How to Measure a Step Pulley

Step pulleys are commonly used for drill presses and wood lathes. This type of pulley has multiple pulley sizes in one unit. By moving the drive belt between the different diameter pulleys you vary the rotation speed of the device. There are several measurements that are important when choosing a replacement pulley. The number and diameter of each pulley, the width of the whole unit and the diameter of the drive shaft bore are numbers you need to order a replacement part.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Count the number of individual pulleys on the device and record the information.

   • 2

     Measure the diameter of each pulley with a measuring tape and record the information.

   • 3

     Measure the width of the groove of each pulley and record the information. Typically each pulley is of equal width.

   • 4

     Measure the width of the whole unit and record the information.

   • 5

     Measure the diameter of the drive shaft hole and record the information.