Some help from Wilton grinder owners, please!

valcas1

valcas1

Joined
Feb 25, 2007
Messages
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I would like to thank the people who responded to my last post about the Wilton Square Wheel grinder.

I recently purchased a used Wilton and would like to have a new drive wheel made for it. I understand that it really helps the taming this machine for knife making. I have heard it called a "slow down wheel" I have two questions and would appreciate any input from people who use this machine.

First, What size should the new wheel be? I have heard 7" I think in one post. Can anyone tell me there experience, and what size wheel they went with.

Second, Could you please tell me what size the shaft is on your motor and do the all have a standard keyway? I would like to get this right the first time so that I can have the wheel ready for when my new/used machine arrives. :D

Once again thank you for any input.

Paul
 
I best thing to do would be to put a variable speed motor on it and use the drive wheel that came on it.

I put a slow down wheel on mine and use my variable speeds grinders instead.
 
I agree with Don, however, I have one caveat:

I have a 7.25" Hardcore 'slow-down' wheel (bought it from TruGrit), and although I had to modify my tool arm to make it work with all my attachments (no big deal, btw... check your other thread), I can now use a 12" diameter wheel. This would be impossible without the additional slack in the grinding belts that having the smaller drive wheel provides. If I switch to variable speed (which I intend to do), I'll lose the maximum rpm that a larger wheel gives at the top speed setting, but nothing I do with the grinder really requires that, anyway!
 
BTW, Don's an exponentially better knifemaker than I am, so I would defer to his input before mine!
 
So what is the most cost effective way to make it a variable speed grinder. Please be specific. You will not offend me if you speak to me like someone who doesn't understand. It's all new to me and i really dont understand. Thanks again,

Paul
 
valcas1 said:
So what is the most cost effective way to make it a variable speed grinder. Please be specific. You will not offend me if you speak to me like someone who doesn't understand. It's all new to me and i really dont understand. Thanks again,

Paul
Click to expand...

Do a search on VFD. This has been discussed A LOT! on these pages. Everything you need to know ... etc.:thumbup:


Matt,
Sorry, I didn't mean to infer that your advice was not good. (rereading and see how it could look that way:eek: ). You mention going to variable as something to do next, I think we're all on the same page.:thumbup:
 
valcas1 said:
So what is the most cost effective way to make it a variable speed grinder. Please be specific. You will not offend me if you speak to me like someone who doesn't understand. It's all new to me and i really dont understand. Thanks again,

Paul
Click to expand...

I bought a 1-1/2hp, vari speed, C face, DC motor with controler, new in the box on ebay a couple years ago for $350, wired and ready to plug in. Usually run $600 - $800

VFD is the new, best way to go and the next for me, when I need. I would buy this set up for Rob the KMG guy. Maybe someone will add a link to his web site here.

Matt, I agree and you make good since. The smaller drive wheel is a must if you want to use a 10" or larger contact wheel.
 
Don Hanson III said:
VFD is the new, best way to go and the next for me, when I need. I would buy this set up for Rob the KMG guy. Maybe someone will add a link to his web site here.
Click to expand...

Rob is great to work with. You can see his products here --> www.beaumontmetalworks.com Once on his site click on KMG Industrial Belt Grinders then look for variable speed packages under motors.

Rob is more than willing to answer questions if you give him a call.
 
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