Shopsmith Forums

I have a Shopsmith Mark VII purchased in 1964 that needs new belts. Can anyone tell me if the belts for the Mark V head will fit the old Mark VII head as well? If not is there a source for these belts? I'd hate to see this beast go to Shopsmith heaven because of such a simple problem.

Thanks
Bill Lugg

Although the Mark 5/V poly-v belt is narrower than the original Mark VII poly-v belt, it WILL work. Bandsaw Tire Warehouse has a belt made to Mark VII specs(wider) available on E-bay.

The motor belt is NOT the same as a Mark V/5 motor belt. However it is a 1/2" standard v-belt which I believe to be 30 1/2" long. I recommend a 'cogged' automotive belt. Since belts today are typically slightly narrower than the original belt the speed range is moved slightly upward.

I ended up using a 30" belt as 1/2 sizes are VERY hard to find.

cham-ed wrote:I ended up using a 30" belt as 1/2 sizes are VERY hard to find.

Does the shorter belt change the speeds at all or is it just the belt width that affects it?

Thanks,
Bill Lugg

luggw1 wrote:

cham-ed wrote:I ended up using a 30" belt as 1/2 sizes are VERY hard to find.

Does the shorter belt change the speeds at all or is it just the belt width that affects it?

Thanks,
Bill Lugg

Yes it will move the speed range downward(the belt ends up further into the motor pulley for a given control sheave setting(speed dial)),

A narrow belt does the opposite. It rides further into the idler puller AND also rides further OUT on the motor pulley.

Thanks for all the helpful info. I've purchased the appropriate belts. Now, I notice the Mark V belt comes with instructions for replacement if you buy it from Shopsmith. I know it's not a Mark VII head, but the assembly might be similar. Does anyone have a copy of those instructions they'd be willing to share digitally to help me figure out how to get that top belt replaced?

Thanks.
Bill Lugg

This is a link to Mark V service bulletins

http://allinonewood.com/?page=shop/serv ... 96f5erm4p5

Here is a link to the Mark V belt replacement instructions from here on the Shopsmith website.

https://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/pro ... cement.pdf
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