always use the rip fence or miter gauge for accurate and safe cuts. Support long or wide workpieces to prevent tipping. Never force the workpiece into the blade.
- Unauthorized Use: Utilize the safety lock-out switch with a removable key to prevent unauthorized operation, especially in shared workshops or homes with children.
Setup and Assembly
The 90-040 M1 band saw requires assembly of its stand and certain components before operation. Refer to the included assembly instructions for detailed diagrams.
- Unpacking: Carefully unpack all components and verify against the packing list. Retain all packaging materials until assembly is complete.
- Stand Assembly: Assemble the open base steel stand according to the provided instructions, ensuring all fasteners are securely tightened.
- Mounting the Saw: Securely mount the band saw unit onto the assembled stand. Ensure it is stable and level.
- Table Installation: Attach the extra-large 21-1/2" x 15-3/4" cast iron table to the saw body. Ensure it is properly aligned and secured.
- Blade Installation and Tensioning: Install the 88-inch blade, ensuring it is correctly seated on the wheels. Adjust the blade tension using the accessible knob until it is firm but not overly tight.
- Blade Guide Adjustment: Adjust the precision easy-adjust European style blade guide bearings to provide proper support to the blade without binding. Ensure the guides are close to the workpiece but do not touch the blade when idle.
- Rip Fence and Miter Gauge: Install the deluxe dual-position rip fence system and the miter gauge with aluminum crosscut fence. Familiarize yourself with their adjustment mechanisms.
- Electrical Connection: Connect the saw to a properly grounded 120-volt AC/DC power source.
Operating Instructions
Before operating, ensure all safety checks are performed and the saw is properly set up.
- Power On/Off: Insert the key into the safety lock-out switch. To start the saw, press the ON button. To stop, press the OFF button. Always remove the key when the saw is not in use.
- Changing Blade Speeds: The saw offers two wheel speeds (445 & 970 rpm) and corresponding blade speeds (1444 & 3150 lin. Fpm). To change speeds, open the hinged doors and adjust the belt position on the motor and wheel pulleys. Always disconnect power before changing speeds.
- Blade Selection: The saw accommodates blade widths from 1/8" to 3/4". Select the appropriate blade width for your cutting task; narrower blades are for tighter curves, wider for straight cuts.
- Blade Tension Adjustment: Proper blade tension is crucial for accurate cuts and blade longevity. Adjust the tension knob until the blade is taut but not over-stressed. Refer to the manual for specific tensioning guidelines.
- Blade Guide Adjustment: Adjust the upper and lower blade guides so they are just clear of the blade teeth and provide firm support to the blade. The upper guide should be set approximately 1/4 inch above the workpiece.
- Using the Rip Fence: For straight cuts, position the rip fence parallel to the blade at the desired width. Securely lock the fence in place.
- Using the Miter Gauge: For crosscuts or angled cuts, insert the miter gauge into the table slot. Adjust the angle as needed and secure it.
- Cutting Operation: With the saw running, slowly and steadily feed the workpiece into the blade. Maintain a firm grip and use push sticks when necessary, especially for small pieces.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your band saw. Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean sawdust and debris from the table, blade guides, and inside the saw cabinet. Use a vacuum cleaner or compressed air (with caution and appropriate PPE).
- Blade Replacement: Replace dull or damaged blades promptly. Follow the blade installation procedure in the Setup section.
- Blade Guide Inspection: Periodically inspect the blade guide bearings for wear. Replace them if they show signs of damage or excessive play.
- Wheel Tire Inspection: Check the rubber tires on the band wheels for wear or damage. Replace them if necessary to ensure proper blade tracking.
- Lubrication: Apply light machine oil to pivot points and adjustment mechanisms as recommended in the full product manual. Avoid lubricating the blade or wheels.
- Belt Inspection: Check the drive belt for wear, cracks, or slippage. Replace if damaged.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your band saw.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Saw does not start | No power; Safety key not inserted; Overload protector tripped | Check power connection; Insert safety key; Reset overload protector |
| Blade wanders or cuts inaccurately | Incorrect blade tension; Worn blade guides; Dull blade; Improper blade tracking | Adjust blade tension; Inspect/replace blade guides; Replace blade; Adjust blade tracking |
| Excessive vibration or noise | Loose components; Unbalanced wheels; Worn bearings; Improper stand assembly | Check all fasteners; Inspect wheels for damage; Check bearings; Re-check stand assembly |
| Blade breaks frequently | Over-tensioned blade; Incorrect blade guides; Forcing workpiece; Blade too wide for curve | Reduce blade tension; Adjust blade guides; Do not force cuts; Use narrower blade for curves |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 90-040 M1 |
| Wheel Size | 12 inches |
| Motor | 2/3 HP |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Wattage | 768 watts |
| Wheel Speeds (2) | 445 & 970 rpm |
| Blade Speeds (2) | 1444 & 3150 lin. Fpm |
| Blade Width Capacity | 1/8" - 3/4" |
| Blade Length | 88 Inches |
| Table Size | 21-1/2" x 15-3/4" (Cast Iron) |
| Product Dimensions | 46.36 x 40.01 x 161.49 cm (18.25 x 15.75 x 63.58 inches) |
| Item Weight | 74.8 kg (165 lbs) |
| Colour | Green |
| Included Components | Instructions for Assembly, Stand, Wood-cutting Bandsaw |
Warranty and Support
This General International 90-040 M1 Woodcutting Band Saw comes with a 2-Year Limited Warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or to order replacement parts, please contact General International customer service. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
For the most up-to-date contact information, please refer to the official General International website or the documentation included with your product.
