Yet another trademill sander

**immortalx** · Mar 15, 2015, 10:54 AM

Hi guys!
I got this treadmill for cheap the other day and converted it to a sander. It has a 1.5 HP motor but it seems enough for the job.
Firstly I got rid of the base and handles.

I then bolted the control unit onto the motor cover, which is a convenient spot that allows me to work from either side of the sander.

I built a steel frame to get it on working height and reinforced the table by adding a 20mm plywood board. It's not a precision surface but I was able to make it reasonably flat by adding shims over the tabs on which it's bolted on.

I will be adding a stop bar to prevent any workpiece from flying to the other side of the room

I also want to build a 90 degree fence and the popular fretboard sanding jig that works with belt sanders!

**GlennR** · Mar 15, 2015, 04:24 PM

That's a great idea. Thanks for sharing it.

Btw, how much do belts that size cost?

**Altair** · Mar 15, 2015, 06:39 PM

Fantastic job, immortalx. Nice idea keeping the control panel, has a professional look to it.

Al

**Captainleeward** · Mar 15, 2015, 07:51 PM

I think I could sand the hull of my boat with that sander. :O) Great job.

**immortalx** · Mar 15, 2015, 09:03 PM

Thanks guys!
GlennR I ordered this one from a local shop that does custom sized belts for 30€ ( about 31.5 USD)

BTW Captainleeward and all the other great builders here, you've been a great inspiration to all of us. I lack the time to be active on the forums but I check the central page regularly and I'm amazed at what you guys have achieved!

**Captainleeward** · Mar 15, 2015, 10:14 PM

A good imagination is one of the prerequisites for great builds and you have one!!!....:O)
I just realized i need to get my calluses off my feet...

**kbalch** · Mar 16, 2015, 02:38 PM

Thanks immortalx! I've added your Treadmill Sander to our Sanding category, as well as to your builder page: immortalx's Homemade Tools. Your receipt: