I have had problems in the past with belt driven power tools shaking due to a lump where the two ends of the belt join.  Even replacing the cheap belts that come with the imported tools does not fully correct this.

    I was looking through a Grizzly Tool catalog after I ordered the lathe, but before it arrived.  I spotted an interesting item.  It is called the "Power Twist V-Belt".  It is built from sections sort of like a tank tread.  This means that the belt is totally uniform, no lump/stiff spot.  The added advantage is that I would not have to remove the spindle to change the belt.

    I ordered one, and it arrived before the lathe.  I wanted to see if it would make any real difference in use.  So I removed the belt from my 4x6" import metal bandsaw and installed a length.  The improvement over a quality belt was remarkable!!  The saw motor vibration was reduced to about a third of the previous level.  In fact I was so pleased that it was a tough decision to return to the old belt!  The Power Twist is installed on the lathe between the countershaft and spindle, but I plan on ordering two more of that width, which will give me enough total to use on the saw and replace the belt between the countershaft and motor on the lathe.  I also plan a second order of the narrower size for my drill press.   The belts come in 4 foot lengths and either 3/8 or 1/2 inch widths.

Grizzly has a home page at <www.grizzlyimports.com/ >

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