Powermatic 1791217 Riser Block for 1791216K Bandsaw

 (16 customer reviews)

April 2007: As another reviewer stated I got this block with the purchase of the 14 inch bandsaw as a freebie. I too noticed others having issues with the alignment of the riser block and I went through my own dealings with Powermatic/WMH tool reps to resolve it.

The primary concern for most, and for myself at first, was the issue of coplanar wheels. I went through two blocks and both did not keep the wheels aligned coplanar wise. The offset is about 3/8 inch.

I called Powermatic/WMH three times. Call number one suggested cutting 1 of the pins off. Which didn't solve it so I cut both as did other users. This left me with a riser block that was offset from the upper assembly by 3/8 inch. Not terribly attractive. It also removes pins, though the bolt should have kept the assemblys from moving, I did not feel comfortable with that.

Exchanged for block number 2. (Confession, I did not get this from amazon or I'd be spending a lot of time waiting...Read more

I recently purchased the Powermatic 14" bandsaw and ordered the riser block from Amazon. It came a few days later and nicely matches the mustard yellow saw, you either love the color or hate it. One thing I wish someone had told me was what the riser block kit includes, well for anyone wondering, it comes with the block of course that you put between the saw frame halves. Also included is a metal guard for the left side of the saw where the blade is travelling up to the upper wheel. This is a nice replacement to the plastic one included with the saw. There is also a new guard for the right hand side/front of the saw where the blade is coming down to the upper guide bearings. Lastly there is the main upper guide bar which is the same as the unit which comes with the saw, it's just longer.

I was able to install the system myself, but be careful, the top of the saw is bulky enough to damage you and itself if dropped.

The main guide rod has a V notch ground...Read more

After reading other reviews, I was leery about getting this riser block, but I wanted the added capacity. Well, it arrived today, and the entire conversion took less then 1 hour. (Can be done by one person, if planned out correctly - like having the bolt in close reach while putting the top back on - and being careful not to drop the top assembly during removal and replacement.)

These are the answers to the questions I had before ordering:
First and foremost, the riser block fit was perfect. It went on with a couple of mallet hits - no grinding of pins or removal needed. Wheels remained in total alignment and coplanar.

Second, the picture shown here is wrong, the item is Powermatic "gold" not Jet white.

And even though it does not state so, this kit also include a new 105" blade.

Over all, a smooth upgrade to a very nice saw.