Update: I’ve designed a new “Gen 2.1” version of the Small Wheel Attachment, which is easier to source parts for. It’s still compatible with the Gen 2 Belt Grinder. Learn more about it here!
This simple Small Wheel Attachment is designed to fit the new Gen 2 Tilting Belt Grinder, and can accept any small wheel from 3/8″ up to 2″. Small wheels are useful any time you need to grind an internal radius. Great for grinding finger notches in a handle (such as a knife handle), notching the end of a pipe to form a T-joint, or just general fabrication of parts. As with all of the attachments for the Tilting Belt Grinder, this small wheel attachment is designed to hold the wheel directly in line with the hinge, so it is compatible with all of the tables and jigs that I have made, regardless of the grinder’s orientation.
Design highlights
Simpler and easier to build
The number of custom parts has been reduced from 8 to 5, the number of welded joints from 7 to 3, and the number of tapped holes from 9 to 4. Those 5 custom parts are easier to make, too, so the new attachment takes less than half as long to build, and costs less.
Single deflector wheel, in a better location
The deflector wheel makes it possible to grind inside of a deep notch, by bending the belt more than 180° around the small wheel. The new design has only one deflector wheel, making it cheaper and easier to build, and the wheel is positioned lower where it can be left in place even when not in use. It’s now easier to change belts and small wheels when using the deflector wheel, too.
Centered on the hinge, so it tilts in place
Like Gen 1, the small 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.
Want one for yourself?
This Small Wheel Attachment has been superseded by the Gen 2.1 Small Wheel Attachment. You can get plans for the Gen 2.1 version by clicking the buttons below, or, if you really want to make this older version, you can email me and ask for the Gen 2.0 plans.
If you have any questions, please see the FAQ page, or contact me.