Modding a Rigid Bandsaw to cut steel

[astroracer]

Thanks John,
I figured I would have to recalculate blade speeds and pulley sizes for my saw. I guess I was more curious as to what bearing blocks or jack shafts you used. I probably should have asked that rather then pulley sizes...
Thanks again.
Mark

[JohnUlaszek]

Mark,
We used standard .750" keyed shaft available from McMaster Carr. The bearings are sealed cartridge bearings in a machined block. Calculating pulley ratios and then designing the thing to have proper belt tension is critical or the blade will stall on heavier cuts.
The pictures don't show how it attaches but it has a frame that ties the motor and saw together at the base and makes it much more rigid than the factory setup. Paul is thinking about selling these if there is enough interest but only after he has had time to work out all the bugs and do some durability testing. John Parsons has agreed to test one out and see if he can break it.