Built to Last
The Reliant 14″ bandsaw, often imported and sold under different names during the 1980s and 1990s, is valued for its rugged cast-iron frame and straightforward construction. Though no longer produced, it remains a dependable saw for resawing, curve work, and general shop use. With a little care, this machine can still offer precise, clean cuts.
Essential Safety Practices
- Always unplug the saw before any work
- Confirm power is completely off
- Avoid working on old electrical parts when the machine is plugged in
Keep Your Bandsaw Clean
- Clear sawdust with compressed air or a vacuum
- Wipe surfaces with mineral spirits or degreaser
- Soak the blade to remove pitch and resin buildup
Inspect the Blade Regularly
Check the blade for signs of wear to avoid poor cuts or dangerous breakage.
- Dull or chipped teeth
- Cracks along the blade
- Blade drifting or wobbling during cuts
Tension and Tracking Basics
Correct blade tension and tracking improve cut quality and reduce premature wear.
Adjust tension until the blade deflects about 1/4” when lightly pushed. Use the tracking knob to keep the blade centered on the upper wheel. A visible line marked on the tire can help you watch the blade position as it spins.
Setting the Blade Guides
Proper guide setup supports accuracy and blade life.
- Side guides sit just behind the tooth gullet
- Thrust bearings engage only during cutting
- Replace worn guides with sealed roller types for better performance
Tire and Wheel Inspection Table
| Component | What to Check | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Tires | Cracks or flat spots | Replace with urethane if worn |
| Wheels | Debris or resin buildup | Clean using mineral spirits |
| Tracking | Blade centered on wheel | Adjust using tracking control |
Lubrication Points
A few drops of oil in the right places keeps adjustments moving freely.
- Trunnions and gear assemblies
- Blade tension knob
- Avoid greasing sealed bearing units
Table Maintenance
A clean, flat table supports smoother cutting operations.
Use paste wax and steel wool to remove surface rust. Check for flatness using a straightedge, and square the table to the blade by adjusting the trunnions as needed.
Drive Belt Checkpoints
- Look for belt cracks or shiny glazing
- Adjust for 1/2” deflection under finger pressure
- Ensure motor and lower wheel pulleys are aligned
- Consider link belts to minimize vibration
Worthwhile Upgrades
- Add a tall fence for better resaw control
- Install an LED light for improved visibility
- Try a zero-clearance insert for cleaner edges
- Upgrade to a larger dust port if needed
Enhanced Blade Control with Modern Guides
Sealed bearing guide kits are available for the Reliant 14″. These kits replace block-style guides and offer improved blade tracking and reduced heat—working with blade widths from 3/16″ to 1″.
Blade Options from Sawblade.com
Sawblade.com carries 93-1/2″ blades suited for this machine:
- Carbon steel: general cutting
- Bi-metal: long-lasting durability
- Carbide-tipped: tough applications
Improve Control with a New Guide System for Your Reliant 14″
Give your bandsaw a performance boost with the Reliant 14″ Guide Conversion Kit. This upgrade replaces the original guide blocks with sealed roller bearings for smoother tracking and better blade stability. Built from durable 6061 aluminum, the kit supports a wide range of blade sizes from 3/16″ to 1″, making it ideal for everything from tight curves to resawing. By reducing friction and supporting cleaner cuts, it helps extend blade life while delivering more accurate results. Easy to install and designed to fit your saw perfectly, this kit is a practical improvement for any shop using a classic Reliant 14″.
Explore More with Pro Tech Bandsaws
Looking for a deeper understanding of what Pro Tech bandsaws have to offer? Our article, “Pro Tech Bandsaws: Model Comparison and Blade Options,” breaks down the differences between key models and guides you through the blade types that match specific cutting needs. Whether you’re working with wood, metal, or composite materials, this resource can help you choose the right setup for your shop. Discover which Pro Tech model suits your tasks and how to match it with the proper blade.
While newer models offer more features, the Reliant 14” can still perform reliably with regular care. By inspecting blades, adjusting guides, and applying small upgrades, you’ll get years of accurate cutting from this classic machine.