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.
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 Small Wheel Attachment plans are bundled with plans for the Contact 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 Small Wheel Attachment is designed to be as easy as possible to build, without compromising on performance and versatility. The only power tools required are a drill press, angle grinder, & 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.