WEN 9-Inch Band Saw (BA3959) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw (BA3959) is designed for precision cutting of various materials, primarily wood. Its compact size and powerful 2.8-amp motor make it suitable for both intricate and robust cutting tasks. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, proper setup, effective use, and routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your tool.

This image displays the WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw from the front, showcasing its main components including the motor housing, blade, work table, and miter gauge.

2. Important Safety Information

WARNING: Read and understand all instructions before operating this tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious personal injury.

General Safety Rules:

• Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, and a dust mask.
• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool.
• Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before plugging in.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
• Use proper accessories. Consult the instruction manual for recommended accessories.
• Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.

Band Saw Specific Safety:

• Ensure the blade guard is properly adjusted to just clear the workpiece.
• Never place hands in the path of the blade.
• Always use a push stick when cutting small pieces.
• Ensure the blade is properly tensioned and tracked before operation.
• Disconnect power before changing blades or performing maintenance.
• Connect to a dust collection system to minimize airborne dust.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact WEN customer service immediately.

• WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw (BA3959)
• 1/4-inch wide blade (pre-installed or included separately)
• Work Table
• Miter Gauge
• Rip Fence
• Adjustable Blade Guard with Ball-Bearing Supports
• 2-1/2-inch Dust Port
• Instruction Manual

This image provides a side view of the band saw, illustrating its overall structure and the placement of key components such as the motor and dust port.

4. Setup and Assembly

4.1 Unpacking and Placement:

1. Carefully remove the band saw and all components from the packaging.
2. Place the band saw on a stable, level workbench or stand. Ensure adequate space around the tool for safe operation and material handling.

4.2 Work Table Assembly:

1. Attach the work table to the band saw frame using the provided hardware. Ensure it is securely fastened and level.
2. Insert the table insert into the opening around the blade.

4.3 Blade Installation and Tracking:

The band saw typically comes with a 1/4-inch blade pre-installed. If not, or if replacing the blade:

1. Open the upper and lower wheel covers.
2. Carefully place the blade around the upper and lower wheels, ensuring the teeth point downwards towards the table.
3. Adjust the blade tension knob (usually at the top) until the blade is taut but not overly tight.
4. Adjust the blade tracking knob (usually at the rear of the upper wheel housing) while manually rotating the upper wheel. The blade should run centered on the rubber tires of the wheels.
5. Close the wheel covers.

This image shows the band saw with its wheel covers open, revealing the upper and lower wheels where the blade is installed and tracked.

This close-up highlights the blade guide bearings and the tension adjustment knob, crucial for proper blade alignment and stability during operation.

4.4 Dust Port Connection:

Connect a 2-1/2-inch dust collection hose to the dust port located on the side of the saw to manage sawdust and maintain a clean work environment.

This image shows the rear side of the band saw, including the motor and the dust collection port, which is essential for maintaining a clean workspace.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Powering On/Off:

Locate the ON/OFF switch on the front of the saw. Press the 'ON' button to start the motor and the 'OFF' button to stop it.

5.2 Adjusting Blade Guard:

Adjust the blade guard so that it is approximately 1/4 inch above the workpiece. This provides maximum protection while allowing the blade to cut effectively.

5.3 Using the Miter Gauge:

The miter gauge slides in the slot on the work table and is used for making accurate crosscuts at various angles. Loosen the locking knob, set the desired angle, and tighten the knob before making a cut.

This image shows a detailed view of the miter gauge, positioned in the table slot, used for guiding workpieces at precise angles for crosscuts.

5.4 Using the Rip Fence:

The rip fence attaches to the work table and is used for making straight rip cuts. Position the fence parallel to the blade at the desired width and lock it in place.

This image provides a close-up of the band saw blade passing through the table insert, with the rip fence visible on the left, used for guiding straight cuts.

5.5 Table Bevel Adjustment:

The work table can be beveled up to 45 degrees for angled cuts. Loosen the table locking knob, tilt the table to the desired angle using the angle scale, and then tighten the knob.

This image demonstrates the band saw's work table tilted at an angle, illustrating its beveling capability for angled cuts.

This close-up view details the mechanism that allows the work table to tilt, including the locking knob and the angle scale for precise adjustments.

This image provides a detailed view of the angle scale and indicator, used to set the precise bevel angle of the work table for accurate angled cuts.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning:

• Regularly clean sawdust and debris from the work table, blade guides, and inside the wheel covers.
• Use a vacuum cleaner or compressed air (with caution and eye protection) to clear dust from hard-to-reach areas.
• Ensure the dust port is clear and connected to a dust collection system during operation.

6.2 Blade Replacement:

Replace the blade when it becomes dull or damaged. Follow the blade installation steps in Section 4.3. Always use the correct blade size (59-1/2 inches in length, 1/8 to 3/8 inches in width) for optimal performance and safety.

6.3 Bearing Inspection:

Periodically inspect the blade guide bearings for wear. Worn bearings can affect cutting accuracy and blade life. Replace them as needed.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information:

The WEN 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw (BA3959) is backed by a two-year warranty. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service.

9.2 Customer Support:

For technical assistance, replacement parts, or warranty claims, please contact WEN customer service. Have your model number (BA3959) and purchase information ready when contacting support.

For more information, visit the official WEN website or refer to the contact details provided with your product packaging.