A contact wheel is a must-have for hollow grinding knife blades, but they’re also fantastic for smooth, efficient grinding. This attachment for the Gen 2 Tilting Belt Grinder is simply a fork that can hold any contact wheel from 6″ to 10″ (150 to 250mm) diameter. The axle of the wheel is positioned in line with the axis of the grinder’s main hinge, which means the wheel tilts in place when you change the orientation of the grinder. This way the table doesn’t need to be moved at all when tilting the machine.
Design highlights
Simpler, and easier to build
The Gen 2 design has no tapped holes, in fact, no drilled holes. The wheel axle is held by two short sleeves, that are just welded to the end of the fork. It’s harder to mess this up, since you can correct any previous errors when you’re welding on these sleeves.
Easier to change wheels
Because the wheel is sandwiched between two sleeves, there is no need for washers. To swap wheels, simply remove the axle bolt, remove the wheel, insert a different wheel, and reinsert the axle bolt. This makes it easy to use different sizes of wheels with the same attachment.
Centered on the hinge, so it tilts in place
Like Gen 1, the contact wheel is in line both vertically and horizontally with the hinge, so it stays centered on the table regardless of the grinder’s orientation. This means you can use the same tables and table holder, whether the grinder is vertical or horizontal.
More detailed PDF plans, now available in metric
The plans include a list of all materials and hardware needed to complete the build, 1:1 printable templates for the parts, and detailed, step-by-step instructions with pictures to help you assemble your attachment. The Contact Wheel Attachment plans are bundled with plans for the Small Wheel Attachment and the Adjustable Angle Table. You can purchase and immediately download the metric plans here, or the imperial plans here.
Want one for yourself?
Like the Belt Grinder, the Contact Wheel Attachment is designed to be as easy as possible to build, without compromising on performance and versatility. The only power tools required are an angle grinder & a welder, and you should be able to finish the attachment in an afternoon. Clicking the button below will take you to Etsy to complete the transaction and download your plans.
If you have any questions, please see the FAQ page, or contact me.