Symptoms
- Belt drifts to one side and rubs the housing
- Belt comes completely off the rollers during use
- Uneven wear on one edge of the belt
- Grinding or scraping noise as the belt runs
Likely causes
- CommonTracking adjustment out of alignmentThe tracking knob centers the belt on the rollers; if it's off, the belt walks to one side.
- CommonBelt installed backward or misalignedBelts have a directional arrow; installing it wrong or crooked causes tracking issues.
- PossibleWorn or damaged front rollerA worn roller surface doesn't grip the belt evenly.
- Less commonDebris buildup on rollersDust or resin on the rollers changes their effective shape and throws off tracking.
What to do
- Unplug the sander and check that the belt's directional arrow matches the sander's rotation direction.
- Reinstall the belt centered on the rollers if it looks crooked.
- Clean any dust or resin buildup off both rollers with a rag.
- Hold the sander up off any surface, plug it in, and briefly run it while adjusting the tracking knob until the belt centers itself on the rollers.
- Turn off and check the belt position; repeat small adjustments until it tracks straight without drifting.
- Inspect the front roller for wear, flat spots, or damage if tracking issues continue despite adjustment.
- Replace a worn belt or roller if the tool still won't hold its track properly.
Tools and parts
- Replacement sanding belt
- Rag for cleaning rollers
Replacement sanding beltSearch: “belt sander sanding belt correct size”
When to call a pro
Not typically a professional repair; a worn roller can usually be replaced with parts from the manufacturer.
Safety
Use caution
Keep hands clear of the belt when adjusting tracking with the tool running; hold it securely and away from your body.