Rikon Belt & Disc Sander – Set-Up

A combination belt and disc sander can be a valuable workshop addition. This is a good one, with a heavy cast-iron base to dampen vibration and a powerful motor for significant stock removal without risk of stalling.

Like any tool, it benefits from some initial set-up to perform at its best. Here’s where to begin.

Set-Up – Checking the Belt Table for Square

After assembly, the first thing to check is whether the belt table is square to the belt. If not, you can use a shim to correct a minor misalignment.

Photo 1 – To fix an out-of-square belt table, use shims as needed between the work support and its bracket.

Photo 2 – Verifying the table is square to the belt.

Set-Up – Checking the Disc Table for Square

Another component to check is the disc table. Again, you just need a square to do this.

1. Place a square on the disc table against the sanding disc (Photo 3).


2. If the table is out of square, loosen the table lock knob screw, and tilt the table to square.


3. Adjust the pointer to the zero mark on the scale plate.

Photo 3 – Using a square to check the alignment of the disc table.

Set-Up – Tensioning & Tracking the Belt

After installing the belt, check the belt running by turning the machine on and off. If the belt is running off center, you can correct it with these steps.

1. If the belt moves toward the disc, turn the tracking knob clockwise 1/4 turn (Photo 4).


2. If the belt moves away from the disc, turn the tracking knob counterclockwise 1/4 turn.

Photo 4 – Adjust the belt to run in the center of the platen before using the sander.

In the next section, we’ll show you how to safely perform a range of operations with your sander.