Band wheels for build it yourself

[Grappletractor]

Would something like these things apt to be ok for for a portable mill. These are 36", maybe too big ? , prehaps 30" or under would be ok ?



http://www.irsauctions.com/auctions/00008624/bigpicts/36639D.jpg

[Grappletractor]

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[Frank_Pender]

I would use the bandsaw for a resaw setup, before I used it for a mill application.  I am sure you could find some wheels the size you are seeking by contacting Gary at Linn Mills in Lebanon, Oregon.

[Larry]

Looks like an old Crescent...that one is direct drive.  Most are belt driven and the old timers are babbit bearings.  I've seen em sell for $50...just be prepared for a project turning them into a sawmill.

[Grappletractor]

Ok then what about these on E-Bay, are they still too big ?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7587191678&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT

[Larry]

Well...not to big but quite expensive.

Iffen I remember right maybe 30" wheels...won't tell ya what I bought it for but think I sold it round $200.

[Grappletractor]

Actually these E-Bay wheels are a big bargain, check out Lin or Cook's prices  :D

[isassi]

I have seent he ones on E-bay listed before at different prices. When I get around to actually building a mill, I wouldn't hesitate to use that size. The idea of band lenght being standard wouldn't apply since the wheels are so large, but a longer band has more teeth, hence should get more cutting from it, but cost more to sharpen.  :D

[HOGFARMER]

A lot of homebuilt mills and factory built  (Turner MIlls) use trailer or automobile tires for band wheels.  I talked with a local manufacture of bandmill blades and they advised that this is a viable way to go.  I am in the process of building a mill myself that will use trailer tires as bandwheels.
Several members here have used them with good results.

[beav]

  I think I would look into using motorcycle wheels.I look at my '83 Goldwing and I see alloy wheels (nice if youy break a blade-less rotatoinal mass), a shaft drive system,etc. Just my $.02 worth ???

[Dangerous_Dan]

If anyones interested I have 4 cast iron band wheels/pulleys that I will not be using now that I am building a swingmill.
They are 36 inch diameter 3 groove with QD style taperlock bushings, I might have a couple bushings too.
If interested let me know. I will sell cheap. ;D

[Slabs]

What about using heavy v-belt sheaves with domed-top belts like Wood Miser?  The sheaves are available in just about any size you might want.  24 inches might be a little more manageable.

[mike_van]

I used 24" Browning Poly V sheaves on mine, I haven't had a blade break in years. I always heard bigger was better, less stress on the band backer being bent to the radius.  Just a thought here on those big wheels -  Two 36" dia wheels plus space around them, 36" at least for a throat on the mill, you will have a head 10 foot wide,  maybe more - for whatever issues that brings up - will it be portable? will the frame support the engine at that width? Just some thoughts. :-\