Woodfast 1968 Varispeed- belt tensioning

[Davo_f]

Hey there everyone!!!

I have a 1968 Woodfast Vari-speed (it's the one with the dial and the Reeves pulley set-up). Great unit, but started making some strange rumbling noises this arvo and I suspect its a belt tension issue. Any suggestions out there on the best way to test the tension- ie amount of acceptable lateral movement with moderate pressure!!! etc...that sort of thing? Or any other suggestions for that matter...!!! Going in for the 'big clean' tomorrow and WD40 etc...

Thanks...David

[joe greiner]

The Reeves drive is pretty much self-tensioning. It's likely the pulleys are sticking on the shafts. The 'big clean' will probably fix it.

Cheers,
Joe

[Colin62]

Don't leave the lubrication up to the WD40, if you do need to use it as a solvent to clean things, use a proper oil afterwards, as WD40 doesn't lubricate properly. You might also need to clean any excess oil off the belt after you spin it the first time.

[Davo_f]

Thanks gents...appreciate your feedback. See below...

Joe- thanks that’s good to know, but to be more precise with my question- the lower drive belt (from the motor) can be adjusted in the standard way for lathes by tilting the motor. How tight (or slack) should this belt be?

Colin- thanks- good advice- WD40 is definitely only going to be used as a solvent.

Cheers...David

[joe greiner]

I've seen only one two-belt system, and IIRC both belts were self-tensioning. I'd adjust the lower belt to the same flex as its partner.

Cheers,
Joe

[Skew ChiDAMN!!]

A rule of thumb for non-self-tensioning drive-belts: 1/4" of belt deflection (under light thumb pressure) per foot of separation between pulley centres.

Better a tad loose than over-tight, though... one may wear out the belt prematurely thru excess slippage, t'other may chew out the bearings.

[Davo_f]

Thanks all

Great advice. Did the ‘big clean’ and all humming along nicely again and adjustment is now a dream!!! , but still need to correctly tension the lower belt...will use the above to do so.

Cheers...David