Shopsmith Strip Sander Idler Wheel

This is a replacement idler wheel for the Shopsmith 1 x 42 belt sander. There are two styles of idler wheels. The older metal wheel with replaceable bearings and the newer plastic wheel with a bushing instead of bearings. The is modeled after the plastic wheel but has been updated use two 608 shielded bearings which should result in this lasting a lot longer. As seen in the photos the original plastic idler puller gets hot after just 5 minutes of use while this version stays cool. The strip sander can have the idler wheel in multiple positions and I have tested this in three positions. 

Required Parts 

• 2 x 608RS bearings 

Optional Parts (if you no longer have the original bolt and washer) 

• 1 x 5/16 Shoulder Bolt with 1 inch length and 1/4 20 threads (this is the same as used by the original plastic wheel) 
• 1 x Washer to fit the shoulder bolt (the original washer will work but if it is missing an M8 washer is a suitable substitute) 

Assembly Notes 

Be sure to remove all the support material from the recess that houses the bottom bearing. The bearings should press in with a small amount of force. 

Before installation on the sander confirm the following: 

• You must de-burr the rim of the bottom bearing recess or the bearing will not fit 
• The top bearing should be flush 
• The bottom bearing should be proud by about 3mm after installation 
• When the shoulder bolt and washer is inserted the shoulder bolt should be proud of the bottom bearing (refer to the close up photo of the green pulley)