I managed to pick up a used bandsaw from Warco. Its about 30 years old but apart from being knocked around and a bit rusty I don't think its had 30 years worth of work.
I bought it on the understanding that it was working and Warco 6 months parts only guarantee. So I got it home, fitted a plug, turned it on, - and all the lights went out - not a good sign

The wiring connection cover on the motor had a dent in it, so I thought it must be touching the terminals. I removed the cover and found that there was a layer of insulating tape between the cover and the terminals. So my next thought was that perhaps the motor winding had shorted to earth and I started to disconnect it. At this point I looked at the wiring and stated to take pictures. This was an incredibly dangerous machine as it had been incorrectly wired. The machine body was not earthed, and one of the windings had been connected to the earth terminal.

After doing some measurements with a meter I surmised the correct connections (needed to sketch) and corrected it.

It was at this point I tried to join the 4x6 bandsaw group but my membership seems stuck at pending

. I wanted some confirmation that the wiring changes were correct.
I used an ancient 'meggar' to check for grounding faults and satisfied that all was OK and, with much trepidation, powered up the machine. Much to my relief (and surprise) it worked.
I then went on to check the worm drive which looked to be in perfect order, making me think that this saw had not seen much use.

Now all I have to do is straighten the tension adjusting tube (bent during some historic impact) and replace the blade. The cut is OK, I reckon 1mm off in the vertical over 5" and pretty much spot on for right angles.
So one last question for all you bandsaw experts - I want to use this for cutting steel, so what, if any, is the advantage of a variable pitch blade ? or would I be better off sticking with the common 14 (?) tpi one ? What is the best pitch of blade to use ?
Best Regards
picclock