Bench Grinder Concerns

[bmurrish]

I just ordered a $99 bench grinder on sale for $59 from Sears. It has 8" wheels with a 3450 rpm motor that develops up to 2/5 hp under load. I know this may sound crazy, but did I buy a grinder with too much power? Another concern is about the wheel area. I'm wondering since it is designed for 8" wheels if I will have enough clearance past the motor after mounting standard 6" scotchbrite wheels when working on long pieces.

[Spike]

The first thing I learned after starting to use my grinder was to take the sheild off completely and then situate the grinder so that the scotchbrite wheel hangs over the edge of the bench into free space. Thats really the only way that Ive been able to productively use it.

I dont know about too much power. I do know that I have a variable speed 6" grinder and generally I keep the speed turned down. However you can definately tell that the motor loads up when running stuff through it. I wouldnt worry at this point.

[Dan A]

There is no such thing as too much power on a grinder!!
Dan

[arffguy]

I don't know about too much power but that Scotchbrite wheel can take material off damn quick if you are not careful. I have used the 2 inch wheels in my drill press more often than the grinder. Hey Spike, where did you find that "variable speed" grinder?

[bmurrish]

I went to Sears to day and physically looked at the single speed 8" bench grinder I ordered. Turns out that the motor sticks out too far to utilize a 6" scotch brite wheel on long parts so I cancelled the order. I did notice a beautiful 6" variable speed sitting right next to it. The variables are a lot more money, but oh well.

[Spike]

Mine is a 6" variable speed by Delta. I believe that is the brand name for Lowes now. Ive been very happy with it as its well balanced and quiet.