Contact wheel size on a surface grinder

[rtj1981]

I recently acquired a surface grinder and am looking to convert it to use belts. From what I have seen most people seem to use a 2" wide contact wheel so they can run the belts they use on their grinders. My question is why not use a 1" wide belt/contact wheel? The stone on my grinder is 1" and it's easy enough to split a belt in half. Are there any unforeseen problems from using a 1" contact wheel that I am overlooking or has anyone gone this route? Thanks in advanced.

 

[seamus]

Both Mike Norris and Devin Thomas recommended a 1 inch wheel when I converted my surface grinder. It was good advice and I like getting two leading edges after splitting a 2 inch belt. Moving across your work with the belt gives a better finished product just as it does with a stone wheel.

 

[John L]

As important as the width of your new wheel is the durometer. Mine is 90...which is pretty hard. I think....think now..typical grinding wheel durometer is 60-70. You do not want a flat tire for a wheel.