DavidHoback
If you see me posting, remind me to STFU & leave.
- Joined
- Dec 10, 2014
- Messages
- 326
Little trick guys. I've had and been using my Dayton 2x48 belt grinder for almost 3 years now. And like all knifemakers, I want to move on to a 2x72. Luckily, I can build my own. So I went to work designing it, and was planning to start buying materials now. Decided it would be built almost 100% from 7075 t6 billet. But even building it, I would be out about $450 all said & done! Well, also like ALL knifemakers, I like saving money. Now I spent $300 on my 2x48 in 2014, which was a good deal. It has a 3/4hp motor, and has done well. I've also made a new table rest for it, which tilts for bevel needed. Trying to sell it is pointless. So I'm looking at it, and wondering if I can rebuild it into a 2x72. Well, turns out, all that I needed was a piece of 2"x23"x1/2" bar stock. I chose 7075 t6 billet. And one 3" idler wheel. Again, I got a billet aluminum wheel. The Dayton already has two 1/4"x20 theaded holes for the enclosure that comes on it to keep debris from going everywhere. I disregarded the shielding when I first got the machine. I drilled & tapped two more holes, and the bar stock is fitted, exiting out the back of the machine. So instead of running on 2 wheels(like the Grizzly), it runs on 3. Works fantastic, and will still take 2x48 belts.(although I don't know why I would ever use them again). The best part of this is it cost less than $50 to accomplish. (Did I mention I really like saving money?)
I'm sure the same could be done on other 2x48 grinders. But for anyone with a Dayton, it ABSOLUTELY WILL! Now, I still plan on building the grinder I designed. But I can do it slow, and still use 2x72 belts in the meantime. Win win situation. I love it!
I'm sure the same could be done on other 2x48 grinders. But for anyone with a Dayton, it ABSOLUTELY WILL! Now, I still plan on building the grinder I designed. But I can do it slow, and still use 2x72 belts in the meantime. Win win situation. I love it!