Can A Link Belt Be Used On A Jet 1442 ?

Stemo, I took a chance with some internet info and installed a link belt on my Delta 46-715 yesterday. Seems to run quieter.

My 1/2" wide stretched Delta belt was supposed to be 28 1/2" in outside diameter (got that info from Delta parts). The links worked out pretty darn close to that.

I was able to put the speed lever to the max rpm and roll the belt over onto the Reeves pulley on the motor. (After trial and error, I also figured it looks like the tabs should face the pulley to form the V. Duh!)

Found this info that might help:

Jack

The Jet 1442 uses a reeves drive system... DO NOT use a link belt o

this type of system... if you need to replace the exist> I belive I read here a short time ago that someone had used a link belt

There should be printed arrows at intervals on the belt showing the direction of rotation. The direction "tightens" the links. billh

Thanks, Bill, I did catch that...after I had it on and ran it a few seconds the wrong way. Glad you mentioned it for those reading these posts.

Now I don't have to worry about having to stop turning to buy a new belt. Just replace a link!

Jack

I have a link belt on my HF 12x33 with Reeves drive. After realizing I had too many links on it and removing the extras, it works fine ... and has for several months.

I don't understand the part about removing the drive to replace the belt. I just slipped mine over the edge and let it plop in. (hint, use a screwdriver if you must to pry it over the edge as you turn the pulley BY HAND - safety first > unplug it from the wall).

Bill

"Old Griz" wrote: The Jet 1442 uses a reeves drive system... DO NOT use a link belt on this type of system...(clip) ^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Why not? I have done it, and I believe it works better than a standard solid Vee belt. The advantages are: 1.) The length can be changed in increments of 1/2", allowing you to fine tune the speed range. 2.) If the drive stalls, and damages the belt, only a couple of links need to be replaced, instead of the whole belt. 3.) Smoother running. 4.) IMHO, link belts actually last longer (I have no data to back this up.)

I used one on a 1236 lookalike lathe with no problem at all. billh

I've been using one on my Jet 1442 for nearly a year. I believe the lathe runs smoother and quieter, and the belt is showing no apparent wear after about 175 hours of use. I'm anticipating in excess of 600 hours on the belt before replacement. I may be way off on that one direction or the other, however.

Short of measuring the width of the belt, suffice it to say that it's very close to the width of the belt I cut off the drive. The primary reason I went to the link belt is that I anticipated some grief in replacing a belt when the time came. With the link belt, you simply assemble it over the shafts, set the speed control to its highest setting, and maneuver the belt onto the pullies. Took a bit of trial and error to get the right length, but it fits fine now.

Seems to be as tight as the old belt was when new.

Max Mishawaka, IN

Really? Please don't tell my Jet 1442 with a Reeves drive, as it's been using one for almost a year.

Max

Probably don't need anymore testamonials than you already have but I used one on my Delta Reeves drive and never had any problem at all. I don't understand the advice about not using one. The speed changes are very smooth and the belt runs with less vibration. And you don't have to take anything apart. Just cut off the old belt and put the link belt on.

Thanks to all who responded to my post. I'm definately going the link route when my original belt decides it had enought. Thanks again.

STEMO

Do as you wish, of course, but I'd advocate not waiting. The smoothness of the link belt is the main payoff.

Max