Thread: Looking to upgrade my metabo bas317 band saw blade guide

If that's the same as Elektra Beckum's 315 guides, then the disc is for the thrust,
and the side rollers are bearings,
I fail to see what the issue is with them, infact I reused those parts when the guides crumbled on my dad's one.
I thought this was going to be another thread about the worst zinc castings known to man.

I'd hold out on the guides as I don't think you could improve matters beyond the original setup.
Unless you're hoping to achieve something like a Carter stabilizer type deal for very tight curves?

Though you mentioned keeping the blade straight, so if the case, I'd be looking into tires and tensioning system instead,
as the term "beam tension" is just about the most important factor in keeping a blade straight.
(provided things are set up well and no other issues present)

You'd likely need upgrading of the tensioning system to reap the rewards of that, which might likely have a knock on effect
on braking other bits along the way,one would hope the wheels are not made from the same cheddar.

Not seen anyone put new tires on these, but haven't looked.
TBH the machine at the folks is pretty smooth running idle, but I wonder if things can be improved.
That would likely be the best chance to make things run well with that width blade you have already, without going down the other rabbit hole.
Might be worth googling if you can find someone who has done so.

Good luck

Tom

Welcome to the forum and good luck.

The first thing I like to see on a BS setup is the position of the band on the drive wheel.
Maybe take a picture and post it here.

In my experience roller bearing side guides aren't any better than any other system. As others have said correct setup and blade tension are much more important in achieving satisfactory performance. What size blade do you have on the machine and what type of use are you envisioning?