This project goes over the build of a simple Bandsaw from old car wheels. Car wheels are big and heavy, but in many ways, they are ideal for bandsaws. The blade guides help keep the blade straight as it goes through the log and also stops the plate being pushed off wheels.
Making bandsaw wheels Many people prefer to use self-aligning bearing flanges for the wheels like the one pictured here. If you go that route, you should glue and bolt the bearings to the wheels very firmly. The wheels are cut from some 20 mm thick MDF. I don’t like using MDF, but people often ask if MDF can be used for the wheels.
I have been told that pneumatic car tires are absolutely the best band wheel there is, but that most manufacturers won’t use a simple car tire because the mill then looks “Homemade”. I have also been told that pneumatic tires extend the band blade life, because they act as a natural shock absorber for the band blade and that the band blade runs cooler. I have also been told that tires will clean a blade and therefore no need to lubricate the band blade when using car tires as the band wheels.
homemade bandsaw mill wheels Related Question:
How much does it cost to build your own sawmill?
The cost of a portable mill is about $1,500 for the base mill, plus an optional $500+ for a mechanical jack-hoist to get the logs up on the bed. A stationary mill, with all components but the engine bought new, would cost $5,000 or $6,000, and about half that used — and you still have to install it.
Are portable sawmills worth it?
A portable sawmill can be worth the investment. It can provide a source of wood for your own projects and give you a side business. For a source of lumber, as well as a profitable business, a portable sawmill can be a key piece of equipment on your farm.
Can you mill green wood?
Re: Using green wood If it is left open, i.e. not being sheathed over both sides so it can dry in place, it will be fine. There are days when I might need a few boards for a shed or whatever outbuilding, I’ll throw a log on the mill and saw them, and then nail them right up.
What is a beam saw?
What Are Beam Saws? These saws have a large blade used to cut different sized logs into beams. Often using circular blades which are available in a variety of different styles, beam saws are useful for a range of different jobs.