How to correct bandsaw drift

[Dave Bagwill]

My 12" craftsman bandsaw blade does drift - I guess most of them do - and while I'd love a set of Carter guides for it, they cost more than what I paid for the machine.

I've installed some cool blocks, tensioned the blade - 1/4" - still get some drift. The fence is not sophisticated enough to angle properly to correct for the drift.....any ideas?
Thanks

[ken cierp]

You are going to have to fasten a board to the fence and shim it to match the drift angle --

For those not familiar with bandsaw drift here's a good article

http://www.newwoodworker.com/bsblddrft.html

[Dave Bagwill]

Good link, thanks.

Is 1/4" of blade sufficient to cut up to 3/4" mdf? I do have a 1/2" blade in reserve.

[dave d]

Just to clarify the question, are you asking if 3/4" mdf can be cut with a 1/4" blade?

If so, yes indeed. A wider blade, like 1/2" or 5/8" is only better if you are re-sawing.

[ken cierp]

Ditto DD

Our 1/2 HP 12" Craftsman is equipped with a 1/4" 6 tpi blade -- this is the saw I use to rough cut 3" neck blanks.