Mod to tension knob on scroll saw

[feol]

Has anyone modified the tension knob on their saw to allow for faster blade changes for inside cuts. I have to turn the knob back and then retension by doing the reverse evertime. I see that Jet, Black and Decker and Peugot saws have a lever at the top of the tension screw which allows for the tension to be slackened and then re set by flipping the lever. Many thanks to anyone who can help

[frankorona]

I also want to change it, you lose a lot of time tightening the blade, knob also suffers wear huge, needs to be replaced often, (well I think that is the mark of the jigsaw that I have) If someone could guide us to change the tension bar, I thank you in advance.

[jscott2]

I don't know what kind of saw you have but an idea comes to mind that might work: on your saw, you turn the knob to put tension on the blade.  On the Skil 3335-01 http://www.skilbenchtop.com/benchtop-tools/skil-scroll-saw/index.html, and others, you turn the lever to adjust the tension and flip the lever to tension and release the blade.  With some luck, you might be able to find a lever with a suitable threaded rod to replace the knob and threaded rod on your saw.

It would take some work to get a compatible piece but you might also be lucky first try.

Another thought - a larger knob or a lever would be easier to turn but not a convenient as the flip lever.  Lee Valley http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?cat=1,43455&p=61994 has a selection of knobs for jigs, etc that might work.  Or you can make your own https://www.ridgidforum.com/forum/t16952/.

If the threaded rod on your saw doesn't turn (only the knob turns and the rod moves up and down through the knob) then something like this http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=45034&cat=1,43455,61994&ap=1 might work.

Someone else will probably come up with a simpler solution but it's my 2 cents (Can.) worth.

Best of luck,
Jim