I Can't BELIEVE I Got This Tool for JUST $15!
If you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional craftsman, you know the thrill of finding the right tool at an unbeatable price. Recently, I stumbled upon a fantastic deal during a weekend adventure to some local tag sales. The excitement of finding a Porter-Cable 7724 Variable-Speed PortaBand Saw for just $15 is something I still can't believe. This blog will take you through the journey of refurbishing this gem, sharing tips and insights along the way.
The Thrill of the Hunt
Spring is the perfect season for yard sales, tag sales, and flea markets. It's that time of year when hidden treasures await discovery. As I was out and about with my partner, we decided to explore a few tag sales, not expecting much. However, fate had other plans when I stumbled upon a flea market setup filled with tools and peculiar items.
Among the assortment of goods, I spotted the Porter-Cable metal bandsaw. The price tag read $15. Not $20, not $10—just $15. I couldn't believe my luck! With a quick inspection, I found that it actually worked, and it even featured a variable speed option. This was a steal, considering these tools typically fetch around $200 on eBay.
Assessing the Condition
Despite the incredible price, the bandsaw required some TLC. It was a bit rusty, had a broken handle, and some of the bearings were seized up. However, the most crucial part was that it still turned on. I was eager to see if it could cut metal, so I decided to put it to the test.
Before diving into cutting, I ordered a replacement handle to ensure I could operate it safely. The last thing I wanted was to end up with a tool that was difficult to use due to a missing or broken component.
Testing the Bandsaw
With the bandsaw powered on, I grabbed a drill bit to see if it could handle cutting metal. As I attempted to cut, I noticed a bit of wobble, which is expected for an old tool. However, it managed to make a straight cut. The rust and wear were evident, but I was confident that with some restoration efforts, I could breathe new life into this machine.
Disassembling the Bandsaw
To start the refurbishment process, I needed to disassemble the bandsaw. I began by removing the blade, which was in rough shape. It was clear that the saw had seen better days, but nothing that a little elbow grease couldn't fix. I placed the parts that needed cleaning into a rust remover solution called Evapo-Rust.
As I worked through the disassembly, I was impressed by how robust the bandsaw was, even in its worn state. The bearings still moved, although they needed a thorough cleaning. It was a reminder that sometimes, tools from the past can still have plenty of life left in them.
Cleaning and Refurbishing
Next, I tackled the rust. This bandsaw had clearly been exposed to the elements for years, and it showed. I used the Evapo-Rust on the rusty components and followed up with some WD-40 to lubricate any moving parts. After a good cleaning, the bandsaw started to look much better.
It was also time to address the paint job. A fresh coat of paint not only revitalizes the tool's appearance but also offers some protection against future rust. I carefully masked off the areas I wanted to protect and applied a few coats of high-quality spray paint designed for metal surfaces.
Reassembling the Bandsaw
Once everything was cleaned and dried, it was time to reassemble the bandsaw. I carefully put each component back in its rightful place, making sure everything was secure. I even used thread lock on the screws to prevent them from loosening over time.
As I worked, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It’s rewarding to take something that seems broken and give it new life. I was excited to see how well the refurbished bandsaw would perform once I had it all back together.
Final Testing
With the bandsaw fully reassembled, it was time for the moment of truth—testing its cutting capabilities. I had high hopes, considering how much effort I had put into restoring it. To my delight, the bandsaw cut through metal like butter. It was performing better than I had anticipated!
The variable speed feature worked flawlessly, allowing for adjustments depending on the material I was cutting. It felt incredible to have transformed this rusty old tool into a reliable piece of equipment once again.
Conclusion
Finding a high-quality tool at a yard sale for just $15 is a win in any DIY enthusiast's book. The process of refurbishing the Porter-Cable 7724 Variable-Speed PortaBand Saw not only saved me money but also provided a rewarding experience. If you ever come across a neglected tool, don’t hesitate to give it a second chance. With a little effort and creativity, you can turn something old and rusty into a valuable asset for your workshop.
Join me in the journey of restoration, and who knows, you might just find your own hidden gem at the next tag sale!