South Bend Lathe

[Frank Martin]

I'm trying to set up a South Bend 9" benchtop lathe (model B9W & catalog number 477-R). It has a set of step pulleys for the v-belt that provides the final drive. What I don't understand is how to put the v-belt on. It appears that the only way is to take the headstock apart, slip the belt around the pulleys and put everything back together. Ditto, for the pulley on the motor stand. Should I be looking for a belt with a split in it that can be unhooked and reattached. Naturally, the instruction manual is long gone and the South Bend "How to Run a Lathe" book is silent on the matter. Any suggestionsare appreciated.

Frank

[KeithW]

Pulling the head stock apart to install the belt is not unusual. My Sheldon uses a flat belt. If I used an endless belt that is what I would have to do. As it is I use a leather belt and stich it together. I don't know if anyone makes a take apart v belt.

keithw

[John Herald]

They do make take apart V-belts. Grizzly Industrial has one called "Power Twist V-Belt" - You just add or remove sections to fit your needs. Comes in 3/8 - 1/2 - 5/8 in 4 foot hunks for $23.95 -- there number is 1-800-523-4777
Hope this helps -- I think other places have them too! John

[PFT]

Here's a picture of the above mentioned power twist v-belt, also available from Grainger Ind. Supply. ( www.grainger.com ) I use one on a small surface grinder and it works fine, good luck with the lathe. PT

[Peter]

I use that type of belt on a 10 inch logan and it seems fine to me. I was told by a machinist that was bad becasue it adds vibration and detracts from the finish cut. I am not a machinst, just pretending and its well within my needs.

[GarysToys]

Fenner Drives in Manheim, PA makes a link type belt to the same specs as a V belt. You tell them the size of belt you need and they tell you how many links are required.

It works great for applications like yours where you don't want to pull the shaft from the pullies.

Phone is 717 665 2421 or www.fennerdrives.com