I gave you a reply to your post on another forum. The post should not be removed. The spring fits around the post. The tension lever rides on the post when you apply tension.
Yes, it looks like a tension issue. One way to tell, apply tension, then release the tension. If there is a bow in the blade, it is a tension issue. Tension issues are usually caused by the set screw or thumb screw.
Welcome to the Village forum from Tennessee. I spent the first 60 years of my life in Minnesota. As a Pegas dealer, if you have any questions, give me a holler.
Yes, the ones I sell are large and don't fit the holes on the Pegas and other saws. I sell these as they will hold over 12 dozen blades with no problem.
I too give projects away. My latest are the Alex Fox Baskets, the modified ones. I call them "Blessing Baskets". Lots of people our age has health issues and the baskets can be a blessing to them.