Craftsman 2X42 mods

The belts will tend to center themselves out, because the idler (top) roller is slightly crowned. So if you need to get right to the edge of the belt, for instance to flat grind or sharpen right up to the ricasso/plunge... yes, you will need a narrower platen to match. If you just want to use the slack portion of the belt, it won't matter.

This page has the full parts list. You could order a replacement platen for about $10, and trim off the right side of it so it lines up with your 1" belt. The platen is very easy to adjust/remove/replace, it's just held on with two socket-head hex bolts.
 
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Trugrit.com has a wide selection of 2x42 belts and most of the top end belts that are available in 2x72 like Gators and others . If you check supergrit.com you can get cork and others to fill the gaps even leather belts in 2x42 are out there . On youtube type in 500dollarknifeshop for a bunch of easy cheap mod's that make the craftsman way better . I've put a pyroceram on the platen with some steel behind it JB Welded on and stripped it down and cut away to run scotchbrite belts on it . A great little starter grinder that can be had for $150 , cheaper used . The older ones are better do to having more powerful motor 3/4 hp vs 1/3hp I believe it has , people have modded it to run off of bigger motors and even converted to 2x72 .
 
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