788 Tension adjustment!

[GrayBeard]

They must not test the new saw very thoroughly...

I had to get into mine and turn that 'tension rod' four full turns to get tension on the blade.
Started out running at about 3/4's position and ended up this morning I couldn't get enough with it cranked all the way.

Now about 3 1/2 and she's singing a pretty note!

~~~GrayBeard~~~

[ufgator]

GrayBeard; where is "tension rod" on the 788?  I seem to have missed something.  Thank You!

[dgman]

Hey GrayBeard, as you use your 788 the  surfaces on the blade clamps start to get smooth and the blades start to slip. Take the thumb screw out and sand the flat end with 150 or 220 grit sand paper. Also sand the ends of the blades to remove any oil that are there from the manufacturing process. If the blade slips in the blade clamp, you cant tension properly.

[GrayBeard]

Hey GrayBeard, as you use your 788 the  surfaces on the blade clamps start to get smooth and the blades start to slip. Take the thumb screw out and sand the flat end with 150 or 220 grit sand paper. Also sand the ends of the blades to remove any oil that are there from the manufacturing process. If the blade slips in the blade clamp, you cant tension properly.

Did all that BEFORE getting into the 'head' and tightening up that rod.

Just was a bit sloppy from the factory and I didn't feel like taking it over to the Service Center so soon!

~~~GrayBeard~~~

[GrayBeard]

GrayBeard; where is "tension rod" on the 788?  I seem to have missed something.  Thank You!

Somebody who can describe it much better than I posted this adjustment a week or so ago.
Maybe "Search" for 'tension' will lead you to it.

Otherwise I will have to tell you later! Waiting for BBQ sauce to cool so I can label it, for now.

[dgman]

Hey GrayBeard, The problem with making this adjustment is it changes the geometry of the arms. This adjustment is usually done when a knocking sound appears in the upper arm. After making this adjust many times, I lost the thickness capacity of the saw which is about 2". I couldn't cut anything thicker than 3/4" Also blades were breaking prematurely. I didn't want to be without a saw while it was in the shop so I bought a new 788. Still haven't sent in the old saw yet!