Belt sander belts are made from sandpaper and need to be replaced any time you are completing a project and find you aren’t getting the quick results that you desire. A sander can work to complete even the largest jobs very quickly if the sandpaper belt that is used is fresh and ready to go. These tips will help you learn how to use and replace these belts as needed.
Sizing
The belt sander belts that you use may vary in size and grain. For example, a small handheld sander will use smaller belts and larger belt sanders will use larger sized belts. To find the right size look for information on the belt that is installed or that comes with your machine when you purchase it. If you don’t have this information then you can also measure the belt and then determine the grain that you would like to use based on the project that you want to complete.
Most projects begin by using the roughest grade of sandpaper in the belt sander belts and then progresses incrementally to a very fine grain that is intended for smoothing and finishing the surface off nicely. You may want to note that some sanders use a specific type of belt. You can easily write down the make, model and brand name of your sander and take it along to the hardware store. If you still need assistance then you can also contact the manufacturer or ask for assistance at a local hardware store.
Replacements
Replacing belt sander belts is typically a simple job that only takes a few moments to complete. Check the instruction manual for your sander before you begin to see if there are any special steps that you need to take. For instance, some belts are held in and released with a lever mechanism. You may find it simpler to use a sander that has a release mechanism such as a lever since it is easy to find and use. If your sander doesn’t have a release mechanism then you will need to release the belt using by finding the release screw.
Once you have located the screw to change the belt sander belts you simply remove it, insert the new belt and tighten it, then replace the screw. Each make and model sander may have a different way of releasing the belt so you may want to take your time when finding the release screw to ensure you have the right one. The belt can be replaced as needed throughout your project as you move from one grain of sandpaper to the next.
Buying
You can purchase belt sander belts anywhere you purchase your sander. You may find a good price for replacement belts online, or you can buy in bulk if you use your sander on a regular basis. These replacement belts are very inexpensive and when use properly can make refinishing any wood or metal object a simple task.
