Identifing Bandsaw Guides

Vann · 2 Dec 2015

Hi all.

I recently bought an old cast iron 30" bandsaw (made by Preston in Canada, in 1928). It has relatively modern guides that are most likely of European origin (due to the metric threads). I'm hoping someone might recognise them.

The agents, Louis Eichmann Ltd, operated from this Auckland (NZ) address from ~1960s to ~1980s.

These wear strips appear to be bakelite or similar. If I can find out who made the guides - and if they're still trading - I'd like to get some spare wear strips and a replacement screw or two. If not - I could get replacement screws made, and I could make replacement wear strips out of lignum vitae if I have to.

Any help would be appreciated.

Cheers, Vann.

Shrubby · 3 Dec 2015

Looks like Chaco to me
Chaco.ch
Matt

RobinBHM · 3 Dec 2015

+1 chaco

Ive got chaco guides that similar wear strips

acewoodturner · 3 Dec 2015

Scott and Sargent sell the parts in this country although you can go direct to the maker and save yourself a few quid. I had to buy the rear thrust bearing recently and it was eye-wateringly expensive!

woodfarmer · 3 Dec 2015

If you need to make guides, PTFE is a great plastic for bearing surfaces. I used to use it for propshaft and rudder bearings. Expensive but long lasting and self lubricating.

Vann · 5 Dec 2015

Thanks gentlemen. You are correct - they are almost certainly, Chaco guides.

I emailed Chaco, and they replied...

Barbara @ Chaco":1epowhh6 said:
It seems like an old version of a CHACO bandsaw guides.
We can still deliver elements as per attached pictures. These are made of CHACO low friction material.
Please check if dimensions are correct. Width is given, because it is a pressed part. For the 90° ones you can have a different lengths if necessary.

As for the other spare parts, could you please name what you need and we will have a look if we have some left in stock. Pictures of the individual parts with dimension will always help.