If you’ve recently installed a new blade guide system on your bandsaw, you might’ve come across a small, round part called an eccentric post. While easy to overlook, this component is designed to make fine blade guide adjustments much simpler and much more accurate.
Eccentric posts are often included in modern guide kits that support the blade from both sides and behind using roller bearings. These posts make it easier to position the guide bearings without shifting the whole bracket or assembly.
What Is an Eccentric Post, Exactly?
An eccentric post is a mounting shaft with an off-center hole. Instead of being perfectly round on both the outside and inside, the hole sits slightly off to one side. This unique shape lets the post act as a simple cam when turned.
Rotating the post shifts the position of the guide bearing attached to it. This motion helps bring the bearing closer to or farther from the bandsaw blade, allowing you to set things precisely without guesswork.
Where They Show Up in Bandsaw Setups
You’ll find eccentric posts in several parts of the blade guide system:
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Bearing holders above and below the table
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Side bearing supports
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Thrust bearing mounts
They’re widely used in aftermarket upgrade kits, especially from brands like Carter, Laguna, and Sawblade.com. Many older saws can also be upgraded with guide kits that include this type of post, giving them a useful upgrade without modifying the entire saw.
Why These Posts Are Important
Guide bearings have to sit very close to the blade to do their job properly. Even a small gap can lead to vibration, poor tracking, or premature wear. Eccentric posts give you a way to set this spacing correctly.
Here’s what they improve:
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Small, controlled bearing movement
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Repeatable, easy-to-adjust positions
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Cleaner, straighter cuts
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Less friction and longer blade life
Setting the Position on an Eccentric Post
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Loosen the lock screw: This frees the post so it can turn.
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Turn the post slowly: Use a wrench or hex key. Watch the bearing shift slightly.
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Check the alignment: The bearing should sit just behind the blade’s gullet, not touching it.
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Tighten the screw again: Once the bearing is correctly positioned.
Helpful hint: If you mark the post with a dot or line, you’ll have a clear visual cue when making adjustments.
There’s also a full demonstration available on Sawblade.tv that shows how this part works in action.
Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Possible Cause | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Bearing keeps shifting | Loose or stripped locking screw | Tighten or replace screw |
| Bearing won’t stay aligned | Bent or worn eccentric post | Replace the post |
| Blade shakes or chatters | Misaligned or overtightened bearing | Readjust using eccentric post carefully |
What to Look for in a Good Guide Kit
If you’re shopping for a bandsaw guide kit that includes eccentric posts, check for:
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Proper fitment with your specific saw model
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Quality machining and smooth rotation of the post
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Durable components like sealed roller bearings or ceramic guides
Both Sawblade.com and Guidekits.com carry well-matched kits that include this feature, along with other upgrades that help improve blade control and reduce wear.
Ready to Upgrade Your Powermatic Bandsaw?
If you’re thinking about improving the performance of your Powermatic bandsaw, don’t miss our guide, “Enhance Powermatic Performance: Upgrade Kit Installation Made Simple.” This article walks you through what to expect when installing a new guide kit and offers tips to make the process quicker and easier. It’s a great starting point if you want smoother cuts, better blade control, and a more efficient setup.
A Simple Adjustment That Makes a Big Difference
Eccentric posts might not look like much, but they’re a key part of getting your bandsaw tuned correctly. Being able to adjust side and thrust bearings with minimal effort means more accurate cuts, better blade support, and a smoother cutting experience overall.