Introduction: How to Change the Belt on a Hand Held Belt Sander

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In this instructable I'll show you how to change the belt on a belt sander.  It's quick, easy, and painless.

You Will Need:

A Hand Held Belt Sander
A replacement belt of the correct size for your sander.

As you can see in the photo, the belt is not in great shape, parts of it have been shredded off.

Step 1: Release the Belt Tension Lever

Belt Sanders use tension in order to hold their belt in place.  Our tension lever is located on the front left side of the sander.  We simply pull it back and the belt becomes loose.

Step 2: Pull the Old Belt Off the Sander

Pull that sucker off and throw it away.  We don't need it anymore.

Step 3: Grab and Align New Belt

Title says it all.  Be sure that you have the correct size (length and width) for your sander type.  Make sure to place the belt in the correct direction.  As you can see in the picture there are arrows on the inside of the belt.  There should be a clearly marked arrow on your sander as well.  Match the arrows of the belt and your sander in the same direction before installing the belt.  This will prevent your belt from breaking.

Step 4: Slide the New Belt On

Slide the belt on and align it to the wheels.

Step 5: Re-tension the Lever

Once you have the new belt around the wheels and aligned where you want it you can re-engage the tension lever.  And there you have it, you've successfully changed your belt.  This tool is available in the Wood Shop and Tech Shop Menlo Park.