Startrite 352 has no guts

[Dennyg]

I have just been given a startrite 352 three phase bandsaw. I don't know it's history but its only a few years old and looks in pretty good nick. Problem is it seems to have no power, when you start to cut anything it just slows right up.
I'm pretty new to bandsaws and wondered if this could be a motor problem or a mechanical one.

 

[o0dunk0o]

when you say it slows right up do you mean the motor slows or do you mean the blade slows (motor runs at same speed)

 

[paulm]

Hi Denny,

Check the belt tension to the driven wheel to ensure it isn't slipping under load, then check the tension of the blade, in fact try replacing the blade for a fresh Tuffsaws one suitable for what you are cutting.

What are you cutting and what's the current blade configuration and condition ?

If there is still a problem then may be the motor. I swapped out the standard motor which I think was 1 1/2hp (single phase) for a 3hp on mine a few years ago so that it would cut at full depth more easily and quickly.

Cheers, Paul