Increase the diameter of a wheel

Ernie1980

Ernie1980

Gold Member
Joined
Apr 19, 2012
Messages
8,162
I just got a variable speed 1 x 30 to finish handles and sharpen. The belts are a little loose even with the tension all the way set, so I was thinking I could increase the diameter of one wheel slightly to snug everything up. I would just return it to Rikon, but I marred it removing the cover. I was thinking of a thin rubber tube, but can’t seem to find anything that I am picturing on the bay or without ordering 500. Any advice??

Thanks!!
 
Might be your belts and not the machine.
 
I tried the tape, but my un-air conditioned workshop made it come off between uses.
 
Ernie1980 said:
I just got a variable speed 1 x 30 to finish handles and sharpen. The belts are a little loose even with the tension all the way set, so I was thinking I could increase the diameter of one wheel slightly to snug everything up. I would just return it to Rikon, but I marred it removing the cover. I was thinking of a thin rubber tube, but can’t seem to find anything that I am picturing on the bay or without ordering 500. Any advice??

Thanks!!
Click to expand...
How big is the drive wheel?
Would a cut section of innertube stretched tight over the wheel work?
 
Are you sure the tensioning idler is seeing it's full travel outward? Might need to loosen the pivot bolt just a touch.
 
show us some photos of the tensioner from different angles with the covers removed, we may be able to tell you what to file or grind away to get more travel out of it.
 
The small wheel at the top is 1 3/4”, I will try the inter tube! If that doesn’t work I will take the cover off the tensioner and seek more help:) Thank you all!
 
Ernie1980 said:
The small wheel at the top is 1 3/4”, I will try the inter tube! If that doesn’t work I will take the cover off the tensioner and seek more help:) Thank you all!
Click to expand...
If you don't have any old tubes laying around, go down to your local bicycle shop and ask if they have any punctured tubes they are throwing out. 26x 1.5 should be about the right fit. I hope it works out.
Beware of the tubes with sealant inside!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top