The Eastwood Expander Wheel Kit is a soft rubber wheel with slotted sides, over which an abrasive band is slipped and held in place by centrifugal force as the rubber expands.
It’s designed to run at a max of 1800rpm so excessive cutting does not occur. It has a central push-out adaptor to fit shaft sizes 1⁄2in, 5⁄8in, 3⁄4in and 1in. The kit comes with five belts of 80, 120, 220, 320 and 400 grit. Replacement packs of five belts are available.
It’s an ideal means of smoothing and levelling surfaces on steel and alloy – and other metals too no doubt – taking the hard work out of the polishing procedure, or for simply tidying up after welding etc.
Price is £50.56 (catalogue number is 131327) from Frost Auto Restoration Techniques Ltd, Crawford Street, Rochdale, Lancs OL16 5NU. Tel 01706 758258. Belt packs are £10.21, all plus postage of course. However, if you’re a regular restorer, it’ll pay for itself in double quick time, saving you a packet in time and effort. A good old friend indeed.
