How to split an abrasive belt?

[alexkuzn]

I have a 1"x42" belt grinder. But it can actually accommodate 1 1/5" wide belts.
I am thinking about buying 2"x42" belt and taking of 1/5" of it.
Cutting by scissors won't make a straight cut.
Can you guys make any recommendations on splitting a belt?

Thanks!
You help is very appreciated!

[jwfilion]

They make dedicated belt splitters for such jobs. I believe TruGrit sells them..

[Don Cowles]

you can make your own splitter with a board, a utility knife blade , and a bolt. Here are pics of the one I made years ago - I just clamp it in a woodworking vise, and pull the belt through it. Cheap and effective.

[Ed Caffrey]

Maybe this is over simplified, but I just fold the belt, then tear it. I generally "kill" the edges with an old file anyway once the belt is on the grinder. I find that most belts will tear very straight, as long as you don'e try to start right at the joint.

[alexkuzn]

Thanks. This is simplier than I thought!

[Jason Cutter]

2 cents from my own experience... most belts will "rip" very evenly to the desired dimensions. Make a little nick in the belt to start the tear, and just rip off a long strip to make up the width you want, exactly as Ed as said.

However, I find that on some cheaper belts, the fabric weave is not actually even / squared to the dimensions of the belt, and the tearing method gives a very slightly off centre tear that takes an uneven width of the belt. So just check that the weave is even, and the tear will be straight, right around the belt.

Does that make any sense... ? Jason.