DIY 4x36 into a 2x72 grinder conversion

Could someone elaborate on what exactly the "1 3/16" x 1/2" lip bearing" used in this is?
 
It is a flanged bearing with those dimensions. You would need whatever the caster you use comes with though, and it varies from wheel to wheel.
 
C-9 said:
It is a flanged bearing with those dimensions. You would need whatever the caster you use comes with though, and it varies from wheel to wheel.
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I mean, did he use a ball bearing or a roller bearing; does it need to be sealed, shielded, double sealed, double shielded, can it be open, etc....
 
Ideally ball bearings that are double sealed. If you will grind on the wheel use deep groove units as they will handle any incidental side loading. I imagine industrial units would use double row bearings, but they wouldn't be required. When in doubt always use double sealed as opposed to open or shielded: few more $$ up front, but will far outlast the others for most applications. :-)
 
Outstanding! Brain work substituted for dollars - nicely done. Thank you for posting.
 
zaph1 said:
The tracking is rock solid from the tape around the contact wheel. If you remove the tape for hollow grinds, then you can adjust the 4-40 screws on the 1.5" tube. Tighten the right sides and loosen the left or vice versa to adjust the tracking. Slow and tedious, but effective and cheap. I thing I can redesign it to be easier. Give me a few days.

I should note that the 1 1/4" tube can be cut to length. I can extend it enough to use a 4" caster or shorten it enough to use a 12". Also, place magnets underneath the bottom of the belt/top of the base to pick up the metal shavings. It works great and lower the dust.

I love this conversion because it allows you to use the great quality 2x72 belts at such a low cost. The real key was figuring out the casters. I started with a lawn mower wheel and it worked for about 30 seconds. The casters were marginally better until I replaced the bearings.
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If you wanted something adjustable, you might try cutting the armature below the caster and adding an elbow joint with a bolt to tighten it. This would lean in and out from the machine. I might try this conversion on my 4x36. Good ideas! :thumbup:
 
I thought about converting my craftsman 2x42 to a 2x72, and gearing it down with step pulleys just to tide me over and be able to access the better 2x72 belt selection. I definitely see this in my future !!!
 
I use a 4x36 and am going to do this soon but maybe align the T closer to the front so the platen is perfectly vertical.
 
MJSMITH12 said:
Anybody have pics of this conversion?
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Sorry, the original pics got lost in one of the forum upgrades. Here are some of the images. I would make a number of changes today, but it still should work fine.
 

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Excellent innovation my good man.;). Just shows what can be done when one doesn't allow oneself to be restricted with conventional thinking :thumbsup:
Mike
 
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