Just like those of any other equipment, the bench grinder’s parts also get worn out. This includes the bench grinder wheels.
In this article, step-by-step information will be given on how to properly change the grinding machine’s wheels. Before proceeding with any of these steps, however, make sure that you disconnect the bench grinder from the power source.
Step 1: Start
Place the bench grinder in an area where you can comfortably work with it. You start by removing the screw attaching the side covers. Then proceed to remove the machine’s side covers. Be careful not to lose the screws.
Step 2: Place the Wedge
Place a wedge between the bench grinding wheel and tool nest. This is to prevent any shaft rotation. You don’t want the wheels moving around while you’re trying to replace them.
Step 3: Removing, Installing, and Tightening
You face the front of the bench grinder. If you wanted to replace the left wheel, then turn the arbor nut clockwise to loosen it. Remove the installed wheel and put in the new one. Turn the arbor nut counterclockwise to tighten it.
If you wish to replace the right wheel, then turn the arbor nut counterclockwise to loosen it. Same with the left wheel, you remove the installed wheel and replace it with a new wheel. Turn the arbor nut clockwise to tighten it.
However, tightening the nuts may be difficult. There are instances when you tighten the nut on the left wheel, the nut on the right wheel will loosen or vice versa.
A solution to this problem is to bring the nut up tight. Then, proceed to back it off for about a 1/8th turn. Hold the wheel and pop the wrench to the nut. You may also wedge a screwdriver between the tool rest and the nut while tightening the nut.
Step 4: Balance
Sometimes, you may end up with a wobbling bench grinder. Though the wobbling of a bench grinder wheel is often associated with subpar equipment quality, it may also be due to poorly attached bushings.
There are tools that can determine the balance of a bench grinder wheel. However, if you don’t have one, then you may follow the steps below.
1. Attach the wheel to the rod by tightening the flanges. Determine if there’s an increase or decrease in vibration when you rotate the wheel.
2. Take off the wheel after determining the number of vibrations. Replace it with the balancing arbor and put it on the balancing stand.
3. Remove any weight on the sleeve before spinning it. Let the sleeve rotate. Once it stops, mark the spot which is facing upward at that point.
4. Attach the weights to the flanges. Connect the weights in a way that they are aligned with the mark. Tighten the flanges.
5. With your hands, rotate the wheel until it reaches the one o’clock position. Adjust the weights (they should be appropriately aligned with the mark).
6. Then, tighten the flanges. Take off the arbor before sliding the wheel through the sleeve.
7. Afterward, rotate the wheel using your hand to make sure that you’ve gotten rid of the vibrations.
Step 5: Remove and Screw
Remove the wedge between the wheels and the tool nest. Screw back the side covers.
And that’s the basics of tightening, balancing, and changing beach grinder wheels. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the entire process, you should be ready to finally try it firsthand.
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