Bench grinder tool rest modifications

[bhusted]

I've been looking for a bench grinder to use for grinding HSS lathe toolbits for a while. I came across this grinder on craigslist and it seemed to fit my needs. It runs smooth as silk and I've fitted a new 7" wheel. The issue I'm having is that the tool rests are not adjustable for angle and are very small. I was thinking of making a 1/4" steel table surface maybe 4" x 4" to mount to the original rest and give me some extra support. The rests can be adjusted in and out but the top remains on the centerline of the wheel. To grind the relief into the tool, I'd like to tip the tool rest 4-5 degrees. Should I mill the original cast iron rest for the angle or make a new tool rest?

 

[benmychree]

Best to make adjustable (for angle) tool rests, for an example, try to find images of the Delta Triple Duty grinders.

 

[pontiac428]

You could build a platform like you speak of, and make a "Harold Hall rest" to turn that bench grinder into a tool grinder. Search the term on this site, there are some good examples to be seen.

 

[bhusted]

Thanks for the recommendations. I'll certainly take a look at both of those.

 

[mikey]

I prefer a table that is independent of the grinder itself. That way, you can adjust angle and distance to the wheel. I use this one.

 

[benmychree]

It is not visible, but I think I had one just like it, but cannot remember the brand/make.

 

[matthewsx]

I prefer a table that is independent of the grinder itself. That way, you can adjust angle and distance to the wheel. I use this one.

That looks like a good project to build yourself.

John

 

[mikey]

That looks like a good project to build yourself.

John

Yup, not hard to do for a hobby guy.

 

[Z2V]

Here’s a really simple one I put on my bench grinder. Works great for grinding cutting tools though not as good as a belt grinder.

 

[benmychree]

That looks like a good project to build yourself.

John

I had one just like that at my shop downtown on a Delta Triple Duty grinder, a very good tool. It was not cheap 20 years ago, and is quite expensive, for what it is now.