Shopsmith Forums

RFGuy wrote: Mon Feb 01, 2021 2:14 pm Ok, I'll bite on this one. What are the advantages of using a link belt on a Mark V? As I understand it, the marketing for link belts promote lower vibration from their use. However, I have seen woodworking discussions on them on other forums and the conclusion often is that they only offer a benefit when the motor mount is a gravity type design. Vibration is much lower for a link belt, e.g. when used on a table saw where the motor weight holds belt tension due to gravity. When the motor is a fixed mount it is my understanding that they offer no less vibration than the equivalent V belt. The Mark V would be this latter case and presumably has no less vibration with a link belt. Disadvantages are that links do break, but repairs are easy. Also, they can be noisier than an equivalent V belt. Of course when a V belt replacement isn't handy, etc. I get that link belts offer an advantage. Just surprised to see discussion of link belts from time to time on this forum. IMHO I don't see much benefit to using them on a Mark V. Comments?

Gio800 wrote: Mon Feb 01, 2021 3:22 pm

RFGuy wrote: Mon Feb 01, 2021 2:14 pm What are the advantages of using a link belt on a Mark V?

I agree. I saw or heard no difference in the running of all the belts.