DIY drum sander

[distan]

I have 2 radial arm saws DeWalt's. One I still use for crosscutting but the other is standing idle only ocassionally used as a work bench

So .... just wondering if anyone has ever modified the machine to an open arm drum sander - drum above table

I would really appreciate any helpful comments - thanks

How wide do you think I might go on the drum and what diameter, is speed a problem (burning wood)
any ideas on ataching the sandpaper to the drum and what grits (120) might work best
Melamine bottom table to reduce friction
I think the column adjusing mechanism has enough precision but is the overhang on the spindle and the motor mount going to be a problem?
I could lock the motor on the slides so the face of the drum is just shy of the fence
What " depth of cut" might be appropriate on hardwood without inducing excessive flex and load
Do you think I ought to support the open side with a frame running up to the track arm of the saw?
Risk and liability is mine for my own use only

[Oldmanandhistoy]

Not exactly sure of your plans; do you mean drum or disk sander? Are you thinking of pulling the drum/disk over the timber to sand board faces? Could you do a sketch of what you are planning?

One other thing you mentioned risk; I would say there is going to be a lot of that.

John

[ger21]

I think performax used to sell a conversion kit for radial arm saws. Not sure if they still do.

[distan]

Hi Gerry, Jon

Thank you for your replies

I found some sites on DIY made drum sanders and figured it is easier, more accurate and safer to start from scratch on a purpose built machine supported on both ends of the horizontal drum by flange mounted pillow blocks
There are numerous plans on the internet.

That gets the radial arm to more conventional application but I do have a small dia drum attachment that I could rig up the motor spindle vertically locked so the drum just clears the fence for edge sanding

Still glad I found your site I think a cnc conversion to a router on a lead screw at 90 degrees to me lathe could be intresting and I am sure someon has done that!

Many thanks

Many thanks