10" direct drive craftsman bandsaw Model 113.244400

by Larry
(Benton Harbor, MI)

This saw was given to me 2 years ago. I just pulled it out of the corner and started cleaning it up.I have already replaced the original tires with urethane tires.
Motor & wheels are quiet, but they'll need maintenance. Lower wheel has a slight wobble in it when you grab it and move it back and forth, without blade on it.
Made the required adjustments with the blade tracking, then the blade guides and blade thrust bearings(upper & lower). However the thrust bearing guide holders(where the thrust bearing shaft goes), are loose. They are held to bracket with an internal teeth lock washer. These lock washers are not available, so I used an internal tooth lock washer, but does not hold the guide holders tight. They still wobble. This causes bottom of thrust bearing to contact the back of blade first. Are there upgrades for the blade guides, thrust bearing bracket assemblies?
Was able to make a bandsaw box just to experiment with the blade(1/8") The blade came off twice before completing all the cuts.
I need to cut 18" circles, and learned to make a jig to cut these circles with band saw. However my blade comes off when I try to cut the circle. It has come off about 6-8 times. It appears the blade is dull, and I may have twisted the blade slightly.
Ordered new 3/16" blade, still waiting for it. So, my blade continues to come off when attempting to cut my circle, which I need to do, along with cutting curved legs for tables.
Any feed back would be appreciated.
Thank you
Larry