Running old vertical bandsaw with 'lawn tractor engine'

foose89 · July 26, 2006, 01:24:22 PM

Is it possible. All antecdotal advice welcome. thanks.

Fla._Deadheader · July 26, 2006, 06:14:37 PM

Why not ???

Snag · July 26, 2006, 06:52:18 PM

I will second that. But, thats about all I can tell you. I'm sure the members here that can help guide you are going to request more info. Horizontal or vertical engine? Make and model of engine and bandsaw? I would also take some pics, a visual of the setup would help your cause...

Fla._Deadheader · July 26, 2006, 06:59:43 PM

Unless it's a BIG Bandsaw, a 4HP engine should run it just fine ???

foose89 · July 27, 2006, 10:28:13 AM

Ok, any advice on how to approach it.

sawguy21 · July 27, 2006, 10:59:06 AM

If it is a vertical shaft engine which most lawn tractors come with, you are going to need a 90 degree gearbox either at the engine or the blade. Would be simpler and more efficient to use a horizontal shaft engine.

Larry · July 27, 2006, 11:58:29 AM

Shop bandsaws normally come from the factory with the band speed somewhere round 3,000 sfpm. That's a good compromise speed. Old saws ran slower...especially if babbit bearings. Mostly re-sawing and have the horsepower you can run the speed up to 4,000 sfpm for better results. At 4,000 sfpm you will throw old tires off the wheels so you need new tires and/or glue em on.

If this is some kind of sawmill type thing forget all the above.

wiam · July 27, 2006, 10:28:32 PM

You do not need a gearbox to run a verticle shaft engine. A belt will go around a corner. Just put a twist in it. It works on my 20 hp briggs.

Will

sawguy21 · July 27, 2006, 10:52:42 PM

I have seen that done but am not a fan of that approach. Glad it works for you.

foose89 · July 28, 2006, 10:03:07 AM

Keep'em coming guys..

foose89 · July 29, 2006, 10:43:14 AM

Anyone?

PineNut · July 29, 2006, 03:18:15 PM

Have on old (over 30 years) Yazoo lawn mower. It has 3 belts with 90 degree twist. Have not had any problems with the belts. Just remember which way to twist when you replace them.

Don_Papenburg · July 29, 2006, 10:28:59 PM

With the price of gas I would seriously look into an electric motor. A small diesel would be my second choice if I had no elecrtic . then a tredmill for unruley kids , or beast of burden.