Shopsmith Forums

Before I used my'n I put 80 grit paper on the table of the project and then with the drum running on slow I raised the table until the drum was sanded true , the end pieces went in about 5 inches into each end of the drum ,glued them up using 2in oak and turned them to fit on the lathe , I also went with 4 inch pvc .I havent noticed any balancing issues JMO

I agree with JPG. Rigidity is the key. Weight is not a factor at all. Mine are very heavy made of 5” diameter 3/8 thick wall aluminum tube and I think the increased mass improves the performance. 4” PVC packed with grout might work very well.
Paul