well i started my first grinder some time ago and i don't work very fast on things like this. so i'll just cut to the chase here. if you are uneasy about building a grinder DON'T BE. because let me tell you it isn't rocket science. i made the roller wheels and the drive wheels and the tracking mechanism and when i tried it out for the first time it ran as i had dreamed it would. the most expensive part of my grinder was the motor and second was the step pulleys. i flat grind so i didn't have to get a 8 in. rubber contact wheel. but i think i'll read Wayne Goddard newest book and follow his advice to avoiding the high cost of those contact wheels. i got all my ideas off of the Beaumont metal works website. i'll shut-up by saying i will post pictures later once developed and if you have any questions feel free to email me.

Welcome to the forums Nathan! We'll look forward to seeing those pics.

Glad to have you here Nathan. I am in the process of trying to build a 2 /72 machine and customize a 1 /42 to use 1 /48 and 1 /72 with square nose attachment. I also flat grind and convex, don't beleive in hollowgrind for hard working knives. I also have found a tresure of ideas at Beaumont Metal. Give me an email, exchange ideas,and maybe make something or better something.
Ken

Nathan,

I was just browsing and saw your post. I would love to see your grinder photos also. If you wouldn't mind, could I post them on my website? Your credit of course and any verbage the you'ld like to say.

Sincerely,
Rob Frink
Beaumont Metal Works (http://www.geocities.com/beaumontmetal/index.html)

It's not hard to build a sander but be sure you're making it strong enough to handle the load.
Remember, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
About 85% of my work is done on a grinder. It pays to have good tools. Don't make something you have to fight.
My priorities for a grinder:

1 strong & Powerful
2 smooth & steady
3 quick change belts
4 variable speeds are easy with step pulleys

Be sure to post some pics when done.

Is the grinder done?
How about some detailed pics and your review after using it?
LOTS of us are interested in these home grinder projects!
Thanks,
Dave

do you the web site for beaumont? I would like to go there. Thanks
Jim

Here you go:

www.geocities.com/beaumontmetal/index.html (http://www.geocities.com/beaumontmetal/index.html)